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.

Viltrox launches AF 56mm Ultra-large aperture F1.2 Pro E and XF (APS-C) lenses

Viltrox is pleased to announce the release of the AF 56mm F1.2 Pro E and XF (APS-C) lenses. The AF 56mm F1.2 Pro lenses’ professional grade optical design delivers astonishingly high resolution from center to edge, taking full advantage of the capabilities of higher-megapixel cameras. Even after extensive post-cropping or enlargement, the lens faithfully preserves image detail, with incredible sharpness and clarity. Ideal for expressive portraits, the F1.2 aperture creates stunning depth and dimensional layering for a mesmerizing artistic impact.

F1.2 Large Aperture: Subject highlighting and mastery of light

The F1.2 ultra-large aperture delivers impeccable bokeh, facilitating more layered images through a shallow depth of field, rendering dreamy background blur, and highlighting subjects clearly. There is a smooth transition between in-focus and out-of-focus areas. The large aperture’s greater light intake allows faster shutter speeds and lower ISO, delivering refined, detail-rich images in both low-light and well-lit environments.

Precision optical design delivers stunning results

The precisely engineered optical design of 13 elements in 8 groups achieves peak aberration control and onion ring bokeh control even at 1.2 aperture, delivering consistent sharpness and clarity right across the frame – this is aided by Viltrox’s advanced HD nano coating. The ultra-large precision aspherical lens works together with an ED (extra-low dispersion) lens that effectively corrects axial chromatic aberration, delivering crisp, color-fringe-free images. The 3 HR (High-refractive) elements strike the perfect balance of portability and optical excellence, making this lens a natural fit for compact APS-C camera systems.

HyperVCM motor for quiet high-speed focusing

Viltrox’s patented HyperVCM motor provides faster and more precise focusing, while reducing vibration for smooth, silent performance – ideal for quickly capturing shots, and for fast-moving subjects. The silent operation and minimal focus breathing ensure a smooth and professional feel for video.

Tough and durable for all environmental conditions

The lens features high-grade weather-sealed construction with a high-strength forged aluminum alloy body. The matte black finish and protective coatings resist scratches, wear and lens contamination, while rubber seals keep out dust, splashes, and moisture – ensuring reliable performance, even in challenging outdoor environments.

More details and how to buy

For more information, please visit:
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro E: geni.us/56Pro_E_Viltrox
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro XF: geni.us/56Pro_XF_Viltrox

Amazon US:
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro E: geni.us/56Pro_E_AMZ_US
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro XF: geni.us/56Pro_XF_AMZ_US

Amazon EU:
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro E: geni.us/56Pro_E_AMZ_EU
Viltrox AF 56mm F1.2 Pro XF: geni.us/56Pro_XF_AMZ_EU

MSRP: $580 / €599 / £530

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JustTip partners with myPOS to streamline solutions for customers

Irish fintech startup JustTip has announced a strategic partnership with myPOS, the payments platform that powers seamless transactions across Europe. The collaboration integrates JustTip’s award-winning cashless tipping and service charge management technology directly into myPOS card terminals, delivering a powerful, fully compliant solution for the hospitality industry.

The integration allows customers to pay both their bill and a tip directly on a myPOS terminal, with payments routed to the merchant’s account, and tips automatically separated, processed, and distributed through JustTip’s transparent platform. Businesses gain access to real-time reporting, automated allocation, and written distribution policies that support compliance with Irish legislation.

In the first 12 weeks of the partnership, the collaboration, which is being rolled out across Europe, has processed more than €3 million in payments and €350,000 in tips, working with renowned clients including Marco Pierre White, Variety Jones, and Farmer Browns.

“Hospitality is under immense pressure to cut costs while keeping staff motivated and compliant with complex legislation,” said James Fahy, co-founder and CEO of JustTip. “By combining our technology with myPOS’s trusted payment infrastructure, we’re giving businesses a powerful, cost-saving solution that eliminates admin headaches, ensures transparency, and puts more money into staff’s pockets.”

The partnership also helps businesses reduce costs, eliminating the 11.15% PRSI charge on tips, while ensuring compliance with legislation in the UK and Ireland’s amended Payment of Wages (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022, which requires employers to show complete transparency on all tips as well as provide a breakdown of electronic tips and their distribution.

Founded in 2021 by entrepreneurs James Fahy and Ciara Walsh, JustTip emerged in response to outdated tipping practices that lacked transparency for staff and employers. Today, it is trusted by more than 650 companies across Ireland and the UK and is scaling rapidly into new European markets, bringing its unique blend of cashless tipping and tax-efficient automation to more businesses.

“This partnership is a major milestone for JustTip,” added Fahy. “It shows the appetite across Europe for modern, transparent solutions that not only keep businesses compliant but also strengthen trust between employers, employees, and customers.”

Shuffle Wallet Review

The Shuffle Wallet is an RFID wallet with more capabilites at hand and is modular which means you can add pieces onto it if you require them which is kinda handy

The Shuffle Wallet is a solid wallet with an innovative mechanism offering up to 8 cards which is plenty for most the design is nice it looks tough and it is tough you could  fire this thing through a window. It comes in Titanium or Aluminium

It is on the larger side compared to my secrid for example however you will always know it is in your pocket unlike my secrid which is smaller and lighter and holds up to 6 cards at any one time.

There is a silicon pouch for NFC and additional accessories such as AirTag holders.

There is RFID blocking keeping your cards safe which is vital in today’s world as there is guys with RFID readers out there and this wallet gives you peace of mind.

Features

  • Effortless Access, Innovative Mechanism: Say goodbye to clumsy wallet fumbling; This wallet for men features a unique deck-of-cards opening mechanism that allows for quick and easy access to your cards with a simple flick, ensuring smooth transactions on the go
  • Accessories Sold Separately: Make your men’s wallet your own with our range of modular accessories; From the AirTag holder for easy tracking to the silicone pouch with an NFC chip for instant digital business card sharing, personalize your wallet to suit your needs and style
  • RFID-Blocking: The Shuffle Wallet for men features advanced RFID-blocking technology to protect your cards from electronic theft; The non-RFID blocking design is perfect for accessing key cards, subway passes, gym cards, hotel cards and more
  • Exceptional Service: Enjoy confidence in your purchase with our after-sales service； Whether you have questions,or need assistance, our dedicated team is here to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind every step of the way

BUY

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Custom Application Development Company — How to Choose the Right Partner & Maximize ROI

If your business needs software that fits exact workflows and scales with growth, hiring a reliable custom application development company is critical. Off‑the‑shelf solutions may work for many tasks, but when you require unique integrations, industry compliance, advanced security or AI‑driven features — bespoke software delivered by an experienced team becomes a business advantage.

Why choose custom application development? Custom application development provides a tailored solution that aligns with your specific processes and objectives. Compared to off‑the‑shelf software, a custom solution offers:

  • Full alignment with business workflows and unique user journeys.
  • Seamless integrations with ERP, CRM, payment gateways and third‑party APIs.
  • Better scalability and long‑term total cost of ownership.
  • Stronger security and compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, industry standards).
  • Competitive advantages through unique features and functionality.

Key services offered by a custom application development company:

  • Custom software development (web & mobile)
  • Custom ERP development and integrations
  • Fintech & payment solutions development
  • Healthcare software with compliance (HIPAA, data protection)
  • IoT / IIoT solutions and device connectivity
  • AI / ML integration and data engineering
  • MVP development & rapid prototyping
  • Legacy modernization and platform re‑engineering
  • QA, automated testing and performance optimization
  • DevOps, cloud migration and managed hosting
  • Staff augmentation and dedicated development teams

How to evaluate prospective vendors: 8 practical criteria

  1. Relevant industry experience
    Look for case studies in your industry: fintech software company experience for payment platforms, healthcare app experience for EHR integration, logistics experience for WMS or tracking systems.
  2. Technical stack and expertise
    Ensure the vendor works with technologies you need (backend: Node.js, Java, .NET; frontend: React, Angular, Vue; mobile: Swift, Kotlin, React Native; cloud: AWS, GCP, Azure). Also check experience with microservices, containerization and CI/CD pipelines.
  3. Portfolio and measurable outcomes
    Ask for metrics: conversion lift, process time reduction, cost savings, uptime improvements. Real numbers prove competence.
  4. Development process and communication
    Prefer partners with clear processes: Discovery → Architecture → MVP → Iterative development → QA → Deployment → Support. Regular sprint demos and transparent reporting matter.
  5. Security, compliance and QA
    Confirm the team follows secure coding practices, threat modeling, penetration testing, and compliance measures (GDPR, HIPAA, SOC2 when needed).
  6. Pricing models and engagement types
    Assess fixed‑price vs time‑&‑material vs dedicated teams. For uncertain scope, a Discovery + MVP approach reduces risk.
  7. Team composition and culture fit
    Meet the engineers and product owners who will work on your project. Team stability and domain knowledge help reduce ramp‑up time.
  8. Support and SLAs
    Make sure there are clear SLAs, incident response times and maintenance plans.

Common project types and typical timelines

  • MVP for startups: 6–12 weeks (basic features, core UX & API integrations)
  • Medium enterprise app: 3–6 months (multi‑module system, integrations)
  • Large enterprise solution / ERP: 6–18 months (architecture, compliance, migration)

Estimating cost: realistic ranges

  • Small web app / MVP: 10k–10k–50k
  • Mid‑sized business application: 50k–50k–200k
  • Enterprise / custom ERP with integrations: $200k+

(Actual costs depend on feature complexity, integrations, compliance needs and geographic makeup of the team.)

How to structure a low‑risk engagement\

  1. Start with Discovery & Technical Audit — clarify scope and constraints.
  2. Build an MVP — test assumptions, show value and collect user feedback.
  3. Move to phased delivery — deliver in increments with measurable KPIs.
  4. Scale via dedicated teams — staff augmentation or a long‑term managed team.
  • Custom software development (web & mobile)
  • Custom ERP development and integrations
  • Fintech & payment solutions development
  • Healthcare software with compliance (HIPAA, data protection)
  • IoT / IIoT solutions and device connectivity
  • AI / ML integration and data engineering
  • MVP development & rapid prototyping
  • Legacy modernization and platform re‑engineering
  • QA, automated testing and performance optimization
  • DevOps, cloud migration and managed hosting
  • Staff augmentation and dedicated development teams

When to consider staff augmentation or a dedicated team Staff augmentation makes sense when:

  • You already have product management and need extra engineers.
  • You need to scale fast for short‑term sprints or specialized skills (ML, IoT).
  • You want lower overhead and flexible headcount vs hiring full employees.

Dedicated teams are better for:

  • Long‑term product ownership and evolution.
  • Projects requiring continuity and deep product knowledge.

Local vs offshore vendors — how to choose

  • Local vendors offer easier overlap hours, face‑to‑face meetings and often better domain knowledge for local markets (e.g., London, Dubai).
  • Offshore vendors can provide cost efficiency and access to a vide pool of tools 

Supercar Weekend Dublin Ireland including the Ferrari F40

Supercar weekend has hit Dublin at the Dundrum Town Centre again and of course we had to pay a visit to see the all the motors on offer new and old and we of course as every year went along to check out the old a new on show, some new cars and old cars on show and you are talking big money motors here like McLarens Aston Martin BMW Porsche and Mercedes to name a few.

The star of the show for most is probably the Ferrari F40 but many more and as a car enthusiast and owner of a sports car it was again a great show with old and new, no so much on the EV front which kind of tells you the tone they have set in recent months and it will be a long time before I ever get one.

We have taken photos of each car in case you missed the show and again it was an excellent lineup of cars old and new if you missed previous events you can see the cars here

Video of all the cars on show.

 

 

Choosing the Right IT Partner for Your Business: 5 Essentials Everyone Should Know

If you’re looking to make the investment of partnering with an IT provider, this can be a big step forward for your business, but only if you choose the right one. The wrong one will leave you feeling frustrated, and before you know it, you’ll be wanting to switch. 

Making the right call is very important, but how do you go about doing this confidently, and knowing what to ask? This quick guide will outline five essential areas to consider. 

1. Look for an understanding of your unique industry and sector

There are plenty of generic managed IT support providers out there. However, finding one that understands the specific pressures faced in your sector makes a significant difference in the impact the partner can have. The benefits include far quicker response times, as the partner will likely have come across and have specialisms in the unique equipment and software you use. As well as gaining expert insight into new technologies and solutions, designed to solve challenges that industries in your area often face. 

And just because they claim to work with people in your industry, it doesn’t necessarily mean their experience is extensive, so be sure to ask for specific examples. 

2. Ask about their approach to businesses that are experiencing growth 

Your business today won’t be the same in a few years time. You need a partner who can grow with you, whether that means onboarding new staff simply and quickly, or helping you migrate to smarter cloud solutions. Ask for real examples of how they’ve helped clients to scale.

3. Check their communication style

IT is technical. And most likely your Team isn’t. A good IT partner will know how to explain their services and solutions in a way that makes sense to you. Pay attention during early conversations: Do they use technical jargon, or do they make things clear? That tells you a lot about what your day-to-day support will feel like once they become your partner. Over time this lack of clear communication will leave your Team feeling frustrated and unsupported.

4. Understand their approach to cybersecurity

If you speak to an IT provider that isn’t prioritising cybersecurity, this should instantly be a red flag. Anyone working in the IT services sector will understand the importance of having at least an essential level of security in place for businesses. If they’re not raising this in your conversations, it should be a signal that they’re a provider who isn’t going to look out for your company’s best interests. 

5. Demand transparency in service and performance

It’s easy to promise “fast support,” but what does that mean? Ask about service-level agreements, average response times, and how the provider is tracking performance. A good one will show you the numbers without hesitation, not just make big claims.

The takeaway message

Getting this decision right can have a big impact on your business, and making the decision based on the cheapest price or whose website wowed you the most isn’t going to result in you finding a long-term partner.

Finding a IT Team that understands your business’s unique needs and truly has your best interest at heart is crucial for a successful relationship. So keep these five key areas in mind when you’re next looking into managed IT services for your business 

 

Chipolo introduces the new rechargeable Chipolo CARD and Chipolo LOOP

Bluetooth tracker company, Chipolo, has announced the addition of two new premium trackers, Chipolo CARD and Chipolo LOOP.

With a refined design, these new editions cater to people with a “more sophisticated taste, all while providing users with more convenient and powerful trackers. With a rechargeable battery, extended range louder sound, and improved water resistance, finding belongings is now even easier. Made with the planet in mind, all Chipolos are proudly manufactured at the company’s headquarters in Slovenia. 

Chipolo CARD & Chipolo LOOP are recognised for being sustainably designed and feature a rechargeable battery contained within a shell that is composed of at least 50% post-consumer recycled plastic. Both the CARD and LOOP are Red Dot Design award 2025 winners. 

Now globally available, Chipolo CARD is set at €45/$39/£39 and Chipolo LOOP at €45/$39/£39. Both offer the following premium features:

  • New, sleek design: 

    • Chipolo LOOP: LOOP’s refined design highlights its superpowered button by contrasting the matte textured surface with the glossy centre. Curated with a new flexible silicone loop, the tracking tag is easy to attach to everyday essentials, while its improved water and dust resistance make it adventure-proof. Available in six playful colour combinations: navy, mint, honey, coral, charcoal, and chalk.

    • Chipolo CARD: Discreetly thin, yet boldly loud, CARD is a sleek, card-sized tracker designed to slip into your wallet seamlessly. It’s exclusively available in charcoal. CARD comes with a textured matte surface and a glossy accent button that boasts functionality, enabling users to effortlessly and quickly locate their phone with a double press. With a loud ring and an innovatively placed side-corner speaker that projects sound outwards, CARD makes finding your items swift and easy.

  • Rechargeable battery: Removing the need to replace its battery, CARD and LOOP have a rechargeable battery that lasts about 6 months on a single charge. While the LOOP works with USB-C, the CARD is compatible with a Qi wireless charger and automatically aligns to the centre of the charger, ensuring a quicker recharge. Charging cables and chargers are not included.

  • Bluetooth range: With an extended Bluetooth range of 400 ft/120 m, CARD and LOOP broaden your search for nearby items.

  • Loud sound: Easily heard rooms away or when buried under a pile of clothes, CARD reaches 110 dB while LOOP goes up to 125 dB.

  • Universal compatibility: Both Chipolo CARD and Chipolo LOOP work with either the Apple Find My network or Find Hub on Android.

    • Apple: Works with the Find My app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and the Find Items app on Apple Watch running the latest version of software.

    • Android: Works with the Find Hub app on an Android phone or tablet running Android 9+ with Google Play installed (and in certain countries for age-eligible users). The Find Hub network requires location services, Bluetooth, and a cell service or internet connection to be turned on.

  • Chipolo companion app: You can set up extra finding features, like Call Your Phone, Out of Range Alerts (for Android), Change Ringtone, and more in the free Chipolo companion app. New in-app features also include:

    • Ring and Blink: Lost something in the dark? Ring your LOOP/CARD and let its blinking light guide you to your misplaced item.

    • Adjust Ring Volume: Customise your Chipolo’s volume and find your item without disturbing a soul, depending on your environment. The Ring Volume feature is built into Find Hub (Android), while iPhone users can adjust the volume in the Chipolo app.

  • Waterproof & dust-tight: Ready for any adventure, both Chipolo CARD and Chipolo LOOP are waterproof and dust-tight with an IP67 rating. Both trackers can withstand immersion in up to 1 m of fresh water for up to 30 minutes and are impermeable to small particles.

  • Sustainable product materials: Designed with sustainability in mind, each product’s hard, plastic textured shell is made from at least 50% PCR (post-consumer recycled plastics). 

“We’re excited to step into this new chapter of our trackers’ advancement. Consumers have become increasingly environmentally conscious, as more than three-quarters (78%) of consumers feel sustainability is an important factor in their shopping decisions. We are proud to have advanced our new products to take the leap towards being even more environmentally friendly and even more convenient for our users.” states Primož Zelenšek, Co-founder and CEO at Chipolo. 

Both Chipolo CARD and Chipolo LOOP are available for pre-order from 27th August on the official Chipolo website. They will also be available from Amazon shortly after launch. 

This new edition of tracking tags will be available in T-Mobile stores and other select independent stores at the end of September 2025.

See our Chipolo Reviews

ESET Ireland Warns of First AI-Powered Ransomware Threat

Cybersecurity company ESET has uncovered the world’s first known case of artificial intelligence-powered ransomware, marking what experts describe as a new era in cybercrime.

The malware, dubbed PromptLock, utilises AI to adapt and disguise itself, making it more difficult to detect and defend against. ESET Ireland has warned that Irish businesses and public bodies must take this as a serious wake-up call, given the country’s record as a target for major cyberattacks.

George Foley of ESET Ireland commented, “AI has now joined the cybercriminal’s toolkit. Ireland cannot afford to be complacent; we’ve seen the impact ransomware can have on health services and businesses. This development makes attacks faster, smarter, and more damaging.”

Ransomware attacks are estimated to have cost Irish businesses tens of millions of euros in recent years, with the 2021 HSE attack still fresh in public memory. ESET is urging organisations to strengthen defences, train staff, and maintain offline backups as core protections.

For more information, visit www.eset.ie

Duex Max DS Portable Dual Screen Laptop Monitor Review

Not every creator edits in a cozy home studio. Some need to travel and they got the hotel rooms for their work. Sometimes the workplace is their car. Most YouTubers, vloggers, or content creators travel a lot. So, you know how tight laptop screens can get.

That’s where a portable extra screen changes the game. One simple add-on. And suddenly, you’re working faster anywhere. But not all portable screens are made equal. Some are clunky. Others dim out in sunlight. And a few? Just not worth the price.

This guide walks you through the best screens for creators who travel. Starting with one that hits all the right notes.

  1. Mobile Pixels Duex Max DS

A portable dual screen extender optimized for creators on the go. Whether you’re editing videos in a noisy café or reviewing footage on a train, this screen has your back. Designed with portability and functionality in mind, the Duex Max DS takes the hassle out of expanding your workspace.

Unlike other portable screens that require clamping or specific attachments, the Duex Max DS is sleek, simple, and easy to set up. Just unfold it, plug it in, and you’re ready to work. Its sturdy design ensures no wobble or balance issues, and its color-accurate display makes it a great choice for editing and creative work.

Why It’s First on the List:

  • Clean, simple design that doesn’t get in the way
  • No clamping or attachments needed
  • Solid, color-accurate display perfect for editing
  • Sturdy but lightweight, ideal for travel
  • Easy setup and portability

If you’re a creator who’s always on the move, the Mobile Pixels Duex Max DS makes your workflow smoother and faster, wherever you are.

This is a 14.1 inch screen which can slide either side has standalone settings on screen and can be used in multiple ways which makes is versatile and an excellent productivity tool everyone should have see our video review below for a full hands on.

Features

  • 14.1-inch 1080p FHD display
  • Only 1.8lbs for its size
  • Perfect for 14″ and larger laptops
  • Four viewing modes and eye-care mode
  • Plug and play via USB-C or Mini HDMI
  • Compatible with macOS/ Windows/ Nintendo Switch/ Samsung Dex

2. ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC

If you’ve seen this one, you already know it’s sleek. This option is ultra-thin. But don’t let the look fool you. It delivers the quality. USB-C connection. Clean HD screen. Works with both Mac and Windows without making a fuss. It also has blue light filtering. This helps on those long nights spent editing thumbnails or syncing audio.

Why creators like it:

  • Easy on the eyes, literally
  • No bulky cables
  • Ultra-portable
  • Doesn’t heat up
  • Just works

3. Lenovo ThinkVision M14

You barely feel it in your bag. That’s how light the M14 is. But it still brings a bright and vivid screen. It is perfect for editing reels or watching playback. This screen has dual USB-C ports. It means you can charge while you edit. You can tilt it. Stand it. Prop it. It works from tight spaces, even tray tables.

Why it’s worth your attention:

  • Super light
  • Bright enough for outdoor use
  • Clean resolution for video work
  • Great for quick edits
  • Charges while in use

4. SideTrak Solo

Sometimes, you need a bigger view. That’s where the SideTrak Solo steps in. This is full HD and supports HDR. It’s made for those moments when you’re stitching clips, balancing audio, or working with layers.

It has a matte screen too. So sunlight? No problem. It also plays well with most laptops, thanks to USB-C and HDMI inputs.

Good choice if you need:

  • Bigger screen real estate
  • Vivid display with HDR
  • Versatility in connection
  • No reflections or glare
  • Smooth multitasking

5. ViewSonic VG1655

If you’re starting out or just watching your gear budget, the VG1655 gets the job done. It falls within your budget. This option is light. It has dual speakers and still rocks a Full HD screen. You get USB-C and mini HDMI. Thus, it can be connected to most gear. It also comes with a cover that works like a stand.

Why it’s still a solid pick:

  • Affordable
  • Good audio and visuals
  • Reliable in daily use
  • Slim and light
  • Travel-friendly design

The Final Take

Portable screens aren’t just nice to have. For creators on the go, they’re necessary. They save time. They cut the frustration. And, they make the editing process smoother. Out of all the options, the Duex Max DS stands out. It doesn’t try too hard. It works well, looks clean, and fits real-life travel routines. So, set it up. Plug in. Get back to creating.

 

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