Independent leading real hands on tech review site in Ireland with technology, business news and more.
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.
Apple have donned us with new iPhones and you will want to case up as they are expensive. noreve is now taking pre-orders on new shells and this company makes hand made cases and we have something on the way from them which was custom made to our choice. It hard to get custom cases and noreve allow you customise and are made from the best quality materials there is.
For the release of the latest Apple smartphones, get -20% off your iPhone 11, 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max by pre-ordering the shell now. Visit www.noreve.com
Apple as you know have just launched the next generation products last night and they do give impressive shows I must add despite my gripes with them and their mantra.But as expected the upgrades are iterative and not much improvements on last years. Pricing is another matter on configuration and you if you go top tier you are talking €1700 which costs the same a macbook.
The prices in case you missed..
iPhone Pro Max €1279 – Pro €1179 iPhone 11 €829. These are base pricing…
Picodi.com have sent us a report about how many workdays an average Irish person would need to save up for iPhone 11 Pro. Lets take a look..
The official price of the iPhone 11 Pro (64GB) in Ireland is going to be €1179. Assuming that, according to Central Statistics Office, the average gross salary in this country is €769.98 (€605 net), a statistical Irish person would have to work for 9.7 days to afford this year’s iPhone (not counting living expenses). That is 0.3 of a day less than the previous year.
On the other hand, in Malta, where the iPhone 11 Pro price is going to be the same as in Ireland, citizens would have to work almost two times longer than Irish people. With the average annual salary amounting to €19390 (€15418.50 net), an average Maltese needs 19.2 workdays to afford the new Apple gadget. Still, it is 0.7 of a day less than in 2018.
In the lead of the rank are the Swiss, Americans and Luxembourgers, where the ratio of the iPhone’s price to the average salary is the most attractive. A statistical Swiss should be able to save up for iPhone 11 Pro in 4.8 days, an American – in 5.8 days, and a Luxembourg – in 6.7 days.
The reverse record belongs to Mexicans: a statistical resident of this country would have to lay aside 54.2 days worth of wages to buy the iPhone. In countries like Montenegro or Russia, the new gadget has got the value of 48.5 and 47 workdays, respectively.
Christmas is the season of giving, and INSTAX is here to help. With tonnes of models to choose from, there is something to suit every family member and friend, even the ones that are notoriously difficult to buy for!
For hard to buy for teenagers, why not gift the Mini LiPlay? This is the first instant camera to fully embrace sound, making it Fujifilm’s most playful camera yet. The Mini Li-Play has the ability to record audio via a dedicated sound button located on the front of the camera. The audio clip is converted into a QR code, which is printed onto the INSTAX print. This cool feature is perfect for capturing all the magical sounds of Christmas, from carols to the laughter that fills family get-togethers. We have reviewed the LiPlay and love it and you should check it out. See the full review HERE
Fashion mavens and dapper dans will squeal with delight as they unwrap the INSTAXSQ6. Undoubtedly one of the sleekest instant cameras on the market, its classic retro design is the perfect accessory to party looks this festive season. Not only does the SQ6 have a selfie mirror, but it also captures every party moment in perfect symmetry in a 1:1 snap, with a neat white border.
And finally, for those who are seemingly impossible to buy for, look no further than the INSTAX Mini 9. This iconic instant camera is perfect for all ages. It is fun and stylish, and features an automatic brightness adjustment, as well as a specially designed selfie mirror, for the perfect Christmas pics. The INSTAX Mini 9 comes in an array of colours, even a merry poppy red colour for the day that’s in it.
INSTAX cameras are available in FUJIFILM stockists nationwide. Prices start from €84.99 and may vary by retailer.
The construction of new data centres will generate more than €4.5 billion in inward investment for Ireland by 2025, according to the latest industry update report from Host In Ireland in association with Bitpower.
Thirty-four new data centres are now likely to be operational in the next 6 years, in addition to the 53 which are currently active. With eight new data centres under construction, and 26 with planning approval in place, the value of the projects is expected to deliver €4.5bn in inward investment to the Irish economy over a 6 year period.
The Quarter 2 report also highlights the growing level of direct investment in renewable energy from the data sector with Amazon only recently announcing Cork as the location for a wind farm development, on top of an earlier investment in April this year in Donegal.
Speaking at the launch of the Q2 report, Garry Connolly, President of Host In Ireland said:
“What is most encouraging is that this year we have seen several large scale investments in the renewable energy sector from leading data centre operators. We expect these non-subsidised investments to continue.”
The uncertainty around Brexit has not affected momentum in the data centre industry either according to Mr. Connolly:
“We have not seen any detrimental effects on investment from our projections two years ago despite uncertainty around Brexit. In fact, from our original projections they have risen by €1billion for 2021.”
Key findings of the Q.2, 2019 Update Report include:
Annual Investment in data centres has reached €1.3bn on an annual basis
Cumulative investment in the data centre sector up to 2023 is ex €11bn
Dublin South West remains the largest cluster of data centres in Ireland with 14 active data centres
Verizon Connect introduces Immobilisation for Verizon Connect Reveal, a powerful tool developed specifically for customers who want to help prevent unauthorised use of vehicles and aid in the recovery of stolen vehicles. Immobilisation for Verizon Connect Reveal works with the Verizon Connect Reveal platform and enables fleet managers to remotely disable a vehicle’s ignition once the vehicle’s engine has been shut off, effectively stopping vehicle misuse in near real time.
“With Immobilisation for Verizon Connect Reveal we are helping give customers a level of safety and security they’ve never had before,” said Derek Bryan, EMEA vice president, at Verizon Connect. “They have peace of mind knowing they have the power to take action quickly and safely, with the push of a button.”
Immobilisation for Verizon Connect Reveal can be viewed from the Reveal Vehicle page where users can locate and choose which vehicles to immobilise, and is compatible with most CalAmp hardware.
Notable features include the ability to:
Remotely disable a vehicle’s ignition directly from the Reveal web portal or mobile app
Check when the request to immobilise a vehicle has been sent, if it’s pending and when it’s complete
View history of when and where a vehicle was immobilised or mobilised
If you are in the market for a new security camera or an additional one that is easy to set up with no issues this is the one, Right now on Amazon this sells for around €32 which is good for the money in my book.
Set up took me around three minutes and that for sure is a good thing,some cameras take much longer and can be annoying but here it is almost plug and play and you are good to go,you have to enter minimal information and connect to your WiFi from the app and thats it,no messing with location or qr codes for the camera to scan,you then place it where you want and you are done.
You are limited to an extent as to where you can put it as it is a wired camera but there is a decent cable inside the box and the camera is also small and light and not cumbersome and can be placed just about anywhere. The app is easy to navigate too you will see all this in the video review below and the options to change the settings is simple and nothing too difficult about the whole process which is welcome and compared to other apps it is less convoluted and nothing hidden deep in menus.
You can set up up to 4 activity zones which is handy and can cut down on notifications you do not need the camera is sensitive but can be changed but having the option to insert activity zones is good and not seen to often at this price range. I have tested the camera out in several situations and found for example pointing out one window my neighbours washing on the line constantly set it off but with some adjustments that cured it, You can point out the window too you do not have to have it strictly pointing indoors so that is also good, For indoor use it is where it will shine best with two way audio that is clear and clear footage which can be changed from 720-1080p though this requires a stronger internet connection.
You will get good footage day or night you can see samples in the video review and this is well worth the money and the only gripe I have is in the app where you cant dismiss notifications and they stay in the timeline but this is something I have seen on other cameras at this pricepoint.
Check the video below for footage and the app review and feel free to comment below or on our social channels.
Features
Sharp and clear 1080p full-HD video
Crisp two-way audio for seamless communication
Wide angle view 130 degrees – Set it up in a corner and get a full view of your room
Night vision up to 20 feet
Automatic alerts when your Spot detects motion or sound – No need to check your Kasa Spot throughout the day
Configure up to 4 customizable zones for more meaningful alerts at no extra cost
Nokia today launched a new range of handsets to suit all pockets and from October Three of the 5 handsets will be available in Ireland in various stores across the country, You can read more on that over HERE
These new earbuds are an upgrade to their previous model and I will look forward to checking these out in the coming weeks as I am on a true wireless buzz at the moment and we have some reviews on the way this week and more to come soon.
They claim up to 150 hours battery life which is impressive by true wireless standards and are IPX7 rated which means waterproof for up to 1M, They also have USB-C charging with a charge case which again is welcome and future-proofing themselves and they sport Bluetooth 5.0 which means a better connection,they will come in two colours Charcoal Black and Light Grey..
The specs on the new earbuds are as follows..
• Battery time: Earbuds: Up to 5 hours
• Including charging case: Up to 150 hours (up to x30 additional
charges of earbuds)
• Durability: IPX7 – Waterproof at 1m for up to 30 minutes
• Drivers: Graphene, 6mm
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
• I/O: USB Type-C charging | Touch controls
• Form Factor: True Wireless
• Battery Capacity: Earbuds: 50mAh per earbud
• Charging case: 3000mAh
• Dimensions: Earbuds: 25mm(L) x 23mm(W) x 23.8mm(D)
• Charging case: 79mm(L) x 48.5mm(W) x 31mm(D)
• Colour: Charcoal Black | Light Grey
This year at IFA 2019, Targus, a leader in laptop cases and mobile computing accessories, will be launching new ranges and solutions to tackle the global challenges we face; living more sustainably, the evolving retail landscape and productivity whilst working from home.
With a new EcoSmart range of bags and cases being announced at the event, Targus is demonstrating its dedication to becoming more sustainable. Targus’ AR showcase will bring the future of retail to life with an innovative solution that addresses shrinking store footprints and growing customer demands for an immersive retail experience over the week-long event. As well as this, Targus will be showcasing a range of solutions dedicated to suit the modern office worker, offering chiropractic advice in person.
EcoSmart range: Targus continues its sustainability journey
Targus has responded to the plastic waste challenge by developing a versatile and minimalistic range of backpacks and cases made from recycled plastic that still deliver durability, protection and organisation. Making its debut at IFA, the EcoSmart range includes multiple products for an active work life balance, from backpacks to briefcases to sleeves. Products are made from at least 70% recycled PET, nickel-free hardware and feature recyclable zips.
The designs for this product portfolio incorporate the need for versatility – the ability to carry heavy loads, security for commuting or carrying multiple devices – as well as catering to the growing trend of environmentally conscious consumers. The planet-friendly range is in line with the Global Recycling Standard.
AR try before you buy: Experience the future of retail
With the face of retail constantly evolving thanks to the proliferation of technology, Targus believes that innovation is key to remaining competitive.
Targus has initiated an AR programme as a response to what it has been seeing in the retail industry – shrinking store footprints and growing customer demands for an immersive retail experience. The AR experience will give visitors the exciting opportunity to explore different backpacks so they can find the perfect fit for every working lifestyle.
At IFA, Targus will have a 3D-printed polygon mannequin with a QR code printed on the back. Users who scan the QR code can “see” and “try on” the product without it being physically present. Users can also rotate the bag, “try on” different products, “look into” the bag and explore its various compartments – all through the magic that is AR.
Tech innovation like AR is the perfect way to showcase a whole range of products, even if the retailer only stocks one item from the range. The long-term view is to link up the experience to the retailer’s ecommerce site, so they can purchase items that may not be stocked in store.
The changing needs of modern office workers
Targus will be bringing its unique ‘Workspace in retail’ concept to life as well, emphasizing efficiency and productivity in the home, whilst acknowledging that work spaces can be compact. It will be showcasing its range of docking stations, including the DOCK190. Its range of stations allow users to be more efficient and productive when working remotely and flexibly, easing the transition between home and office. All users have to do is plug their devices into the docking station, eliminating the need to connect each device individually. A ‘work from anywhere’ set up will be demonstrated so retailers can learn how to show their customers how the technology works together and what the ideal workspace looks like.
Also on-site will be certified chiropractor, Dr Samera Bhatti, who will be conducting posture analysis sessions on Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th. She will provide visitors personalised tips on working well from home and improving overall workplace well-being.
Elevating customer service with the right tech
During the event, Targus will also be showcasing a tablet cradle workstation solution developed to work with the Samsung DeX solution. Samsung will also be presenting the solution on their stand.
Targus has seen the need for mobile workstation solutions growing amidst the customer service industry – whether this may be in the retail space, fast-food establishments or financial institutions.
The Targus tablet cradle workstation works seamlessly with Samsung’s desktop experience solution, DeX. It gives customer service representatives the ability to be mobile and switch from tablet to desktop by simply placing their tablet devices within the Targus cradle.
Flexibility, improved audio quality, and longer wireless battery life are some of the most important features for earphone consumers. Today, Shure announced that its innovative line of detachable SE Sound Isolating™ Earphones is now available with enhanced features that provide enriched audio quality, improved wireless battery life, and convenient options to switch between wireless or wired listening.
The Company’s established line of SE earphones now includes Shure’s High-Resolution Bluetooth® 5 Earphone Communication Cable (RMCE-BT2), offering music lovers and mobile listeners the best wireless audio experience to date.
Engineered with the same precision components used by professional musicians, the upgraded and expanded configurations deliver detailed sound and durability. With new BT2 integration, listeners can easily transform from wired to wireless via the SE earphone solution of their choice—regardless of price or model.
High-Performance Audio
No matter the connection, the comfortable Sound Isolating design eliminates outside noise, easily transforming a daily commute, gym workout, or airplane trip into a personal concert.
Even the most discerning sound aficionados and casual listeners alike can take advantage of the convenience and portability of wireless without sacrificing quality. The dedicated, high-performance headphone amplifier provides lower noise and distortion while accurately maintaining frequency response, supporting popular audio codecs, including Qualcomm® aptX™ audio, aptX™ HD, aptX™ Low Latency, AAC, and SBC. Retaining a wireless range of up to 30 feet, the SE line maintains quality even from a distance.
“Not only do professional musicians use Shure earphones, they trust Shure microphones and other Shure audio equipment to record and perform live,” said Sean Sullivan, Associate Director of Global Product Management at Shure. “From the performer’s voice and the instrument’s sound to the listener’s ears, the complete end-to-end audio experience starts and ends with Shure.”
25 Percent Better Battery Life and Fast Charging
The wireless option has been upgraded, offering up to ten hours of continuous quality sound when paired with any Bluetooth-enabled device – a 25 percent improvement over the previous version. With ten hours of playback, it essentially might mean that commuters could go an entire week using these earphones during their commutes without having to recharge. Even a quick 15-minute recharge can provide up to two hours of wireless enjoyment.
From Wireless to Wired in a Snap
If the wireless charge runs out, the SE earphones quickly and conveniently switch to a wired connection to an Apple or Android device through the innovative detachable cable system.
“Our SE earphones have long been a staple for artists, musicians, and music lovers all over the world. In recent years, we’ve worked to elevate this product line even further, prioritizing wireless connectivity and features that mobile listeners want,” added Sullivan. “We understand modern-day situations like lengthy flights and commutes can interfere with long-lasting wireless listening, which is why we offer a solution to go from wireless to wired. With a quick twist of the earphones, listeners have multiple options that help them stay connected no matter the device or situation.”
Fit and Function
Secure, over-the-ear design ensure the earphones stay in place for unmatched, long-wearing comfort. The Sound Isolating™ design features a fit kit with a variety of sleeves for a custom fit that can block up to 37 dB of outside noise for immersive listening no matter the location – airplane, school, bus, the gym, or home.
Conference Calls and Calls from Mom
The flexibility of the SE line of earphones extends into calling features, where the audio continues to shine. The inline microphone and three-button remote ensures clarity for calls and voice prompts and provides volume and playback control with ease, so key details won’t be missed like who joined the conference call late or the big news from mom about holiday plans.
Product Options
Shure has various options in its SE line based on listening preferences. Each model has a wide variation of color choices to fit the personality of every user.
SE215 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones provide clear sound and amazing bass in a secure, over-the-ear design with detachable cable and choice of sleeves for long-lasting comfort and custom fit.
• SE846 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones feature four high-definition drivers for extended high-end clarity and a groundbreaking low-pass filter for true subwoofer performance. Featuring a customizable frequency response and an innovative, detachable cable system, SE846 Earphones provide a perfectly tailored listening experience.
Availability
Shure’s updated SE Sound Isolating Earphones are available now. All models are now available on www.shure.com and at participating authorised dealers.
