Leading real hands on tech review site in Ireland with technology, business news and more. Jim O Brien Tech.
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.
Swedish audio brand Sudio will be including a sustainably produced tote bag, designed by renowned artist Andrea Maack, with all of their online purchases until July 11th, In addition to being included with every purchase on sudio.com, The Andrea Maack reusable cotton tote bag will also be available for purchase on its own for $39USD. BUt we also have the all new sudio ETT here and they look and feel great with an excellent case too. With 30 hours of playtime, wireless charging on board and ANC these look really good, having tested many of their previous models I do expect the same quality and sound from the new Sudio ETT and we will have a full hands on review soon. Today we take a quick look and if you are in the market for some new earbuds you can use the code (sudiotechbuzz) to claim your 15% discount at the checkout.
Edifier International, prominent designer and award-winning manufacturer of consumer audio electronics for both the lifestyle and multimedia markets announces its latest Hecate – Gaming GM5 earbuds.Bluetooth v5.2, Qualcomm QCC3046 and aptX Adaptive low latency technology, for faster transmission and a more stable connection.
With mobile gaming and video streaming being forefront of the GM5 construction, countless trials and tests were conducted to ensure that these wireless earbuds would meet the true gamer’s specific needs. The contrast of grey matte and gloss black on the charging case conveys quality, while the LED lighting on either side of the case incorporates aesthetic gaming design.
Featuring the latest Bluetooth v5.2 wireless connectivity and merging with Qualcomm chipset QCC3046 and aptX adaptive audio decoding, the GM5 produces high quality signal transmission with minimal interruptions and ultra-low latency. This combination allows for immediate sound communication from the game to your ears, ensuring you hear every move of your opponents.
Low-power consumption ensures that the GM5’s eight-hour playback time can be put to maximum use: with an additional 32 hours available via the portable charging case. Level after level can be completed without any lagging or low battery notifications for gamers, streamers, or mobile show bingers.
Environmental noise cancelling technology means that you can talk quite clearly with your teammates in the ‘battlefield’. ENC removes any external noise for clear communication during calls, and with dual microphones on each earbud, your voice is distinctively picked up. Use the earbuds individually or together for a greater range of uses.
Each earbud also includes touch controls, easily switching between gaming or music audio profiles and ambient mode, further enhancing your listening experience. You are also able to play, pause, accept or suspend a phone call and skip music tracks by a simple tap.
Included in the box is a Type – C charging cable, protective silicone case to ensure your earbuds and their case stay in mint condition, and a lanyard with a carabiner for easy transportation. The IPX5 rating – splash and sweatproof – and ergonomic half-ear design also guarantees comfort for long term use.
Main Features:
Bluetooth v5.2 and Qualcomm aptX low latency technology, for faster transmission and less interruptions.
ENC for clearer calls and listening and IPX5 rating to ensure splash and sweat proofing. • 8 hours playback with an additional 32 hours via the compact charging case.
Changeable audio profiles depending on use to enhance sound delivered.
A fully integrated ticketing, booking and capacity management system is being introduced at the Cliffs of Moher to further enhance the overall visitor experience for the 1.6 million annual visitors to Ireland’s most popular natural attraction.
Clare County Council has engaged Vivaticket to roll out the Visitor Attraction Management System (VAMS) which will enable individuals and group tours to secure their visit and experience at an available time via a booking portal allowing for improved visitor flow and a better visitor spread. The new technology also offers a range of other features aimed at delivering economic and social benefits for the wider Clare tourism sector.
Established in 1999, Vivaticket is a leading global provider of integrated ticketing software solutions to the leisure and entertainment, sport, culture and tradeshow industries. The company has over 3000 clients worldwide, including FC Barcelona, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, the Louvre Museum in Paris, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
“We are pleased to appoint Vivaticket in helping us deliver our promise of ensuring the first interaction the public has with the Cliffs of Moher is a warm welcome rather than a focus on a monetary transaction,” explained Leonard Cleary, Director of Service, Rural Development and Tourism, Clare County Council.
Bobby Kerr, Chairperson of the Board of the Cliffs of Moher Centre Ltd. added, “It’s important we invest in digitalisation so that the visitor can get the most out of their visit. Embracing new technology also supports us in our mission to deliver a world class visitor experience that manages demand and delivers back to the wider tourism sector in County Clare.”
“The VAMS encompasses the customer journey before, during and after arrival,” stated Geraldine Enright, Director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience. “Our aim to is have one fully integrated system that captures and reports on all visitor engagement with the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience via the online ticketing platform, and onsite to make it easier to manage demand and capacity, deploying user-friendly, engaging, informative content to users.”
“This critical investment is commitment to continued development of the services provided and will allow for a range of new products to be brought to the market including bespoke nature experiences with knowledgeable guides, authentic multi-attraction experiences, accommodation bundling, local inspired outdoor dining offerings, Co. Clare produced gifts all tailored to the emerging post pandemic market,” concluded Ms. Enright.
The VAMS is scheduled to go live this summer and coincides with the development of a sustainable long-term masterplan for the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience. Clare County Council is working, with a multi-disciplinary consultancy team led by Haley Sharpe Design, to prepare the Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040.
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is a signature discovery point on Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a main Geosite of the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark, a Special Protected Area for Birds and Wildlife and is a wholly-owned tourism asset of Clare County Council. Visit www.cliffsofmoher.ie for more details.
With the latest HSE cyberattack we have been warned that scams are most likely going to get worse and they have already started, We we be taking a closer look at that later plus the more common ones with couriers as I have just finished up on a series of such that takes a closer look and why this is happening and how to spot them straight away.
This scam is a new one on me though and rather worrying, we have seen this before but personally I have not got it until now and this was used in other instances to try get money from people, This time around like the HSE attack they are seeking bitcoin for payment and a hefty sum of money but is there any guarantee if you did pay it you would be fine afterwards, the answer is simply NO. This email is simply called sextortion or blackmail however it does not give you any option to respond to it or pay and after checking the bitcoin abuse database this does seem to be relatively new and the main thing to keep note of here is just ignore this and block the source and hand over nothing if you get anything like it and report to the Garda. Nothing has happened here in this case with all the options given to me. Furthermore evidence of this being a scam is the amount of spelling errors in the email which is pasted below.
email sample of sextortion blackmail and seeks bitcoin
Hi, stranger!
I hacked your device, because I sent you this message from your account. If you have already changed your password, my malware will be intercepts it every time.
You may not know me, and you are most likely wondering why you are receiving this email, right? In fact, I posted a malicious program on adults (pornography) of some websites, and you know that you visited these websites to enjoy (you know what I mean).
While you were watching video clips, my trojan started working as a RDP (remote desktop) with a keylogger that gave me access to your screen as well as a webcam.
Immediately after this, my program gathered all your contacts from messenger, social networks, and also by e-mail.
What I’ve done? I made a double screen video. The first part shows the video you watched (you have good taste, yes … but strange for me and other normal people), and the second part shows the recording of your webcam.
What should you do?
Well, I think $900 (USD dollars) is a fair price for our little secret. You will make a bitcoin payment (if you don’t know, look for “how to buy bitcoins” on Google).
BTC Address: 122F3j5EfUKnuKjFY54pCE43C793eVPSTY (This is CASE sensitive, please copy and paste it)
Remarks: You have 2 days (48 hours) to pay. (I have a special code, and at the moment I know that you have read this email).
If I don’t get bitcoins, I will send your video to all your contacts, including family members, colleagues, etc. However, if I am paid, I will immediately destroy the video, and my trojan will be destruct someself.
If you want to get proof, answer “Yes!” and resend this letter to youself. And I will definitely send your video to your any 19 contacts.
This is a non-negotiable offer, so please do not waste my personal and other people’s time by replying to this email.
Apple devices today are really thin, thanks to Solid State Drives or SSDs. But SSDs are really expensive and drive sizes that you’d get with HDDs aren’t cheap to include in MacBooks and iPhones. This makes it hard to store a lot of data in your Apple device and clearing up space becomes important every now and then. Here are five ways to clear up space on your Mac and iPhone.
Use the Storage Manager
Mac has a storage manager that lets you look at the space occupied by different file formats (videos, photos, documents, etc) and deletes any files that aren’t of use to you. If you’re looking to clean your Mac, you should use the best Mac cleaner. If you need a quick fix, go to the storage manager and use it to find files that can be deleted to free up more space.
The feature also recommends different files that aren’t used often and can be deleted, making the entire process a lot easier. If you have any files in your recycle bin or old cache files, the storage manager will highlight them for you to delete. This feature is great if you don’t have separate software to manage your device storage.
Use the iCloud
Using iCloud is one of the best ways to free up your storage as well as keep it from filling up. You can keep frequently used files on your physical drive and upload the rest of your data to iCloud. Whenever you need any of these files, you can search them through your iCloud data and retrieve them whenever you want.
Also, it’s really easy to manage files in iCloud and store more data than what you could on your device. Sync your device to iCloud and it will automatically upload your documents, photos, and videos. Once all the files are uploaded, you can delete them from your device.
Use sorting and finder tool
The sorting tool is a great way to look for large files that are hidden within a pile of files. All you need to do is go to your drive and look for the sorting tool on the top right. When you click on it, a drop-down menu will allow you to sort your files according to a variety of aspects. Look for ‘Size’ and click on it. Once all the files are sorted accordingly, start from the top and look for files that are the biggest in size.
If they aren’t useful to you, permanently delete them from your storage or upload them to your iCloud. Another method is to look for files by using the search or finder tool. This is useful when you know the names of the files that you don’t need anymore and can be removed.
Use cleaning software.
Getting cleaning software can be great for your Mac or iPhone as it becomes a one-stop place for all storage management. A cleaning software gives you a detailed report of your storage along with ways to optimize your drives.
You can also delete cache and junk files through this software, which can be hard to find manually. If you get cleaning software for your Mac or iPhone, regular checking can eliminate the possibility of your drives filling up more than 70%. There are plenty of cleaning software online but ensure you get one that provides the maximum amount of benefit at the lowest possible cost.
Clean your downloads folder
The Downloads folder is often the biggest source of storage problems. This is because they are only accessed when a new file is downloaded. Otherwise, they are not checked or cleaned. If you download a lot of files, check your Downloads folder regularly and delete files as soon as you are done using them. Another way of reducing downloaded junk files is by changing the download location to the Desktop.
Since the files are on your Desktop, you are more likely to delete the files once you don’t need them anymore. If you don’t wish the downloads to crowd your desktop, change the location to a file that you visit regularly. By using such ways to optimize storage, you won’t ever fill up your storage drive.
Conclusion
Keep these five efficient ways to clean your devices in mind and look for your own ways to optimize your storage. Use cleaning software and regularly check on your storage and cache files. It’s only by staying on top of your storage space and by being conscious of your downloads that you can maintain the health of your storage drive. Plus, you won’t ever have to worry about reaching a point where you have to delete necessary data just to have space for one extra photo or video.
Pinergy, the smart energy supplier delivering clean electricity has today announced an energy efficient partnership initiative with climote, one of Europe’s leading brands in the home energy technology sector. The partnership will see the soon-to-be-launched climote Smart Immersion Controller available as part of a ‘Pinergy Lifestyle H2O’ plan supporting the sustainable energy needs of families with smart meters.
The Pinergy Lifestyle H2O plan enables Pinergy’s customers to avail of an attractive discount unit rate of 5c per kilowatt-hour (kWh) between 4am and 7am, when using electricity to heat the water in their immersion tank. This plan is both more affordable and environmentally friendly than many existing carbon-based alternatives in the market as it fully utilises Pinergy’s 100% renewable energy supply.
Commenting on this latest innovation partnership for Pinergy, Enda Gunnell, chief executive at Pinergy said: “At Pinergy, we are driven by leveraging smart technology, deep partnerships and a passion for empowering everyone to play their role in creating a sustainable energy future. The introduction of our Pinergy Lifestyle H2O plan and its integration to the new climote Smart Immersion Controller is another game changer for consumers looking for a better and more carbon friendly way to heat water.”
The new climote Smart Immersion Controller replaces the traditional sink/bath switch with a more sophisticated wall-mounted controller that is linked to sensors placed on the water tank. The product, which can be fully installed in less than 90 minutes, visually displays how much usable hot water is in your tank, allowing you to boost supply at the touch of a button and easily manage the clock settings to avail of the most competitive electricity rates over a 24-hour period. The climote Smart Immersion Controller can also be operated via the climote Smart Immersion App, so you can view and boost your hot water from anywhere and at any time.
Eamon Conway, CEO at climote said: “Hot water heating typically represents 20% of our home energy usage, generated mostly from a fossil fuel source such as an oil or gas boiler. From our research many customers highlighted that they would like to contribute to a clean energy future but are unsure where to start. Teaming up with Pinergy with this new H20 tariff means that consumers can now heat their hot water with renewable electricity, allowing them to both reduce energy usage and to get started on their decarbonisation journey.”
A smarter way to heat water – Pinergy and climote partner to market smart new immersion controller (From left to right) Enda Gunnell, CEO at Pinergy pictured here alongside Eamon Conway, Managing Director of climote and Irish comedian, Colm O’Regan. Pinergy has announced its partnership with climote, one of Europe’s leading brands in the home energy technology sector to provide Smart Immersion Controllers as part of a ‘Pinergy Lifestyle H2O’ plan supporting the sustainable energy needs of families with smart meters.
Earlier this year, Pinergy became the first energy supplier in Ireland to launch a set of discounted energy plans for homes with smart meters installed, under its Pinergy Lifestyle brand. The Lifestyle bill pay plans include a “Work from Home” plan, a “Family Time” plan and a “Drive Time” plan for those families looking to charge their electric vehicles (EVs) overnight.
Pinergy has also recently partnered with other forward-thinking businesses including Ohme, a specialist provider of innovative smart charging technology for electric vehicles, Synoptic, an advisory firm for telecoms, technology and Internet infrastructure and eLight, Ireland’s leading Light as a Service (LaaS) provider.
Pinergy has collaborated with Irish comedian Colm O’Regan to create an upcoming selection of short videos which explain and outline the benefits of the climote Smart Immersion Controller as well as the launch of the Pinergy and climote partnership. For further information on Pinergy Lifestyle and the new climote Smart Immersion Controller, you can also visit: https://pinergy.ie/home-electricity/lifestyle-landing-page-h20-time/
BenQ, a global leader in display technology and solutions, is launching the latest models in its MOBIUZ gaming display series; the EX2510S and EX2710S. Both are perfect for competitive gaming, such as SimRacing and EgoShooters as well as enhancing story-driven games for a smoother and more immersive experience.
With an improved refresh rate from 144Hz to 165Hz, the new EX2510S/EX2710S puts an end to blurriness, delay and digital artifacts. This new gaming monitors are bursting with impressive features that will make gamers’ heart beat faster, such as the lightning-fast 1ms Moving Picture Response Time (MPRT), 99% sRGB IPS panel display for a balanced and accurate gaming picture and FreeSyncTM, Premium for a smooth gaming experience with annoying vibrations. BenQ’s HDRi technology further optimises colours and contrasts to create an unbeatably immersive experience that leaves gamers on the edge of seats.
The Light Tuner also allows you to choose from 20 colour settings, so whether you play FPS or RPG you can create the perfect gaming environment for you. Add to that Colour Vibrance and Black eQualizer technology which allows you to see your targets in any setting. So, whether your enemies choose to hide in the shadows or in the woods, these features will make visible against any background without overexposing the bright areas.
The built-in treVolo sound system creates an unforgettable, immersive atmosphere for players absorbed in the gaming action. This helps to provide an accurate perception of other players’ whereabouts at all times with detailed audio, making the EX2510S/EX2710S the perfect choice for epic adventures, action thrills, and heart-raising racing.
Hit the ground running and dive into your gaming world with Quick OSD and Scenario Mapping features. The Quick OSD allows you to set up and switch to your frequently used game settings quickly. When you plug into your game console, Scenario Mapping self-adjusts to the current video input signal and loads your personalised game settings. You can access different game scenario quickly by switching the input without wasting time on readjusting settings.
Key Features
99% sRGB IPS panel with HDRi, FreeSyncTM, Premium, 1ms MPRT, and 165Hz for utmost smooth gameplay
Immersive gameplay on the Full HD 25” or 27” screen
Two speakers powered by treVolo for audio immersion
New Quick OSD and Scenario Mapping to dive into the game right away
Multiple ports offering access to all kinds of devices
Viewing flexibility with the height adjustment stand
BenQ proprietary eye-care technology for viewing comfort
Advancement in technology is something to be proud of because the paybacks are enormous. Technology has impacted all aspects of our lives, and it is inevitable in our daily endeavors. Right now, we cannot imagine how we can do without technology. In this article, we will consider some of the top benefits that make technology inevitable. Coronavirus pandemic has proved that our lives hang on technology. This shows how it is vital for our existence. It is amazing how you can just login into your social media account as you see the world. if you are looking for future ready technology solutions check out Origin Technical Solutions – a Kent based tech company.
Technology has provided everything we need in the contemporary setting. Its advancement, like the internet of things, will make our lives more enjoyable. There are numerous technologies taking shape, and soon we will realize a big transformation in all sectors. First, however, this article will cover the benefits of technology to our daily lives. Here are some top considerations, also If you own a lot of tech equipment, then it is essential to have the correct technology and telecommunications insurance policy in place to safeguard your prized possessions.
Communication
Sharing information has never been this simple. The entire globe is a small village where information is at our fingertips. Many technological applications and social media platforms have provided an excellent way to link up with the entire world. We can connect with our families even when we are miles away. We can find long-lost friends on Facebook and other platforms. We can also communicate with world leaders and get their responses on these platforms.
Communication is vital in all spheres, and technology has provided the best platforms. We cannot imagine our life without a smartphone or the emergence of a virtual mailbox that has made it easier to deliver postal orders in this digital age. Families are not worried about their members because they can communicate and see them from wherever they are. Thanks to technology that we are relieved.
Internet
Globalization is possible because of the internet. We can connect and work from different parts of the world. Many businesses have survived the COVID-19 pandemic because of the internet. Because of the internet, establishments were able to work from home and still serve the needs of their clients. The internet is the engine behind all communication platforms. We can assimilate and process information through the internet. We have managed to overcome the hard COVID-19 times because of the internet. It is proved that our lives can keep moving even with the lockdown. For example, companies like essay writing service do not need an office.
Knowledge
Gone are the days when students had to run to the library to get information. It was the only place where individuals could get books and learning materials for their projects. However, the available research materials were not readily accessible. Thanks to technology because that has changed. With the help of different search engines like Google, we get information readily. We can browse and get any information on any topic like top paid surveys. Anyone can get anything from the internet when they are connected.
Education
We have made significant progress in education because of technology, proving that we can overcome all barriers. Physical barriers are no longer factors that can hinder quality education. There is increased access to information, making learners achieve their educational aims without struggling.
Professional writing companies are available to offer support to students. Online teaching and tutoring are possible because of technology. You can access information at any time. There is nothing that students cannot achieve. If you need help, platforms like Google scholar provide the materials you need for your projects.
Experts are available to provide the help you need. Learners can get help to write their academic papers. Gone are the days when students could get stuck with their tasks. Right now, you get the support you need to complete different papers, essays, and articles.
Online learning is cost-effective. You can complete a course without incurring upkeep costs. In addition, technological devices like laptops and tablets have made learning easier and lighter.
Besides, students can get special attention because of personalized learning. Students learn at different paces. Thanks to technology because it can be used to assess learners and know their learning requirements. It allows teachers to use a personalized approach to meet the needs of different learners. This makes education directed and more meaningful.
Technology is constantly evolving and providing an excellent experience to users. In conclusion, we can boast of increases security because of the same. Cameras and CCTV can be used in court to provide evidence. This shows how technology has impacted every area. The importance of technology is evident, and we will live to enjoy it as various technological companies make advances. Think about how it has reformed communication, education, and access to information. All these are positive aspects that make us embrace technology.
Since time immemorial, pictures have been a way to keep memories, record historical occurrences and big events that did happen over time. Pictures play a massive role in narrating history. After all, the famous quote that a picture says a thousand words.
Today, photography has seen a lot in terms of production quality due to technological advancements. Innovations have led to having tools and equipment that weren’t in existence a couple of decades back. From cameras with great clarity to the introduction of digital photo editing tools, every picture you take is quality.
What Does It Take to Capture a Good Image?
Telecommunication companies like Samsung and Apple have realized the preference chase and continue to pamper their new gadgets with pixels upon pixels in-camera lens quality and abilities. One look on Instagram, and you will be amazed by the photos these phones can take!
But taking a quality picture, good camera or not, takes a good photographer. You see, photography is about capturing that best moment that wows everyone. You should showcase the best photography that resonates with the viewers. As a photographer, you need to have the skill to be professional in taking pictures. You can use a AI image Upscaler to enhance visuals, ensuring crisp and high-quality imagery.
A photographer insurance is also a crucial tool in your toolkit. It’s essential to protect not just your creative talent, but also your equipment and potential liabilities, ensuring you’re prepared for any unexpected challenges that might arise during your photography journey.
With the ever-growing sector of influencer marketing, social media has become the new marketplace. Photography can enhance your following and even earn you good money. But how can you bank six figures if your pictures look like sculptures?
Qualities of a Good Picture
A good picture is not any picture. It is taken with consideration and art and must have some qualities to qualify it as a wowing piece of art. There is a science that must be in place to produce a magnificent display.
Timeless Effect
A good photo should spruce the aging process associated with time. It should be relevant all the way through. It will need to respond to the acceptance now and in the future. A picture taken in world war two is still relevant today. Now that is timelessness.
Storyline
As a way of wordless communication, a picture should leave the viewer with answers, not more questions. There should be a why, where, and when scenario happening in the viewers’ minds. You don’t want them to be looking for an explanation from neighbors.
Self-dictating
These other supporting captions act as explainers of place and time to the main event happening at the center of the image. You can use a professional image background remover to ensure the focus remains on the subject, eliminating any distractions that might take away from the core story. The background should complement the subject and enhance the overall message the photographer is trying to convey.
Content Suitability
It’s your mandate as the photographer to control the narrative. Let your viewers get a clear message that suits them.
Emotion
Everything that human beings do is from a place of emotional drive. Your picture impacts more when it has a tag to the human side of people, being compassionate.
Rules of Making a Perfect Photograph
Have you ever seen those low-quality blurry pictures on someone’s timeline? You skipped them right away because they didn’t appeal to you. You may have the best camera lens in the world, but without skill, you lose. Here are some elements that help you get that clear shot in one go; the four main rules of making the perfect picture:
Have Good Lighting
There is a reason why photographs taken in the daytime are way better in clarity than those taken at night or in a gloomy place. The secret? Light. Make sure that when taking pictures, there is enough light to make the object be seen. If the natural lighting is unavailable, like at night, use a photography light to expose the image and capture it more clearly.
Control The Exposure For Clarity
To take an image, the sensor of a digital camera or the film of an analog camera absorbs light. The amount of light required in a photograph is referred to as exposure. There is no specific set of exposure that pictures have; it is all dependent on the overall objective of the caption.
Composition Of The Photograph
A picture’s wow moment is dependent on the timing of the photographer. An image of racing bikes mid-air is refreshing to watch than a picture of the same bike on the ground parked. An image should have a theme, and the caption should speak it louder than the periphery. The chosen image shot should push for attention. You ought to stage it so as it communicates as intended.
Have The Right Color
A picture should have a well-balanced coloring. This allows it to perceive well with the viewer and show the realness of the caption. You can adjust your white balance in the camera’s settings. Alternatively, to check if the color effect of your camera is true, check a white background. If your camera picks white as white in real life, then you can go ahead and take the amazing memories.
It may take several tries to take that perfect photo. Even pros in this industry take several shots to best capture the moment. Have a good eye and quick finger to notice when to take a picture or strike a different pose.
