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.

Sony announces three new Xperia smartphones. Xperia 1 III, Xperia 5 III and Xperia 10 III

Sony today announced two new additions to its Xperia 1 and 5 flagships series line-ups with Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III. Both devices provide a rich collection of integrated features that connect the Xperia community with its passions. Whether they are photographers, audiophiles, cinephiles, gamers or cinematographers alike, the next generation of Xperia 1 and 5 flagships series will enrich the user experience with its plethora of new features. This is the next level of Xperia that transforms with speed and beyond.

World´s first smartphone with a Variable telephoto lens paired with a dual PD sensor

Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals, newly equipped Real-time Trackingand fast, accurate continuous AF across all lenses

20fps Burst Mode with low light noise reduction powered by BIONZ X™

Brand new AI super resolution zoom technology

Updated Photography Pro feature – now equipped with ‘Basic Mode’

World’s first smartphone with a 4K HDR 120Hz Refresh rate display crafted from Gorilla® Glass Victus

Evolved Full-stage stereo speakers – now 40% louder than previous model

New and improved Game Enhancer features – including a new audio equaliser, an optimised V.C microphone and highframe rate recording feature

World’s first smartphone to reproduce 360 Reality Audio in the speakers, as the recording artist intended it to be heard

Addition of brand new 360 Spatial Sound – for an immersive audio experience

Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 888 5G Mobile Platform

Improved battery life (4500mAh)and the ability to charge up to 50% of capacity in 30 minutes with the kitted 30W charger – in addition to a newly extended battery life of up to three years[vi]

 

Professional technology from Alpha TM cameras

Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III were co-developed with the engineers behind Alpha series cameras, renowned for their industry-leading autofocus technology. Both models include fast, accurate continuous AF across all lenses and Real-time Eye AF .And in Xperia 5 III, object tracking technology is featured, allowing photographers to capture accurate shots of moving subjects in a wide variety of scenarios with a simple tap on the screen.

Xperia 1 III presents a more sophisticated feature set for photographers who strive for picture perfect results. Object tracking is upgraded with Real-time Tracking, allowing users to shoot the most challenging moving subjects in precise focus. Using AI-based algorithms and the 3D iToF sensor to measure distance, Real-time Tracking can accurately detect and focus on a subject and continue to track it even if it temporarily moves out of sight

Furthermore, both models offer continuous AF that performs AF / AE calculations at 60 times per second – enabling users to shoot and store 20 shots (20fps) with high precision, accurate focus and optimised exposure. This level of performance is comparable to that used in professional sports cameras such as the Alpha 9 series. The BIONZ X™ processor enables users to shoot in low-light scenarios in Burst Mode for the first time, producing results with noise reduction that have never previously been possible in predecessor models.

Reach beyond expectation with a Variable telephoto lens

A key feature for both models is a World´s first smartphone with Variable telephoto lens paired with Dual PD sensor that reaches up to a 105mm focal length – complemented by fast autofocus thanks to its Dual PDAF sensor. When switching between 70mm and 105mm, the focus is adjusted in an instant to swiftly capture the beauty in the detail.

Photographers can further expand their creative possibilities with 16mm, 24mm, 70mm and 105mm focal lengths for shooting stunning compositions – whether that be landscapes, portraits[x] or animals. Both models continue to feature ZEISSTM optics calibrated specifically for the Xperia smartphone. The ZEISSTM T* coating contributes to exquisite rendering and contrast by reducing reflections.

A wealth of creative opportunities

The next generation of Xperia both incorporate new AI super resolution zoom. This technology uses Sony’s AI processing to restore detail and definition to images, ensuring precision is not compromised.

Like their older siblings, Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III feature the Photography Pro function. Developed in collaboration with professional photographers, it mirrors many of the manual controls available in Alpha series cameras including ISO, shutter speed, EV Indicator, RAW support plus a dedicated shutter button (with embossed finishing exclusively on the Xperia 1 III). New for this year’s smartphones is the ‘Basic Mode’ feature in Photography Pro which enables fast access to a range of easy-to-use photography features including a touch shutter button, portrait orientation, artistic bokeh effect, panorama, and more.

The Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III also features the very latest Optical SteadyShot™ with FlawlessEye™[xi], which couples the image sensor’s increased reading speed with original Sony algorithm for optical image stabilisation. The result is supremely smooth, shake-free video footage.

Transporting cinephiles to the big screen

Whether on the go or at home in comfort, the new Xperia models are a true cinephiles dream. Xperia 1 III features a larger than life 6.5” 21:9 CinemaWide TM 4K HDR OLED display with 120Hz Refresh rate whilst Xperia 5 III offers a stunning 6.1″ 21:9 CinemaWide ™ HDR OLED display with 120Hz Refresh rate. Both models transport users into a uniquely immersive viewing experience, allowing them to lose themselves in their favourite movies or TV shows.

Users can now enjoy their favourite entertainment as the producers intended with the Creator Mode. “Powered by CineAlta”, it now features a factory calibrated OLED display with highly accurate white point which mirrors the colour reproduction of Sony professional colour monitors used in leading Hollywood studio productions. Additionally, both models feature 10-bit equivalent displays (8-bit with 2-bit smoothing) that can display a myriad of colours without banding and support BT.2020 colour space.

Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III capture the senses and offer an audio-visual experience like no other. Consistent with their predecessors, they benefit from the X1™ for mobile engine which brings BRAVIA HDR remastering technology to everything users watch meaning that content is beautifully expressive. Streaming content is more lifelike than ever with more contrast, colour and clarity. Likewise, thanks to the continued incorporation of Dolby Atmos® sound tuned in collaboration with Sony Pictures Entertainment, users can experience a fully immersive, multi-dimensional performance with headphones or the smartphone’s built-in Full-stage stereo speakers.

Play to win

Gamers can gain a key advantage with the superior upgrades in Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III. The familiar 21:9 display transports players into the thick of the action and thanks to a new and improved 120Hz Refresh rate display ,now incorporated in the 1 series, as well as the 5 series, fasting-moving objects are rendered clearly for seriously smooth gameplay. The addition of 240Hz Motion blur reduction[xiv]also means the display updates at an incredible 240 times per second for blur-free, crystal clear performance. 240Hz Touch scanning rate also ensures that the action happens exactly as intended and a crucial advantage over the competition.

Another new feature in both models is the ability to adjust white balance – reducing strain on the eyes and allowing for longer durations of mobile gameplay. The new L-y raiser (low gamma raiser) also makes it easier to see opponents in the dark by adjusting image details in dark areas and highlighting enemies without overexposing bright areas of the screen.

Combining visual excellence with an immersive audio experience is key for both Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III. Gamers can plug-in their favourite headset via a 3.5mm headphone jack and experience the audible benefits of the models’ new features with minimal latency. The new Audio equaliser lets users control, heighten and minimise sounds such as footsteps and gunshots, allowing them to hear their opponents approaching and react ahead of them. And for those playing in teams, the new optimised V.C. microphone allows for clear communication by reducing background noise based on the users chosen headset type

Avid gamers can now relive winning moments in all their glory thanks to high frame rate recording at up to 120fps. Whatever they are playing, R.T. record (Rewind time record) automatically pre-records 30 seconds of game footage. So gamers can easily rewind and capture key moments like match-winning plays and share them online with friends and fellow competitors.

Finally, thanks to incorporated Heat Suppression power control (H. S. power control), gaming performance remains uncompromised. By powering the phone systems directly, rather than charging the battery, thermal stress on the handsets is reduced and overheating is avoided.

Create movies like the professionals

Cinematography Pro “powered by CineAlta” enables more choice for engaging, storytelling with dramatic slow-motion cinematography creation, all within a 4K HDR 120fps slow-motion movie recording feature which can capture and playback up to 5x slow-motion when set at 24fps. It also records in 21:9 ratio at 24/25/30/60fps, enhancing cinematic expression. Eight different Look colour management pre-sets allow you to completely change the mood of your scenes, utilising different cinema styles, a vital tool in advanced storytelling. Sony’s unique Intelligent wind filter technology uses award-winning audio separation technology to reduce wind interference for clearer audio recording.

New features within both models include a range of UI improvements designed specifically with movie makers in mind. For instance, to help users control their workflow, they can easily check how much free memory is remaining and how much recording time is still available. They can also easily check which parameters they used on a specific clip, in order to apply them to other projects. Each clip’s parameter details now include resolution, FPS, look, lens, stabiliser, WB, ISO, shutter angle/ speed, focus and audio level. This is further complemented with the ability to review and organise footage with clip playback, allowing users to play back clips with a simple swipe on the phone’s display.

Audio playback as the recording artist intended

Much like the immersive experience for cinephiles, the new Xperia models utilise sound tuned in collaboration with Sony Music Entertainment. In addition to unique hardware decoding, a newly developed speaker virtualiser enables Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III to be the world’s first smartphones to reproduce 360 Reality Audio in the speakers. Listeners can Immerse themselves in sound that is so authentic, it will feel like they are at a live concert or with the artist recording in a studio. All enjoyed through the Full-stage stereo speakers or with wired or wireless headphones. To top it off, new TIDAL subscribers will get three months of TIDAL Hi-Fi free when they buy either model, including the 360 Reality Audio experience.

If the music source being listened to is 2-channel stereo, the new 360 Spatial Sound comes into play. It enables the Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III to upmix stereo tracks and virtualize to an immersive sound experience, in real time. The technology works with local audio files and streaming services to further enhance the listening experience.

High-quality music can be further enjoyed through the Full-stage stereo speakers or when listening with headphones either wirelessly or with the 3.5mm audio jack. The Full-stage stereo speakers are placed at the front of the phone to effectively reproduce the sound field. And as an exclusive update for Xperia 1 III, are now 40% more powerful than its predecessor. This is thanks to a new speaker box structure, which has been designed both to improve sound pressure and eliminate vibration. The audio volume through audio-out (via the 3.5mm audio jack) has also been improved by approximately 40%, while sound quality has improved with less distortion near the maximum output level.

As well as High-Resolution and High-Resolution Wireless Audio, both Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III continue to offer DSEE Ultimate which enhances the quality of digital music using Sony AI technology, including audio and video streaming services. It automatically improves audio frequency and dynamic range in real-time, taking each track close to high-resolution audio.

All the speed you need

Combining 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity with the latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 888 5G Mobile Platform, the next generation of Xperia raises the bar for smartphone performance. This is thanks to the Qualcomm® Kryo™ 680 CPU enabling 25% higher performance and Qualcomm® Adreno™ 660 GPU delivering 35% faster graphic rendering than the previous generation.

Smart connectivity takes Xperia’s deep learning technology that utilises Sony’s Neural Network Libraries and analyses Wi-Fi signals to predict near-future connectivity issues. The Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III assesses the quality of available Wi-Fi before connecting so there’s no more grabbing Wi-Fi that doesn’t work. If it predicts any compromise in Wi-Fi connection quality, it uses mobile data instead.

With a 4,500mAh battery, both models offer plenty of power to keep users going through the day while a range of charging features helps maximise convenience and prolong battery life. When the battery needs a boost, it can be charged up to 50% in just 30 minutes with the included charger XZQ-UC1. Furthermore, Xperia Adaptive Charging allows the battery life to be extended up to three years (up from two in previous models) in both models. Xperia Adaptive Charging works by monitoring the phone as it charges, to make sure the battery isn’t overworked.

Finally, Xperia 1 III offers a wireless charging and Battery share function, allowing the device to be connected to a wireless charger to conveniently top up the battery. Thanks to the Battery share function, it can double as a charging pad for other devices too.

Sleek design with functionality in mind

 

Both Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III are crafted to be robust. The Xperia 1 III combines high-quality materials with a bold and distinctive design. From the frosted glass on the back to the blasted metal frame, it’s an irresistible blend of form and function. It also features Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus™ on the display, the toughest Gorilla® Glass yet – boasting improvement in both drop and scratch performance. Meanwhile, the Xperia 5 III is its compact cousin featuring Corning® Gorilla® Glass 6™ on the rear and the display with a sleek mirror-glass finish and a robust metal frame. For further peace of mind, both models also feature IP65/68 water resistance and protection against dust.

For the busy multi-taskers, both models feature upgrades to the multi-window functionality. With the pop-up window feature, users can easily handle a new task, then get right back to what they were doing.

Last but not least, when paired with Sony headphones, users can easily access the Sony | Headphones Connect app using the new Side Sense menu for swift connectivity.

Accessories

Both models are available with a new and improved Antibacterial Style Cover. Designed with durability in mind, the covers feature a built-in stand to support horizontal placement and provide a comfortable viewing experience. They are also coated with anti-bacterial material that has a protection rate of up to 99.9%[xxv] – preventing cell growth and maintaining cleanliness.

A 30W compact charger is also available and features USB-C power delivery. Safely designed for overheat protection, this new charger is certified with PPS support (Programmable Power Supply) to reduce heat impact.

Availability

Xperia 1 III will be available in Frosted Black and Frosted Purple, and shipping with AndroidTM 11 from early Summer 2021.

Xperia 5 III will be available in Black and Green, and shipping with AndroidTM 11 from early Summer 2021.

The Xperia 10 III, the first model in the Xperia 10 series to offer 5G connectivity. Xperia 10 III is packed full of entertainment features, offers an extended battery life[ and is presented in a stylish, compact, lightweight, and water resistant body. Xperia 10 III is an exceptional mid-range handset that has been designed with power, speed and portability in mind.

  • First Xperia 10 series model to feature 5G connectivity with Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 690 5G Mobile Platform
  • 25% more capacity than Xperia 10 II with a 4500mAh battery – remaining healthy for up to three years of use
  • Improved sleek and lightweight design featuring IP65/IP68 water and dust resistance and Corning® Gorilla® Glass 6
  • Enhanced for low light scene and moving object with the new triple lens camera, plus additional features such as the new animal detection in Auto mode
  • 21:9 Wide 6” notch-less FHD+ OLED display that includes HDR support for cinematic enjoyment
  • DSEE Ultimatefor near High-Resolution Audio quality and optimal listening pleasure – whether wired through the 3.5mm jack or wireless
  • Available in three stylish colours to suit all tastes

Outstanding performance with the power of 5G

Users can enjoy more of what they want on the go with Xperia 10 III. It combines a powerful, long-life battery with the speed of 5G for fast streaming and downloads – whether listening to near High-Resolution audio through headphones, thanks to DSSE Ultimate compatibility, or watching favourite movies on the crystal clear FHD+ OLED display. The Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 690 5G Mobile Platform can easily handle apps, movies, games and more, with high performance and power efficiency for superior connectivity. Thanks to Smart connectivity, the Xperia 10 III takes Xperia’s deep learning technology that utilises Sony’s Neural Network Libraries and analyses Wi-Fi signals to predict near-future connectivity issues.

The Xperia 10 III assesses the quality of available Wi-Fi before connecting so there is no more grabbing Wi-Fi that doesn’t work. If it predicts any compromise in Wi-Fi connection quality, it uses mobile data instead.

All-day power and made to last

With its long-lasting 4500mAh battery, Xperia 10 III has 25% more capacity than its predecessor Xperia 10 II and allows users to enjoy the best of the features the handset has to offer. Thanks to Xperia Adaptive Charging, users are offered ultimate battery life reliability, even after three years of use. Xperia Adaptive Charging works by monitoring the battery whilst charging to ensure that it isn’t overworked – keeping the battery healthy for longer.

Engineered to be robust, designed for practicality

Even though Xperia 10 III has a large 6″ display, the phone measures only 68mm in width – a perfect fit for the hand. Weighing just 169g, it is lightweight and easy to handle – whether taking a photo or playing a game.

Xperia 10 III is water resistant with an IP65/68 rating and is incredibly durable thanks to its Corning® Gorilla® Glass 6 shell It’s robust engineering means that the handset can withstand day-to-day damage. Corning® Gorilla® Glass 6 is also more scratch resistant– making Xperia 10 III a reliable companion for those who have their phone with them at all times.

A vision to behold

Drawing on Sony’s world-renowned TV expertise, Xperia 10 III delivers an immersive cinematic experience thanks to its 21:9 Wide 6” notch-less OLED display that includes HDR support. Featuring TRILUMINOS™ display for mobile technology, found in BRAVIA® TVs, and video image optimisation, the OLED display delivers incredibly rich, natural colours and deeper blacks. It is also capable of showing HDR content, which has a wider dynamic range of luminance than standard video formats, enhancing both contrast and colour. Bright parts of the image get brighter and the colour palette expands to show more bright blues, greens, reds, and everything in-between.

Triple lens camera enhanced for low light scene and moving object

Featuring ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto options, the triple lens camera lets users capture a huge variety of shots – from expansive landscapes to expressive portraits. The ultra-wide 16mm lens allows phone shooters to capture expansive imagery, expressing dramatic landscapes and full-scale scenery. The versatile 27mm lens is a wide lens that is ideal for a variety of shooting situations and low light scenes, whilst the 54mm telephoto lens allows users to get closer to their subjects – making it ideal for portraits.

Auto mode on Xperia 10 III now features animal detection  which can identify whether a subject is a dog or cat. It then adjusts the shutter speed and ISO Sensitivity accordingly to capture photos with less blur.

The improved F1.8 lens and enhanced image processing algorithm allows users to take photos in low light with less noise, both in Night mode and Auto mode. When shooting in bright sunshine or in backlit conditions, Auto HDR helps prevent blackout in the shaded areas of the shot or whiteout in the bright parts, ensuring faces and expressions are more visible.

When shooting in Burst mode, Xperia 10 III shoots at 10fps, ensuring subjects in motion are never missed and furthermore auto exposure works on every frame.

Finally, Xperia 10 III features 4K video recording, allowing users to shoot video with four times the resolution of full HD and SteadyShot™ ensures smooth, shake-free videos even when recording on the move.

Exceptional audio quality, wireless or wired

Xperia 10 III offers exceptional sound, whether enjoying wireless listening with High-Resolution Audio Wireless or using the 3.5mm audio jack to connect to wired headphones. Along with native High-Resolution Audio playback, Xperia 10 III also features DSEE Ultimate[v], which uses AI to upscale tracks to near High-Resolution Audio quality by automatically improving audio frequency and bit rate in real-time.

Made for multi-tasking

On the Xperia 10 III, Sony’s unique multi-window UI on the 21:9 wide display has been enhanced with a new Pop-up window feature. Perfect for multi-tasking, it lets users overlay one window with another. So they can quickly handle a task such as replying to a message, then get right back to the game they are playing or the website they are browsing.

Easy content transfer from your old phone

The Xperia Transfer 2 app lets users transfer the content that matters from old Android or iOS smartphones to the new Xperia 10 III. From photos, videos and music to the contacts, calendar, call history, and messages (SMS/MMS) – they can be transferred quickly, safely and easily.

Accessories

Xperia 10 III is available with a new and improved antibacterial Style Cover with Stand. Designed with durability in mind, the cover features a built-in stand to support horizontal placement and provide a comfortable viewing experience. It is coated with anti-bacterial material that has a protection rate of up to 99.9% – preventing cell growth of specific bacteria to maintain cleanliness.

Availability – Xperia 10 IIIwill be available in Black, Blue and White, and shipping with AndroidTM 11 from early Summer 2021.

How To Pick A Perfect Chair For A Gamer

A perfect gaming chair, the backbone of your gaming experience. This piece of a gamer’s setup is overlooked most times by some gamers. Some might ask, they’ve already spent thousands of dollars in their game setup, why would they need to spend more on a chair? Some might say they could use any chair at all.

Of course, you could use any chair, but nothing supersedes the extra comfort that a gaming chair offers while you are trying your best to defeat all your enemies. Not to mention that other gamers that invest in a perfect gaming chair get to enjoy the extra features of their gaming throne. For instance, can your chair produce subwoofer sounds while you are playing? 

So if you wish to add that essential finishing touch to your gaming setup and maybe get to show off to your buddies how cool your setup is, our guide will make you aware of the features to look for in a perfect gaming chair. 

Chairs With Armrests

Since you will be spending most of your time till you kill that boss level that has been tough to you for a while, you don’t want your arms to be strained while doing that. This is why the reviews at https://ergotune.com/pages/reviews mostly say having a chair with armrests is essential. Armrests provide that unique comfort to the arm while you’re on a game so that your elbows don’t have to stretch more. 

It is also advised to choose chairs with adjustable armrests so that they can be easily adjusted to suit your height or keep it in a position that wouldn’t restrict your elbows when in a full rage game mode. 

A Comfortable Back Support

Your gaming chair is not supposed to be called your throne if it does not offer you a soft and cushy feeling whenever you relax your back while sitting on the chair. You will be sitting and playing for a longer time, you should want your back and whole body to be relaxed at all times. A gaming chair with back support reduces the strain at your lower back and even increases good posture by offering support to your lower back curve. Just like the armrests, you should also look for a chair with adjustable back support to adjust how low or high you want it. 

Other Unique Features

You will want to feel your best when on a game, and your chair should be able to offer you that. Gamers may not have the time to worry about the mere back pains or bad sound quality that may not allow you to enjoy the cries of your defeated enemies in the game. So when selecting a gaming chair to complete your gaming setup, go through the added features that come with the chair. Aside from the adjustable armrests, does it also have a pop-out footrest, built-in subwoofers, or have inbuilt headrest speakers or headset inputs? These features are vital for a unique gaming experience.

 

Check The Materials Used In Making The Chair

We are not just talking about fabrics and stuff here; we also talk about other materials used for the base of different parts. The textile or fabrics are based on your preference. Leather chairs are best known for their durability and waterproof touch. While on the other hand, fabric chairs are best known for their comfort and quality. They are made with more space for ventilation, preventing you from accumulating sweat and causing skin irritation. 

In terms of the leg, wheels, and more, the only thing you should be worried about is if it can carry your weight. When purchasing a gaming chair online or in a store, you are advised to go for the ones that indicate the amount of weight it carries. Of course, if it is allowed in the store, feel free to test out the chair. 

Is It Classy Enough?

You have spent thousands of dollars in building up your gaming setup to a classy and powerful one. As a final touch, your gaming chair should sync with the design of your setup, for instance, something that fits the modern black, hot pink, or sporty buff design theme. Luckily, there are tons of gaming chair options available now, so you have more freedom to choose. 

Gaming chairs are designed to offer the best comfortable experience that a gamer can ever have while having an onscreen battle. By that, we mean extra comfortable materials and features like built-in subwoofers. So, of course, the more comfortable and classy a gaming chair can be, the more expensive it becomes. 

You should know that not all expensive gaming chairs are guaranteed to be the best, but we are discussing gaming setup here. And we all know that the best setup you can get comes with a price to pay. And when choosing a chair for your gaming setup, select as if you have a game in mind to play next. Have a good gaming experience! 

4 Tips For Beginners In Tech World: How To Get A Grip On Trends

If you are just starting in the tech world, everything can seem very overwhelming and complicated, but it can also be an extremely exciting adventure filled with numerous advantages and room for growth. As technology evolves, the tech industry continues to expand and include more niches than ever before. Similarly, new technological trends are constantly emerging and it can be challenging to stay up-to-date, especially if you are new to the tech world.

The good news is that you don’t have to worry if you are new to the tech industry, I have put together 4 helpful tips to help you get a grip on trends. Let’s get into it!

 

Tip #1: Discover Yourself

 

I know this may sound very cliché and more like something you’d expect to hear from a life coach, but if you want to find your foot in the tech world, the first thing you need to do is discover yourself. Now, when I say discover yourself, I don’t mean trying to find enlightenment or any of those spiritual terms (although, there’s no harm in doing that), I mean finding and understanding your interests, strengths, and values. 

As I mentioned earlier, there are many different niches within the tech industry, and these niches will only keep increasing as technology continuously evolves. As such, you may find it challenging to pick and stick with a niche. This is why you need to start with identifying what ignites the spark for you. For some, it may be agro-tech, while others may get pumped over UI/UX design so you need to find yourself and find your niche to get started. 

Discovering yourself will help you easily determine what to learn. It will help you figure out what drives you, and what will fuel your determination, especially when things get challenging.

Tip #2: Connect With Industry Experts

A common mistake I’ve seen many beginners in the tech world make is thinking they’ve figured out everything they need to know about tech. The truth is, even the pros don’t have it all figured out, and that’s because trends in the tech world constantly evolve. 

The best way to understand how the tech world works is by connecting with industry experts who have a deeper understanding of the ins and outs of the tech world. You can learn the essential tips and tricks required to stay abreast of trends and new developments from a professional. Similarly, you can watch professionals in the industry online and review the works they’ve done. 

Tip #3: Research

This is one of my favourite tips and that’s because it works like magic (maybe even better). The best way to get a grip on trends in the tech world is to research. There’s nothing you want to learn that you can’t find on the internet. If you want to research tech products like laptops, you’ll easily find excellent guides on Laptop Blogger where there are countless video content, tutorials, blogs, and guides created by pros and industry experts that can help you learn about new concepts and trends in the tech world. Even tech experts still research because, as I said, the tech world is not static. 

The bottom line is that research is the sure-fire way to up your skill and knowledge in the tech world.

Tip #4: Do, Do, And Do

So, you’ve watched all the videos, read all the blogs and guides available on the internet. What’s next?

You need to practice what you’ve learned theoretically. The best way to understand the tech world is by getting practical. Of course, you shouldn’t beat yourself up if you don’t get it right on the first try (or first few tries), the more you do it, the better you’ll become at it. If you hit a stumbling block, simply research some more and you’ll most likely find the solution you need. Finding your foot in the tech world isn’t magic, it’s a step-by-step process that requires a lot of trial and error. You should always be ready to put your knowledge to the test.

No doubt, acquiring an intimate understanding of how the tech world can be challenging and downright frustrating for any beginner. But if you follow these four simple tips I’ve discussed in this article, you’ll find the whole process less cumbersome. Remember that the tech world is not static and as it evolves, you also need to evolve with it to stay relevant. 

 

Explore the Flora and Fauna of your county with Google Lens. #GoogleLens #Ireland

After months of the same old walks and being confined to 5km of our homes, it’s time to get out and explore further afield. Now that spring has well and truly sprung and the days are getting longer you can make your daily walk more exciting and rediscover nature in a new way with Google Lens.

Ireland is home to tens of thousands of different species including 400 species of birds, more than 4,000 plant species and 12,000 varieties of insects! With the help of Google Lens and the camera on your phone you can identify every new plant, insect or bird you come across as you explore your county. If you have not used Google Lens yet you should try it, it is pretty handy and works really well.

Spot a beautiful flower while you are out and about? Now you can become the ultimate flower expert by using Google Lens to identify what’s growing in the wild. Why not add a little fun to your walk by challenging yourself to identify as many different species of flowers as you can and once done, move onto plants and insects. You can also ask Google Assistant for handy facts as you go along.

 

  1. On your phone, open the Google app and in the search bar, tap Google Lens

  2. Point your camera at the flower to identify the plant

  3. Swipe up to learn about the discovery

 

You can also use the folder of stock images to create your own eye spy checklist, or if feeling creative make your own.

 

You can use Google Lens from:

  • Google Photos

  • Google Assistant on most Android phones

  • The Google app on Android phones, and Apple phones

New to Ireland? These Are the Best Mobile Apps to Download

New to Ireland? You’re in for a treat. The country has more pubs than people (only a slight exaggeration!), the countryside is absolutely stunning (there’s a reason why Hollywood often chooses the Emerald Isle), and its music scene is known worldwide. 

When you’re brand new to the country, it can be a little overwhelming. Sensory overload aplenty. But don’t worry, there’s an app for that. Or a bunch of them, anyway. These are the best mobile apps to download if you’re planning a trip to the Land of Saints and Scholars. 

Why Apps Rule in Ireland (Answer: Mobile Penetration) 

You may be wondering why we’re going down the app route, why we’re so confident it’s the best way to get embedded in the Irish way of life. The answer is mobile penetration. According to Statista, almost 80% of people in the country use a smartphone.

This means the Irish use apps for everything, whether it’s playing Candy Crush on the commute, regulating the temperature of their homes when they’re not even there, or looking for online casinos that can be played on mobile to indulge in games that are available on mobile phones, like Slots, Video Poker, Blackjack or Baccarat (the luck of the Irish and everything!). With that said, here are our favourite’s. 

How to Travel 

Ireland has a fantastic public travel system. There are several apps that will help you navigate it: 

Dublin Bus. The easiest way to travel through Dublin is by using public transportation, with the bus system being fantastic. This app will tell you where the nearest stop is, in addition to exact bus times tracked by GPS. 

Free Now. This is a taxi app for Dublin, perfect for those late nights when you just want to get home ASAP. ‘Nuff said. 

Dublin Bikes App. If you’re over 14 years of age, use this app to hire a bike whenever you want. It’s a perfect alternative for your daily commute or a tour around the city. 

Lovin.Ie (Foodies Rejoice!)

Anyone who has a smartphone probably has a food app in there somewhere. For Ireland, the Lovin.ie app is the essential tool for foodies. It has so many fantastic restaurants for you to discover and pig out in! Whether you want traditional Irish grub or something that has a little bit of a modern twist, this app will help you find it. 

Met Eireann (Irish Weather = Changeable) 

You take a look outside in the morning, pure sun. Perfect. Just some jeans and a t-shirt, leave that umbrella at home. Or have you just made a huge mistake? As most Irish people will tell you, the weather can change in an instant. It can look like the perfect summer’s day one minute, and the next it’s like you’re in the middle of a Game of Thrones winter. 

Discovering the Capital

Even though it’s a relatively small city, Dublin has a lot to offer. It’s easy to get lost. These apps will help you discover the city: 

Dublin Event Guide. Whether it’s music festivals or sporting events, this app will give you a very good overview of what’s happening in Dublin. 

Dublin Literary Walking Tour. Ireland has a multitude of literary powerhouses, like Oscar Wilde and James Joyce. This app will guide you through their lives in Dublin, taking you right to the heart of their journeys. 

Dublin Map and Walks. Only available on iOS, so those of you who are Apple fans, you’re in luck. This app will give you some excellent self-guided walking routes. The ‘Hidden Gems’ section is particularly useful, as it gives you tips for things even locals aren’t aware of! 

Huggnote (Show Family You Care, the Irish Way!) 

Okay, our last one won’t help you in Ireland necessarily, but it’s a staff favourite with a genuine Irish slant. The last year hasn’t been easy for a lot of us, especially if family members don’t live close by. 

To help bring people closer together, Jacqui and Perry Meskell, two sisters from Limerick, invented Huggnote. It’s an app that allows you to send a virtual hug through music, giving a message of love and comfort. Whether it’s a ‘good luck’ before a job interview, or just to say you care, it’s an easy way to make someone’s day. The company also has some great St. Paddy’s Day music as well, ensuring the tracks available don’t lose their Irish origin!

If you are new in Ireland or thinking of heading that way any time soon, these apps really are a nice helping hand and can bright up your time there. Good luck.

 

Your Jabra Elite 85t now come with Alexa in a new software update. #JabraLite85t #Alexa

Jabra has released a new software update to Elite 85t, available in the Jabra Sound+ app, to enable Alexa as a Voice Assistant at the tap of a button. This means now you have an extra voice assistant which is excellent news for users of this great set of earbuds.

Alexa Built-in

With this update, users will now be able to choose Alexa as their preferred Voice Assistant on both Android and iOS by following these steps in the Sound+

If the Alexa app is not yet downloaded, users will be directed to download it from their app store. Once the app is available, users will be directed through the needed steps to set-up Alexa on their phone. Once Alexa has been chosen as preferred Voice Assistant, users will be able to enjoy more Voice Assistant experiences just by double tapping on their right earbud. This means users have access to Alexa features such as:

  • Setting up routines (e.g. Alexa, good morning – plays music, turns on the lights)
  • Getting directions and weather notifications
  • Controlling Spotify
  • Calling contacts from your phonebook

The technology behind online casino games

To provide you with a wide range of gaming options on their websites and download apps, online casinos use several technologically advanced technologies. Every other month, there is advancement in the technology behind online casinos, with more people using the internet on their desktops and mobile devices. Online casinos use active systemically integrated technological advances that now give simplicity and mobility, thanks to outsourcing game production to third-party developers, for example you could visit site. Let’s look at specific areas that this technology is developing to understand things better.

Security
There are several ways in which online casinos protect your personal information and funds. You can tell whether an online casino is safe by looking at whether it uses at least two or three of the following security measures.
Encryption software – The best data encryption technology is used for the safest online casinos. This ensures that other people cannot read or view details or financial transactions between them and their customers.
ID verification – When you sign up for a new casino, it’s becoming more popular to have ID verification in the form of a passport or driver’s license. This safeguards your account, the casino, and your personal information. It also prohibits minors from participating in gambling.
End-to-end encryption – Data encryption scrambles data into unbreakable codes that can only be decoded by the intended recipient’s computer or account – similar to end-to-end encryption used by many messaging apps.
Two-step verification – When you log in to a casino, many of them now use 2-step authentication, which includes a unique code being sent to your mobile device to confirm you’re the account holder.
TLS – TLS is a widely used data encryption protocol. TLS is the same system that all major banks use, so you can rest assured that your money is secure when you play at an online casino that uses TLS.

We can bet anywhere, anytime using our smartphones.

Smartphones
Without a doubt, the gambling industry is still growing. It was unthinkable only a few decades ago to play casino games without going to a land casino. With your mobile, you can now bet from anywhere and play roulette, blackjack, or free online slots. People’s perceptions of casino gaming have shifted drastically since the introduction of smartphones. People nowadays prefer the convenience and versatility that mobile casino games provide. Players are increasingly turning to mobile phones because they allow them to play their favorite casino games anywhere, at any time. Mobile gaming sites are more immersive than desktop platforms, and they provide casinos with more long-term value. Although many players prefer to play on their computers, mobile is where the potential growth will be. Investing in the development of the most mobile platforms gives casinos a leg up on their slower rivals. It helps them to place their brand for potential mobile growth. The mobile gaming experience has vastly improved in recent years, with graphics and animations that are now almost indistinguishable from those seen in the best online casinos. Casinos are fully able to reap the benefits of mobile technology by investing in mobile platforms. This did not happen by chance.

Enhanced payment services
Technology-enabled payment service providers such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill allow faster and more safe deposits and withdrawals than conventional bank checks or money transfers. With e-wallet providers offering options for cash transfers, whether you have an account with the payment network or not, seamless electronic transactions eliminate P2P collisions. Many online casino sites accept one of several common e-wallets, which can be connected to your bank account or loaded with credit cards. SSL (Secure Socket Layer) is the primary technology used by reputable payment providers and banks. It is also used in online casino game applications.

The many advancements in the field of cyber technology have undoubtedly helped online gambling. And it’s mind-boggling to see how far things might go from where we are now. Artificial Intelligence is one of the most critical variables that can help drive things forward in this regard. When one considers the exponential growth afoot in that area, AI has already advanced to the point where it can beat humans simply by knowing the rules of whatever game they’re playing. In the case of online casinos, AI can identify and ban unauthorized sites, track down cheaters, and personalize the user experience. Various gaming software developers use the RNG algorithm to create online casino games like blackjack, Hold’em poker, baccarat, video slots, and roulette. Web-specific technology such as HTML5, Java ME, and JavaScript is then used by casino website applications or downloadable apps, allowing you to win big jackpots. It seems we find something new almost every day within the industry. This is predominantly because the industry is so competitive that developers have to keep coming up with innovative ways to stay ahead. If you want to learn more about the slots RNG and algorithm check the guide on BonusInsider.com.

How to become a successful seller on Instagram

IG has turned out to be the 6th trendy world platform with 1 billion monthly active users. 

According to the statistics, about 60% of IG users look for business profiles to discover new products, while 90% of users follow IG business accounts. It seems that this platform has long been more than just a field of great visual sharing, but a place where you may profit from the most professional and visually aesthetic images.

Of course, it’s not without advertising because 75 percent of users purchase after seeing an advertisement and visiting the company or brand’s website. But advertising has always been and will be a powerful boost to sales, but are there other ways of captivating new customers without spending a dime? 

Hashtags, customer integration, advanced search Instagram and other features play no insignificant part in successful business promotion.

Let’s see what opportunities Insta offers to bump up your sales and how to sell on Instagram without spending huge sums to buy views or advertisements (everything has a measure).

7 basic steps to become a marketing guru

 

  • Turn into a business account

The first and essential step on the way to sales is to switch to a business profile. The business profile gives you an excellent free opportunity to set up a marketing campaign.

For example, the IG Insights feature provides sufficient, though not complete, analysis for you to determine your Instagram activity’s pace. You can find content statistics, reach, user engagement levels, etc. 

The CTA button under your profile description allows other users to get in touch with you via a phone number or email. Add a link to your website/store to make people more aware of your product, and thus audience reach will increase.

How to make a business page:

 

  • visit your present IG acc to pick out a “hamburger” icon on the top rights of a profile page;
  • choose “Settings”> “Switch to business profile” after scrolling down.

  • Make an advanced search Instagram

Search Instagram influencers, potential clients, partners, or like-minders now is easies. IG is a round-the-clock integration that yields excellent results in the form of new interesting people, partners, a new customer base, or simply accounts that will be your constant source of inspiration or business ideas. 

There are online advanced search Instagram tools to assist you with your lookup: adjust the filters to hit the target and find an appropriate account!

 

  • Make hashtag research

A hashtag seems to be nothing! But it isn’t. Today, relevant hashtags are one of the biggest tricks for attracting an audience interested in your profile.

With modern web-based hashtag generators, you may get the top hashtags according to the keywords you type in. These hot hashtags will help promote your post to the top of IG search and become the navigators that will lead new customers to your profile.

 

  • Use IG advertising

You may customize your ads via Insta images/videos/Stories/Explore feature/carousel/collection but don’t forget to research your audience better to decide on the best way to reach them.

Create ads via: 

  • “Promote” button under your IG post;
  • Using the ad manager on your FB page.

 

 

  • Publish an exciting content

Audiences like constant content updates, especially if we’re talking about accounts, they’re interested in. Feed your target audience with interesting posts, contests, polls in stories, ask their opinion and share incredible secrets from your professional field. Stay in touch with them at all times; that’s what’s important to customers.

 

  • Stick to a specific profile design

Insta is where people come for the visual content. The importance of creating visually appealing posts, Stories, etc., for all purposes (to sell or just inspire other users) remains undeniable. 

Make sure that you have a central theme for your account designed in a specific color palette. Visually compatible profile posts are important for new users because they will estimate your posts with their eyes first and only then read the basic information (or not, if your profile design is not well thought out at all). 

Apply the same filters to all your Insta photos, use the same colour palette, and think about your posts’ layout to give your profile an aesthetic taste.

 

 

  • Use IG Shopping feature

A new Insta Shopping feature made sales even more convenient. That’s because you may now post a product catalog directly on your profile and the checkout feature makes it easier for customers to purchase without leaving Insta. So tag items in a post or Stories to drive more users aware of them.

 

 

 

 

Anker Launches Smart AI-Enabled Webcam and Portable Noise-Isolating Conference Speaker. #AnkerWork #Home #Office #WFH

Anker Innovations, a global leader in mobile charging and consumer electronics, today announces two products under the AnkerWork product line, including the PowerConf C300, Smart AI-enabled HD webcam and the PowerConf S500 Portable Conference Speaker.

“For many, working from home has been a dream come true, but it also brings its own unique challenges; distracting pets, family, poor lighting, as well as power and cable management issues, to name a few,” said Steven Yang, Founder and CEO of Anker Innovations. “AnkerWork products have been designed to help address many of these issues, while providing solutions that are portable and can be easily used in the home, the office and on the road.”

PowerConf C300 Smart HD Webcam

The PowerConf C300 is AnkerWork’s first 1080p, Full HD webcam with a built-in AI chipset, that provides a high-quality image with accurate colour reproduction and unparalleled low-light performance. With three field-of-view choices; 78-degrees for close-ups, 90-degrees for a mid-view or 115-degrees for the widest field of view, users can customise the experience that meets their needs – whether showing something on a whiteboard or keeping pets and family out of frame.

 

The C300’s A.I. also offers smart framing that helps keep an individual or group members cantered on screen – though it will only reframe a subject’s deliberate movements, so they can take a sip of water off camera, without shifting focus. Dual stereo microphones also ensure great sounding audio.

PowerConf S500 Portable Conference Speaker

The PowerConf S500 builds on the success of the original PowerConf products, adding four upgraded microphones featuring Anker’s new proprietary VoiceRadar™ technology. VoiceRadar uses beamforming and enhanced Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) to pick up the voice of the person speaking while ignoring surrounding noises to ensure a great sounding experience for all parties.

The S500 can be used with the AnkerWork app (on Android and iOS) which lets users choose one of three pickup patterns for different use case scenarios. These include traditional conference room environments with multiple people, a single person presenting to others as well as using the S500 as a microphone for live streaming.

Additionally, two units can be paired together for larger conference rooms and upgraded 10 watts of power offers great sound for conference calls or for listening to music.

 Availability and Pricing:

The PowerConf C300 is available today through Amazon, Anker.com, and select retailers for $129.99 in the US; €129.99 in Germany, and £119.00 in the UK.

The PowerConf S500’s pricing and availability will be announced at a later date. Additional products under the AnkerWork brand will be announced in the coming weeks.