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.

Dell unveils new additions to the Alienware line #CES2022

Dell Technologies has unveiled details of the latest additions to its Alienware line. The new devices, showcased during CES 2022, range from the new Alienware x14, to the Alienware m15 R7 with Intel processors, gaming monitors and headset to amp up portability and performance for gamers.

Make your moves while on the move

Dell’s thinnest laptop to date, the Alienware x14, is made possible through a new patent-pending hinge design, which allows this compact gaming laptop to sport a suite of Alienware Cryo-Tech cooling technology which optimizes thermal performance, along with the largest Whr battery capacity on a 14” gaming laptop capable of over 11 hours of HD video playback.

The Alienware x14 is the first 14” laptop supporting NVIDIA’s Advanced Optimus and G-SYNC technologies – so battery life is optimized even during immersive gaming sessions. The Alienware x14 is also the first Alienware laptop to use Type-C ports exclusively as charging ports. Under the hood, you can find the latest 12th Gen Intel® Core™ H-series processors and our exclusive thermal interface material, Element 31, in addition to Intel® Arc™ Graphics or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 laptop GPU with 7-phase voltage regulation.

For those who desire bigger displays but the same high portability, Dell is also unveiling upgrades to the improved Alienware x15 R2 and Alienware x17 R2, which includes a completely new set of graphics options from NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 30 Series, 12th Gen Intel Core processors, faster memory and AlienFX stadium lighting.

For extreme gaming performance that delivers a competitive edge, Alienware m17 R5 blasts past the competition as the most powerful 17-inch AMD Advantage™ gaming laptop in the world. With a whole lot of AMD – AMD Ryzen™ 6000 Series processors, AMD Radeon™ RX graphics, AMD FreeSync™ Premium technology, AMD SmartShift MAX, AMD Smart Access Memory™ technology, and the first available laptop to feature AMD SmartAccess Graphics – our all-new m17 delivers an incredible combination of gaming technologies spanning hardware and software that create a gaming experience greater than the sum of its parts. All of this is cured with Alienware Cryo-tech cooling technology including graphics vapour chamber cooling to sustain high-performance through long marathon gaming sessions.

Dell is also offering the mid-size Alienware m15 R7, a 15-inch model available with either AMD Ryzen™processors or 12th Gen Intel Core H-series processors now supporting the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30-Series GPUs.

Kick your senses into high gear

Alongside these devices, Dell is bringing the gaming experience to a whole new level with its new peripherals, designed for out-of-this-world viewing experiences, top-notch sound quality, customisable features and ergonomics.

For gamers who play racing, simulation or action-adventure games, or Twitch streamers and content developers, Dell has introduced the Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DW), a CES Innovation Award Honoree. This monitor offers stunning colour performance and high luminance with crystal-clear visuals for an immersive gaming experience.

But what exactly is Quantum Dot OLED (QD-OLED) technology? In its simplest form, a QD-OLED display combines the impressive picture qualities of OLED with Quantum Dot technology to deliver a vibrant, life-like colour performance including consistent colour uniformity, wide colour coverage, incredible brightness and OLED reliability with a 3-year limited hardware warranty that covers OLED burn-in.

Meanwhile, the Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Headset (AW920H), also a CES Innovation Award Honoree, can keep users playing comfortably. Inheriting the Legend 2.0 design, it is Dell’s most comfy headset with a slimmer silhouette, leatherette covering and soft memory foam earcups. Embedded with active noise cancelling, immersive multidimensional audio integrated touch controls and versatile device connectivity, this headset is perfect for PC and mobile gaming as well as music and entertainment. In addition, just 15 minutes of fast-charge renders 6 hours of use and a full charge enables up to 55 hours of gameplay.

Players can also pick up the Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Mouse (AW720M). Weight-optimized at just 89g, it has a new slimmer design, 3D-sculpted ambidextrous thumb grips and iconic AlienFX RGB lighting. Its next-gen, 26,000 DPI optical sensor and magnetic force keyplates ensure the high-level performance expected from a gaming mouse.

Commenting on the latest releases, Vivian Lien, Vice President of Alienware and Dell Gaming, said: “No matter if you’re into hyper-realistic world-building or heart-pounding monster-slaying, incredible experiences are woven into Alienware’s DNA. This past year, for the benefit of gamers both casual and hardcore, we took that ethos to exhilarating new heights!

As players multiply in every region of the world and we gear up for hotly anticipated new game releases in 2022, the hype has never been stronger with development and innovation to match – including major updates across our Alienware mobility family and peripheral ecosystem. From the world’s thinnest 14” gaming laptop; to the most powerful 17-inch AMD Advantage gaming laptop out there; to the world’s first Quantum Dot OLED gaming monitor, each new device is packed with innovations.”

Pricing & Availability

February 9th2022

  • Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Headset (AW920H). Pricing to be confirmed nearer to shipping date.
  • Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Mouse (AW720M). Pricing to be confirmed nearer to shipping date.

March 29th2022

  • Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DW). Pricing to be confirmed nearer to shipping date.

Coming soon this Winter

  • Alienware x14. Pricing to be available upon launch.
  • Alienware x15 R2. Pricing to be available upon launch.
  • Alienware x17 R2. Pricing to be available upon launch.
  • Alienware m15 R7. Pricing to be available upon launch.

Coming later this Spring

  • Alienware m15 R7 with AMD processors. Pricing to be available upon launch.
  • Alienware m17 R5 AMD. Pricing to be available upon launch.

LambdaTest launches HyperTest, the world’s fastest cloud-based website and webapp testing platform

LambdaTest, a leading test execution platform, has launched HyperTest, a next-gen smart testing platform to help businesses run end-to-end Selenium tests at the fastest speed possible.

At a time when digital businesses are launching products and features at breakneck speeds, and looking to outsmart competitors, testing the code before releasing it to the audience is of utmost importance. HyperTest, which supports Selenium tests, enables businesses to achieve quickest time-to-market by intelligently reducing the test execution time drastically. Selenium is an open-source project that supports web browser automation, using which developers and QA analysts in organizations can automate their testing to save time instead of manually testing each functionality.

Existing automation testing platforms are inherently slow because of lots of network hops that happen during each test. In the traditional approach, triggered test scenarios are first sent to the Selenium hub, which in turn are scheduled to run on the best-suited Selenium node. This results in unnecessary latency as many network components are involved in the entire process. Also, multiple network hops with separated components result in increased test flakiness, a factor that is the biggest hindrance to time to market.

HyperTest unifies all the components into a single execution environment that eliminates these network hops and cuts down on test execution times. This enables businesses to test code and fix issues at a much faster pace and hence achieve an accelerated time to market.

“Traditional solutions barely scratch the surface when it comes to speed of test execution. We wanted to build the fastest test execution platform because businesses are tired of slow test execution speeds. When modern digital businesses are building best-in-class features and products, they also need a best-in-class test execution platform,” said Asad Khan, CEO, LambdaTest. “HyperTest runs as fast as an in-house Selenium installation and is up to 70% faster than other traditional cloud test execution platforms. We are excited for the world to try out HyperTest and experience test execution at never-before-seen speed. It also comes with a lot of smart features that ensures ease of test execution.”

HyperTest comes with real-time console logs for test execution, intelligent grouping of tests to reduce total build time, artifacts management, automatic reporting, and automatic retries on failures. It is also available across Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Founded in 2017, LambdaTest has raised close to $25 million in funding from investment firms such as Sequoia Capital, Telstra Ventures, Entree Capital, Leo Capital Holdings, Blume Ventures, and others.

Tile and Lenovo Collaborate to Make the New ThinkPad X1s Findable

Tile, the pioneer in finding technology, continues to grow its presence in the PC market with the introduction of Tile-enabled Lenovo ThinkPad X1 laptops. Lenovo’s all new X1 Carbon 10th Gen, X1 Yoga 7th Gen and X1 Nano 2nd Gen will be enabled with Tile finding technology, making it easy for customers to find their laptop, even when it’s offline. This collaboration follows Tile’s integration with HP, marking a notable expansion within the category and continued growth as the finding solution for PC owners around the world.

“The lines between work, school and home life have become increasingly blurred, making it even more critical for people to feel confident they can keep track of their laptop whether they’re at home, the office, the coffee shop or on the road,” said CJ Prober, CEO of Tile. “Our work with Lenovo extends Tile’s finding capabilities to millions of ThinkPad PCs through our free Windows and mobile apps, giving consumers added peace of mind knowing they can get through their day without the frustrating disruption of misplacing their laptop.”

To make the new ThinkPad X1 laptops findable, users simply download and install the free Tile Windows App from the Microsoft Store and activate their ThinkPad as a Tile. They can then locate their ThinkPad using the free Tile app on any Android or iOS smartphone, even if it’s shut down and offline, for up to 14 days. When finding nearby, the Tile app can be used to ring their PC within a Bluetooth range of up to 250 ft. If a user’s PC is outside of Bluetooth range, they can use the Tile app to view its most recent location or enlist the secure help of Tile’s global Network to aid in their search. The new Tile-enabled ThinkPad X1 laptops will be available for purchase starting in March, 2022.

“Our collaboration with Tile allows us to bring an additional layer of security to our new ThinkPad X1 portfolio, which is optimised for the hybrid worker through enhanced performance and security features,” said Tom Butler, executive director, Commercial Portfolio and Product Management, Lenovo PCSD. “As consumers adjust to their new normal, adding findability to their PC is a valuable resource we’re thrilled we can offer.” 

Tile’s embedded Find with Tile business has been expanding rapidly. Tile technology is now embedded in over 40 different third-party devices across audio, wearables, travel, smart home, pet and PC categories. Learn more at tile.com/partners.

TP-Link Announces New Tapo Smart Home Products #CES2022

TP-Link, a leading global provider in the networking and smart home space, is doubling down on the smart home segment by introducing new products to the Tapo smart home range. From security and fun to convenience, Tapo’s new offerings demonstrate its ambition to provide customers with ultimate accessibility across every aspect of their home life. The new Tapo solutions are expected to launch in the UK during the second half of 2022.

TP-Link will showcase its latest offerings during CES 2022, January 5-8. To learn more, visit TP-Link’s booth #52539, Venetian Expo or visit TP-Link’s website.

The new additions to the Tapo range will target multiple smart home categories with more products and features starting with innovative security cameras, Apple Homekit devices plus a series of IoT hub, motion sensors and smart button.

TAPO C200 Pan and Tilt Camera

First is the new Tapo C220 Pan and Tilt Camera designed for privacy. The camera provides 100 per cent privacy when required by hiding the lens in a physical chassis. Users can remotely control the process through the Tapo app. In standard mode, it works as a fully-featured 2K QHD pan and tilt camera with up to 110 degree per-second pan and tilt for stronger motion-tracking. Additionally, the Tapo C220 is equipped with built-in AI for person detection, vehicle detection, pet detection and more.

TAPO C790 Floodlight Camera

The all-new Tapo C720 Floodlight Camera is equipped with 4MP 2K solution, 140-degree view angle, 270 degree PIR detection angle, 2500lm floodlight for users’ garden and garage, a highly-sensitive starlight sensor that can capture images in low-light conditions and an IP65 rating, suited for outdoor use.

 

TAPO C320WS Colour Outdoor Camera

The Tapo C320WS is another advanced outdoor security Wi-Fi camera that delivers 2K QHD resolution and a crystal clear image. Equipped with a high-resolution sensor and spotlight, it can even catch vivid colours at night. It supports motion detection and sound and light alarm functions. It provides up to 256GB SD storage with paid cloud service, night vision distance up to 98 feet and an IP66 rugged design.

 

TAPO C410S2 Outdoor Security Wi-Fi Camera

Last but not least, the battery-powered Tapo C410S2 Outdoor Security Wi-Fi Camera delivers 2K QHD resolution and crystal clear images. The wire-free design lets users set up anywhere they want and the energy-saving design greatly extends the battery life. Tapo C410S2 is also equipped with built-in AI for person detection, vehicle detection, pet detection and more.

In addition to working with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit users will be delighted to find that many Tapo products, including smart plugs, switches and smart lighting are Apple HomeKit compatible.

Three such Apple Homekit ready products include the new Tapo P125 Mini Smart Plug, Tapo S500D Smart Dimmer Switch and Tapo P306 Wall Power Strip. The Tapo P125 features a compact design to save space and extra safety features including a flame-resistant design. The Tapo S500D lets users freely dim the light between one and 100 per cent and freely control with voice or in-app. Lastly, the Tapo P306 dramatically expands outlets with three smart outlets, three always-on outlets, one USB Type-C and two USB Type-A charging ports.

The flagship Tapo L930-5 Smart Multicolor Light Strip is compatible with Apple HomeKit and includes advanced features such as individual colors for each segment, syncing to sound for elaborate music-based light-shows and vibrant color with 150 RGB+W LEDs. The Tapo L535 Multicolor Smart Wi-Fi Light Bulb is compatible with Apple HomeKit and comes with adjustable 1100 lumen brightness, light temperature and millions of color possibilities. It also includes convenient features such as a schedule, timer functions and energy monitoring.

Finally, Tapo is introducing the Tapo H100 Smart IoT Hub, along with the Tapo T100 Smart Motion Sensor and the Tapo T110 Smart Window/Door Sensor. With the bundle setup, users can set alarm triggers for the 90 dB alarm built into the Tapo H100 smart hub. The possibilities with the Tapo H100 are numerous, enabling users to set triggers for events including mail arriving and an intruder opening a door or window. Additionally, a new Tapo S200D Smart Button is available with a wireless and battery-powered design, allowing users to add an extra switch wherever they want control over their smart lighting and other connected devices.

Dell unveils new XPS 13 Plus and new UltraSharp monitor. #CES2022

Dell Technologies today unveiled new products at CES 2022 across its XPS and display portfolios to help take collaboration and visual experiences to the next level.

The new XPS 13 Plus is the company’s most powerful device yet, with a sleek keyboard, function row, touch pad and palm rest delivering a clean, iconic appearance that is light to the touch and complemented by curved, comfy edges throughout.

Heightened senses for heightened creativity

Dell has enhanced both sight and sound in the new XPS 13 Plus. Its pioneering 4-sided InfinityEdge display continues to deliver a virtually borderless viewing experience and the company has reduced the number of layers from the display screen to improve clarity and reduce weight.

Designed with larger keycaps (also known as zero-lattice), the keyboard is comfortable, smooth and efficient with every keystroke. The top row of the keyboard is now cleaner, thanks to a new capacitive touch experience that allows you to switch between media and function keys easily.

The new XPS 13 Plus is the first XPS made using hydro-power renewable energy sources, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the aluminium and is 100% recyclable so it can be reused in new PCs.

“It’s no coincidence the new XPS 13 Plus is our most powerful yet, considering it was inspired by Gen-Z, a group that knows who they are, where they want to go and demands the horsepower they need to get there,” said Donnie Oliphan, Senior Director of XPS, Dell Technologies. “Modern and stylish, yet approachable and efficient – simple and intentional are the new definition of premium. Redesigned from the ground up with more performance than ever before, the XPS 13 Plus makes it so you can do everything you love to do in style.”

Collaborative and Visual Experience

With collaboration tools critical for a digital world, Dell has continued to invest in the ecosystem around the PC. This includes the CES Innovation Award Honouree, the new Dell UltraSharp 32 4K Video Conferencing Monitor. Featuring category-defining UltraSharp Webcam, echo cancelling dual array microphones and 14W speakers, this monitor provides the best collaboration and visual experience possible, making it feel like you’re there in person.

Ground-breaking IPS Black technology and VESA DisplayHDR 400 lets you view content in greater detail with 4K resolution, contrast and colour – while ComfortView Plus reduces harmful blue-light emissions and retains colour accuracy.

Then there’s the video conferencing capabilities. The new UltraSharp is certified for Microsoft Teams and comes with privacy and productivity features – letting you easily come on and off mute, enable/disable the camera with SafeShutter and quickly sign-in and out.

Pricing and availability

  • XPS 13 Plus is available worldwide Spring 2022, with Windows 11 or Ubuntu 20.04 on the Developer Edition. Pricing to be confirmed nearer to shipping date.
  • Dell UltraSharp 32 4K Video Conferencing Monitor (U3223QZ) is available worldwide on March 29th. Pricing to be confirmed nearer to shipping date.

Shure launches Aonic 40 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Shure introduced its AONIC 40 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones. Building on the success of the AONIC 50 Headphones and recently launched AONIC FREE Sound Isolating™ Earphones, the AONIC 40 model broadens the Shure Wireless portfolio to more acutely meet the needs of on-the-go music lovers, commuters, and travel enthusiasts. AONIC 40 Headphones combine a portable and elegant design with industry-leading Shure audio, revered and trusted by musicians and creators of multiple disciplines. In fact, GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Jacob Collier has partnered with the brand to highlight how he relies on Shure’s AONIC line for his audio needs while on the move, drawing inspiration from everyday life.

“The first microphone I ever owned was a Shure SM58® microphone. It taught me to listen to the world around me. I’ve relied on Shure, both in the studio and on stage, for my entire career,” shared Jacob. “Shure is bringing that same studio quality sound that musicians and artists have trusted for decades to music lovers around the world.”

Crafted from premium materials and precision-engineered, the AONIC 40 was designed for long-wearing comfort and durability. Listeners can block out the world with adjustable noise cancellation or activate Environment Mode with the click of a button to hear the outside world without missing a beat. Also featuring up to 25 hours of battery life, premium call quality, and customizable EQ, the AONIC 40 offers a truly superior wireless listening experience, available in two colors (White/Tan and Black).

“The AONIC 40 takes our 96-year heritage of delivering unparalleled audio in stages and studios around the world and pairs that expertise with our best-in-class Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphone technology. With a sleek, lightweight design and premium call quality, the AONIC 40 is the ideal headphone for anyone looking for the best combination of studio-quality audio performance, style, and comfort, no matter where the day takes them,” shared Eduardo Valdes, Associate Vice President of Global Marketing. “We’re proud to be partnering with Jacob Collier on this launch to underscore the Shure tradition of providing everyone, from pioneering artists like Jacob to the everyday commuter, with the gear they need to find inspiration on the go.”

Reliable, Superior Audio Performance Meets Rugged Design and Effortless Functionality. The AONIC 40 Headphones are the latest edition to the reliable Shure AONIC line of headphones and earphones, offering a stylish, yet portable design with the brand’s iconic sound at a competitive price point. These new headphones are the all-in-one unit for superior audio, highlighting a collapsible design with a compact footprint, adjustable noise cancellation with Environment Mode, quick charge, crystal-clear call quality, accessible and customizable controls, and more.

  • Portable Design: The foldable, rugged design and carrying case are ideal for compact storage and durable enough to withstand your next adventure.

  • Adjustable Noise Cancellation: Block out surrounding noise and immerse yourself in the AONIC 40 listening experience with three digital ANC settings crafted to deliver users the best noise cancellation, wherever travels lead.

  • Long-Lasting Comfort: Made with premium materials, including glass-filled nylon and aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, the AONIC 40 offers quality comfort and durability made to last.

  • Premium Call Quality: Dial-in to video conferencing or phone calls with exceptional audio, thanks to dual beamforming microphones. Dual USB audio mode enables two-way mic communication with the included USB-C cable or connect with Bluetooth® 5 wireless technology for enhanced stability and a range of up to 30 feet.

  • Accessible Controls: Answer calls, adjust volume, and control Active Noise Cancellation and Environment Mode levels with the push of a button.

Battery Life
The AONIC 40 Headphones were designed to provide grab-and-go durability, so long-lasting battery life was non-negotiable. Enjoy your music and podcasts with up to 25 hours of battery life with ANC turned on. In a rush? AONIC 40’s quick charge feature provides up to 5 hours of use with only 15 minutes of charge.

Discover Your Signature Sound with Customizable Hardware EQ in the ShurePlus™ PLAY app. Make your listening experience uniquely you by creating your own custom EQ using the free ShurePlus™ PLAY app, available on iOS and Android. After you’ve crafted a unique EQ you love, ShurePlus™ Play makes it easy to save your favorite settings directly to your headphones to easily transfer them across devices.

Along with customizing EQ and accessing downloadable firmware updates, ShurePlus™ PLAY lets you select prompts and tones and modify Environment Mode and Active Noise Cancellation settings. Audio enthusiasts will want to take full advantage of the app’s Hi-Res Music Player.

Pricing and Availability
Shure’s new Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones, AONIC 40, are available in White/Tan and Black for a retail price of £215 / $249 / €220. Purchase includes the headphones, protective zippered carrying case, 3.5mm audio cable, a USB-C cable, and a two-year warranty.

AONIC 40 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones are now available at select retailers and at https://www.shure.com/en-GB/products/headphones/aonic40.

Newry Company Provides Testing for Launch of James Webb Telescope – Resonate Testing.

NEWRY company, Resonate Testing, the leading commercial test house on the island of Ireland, conducted high level vibration and SRS shock testing on equipment that was used as part of the successful launch of the James Webb telescope on Christmas Day.

The telescope, the largest, most powerful and complex telescope ever built, has been described as a “time machine” by scientists and will allow astronomers to study the beginning of the universe shortly after the big bang, 13.8 billion years ago, as well as hunting for signs of life-supporting planets in our own galaxy.

Resonate Testing worked with Dublin based Réaltra Space Systems Engineering, which played a critical role in the launch by providing video images of the separation of the fairings (equipment used to protect the spacecraft during launch), and the spacecraft from the rocket.

Réaltra Space Systems ensured that all products underwent a rigorous “qualification” test campaign, which validated that the design could survive the harsh environments of the launch and space with sufficient margin. The process included extensive testing by Resonate Testing’s experienced and knowledgeable team to ensure the tests were completed to the required space industry standards.

Speaking about the launch of the most ambitious robot probe ever built, the $10bn James Webb telescope, which was blasted into space on top of a giant European rocket, Managing Director of Resonate Testing, Tom Mallon, said “Christmas was extra special this year. As a company we were extremely proud to have played a part in the successful launch of the huge Ariane 5 launcher and the James Webb telescope from the European Space Agency’s station in French Guiana.

“We have been working with Realtra Space for some time, and in recent years we have been competing on a global level by exploiting key upstream resources and developing world-class space downstream capabilities.”

Resonate Testing operates from its Centre of Excellence for Space in Newry and provides a range of testing processes across many sectors. The company has seen an increasing number of tests within the Space Sector, which can be attributed to its ability to rapidly develop and approve new capabilities, following requests from customers – not just in the space sector, but across the many industries that they service. This demonstrates Resonate Testing’s exceptional engineering services as a tried and tested facilitator.

In 2020, the company was awarded Platinum in the Innovate NI Innovation Accreditation programme for its cutting-edge processes that seen the delivery of high-quality live stream testing to global customers, including Réaltra, throughout the global pandemic.

FREE NOW partners with Zipp Mobility to integrate micro-mobility services in app across Ireland

Leading multi-mobility app FREE NOW and Zipp Mobility (Zipp), a leading Irish micro-mobility operator have today announced that they are joining forces with aims to integrate Zipp’s eScooters and eBikes on the FREE NOW app this year. This partnership will enable passengers to book Zipp’s micro-mobility transport options via the FREE NOW app when Zipp rolls out its services across Ireland in 2022.

The announcement comes off the back of the recently announced Road Traffic & Roads Bill 2021 which will legalise eScooter use in public places as public demand grows for flexible and sustainable transport options. Indeed, recent research conducted by FREE NOW shows that 40% of its passengers plan to use eScooters like Zipp’s for everyday transport when they are made widely available in Irish cities this year, and three quarters think that Ireland needs more sustainable, electric transport options in line with other European countries.

Zipp, headquartered at NovaUCD, has already launched in the UK and mainland Europe and plans to launch both eBikes and eScooters across Ireland in 2022 along with beginning operations in Portugal and Spain.

FREE NOW’s partnership with Zipp and its partnership announcements in 2021 with other eScooter players are an extension of its successful European eScooter rollout to date, and highlights FREE NOW’s commitment to empower sustainable urban mobility solutions in Ireland.

Commenting on the partnership with Zipp, Niall Carson, General Manager of FREE NOW Ireland said: “We are delighted to partner with Irish micro-mobility operator Zipp and share common ambitions to change, and ultimately improve, the way people across Ireland approach daily transport. It’s a really exciting time for the industry now that legislation on e-scooters is in motion, and we look forward to having eScooters available on our app in 2022. We understand that our customers want to make more sustainable choices and having the option to book an eScooter or EV taxi facilitates this. Using FREE NOW allows you to choose the best means of transport for you and your specific journey on any given day. Some longer trips make more sense in a taxi and for others using an eScooter or eBike will be quicker! It’s all about convenience and giving our customers the choice.”

Charlie Gleeson, Founder and CEO, Zipp Mobility said, “We are thrilled to join the group of operators that are able to offer their micro-mobility services on the FREE NOW platform. At Zipp we understand that micro-mobility is not a ‘silver bullet’ solution to decarbonising transport so we must collaborate with platforms like FREE NOW to give our customers a full spectrum of sustainable transport options. This is the only way we can meaningfully reduce our reliance on the private car and get to net-zero emissions in transport.”

He added, “This year we hope to launch our eScooters and eBikes in cities across Ireland including Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and this partnership will be a great asset to our users. Zipp was founded with Ireland in mind and we are so excited to bring our ethos of “mobility done right” to Irish cities during 2022.”

512 Audio Unveils Two Professional USB Mics and Modern Audio Interface for Podcasting, Streaming & Recording #CES2022

512 Audio, an Austin-based brand dedicated to delivering professional audio gear built for creators, is unveiling its first USB microphones – Script and Tempest – as well as an intuitive audio interface at CES 2022. 

“Our goal with 512 Audio is to help creators connect with their audiences – so, it’s very exciting to debut classic, studio-inspired mics with the convenience of USB to give them out-of-the-box professional audio,” said Tommy Edwards, VP of Product Strategy for 512 Audio and Warm Audio. “We’re also looking forward to giving creators a new way to enhance the professionalism of their setup, by introducing an interface that will be a central hub for streamlining audio production for content creation.” 

USB Microphones

 

  • Script (MSRP £129.99): 
Script USB Mic

Script is a compact, dual-pattern USB mic with a vintage-inspired design and simple, built-in studio controls designed for podcasting, streaming, and crystal clear online communication. Engineered with premium components, Script draws on the design and punchy sound profile of the classic Warm Audio WA-14 studio condenser microphone to capture your voice with natural clarity and fullness. Optimized for voice and speech, the dual-capsule design coupled with the tighter frequency response allows the Script to handle the average at-home recording environment by rejecting common, unwanted frequencies. With onboard gain and mute plus a dedicated headphone jack, Script makes it easy to set levels and monitor directly for effortless recording of superior sound in any setup. Available Spring 2022.

  • Tempest (MSRP £154.99): 
Tempest

Tempest is a true large-diaphragm studio microphone with the convenience of modern USB-C connectivity. With a 34mm gold-plated condenser capsule and 24-bit / 48kHz resolution, Tempest captures rich, detailed audio for podcasts, livestreams, acoustic instruments and vocal performances. Essential for USB plug-and-play workflows, Tempest features microphone gain, zero-latency headphone volume monitoring, and mute for full control over your sound. Tempest draws on the design and sound profile of another classic, the Warm Audio WA-47jr studio microphone, and combines premium components to deliver truly professional audio. Tempest will be available from Amazon UK in March.

Audio Interface

The 512 audio interface will be the perfect introduction to audio production with essential features, inputs, and outputs needed to record a professional podcast or stream with studio-quality audio right from your desktop. This intuitive USB audio interface will feature two XLR mic inputs with low-noise, studio-quality preamps and a phone input with automatic mix-minus capabilities for echo-free integration of calls and background music, all with individual gain controls. Additionally, the XLR mic inputs also allow connection of a broad array of equipment beyond microphones, including receiving audio from dedicated gaming computers and consoles, audio tracks from other devices, and instruments like keyboards and guitar.  This interface adds two headphone outputs with independent volume control so you and your guests can create confidently knowing exactly how you sound. The mute button makes it easy to instantly mute the signal from the analog XLR inputs to eliminate unexpected noise or talk to your co-host off air. With stereo line output jacks, you can send audio to a dedicated streaming computer, to speakers for critical listening of your content or to a portable recording device for on-the-go production. Full details, pricing, and availability coming summer 2022.

Script, Tempest, and the audio interface will debut at CES 2022 at the 512 Audio booth in Central Hall 1, #18945. For more information visit www.512audio.com.