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.

40 new jobs: Aiven chooses Cork as location of EMEA Hub

Cloud Infrastructure leader Aiven has selected Cork City as the location of its EMEA hub for Go to Market expansion. This expansion is expected to create 40 jobs over the next three years.

Aiven’s GTM Expansion hub will see the creation of a new Inside Sales organisation with supporting engineering and operational supporting functions which will be focused on driving growth of Aiven’s open-source core services.

Aiven’s decision to expand its Cork operations with a focus on hiring sales professionals will create new, high-quality career opportunities in the region. These roles provide local talent with a pathway to grow in the global technology sector, while strengthening Cork’s position as a thriving hub for commercial and technological excellence.

Established in Helsinki in 2016, Aiven operates in the managed open-source data infrastructure sector, delivering fully managed services for widely used open-source technologies  and employs more than 400 people across 11 office locations and multiple remote locations globally.

This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Minister for Enterprise Tourism & Employment Peter Burke said: “Aiven’s decision to establish its EMEA Go to Market hub in Cork is a strong endorsement of Ireland’s reputation as a leading destination for global technology investment. The creation of 40 high-quality jobs over the next three years will provide exciting opportunities for skilled professionals in the region and further strengthen Cork’s position as a centre of innovation and commercial excellence. I welcome Aiven’s continued commitment to Ireland and look forward to seeing the positive impact of this expansion.”

Aiven is currently hiring across several business areas.  To explore opportunities, visit Careers at Aiven | Join our amazing team today!

Conor Forde, Senior Vice President, Aiven, said  “2025 has already been a milestone year for Aiven as we’ve crossed the $100M ARR (annual recurring revenue) mark. To support our next phase of growth, we’ve rethought how we scale our go to market efforts, and this expansion is the next step forward. Cork stood out as the clear choice for Aiven’s expansion due to its exceptional availability of high-skilled talent and its vibrant, open, and diverse labour market, which are essential to fuelling our next phase of growth and innovation.”

IDA CEO Michael Lohan said:  “Aiven’s decision to establish its EMEA Go to Market hub in Cork is a strong endorsement of the South West region’s reputation as a centre of innovation and excellence. This investment not only brings new employment opportunities; it also affirms the South West’s position as a leading destination for global technology companies seeking to scale and thrive. IDA Ireland looks forward to supporting Aiven as they continue to grow and contribute to Ireland’s dynamic tech ecosystem.” 

emporia TOUCHsmart.3 Review

The emporia TOUCHsmart.3 is not a flagship smartphone, nor is it a basic “talk and text” feature phone. It carves out a unique and necessary niche: a clamshell (flip) phone that combines the simplicity and tactile feel of a physical keyboard with the modern connectivity required today, primarily instant messaging and flip phones are back with a bang and this one looks nice and is well built only the front display could have had some use but not this time.

It is clearly targeted at the senior market or those seeking a “dumbphone” experience who still need essential smart features like WhatsApp which is like other massaging apps more commonly used now and a growing trend with senior users of smartphones.

The TOUCHsmart.3 is built around a “best-of-both-worlds” design philosophy, blending hardware and software elements for maximum accessibility.

The most distinguishing factor is the flip design coupled with dual input:

  1. Physical Keypad: Features large, clearly labeled keys that are easy to press, making dialing and basic texting straightforward.
  2. Touchscreen: The internal 3.47-inch display is a full touchscreen, allowing users to navigate apps like WhatsApp and maps just like a small smartphone, you would be forgiven to forget it is actually a touch screen which I forgot several times but its cool and you should avail of it.

This combination addresses the common frustration of needing a full keyboard for dialing but a touchscreen for modern app interaction. Flipping open the phone also automatically answers a call like the good oul days with flip phones.

Unlike many basic feature phones, the TOUCHsmart.3 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0. Crucially, it runs on a simplified Android OS, giving it the power to run essential modern communication apps.

Emporia highlights the dedicated shortcut key for messaging (WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram), recognizing that staying in touch often means more than just SMS and voice calls.

Yays

  • Ease of Use: The large buttons and the charging cradle are highly praised by the target audience (seniors).
  • SOS Function: The dedicated emergency button offers peace of mind by contacting up to five designated contacts instantly which is a key USP with emporia devices all round
  • Build Quality: It has an IP44 rating and generally feels sturdy and well-built.
  • Accessibility: Hearing aid compatibility (M4/T4) is a thoughtful inclusion.

Nays

  • Performance: The hardware (2GB RAM, MediaTek P35) can lead to some lagging especially when using complex apps or trying to multitask but this device is not targetted at such a user but tested anyway.
  • Battery Life: The 1,400 mAh battery capacity is relatively small for an Android-based device, possibly needing to charge it daily, particularly if using messaging apps frequently.
  • Limited Customization: Being an adapted Android device, it can be restrictive in accessing deeper settings or using alternative launchers.
  • Internal Storage: The 16GB internal memory is limited, although it is expandable up to 64GB via MicroSD.
  • Camera Quality: The 8 MP main camera is functional but delivers only basic photo quality, which is typical for a device in this segment but perfoms well in daytime scenarios.

The emporia TOUCHsmart.3 is an excellent choice for a very specific user: someone who values the tangible simplicity of a flip phone and physical buttons but cannot live without a key messaging app like WhatsApp to stay connected with family.

It’s the ultimate compromise phone—less complex than a full smartphone, but far more connected than a standard feature phone.

If your priority is simplicity, ease of calling/texting, safety, and a dedicated WhatsApp button, the TOUCHsmart.3 is a highly recommendable device.

However, if you require a phone for heavy internet browsing, demanding apps, long-lasting battery life without daily charging, or taking high-quality photos, you might find the performance and battery limitations frustrating but previous flip phone users of old will feel comfortable as they where the same before and again aimed at a targt demographic.

 

Image and Video samples day and night front and rear cameras

 

Features

  • Simple and Convenient: With pre-installed WhatsApp, you can easily chat with family and friends, share photos or send voice messages – without any complicated settings. Stay in touch with your loved ones with ease.
  • Your Everyday Smart Companion: Large physical keys, a bright color touchscreen, and intuitive navigation make it extremely easy to use – perfect for those looking for a hassle-free mobile experience.
  • One-Touch Security: The built-in emergency button allows up to five contacts to be alerted with a single press – for quick and efficient assistance when needed.
  • Exceptional Sound Quality: Extra-loud ringtone, loud speakers, and hearing aid compatibility ensure you won’t miss a call and hear every conversation clearly.
  • Convenient Charging – No More Bulky Cables: The included charging dock makes charging a breeze – just put the phone on its stand, and it charges automatically. No more fiddling with cables.

BUY

Unboxing and walkthrough

Other emporia reviews 

 

Fianna Fáil Leadership Fallout Tops Airwaves as Most Defining and Negative Story of 2025 Presidential Election

The latest Everhaze “Battle of the Airwaves” report has found that Fianna Fáil’s leadership turmoil was the most defining and negatively framed story of the 2025 Presidential election, eclipsing all other topics across more than 16,000 radio mentions. The fallout, which was intertwined with Jim Gavin’s withdrawal generated over 2,000 mentions resulting in a sustained national discussion and an average negative weighted sentiment of –43.8 pp, the lowest of the election.

Amid the turbulence, Maria Steen emerged as an unexpected winner of the campaign, gaining national prominence on a non-polarising current securing 1,300 mentions largely avoiding controversy and securing net sentiment of +1.0 pp. In contrast, the two leading candidates, Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys, were both drawn into negative narratives late in the race, as Connolly’s “Bank Representation” (-3.6 pp) and Humphreys’ “Shane O’Farrell” (-4.2 pp) storylines became the most damaging stories of their respective campaigns.

Connolly ultimately led the airwaves in the final fortnight (44.1% share of voice, +2.3 pp net sentiment) with coverage driven by governance reform and community advocacy themes. Humphreys followed at 37.3% (–2.6 pp), her tone weighed down by ongoing justice and departmental accountability discussions. Gavin’s residual post-withdrawal commentary held 18.6% (–3.6 pp) and remained strongly associated with leadership fallout.

Local radio again proved decisive, accounting for 72% of all mentions, while national talk shows supplied narrative framing and tone moderation. Overall sentiment across the campaign closed slightly negative (–0.8 pp net), underscoring a cycle defined more by leadership disruption and controversy than by policy promotion.

Speaking about the findings, James McCann, CEO of Everhaze said:

“Jim Gavin’s withdrawal from the race, and the ensuing fallout for Fianna Fáil’s leadership, will likely stand as the defining story of the 2025 Presidential campaign. Equally striking is how Maria Steen’s absence from the ballot became an unexpected advantage. The sheer volume of her mentions, combined with their notably non-polarising tone, propelled her into national prominence without the burden of controversy. It’s also unsurprising that Catherine Connolly was the only candidate to finish with a positive sentiment score, largely because Heather Humphreys’ campaign struggled to generate strong counter-narratives capable of offsetting a series of negative stories.”

The Battle of the Airwaves: Irish Presidential Campaign 2025 report analysed more than 16,000 radio mentions from 60 stations nationwide, tracking sentiment, share of voice, geography, and trend dynamics between 24 September and 25 October 2025.

Everhaze is an Irish-built PR intelligence platform that tracks real-time media coverage across radio, print, and online sources in Ireland and the UK. Its technology combines broadcast capture with AI-driven analysis to map who is getting talked about, where, and in what tone. The platform is widely used by communicators to monitor campaigns, understand sentiment shifts, and measure share of voice.

As part of its continuing analysis of the 2025 Presidential campaign, Everhaze will host a live webinar today at 1pm titled “The De-brief” featuring Everhaze CEO James McCann in conversation with political commentator Derek Mooney. The session will unpack the full findings of the Battle of the Airwaves report, explore how leadership narratives shaped tone and momentum across local and national radio, and examine what the data reveals about voter sentiment heading into 2026.

The live discussion will also cover:

  • How radio became the defining battleground of the 2025 campaign
  • Why Fianna Fáil’s leadership fallout dominated the airwaves
  • How Catherine Connolly, Heather Humphreys and Maria Steen each built distinct tonal profiles
  • What the broader implications are for media strategy, messaging, and trust in Irish political communication

Report

Launch a Fitness Career with Accredited Training Programs

Do you have a strong passion for health and fitness? The fitness industry is expanding faster than ever before. More people are looking for guidance from personal trainers to help them live healthier and more active lives.

For anyone who dreams of turning this passion into a career, enrolling in an accredited training program is the first important step. These programs not only teach you the science behind exercise but also give you the professional skills needed to help others reach their goals. Let’s dive deeper into this topic.

Why Accredited Training Matters

An accredited training program ensures that you receive quality education and hands-on experience. Accreditation means the program has been reviewed and approved by recognized industry organizations. This gives your certification real value and makes it easier for clients to trust your expertise.

Accredited programs teach important subjects like anatomy, exercise science, and nutrition. You’ll also learn how to assess clients’ needs, design safe workout plans, and motivate people to stay on track. Many programs are led by experienced trainers who bring real-world knowledge to the classroom.

Another major advantage of choosing an accredited course is the network you build. You’ll meet fellow students, instructors, and professionals who can help you as you start your career. Some institutions even provide job placement support, helping you find work in gyms, wellness centers, or as an independent coach.

Choosing the Best Program for You

Choosing the right program is key. Start by confirming that the program is recognized by a reputable accrediting body. This ensures your certification will be accepted by employers and clients.

Reputable sites like https://www.americansportandfitness.com offer a variety of accredited options to explore. Think about your goals and interests. Do you want to focus on personal training, group classes, or sports performance?

Some programs also offer specialized areas such as strength training, nutrition, or rehabilitation. Pick a course that matches your passion and the kind of clients you want to serve.

It’s also important to consider how the program fits into your lifestyle. Many accredited programs now offer flexible schedules, including online learning or weekend sessions. This flexibility makes it easier for people balancing work, school, or family to complete their certification. 

Your Future in the Fitness Industry

A career in fitness offers both purpose and flexibility. You can choose to work one-on-one with clients, lead group classes, or even start your own business. No matter which path you take, your accredited certification gives you the confidence and credibility to succeed.

The fitness world continues to grow, and the demand for qualified professionals has never been higher. By investing in your education now, you’re preparing yourself for a rewarding and stable career. You’ll have the opportunity to inspire others, improve lives, and turn your passion into a lasting profession.

Start Your Journey Today

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a certified trainer, there’s no better time to begin. Accredited training programs give you the knowledge, experience, and support needed to start strong. With dedication and the right education, you can build a successful career helping others reach their fitness goals.

Your journey toward becoming a trusted fitness professional and making a real difference starts now. Explore more! Our blog has everything you need to know!

 

Status Pro X Earbuds Now On Amazon and we take a First Look

Building on the widespread acclaim of the Between Pro and Between 3ANC — which together have sold over half a million units — the new Pro X earbuds mark a bold evolution in design, comfort, and acoustic architecture. With a significantly more compact chassis, the Pro X offers a sleeker, more ergonomic fit while incorporating advanced performance features that set it apart from other wireless earbuds in its class.

At the heart of the Pro X is Status Audio’s signature hybrid triple driver system with premium Balanced Armature components from Knowles, a global leader in high-performance acoustic drivers. Enhanced voice call clarity is powered by Voiceloom AI, Status’ proprietary noise-reduction and beamforming speech enhancement technology.

Additional features include a redesigned app experience, upgraded connectivity, and industry-first codec support and in the meantime we have them here to check out and take a first look at the Status Pro X and if you have any questions feel free to ask

 

Key Features:

 

Hybrid Triple Driver Acoustic System

12mm Dynamic Driver

Dual Knowles Balanced Armature Drivers

Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation

Adjustable Transparency (“ambient-aware”) Mode

AI-Powered Voiceloom Speech Enhancement for Clear Phone Calls

Bluetooth 5.3 with Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast Support

SBC, AAC, LDAC, and LC3 codec support

High Res Wireless Audio Certified by the Japan Audio Society

Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair Support

Multipoint Connectivity

IP55 Water and Dust Resistance

8 hours of continuous playback, 24 hours total with the charging case 

Amazon

Website

Other Earbud Reviews

Unboxing Video

Galway County Council Launches Revamped Bilingual Website

Galway County Council has launched a completely redesigned bilingual website aimed at delivering faster, clearer, and more accessible information to residents, businesses, and visitors.

The new site, available at Gaillimh.ie and Galway.ie, was developed by award-winning Irish web services company Annertech. It now offers 100 per cent Irish-language content, improved translation management, and the ability to deliver dynamic updates including rich media, event announcements, and severe weather alerts.

Core services, including Planning, Housing, Environment, Libraries, Climate Action, Community, and Business and Economy, are easily accessible from the home page. Visitors can also sign up for location-based alerts on road works, planning applications, severe weather, and community notices through the MapAlerter service.

With the majority of users accessing the site on mobile devices, page layouts automatically adjust to fit smartphones and tablets.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “We have incorporated the views of elected members and the public, along with best practices in local government web service delivery, when redesigning the site. This ensures that the most up-to-date information about our services is presented in a modern, user-friendly interface with improved navigation and accessibility features.”

Katie O’Connor, Director of Finance, Motor Tax, ICT and Digital Transformation, described the launch as “a major step forward in making our services clearer, faster, and more accessible.”

She added, “The upgraded bilingual site ensures reliable access to council information and services at all times. It follows the Local Government Service Catalogue, presenting information around what people need.”

Michael Martyn, Head of Information Systems, commented, “By rewriting all content in plain English and Gaeilge, building on an open-source platform, and making Irish-language content a core feature, we are making it easier for people to find what they need, when they need it. This is about putting the user first, whether they are a resident, a business, or a visitor to Galway County.”

The site is built on Local Government Drupal, an open-source platform shared by councils in Ireland and the UK, with sharing of additional development and features on a build-once, share-many basis.

Visit www.Gaillimh.ie and www.Galway.ie.

Lidl Wins Top Award at the Inaugural Repak Resource Awards

Lidl has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Overall Repak Resource Award at the Repak Resource Awards 2025, Ireland’s National Environmental Awards. The event held at The Shelbourne Hotel, brought together leaders from across Ireland’s business, environmental, and community sectors to celebrate the positive impact of environmental initiatives all across Ireland.
The Repak Resource Awards, formerly known as the Pakman Awards, are Ireland’s National Environmental Awards and recognise exceptional achievements in waste prevention, recycling, reuse, circular design, and community-led environmental initiatives.
Lidl was honoured with the top award, Overall Repak Resource Award, for its leadership and impact in advancing Ireland’s recycling and circular economy goals. Each category winner is eligible for the Overall Repak Resource Award, which celebrates outstanding achievements in recycling, waste management, innovation, and grassroots environmental action.
Lidl was also the recipient of the Best Deposit Return Initiative Award, acknowledging its pioneering role in supporting and implementing Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). Lidl committed to an early investment of €50 million for deposit return and implemented a customer-first rollout, featuring two reverse vending machines per store.
The retailer’s innovations, including bulk deposit return machines, efficient backhauling, and the integration of charity donations, have set new standards in sustainable retail operations. To date, more than 300 million containers have been returned through Lidl’s scheme, marking a major milestone in Ireland’s circular economy journey.
Lidl’s achievement reflects the spirit of ‘resource’, showcasing how businesses can innovate, lead, and inspire change through practical sustainability in action. Their success, alongside the 12 other category winners, highlights how Irish organisations are rethinking how resources are used, reused, and valued. From community-led initiatives to circular design breakthroughs, this year’s winners demonstrate the creativity and leadership driving Ireland’s transition to a more resource-conscious future.
The Repak Resource Awards introduced two new categories this year, the Circular Community Award, and the Circular Design Award, celebrating the innovation and impact of communities and designers driving Ireland’s transition to a circular economy.
FoodCloud were awarded the Circular Community Award for tackling food waste and insecurity by redistributing surplus food and educating communities, and by building a nationwide network of community-led food-sharing initiatives grounded in circular economy principles.
Other category winners included KWD Recycling, Killarney, who were awarded the Waste Recovery Operator and Facility Award. One of Ireland’s largest family-owned recycling groups, KWD Recycling have invested in a new Killarney facility to recover recyclables from general waste, diverting over 10% of plastics and 50% of organics from disposal.
The Regional Waste Management Planning Offices were awarded the Environmental Education and Community Initiative Award, for their national campaign which reached over 822,000 people, promoting better waste segregation through research-led messaging, gamification, PR, and ambassador Donal Skehan.
Minister Alan Dillon, Minister for State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with special responsibility for the Circular Economy commented: “Congratulations to all of this evening’s finalists and winners. Your achievements are a powerful reminder that innovation and the drive to do things better are thriving across every sector of society.
The work you do is paving the way for a more circular economy, delivering lasting benefits for our communities, our businesses, and our environment.”
Speaking at the 2025 Repak Resource Awards ceremony, Repak CEO, Zoe Kavanagh said: “We are delighted to celebrate this year’s award winners and to recognise the extraordinary efforts of businesses, organisations, and communities nationwide.
The standard of entrants, finalists, and winners was truly exceptional, reflecting best practice recycling, waste management, circular design, and grassroots environmental action.
I would like to thank our sponsors for their support and extend my congratulations to all our winners, especially the Overall Repak Resource Award for 2025, Lidl, for their exceptional leadership in environmental sustainability.”
The complete list of winners for the Repak Resource Awards 2025 includes:
·        Battery and WEEE Champion Award – Castletroy College, Limerick
·        Best Deposit Return Initiative Award – Lidl Ireland
·                       Best Single-Use Plastic Initiative Award – Glenpatrick Spring Water Ltd & Kilkenny Nutritional Ltd
·        Business Recycling Champion Award – Boots Ireland
·                       Circular Community Award – FoodCloud
·                       Circular Design Award – An Post
·        Environmental Education and Community Initiative Award – Regional Waste Management Planning Offices
·        ESG Leader Award – Jason Carolan, from Aldi Ireland
·        Innovation in Waste Resource Products or Services Award – Flamers Ltd, Mullingar
·        Tyre Champion Award – Addible Ltd
·                      Waste Recovery Operator and Facility Award – KWD Recycling, Killarney
·                     Waste Prevention Award – Rebox
The 2025 Repak Resource Awards are proudly sponsored by AMCS, Circol ELT, Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, DNV, Environmental Protection Agency, European Recycling Platform, Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA), Local Authorities of Ireland, Panda, Repak Re-turn, and WEEE Ireland.
For more information, visit https://repak.ie/resource-awards

QCY H3S ANC headphones review

QCY, a global leader in wireless audio industry, today unveiled the H3S, the latest evolution of its popular H3 headphone line. Building on the strengths of its predecessor — powerful noise cancellation, immersive sound, and all-day comfort — the new H3S introduces meaningful upgrades in ANC, audio performance, endurance, and ergonomics to set a new benchmark in flagship headphones at an accessible price point. We have been testing these out for a few weeks and they deliver..

Flagship-Grade ANC & Call Clarity

The H3S features adaptive –56 dB active noise cancellation, powered by a 7-microphone array (6 ANC mics) and a DNN Neural Network Algorithm. This intelligent system reduces subway noise by up to 92% and filters 85% of background chatter. For calls, three anti-wind microphones combined with the DNN algorithm improve clarity by up to 80%, even in crowded or windy conditions. Multiple ANC modes — including Commute, Indoor, and Anti-Wind — ensure a natural, pressure-free listening experience in any environment.

Studio-Quality Dual-Driver Audio

With its dual-driver architecture, the H3S combines a 40 mm titanium-coated diaphragm for powerful mids and bass with a 13 mm tweeter for crisp highs — perfect for music lovers. Certified for Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Wireless with LDAC support, the H3S covers a frequency range of 20 Hz–40 kHz, delivering every detail — from the punch of EDM to the spacious textures of orchestral scores.

Ultra-Light Comfort, Extreme Endurance

Weighing just 240 g, the H3S is built for long sessions. A 13° angled speaker mesh improves projection and passive isolation, while deeper earcups fit larger ears without pressure. Soft protein-leather cushions and a padded, adjustable headband ensure lasting comfort. Rotatable, foldable earcups and an IPX5 water-resistance rating make the H3S equally ready for commutes, workouts, or long-haul travel however no carry case is given with them.

On battery performance, it leads the category with up to 102 hours of playback (58 with ANC on). And for those always on the go, just a quick 10-minute charge powers up an impressive 7 hours of listening, keeping music flowing without interruption. Real time battery life will vary per users settings and this is the norm for all earbuds and headphones.

Smarter Connectivity and Controls

The H3S is designed for seamless everyday use. It supports Bluetooth 6.0 with dual-device pairing, enabling smooth switching between phone and laptop. Users can also choose between wireless and Type-C wired listening, with ANC available in both modes.  

The QCY App enhances the experience with customizable EQ, Adaptive ANC, Transparency mode, and dedicated Music, Movie, and Gaming profiles. OTA firmware updates ensure the headphones continue to improve over time. On-device controls provide quick access to playback, calls, ANC modes, and a low-latency gaming mode.

 

Availability

The QCY H3S will be available in Black, White, and Gray, starting late October 2025, priced at USD$ 49.99 via QCY’s official store (www.qcy.com) and through authorized retailers worldwide.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

  • How to reset the H3S?

Press and hold the power button and volume-up button together for 10 seconds until the LED flashes red-white. The headphones will automatically power off and reset.


  • How to maintain battery health and product longevity?
  • Use the headphones at least once a month to avoid deep discharge.
  • Clean ear cushions, ports, and headband with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
  • Wipe dry immediately if exposed to liquid.


  • Can the ear cushions be replaced?

Yes, the ear cushions are replaceable. QCY will offer compatible replacement cushions through its official store for long-term maintenance and comfort.

Early-Bird Offer 

Pre-orders open October 25 – November 10, 2025, with a 15% discount, bringing the price to $42.49 on both Amazon and QCY’s official website.

Where will the QCY H3S be available for purchase?

The H3S will be available in Black, White, and Gray through: starting October 25, 2025, through the official QCY website, Amazon, and AliExpress, offering convenient global shipping.

 

They will be accessible in a wide range of countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, including:

  • North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
  • Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland, Bulgaria, Croatia, Poland, Sweden, Greece, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Malta

Brand Overview

  1. What is the QCY brand? What are its core advantages and historical achievements in the audio field?

QCY is a global leader in the wireless audio industry, committed to delivering cutting-edge audio solutions at accessible prices. By staying ahead of market trends and leveraging in-house R&D alongside strong supply chain capabilities, QCY makes high-quality audio technology available to more people around the world. QCY’s vision is to become the go-to audio brand for young, tech-savvy individuals worldwide. 

Driven by innovation and guided by the evolving needs of our users, QCY continues to grow as a trusted name among audio enthusiasts globally. We are not just creating products—we are building lasting connections. With a deep focus on user experience, we strive to exceed expectations and become an essential part of everyday life.

 

  1. How does the launch of H3S fit into QCY’s long-term brand strategy?

The H3S represents the next step in QCY’s strategy to democratize premium audio experiences. Building on the success of the H3, the H3S introduces major upgrades in ANC performance, sound quality, comfort, and battery life—cementing QCY’s leadership in accessible high-performance headphones.

Buy

See our QCY reviews 

Video Review

Niqo Robotics Launches AI-Powered Precision Weeding Robot

Niqo Robotics, a leading provider of AI-powered robotics for sustainable farming, today announced its entry into the weeding segment with the launch of its precision weeding robot, capable of performing high-speed spot-spray weeding at up to 4.5 mph. By combining speed, accuracy, and the power of AI, this innovation aims to make specialty crop farming more commercially viable than ever before.

Building on the success of their spot-spray lettuce thinning robot and valuable grower feedback, Niqo identified a critical gap in the specialty crop market—boosting grower ROI by reducing the time and cost spent on weeding, especially amid ongoing labor shortages. The new precision weeding robot integrates Niqo’s proprietary AI camera system, enabling real-time, plant-level decision-making. This can distinguish weeds from crop with millimeter-level precision, adapt to diverse field conditions, and operate seamlessly at  speeds of up to 4.5 miles per hour. At this weeding speed  growers can expect ROI in under two seasons.

“This launch is not about adding another feature to a robot—it’s about redesigning the rhythm of field operations,” said Jaisimha Rao, Founder and CEO of Niqo Robotics. “Weeding is the most time-critical and labor-intensive task in specialty crop farming. By focusing on speed and delivering millimeter-level accuracy, we are helping growers regain control over timing, cost, and consistency. What we’re introducing is a new approach to how AI-powered spot spraying can support agriculture. Feedback from growers in California and Arizona has been clear: they need systems that are fast, accurate, and flexible enough to handle changing field conditions. That’s exactly what we’ve built- the fastest spot-spray weeder in the field”.

With agricultural labor availability declining and production costs rising, robotic platforms are becoming an operational necessity. Niqo’s spot-spray weeder offers a scalable, integrated solution that maintains agronomic precision while maximizing speed and minimizing operational complexity. Designed for versatility, it can be retrofitted to any tractor and adapted to various bed configurations, ensuring a seamless, farm-friendly upgrade.

Key Features:
• In-row and inter-row precision weeding
• RTK-based navigation with ±2 mm accuracy
• Adaptability across bed sizes and crop types

Niqo spot-spray weeding robot is  manufactured and assembled in the United States and will be available to growers beginning November 2025. Current algorithms support green leaf lettuce, red leaf lettuce, and broccoli, with plans to expand to a broader range of specialty crops including onions, cabbage, tomato, and leafy greens based on grower needs.

Niqo operates one of the world’s largest commercial fleets of AI-powered agricultural robots, serving over 3,000 growers and having spot-sprayed more than 170,000 acres. Niqo spot-spray thinning robot is consistently delivering top-tier performance in lettuce thinning across major U.S. production regions.

Niqo Robotics invites attendees to their robot in action at the Demo Zone or connect with the team at Booth 43 during FIRA USA 2025, held at the Yolo County Fairgrounds, Woodland, California, from October 21–23.
Growers can book a free demo through their local Niqo Robotics contact, Chris Lauritzen (+1 831 320 5449), or reach out to their local dealer, Jason Mellow at Axis Ag, Inc. (+1 831 524 7816)

For more information, visit www.niqorobotics.com.