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.

Investing in the Right Equipment: A Guide for Dental Professionals

Building a successful dental practice is all about making sure you and the rest of your team have access to the very best equipment. Precision, accuracy, and reliability all need to be factored into the equation. Without these fundamental considerations, your practice won’t be able to optimise patient outcomes and minimise patient waiting times. 

Knowing how to invest in the right equipment is all about having a set process that you can follow from beginning to end. Because we want you to be able to follow this process for every type of equipment you invest in, we’ve created a process that’s so versatile it will adapt to every issue you face. 

Ask for proof of a track record 

Whether it’s the equipment manufacturer or the supplier who delivers the consumables when you need them, don’t be shy about asking for proof of a track record. Every business that knows its stuff will want to tell you why it can help you, and that means the person on the other end of the phone will have everything you need to know at your fingertips. Take a moment to weigh up what they are saying and then compare it against some of their direct competitors, and you will be able to make an informed decision without delay. 

Read the online reviews 

Online reviews are there to be read and digested, so why not take a look as soon as you finish this quick guide? Many people are put off by the presence of a small number of negative reviews, but they are actually some of the most valuable information you will find online. If a small number of customers and clients are complaining about the same issue and it doesn’t appear to have been resolved, this is a warning sign. Likewise, if the issues are promptly resolved and the responses are professional and polite, this is a green light. 

Analyse the customer service 

The way you are treated when you phone or email says a lot about the team of people who are behind the scenes. If you find that the customer service is quick, efficient, and friendly, you will be able to make your choice with the peace of mind that makes all the difference. Exactly what you want to hear when you’re looking to build relationships that will take the stress out of running your practice for many years to come. 

Consider servicing and repairs

All advanced equipment will need to be serviced or repaired at some point, but it’s the frequency and the cost that matter here. You want to minimise both at the same time, and have a contingency plan built into the way your practice is equipped if possible. That way, you will be able to keep serving your patients when a key piece of scanning or diagnostic equipment is down for scheduled maintenance. 

Think about the lead times 

The initial investment is one thing, but many pieces of dental equipment will work their way through a list of consumables and replacement parts. Making sure that they are budget-friendly and easy to source is really important. You want transparent pricing, discounts on bulk buys, and short lead times to make sure that you are always able to offer the service your patients have come to expect from you. 

Look for nationwide coverage 

Sourcing dental equipment from a supplier who is well-established and serves the entire UK will make sure that you never fall foul of the downsides of hyper-local suppliers. Nationwide coverage also reduces delivery times and makes sure that any gaps in local supply can be easily solved via other distribution centres. Exactly what you want to hear when you’re looking to invest in the right dental equipment from day one. 

Set a budget for reinvestment 

Continually upgrading your equipment through a proactive approach to reinvestment is what will keep your practice in the best possible health. Putting aside a set part of your monthly budget for reinvestment is a wise move here. You can then fall back on a pot of money when an upgrade is released that you want to add to your existing equipment. 

Put aside time for training 

Last but by no means least, remember that all new equipment will require training time for each relevant member of the care team. The best equipment will offer a powerful range of new functions while also being quick and easy to master, so that you can get back to what you do best.

Review – Crossky C50 ear-clip earbuds deliver great audio

The Crossky C50 ear-clip earbuds are their latest product on the market that look and feel premium also the case they come in making it an overall nice package for the price and this brand to date has been quite good and under the radar as I have tested many of their products over the years.

The presentation is standard yet inside the box you get what looks like a higher end product the Crossky C50 are light,small and look more expensive and with the new clip-on stlye they look good in the finish we tested.

These are not in-ear earbuds however some think the sound quality is not as good as such here but they are wrong these sound like in-ear earbuds giving you the sound you would expect you have no ANC however you do have some awareness around you but when these are turned up to the max you can forget about hearing anything but your music or videos or what media you consume on phone or tablet.

There is the QCY app which also changes things up a gear with a selection of EQ settings such as spatial sound effects pop rock classic and much more and you can also customise your EQ to your needs having said all this the sound is excellent here for the price with no issues to report like no lag latency or tinny sound, you also dynamic EQ and Gaming mode so the 10.8mm drivers gives a good punch and users will not be dissapointed.

The touch controls can also be customised and work well you have multipoint pairing, adaptive volume and sleeping mode and also tone switch and if you happen to loos them you have the find headset option so overall for the price you pay here you are getting serious value for money.

Overall here these are almost an in ear earbuds experience which is great to see and they sound great no matter what you listen too and for the price you will pay there is nothing you can really complain about to be honest calls are great sound is great battery life is good and they look premium and put it up to others more expensive.

Check the video below for more

 

QCY App

 

  • [Dual-Magnet Driver & Bass Boost]：10.8mm carbon fiber diaphragm with bass enhancement algorithm for richer lows and crystal-clear audio
  • [All-Day Comfort for Every Ear]: Lightweight ergonomic design stays securely in place, even for small ears
  • [Bluetooth 6.0 + IPX5 Waterproof]: Crisp audio sync meets sweat/rain defense for unstoppable workouts
  • [Advanced Directional Algorithms ]: Reduces sound leakage by 90%, precisely channeling audio into your ears for private listening
  • [Auto-Tuned Audio for Your Ears]: With a Built-in Bass boost and dynamic EQ algorithm, the earbuds deliver balanced sound with powerful bass

BUY

Other QCY reviews

Video Review

From Chatbots to Voice Commands: The Evolution of AI Assistants

Initially viewed as futuristic novelties, AI assistants are now indispensable tools in our daily lives for better productivity and efficiency. From simple text-based chatbots to sophisticated voice-activated systems, the evolution of AI assistants showcases great advancements in natural language processing, machine learning, and user interface design.

As these technologies continue to evolve, we see a shift in user expectations and capabilities of these intelligent systems that profoundly impact personal and professional settings. Here, we will explore the trajectory of AI assistants, the technologies driving their development, and the future landscape that awaits us.

The Rise of Chatbots

Chatbots were among the first AI assistants to gain wide acceptance, showcasing early instances of natural language understanding. These text-based programs, which rule customer support and online interactions, provide automated responses to user queries. With these tools, businesses can scale their customer service without compromising quality. Their roots can be traced back to the 1960s with programs like ELIZA, which laid the groundwork for modern chatbots.

Advancements in machine learning and natural language processing have led to significant improvements in understanding user intent and providing personalized responses. The rapid growth of online businesses has fueled the chatbot industry, with many platforms offering deployment options for various industries. E-commerce businesses leverage chatbots to provide 24/7 assistance, answering common questions, guiding customers through the purchasing process, and even recommending products based on user preferences.

The Transition to Voice Assistants

The most remarkable development in AI assistants is the transition from text-based chat to voice interaction. With advancements in speech recognition technology, AI voice assistants like Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, and Google Assistant have become household names. To know more about voice assistants and their importance, look into some real‑time voice AI performance tips for low latency. Users can interact with their devices through natural speech, making it easier for people to multitask or engage with their technology at home, in the car, and on the go. The convenience of voice commands allows users to ask questions, set reminders, and control smart home devices with minimal effort.

The success of voice assistants can be attributed to their accuracy and their ability to learn and adapt, providing increasingly personalized experiences based on user behavior and preferences. Users demand faster and more responsive interactions, and the implementation can optimize response times and improve user satisfaction.

Smart Speakers and IoT Integration

The emergence of smart speakers has propelled the popularity of AI voice assistants. Amazon Echo and Google Nest Hub have made voice-controlled interactions commonplace. Users can perform tasks hands-free and control other connected devices. The integration of IoT has enabled voice assistants to manage lighting, security, and entertainment systems, all from a single command.

Users can adjust their home environments while cooking, cleaning, or relaxing. These devices gather data illuminating user preferences, which allows the AI assistants to become more attuned to individual habits. We can expect AI assistants embedded within a broader range of devices, from automobiles to wearable tech.

The Role of Machine Learning in AI Assistants

Machine learning is at the core of evolving AI capabilities, and assistants can refine their performance based on user interaction. Through supervised learning, these systems can identify patterns and learn from previous conversations and achieve a more natural communication style that resembles human dialogues. As AI assistants grow smarter, their understanding of context, tone, and underlying emotions can provide more personalized interactions.

One of the greatest advantages of machine learning is its ability to handle vast quantities of data and extract meaningful insights. Users who engage with their AI assistants will have a continuous feedback loop and improve their operations. The future of AI assistants holds the potential for increasingly human-like interactions.

Ethical Considerations and Privacy Concerns

The rapid adoption of AI assistants has brought ethical considerations and privacy concerns to the forefront. These devices gather and analyze personal data for optimal performance, and users find themselves questioning the safety of their information. Businesses must address the potential risks associated with hacking, misuse of data, and surveillance. In response to these concerns, companies are implementing stricter data protection protocols and providing users with more control over their privacy settings.

Transparency in data usage policies creates a sense of trust between users and their AI assistants. Realistically, organizations will need to tread carefully and balance innovation with ethical responsibility.

The Future of AI Assistants

The future of AI assistants is likely to encompass even more impressive innovations. From improved natural language processing capabilities to greater integration across various devices, the potential applications appear boundless. Next-generation AI assistants will become even more context-aware and able to predict user needs based on historical data.

With developments in artificial general intelligence (AGI), assistants can perform complex tasks independently and collaboratively with users. Users will expect more from their AI assistants. Innovations in AI will close the gap between human-like interactions and the existing technology, making conversations feel more intuitive. 

 

One thing remains evident: the journey from basic chatbots to sophisticated voice-activated assistants has just begun. With advancements in machine learning, privacy considerations, and user expectations in mind, the future holds exciting prospects for AI assistants.

Can AI autogenerate games?

AI has taken on a central role in a lot of the things we’re doing. But can it really work as well as we think? The answer is yes it can, for AI can autogenerate parts of, or in fact whole games in real time. Of course, the output is still not as complex or of as high quality as those created in a studio over time, but the results are still there. So what can AI generate and how successful is it?

No code game creation

To kick things off, back in 2024, generative AI was used to recreate the game, Doom. However, it used none of the code or graphics from the game. Impressively, the Doom game recreated by the AI is completely playable, with researchers who tested this saying that other AI models could also be used to create games from scratch down the line. The model responsible for the recreated Doom game, GameNGen, was created at Google Research to see if it could. The game can only be played for 20 seconds, but it has all the same features as the original including scores, ammunition levels and map layouts. The illusion falls apart quickly though, as the AI runs out of memory. However, the way this worked is that the initial model was tasked to play the game over and over, while a second one simply replicated it, learning how millions of inputs caused changes in the game. This also didn’t happen in real-time, but over time, so what can AI models do now?

Using AI in the game development process

AI is also being used during game development. This is increasingly for all game types from major video games like The Witcher 3 or Elden Ring, to slots that you can find on the top online casino in UK. Now, instead of just tweaking code or minor basic background tasks, AI is creating the backgrounds, and not only that, it’s writing reactive dialogue for NPCs, changing gameplay within the game as you play and more. In fact, AI is changing the game quite literally, streamlining the gaming process in many different creative ways, reducing game crunch time and reducing massive teams to smaller, more focused ones. At this point, AI is taking on a lot of the heavy lifting associated with game creation, so its no surprise to find that some models can now do this in real time.

Real-time game generation

For some models, it’s now possible to simply input a description or concept art for the game, and the AI will create it. These are the games that, while they do work, often show the lack of finesse in the creation process. Yes, the model can do it, but the games lack quality, depth and complexity. As such, it’s still clear that more time is needed to make a good game, rather than doing it on the fly. However, the possibilities are most definitely there.

This is noticeable in other aspects of AI game generation. For example, many companies are switching to AI powered platforms to automate game development tasks. While this isn’t game creation per se, it does mean that AI is changing a game in real-time as it’s being played. This helps to improve the gaming experience and is already in place across a wide array of different games. There are experimental projects in the works too, such as those from Google’s Arts and Culture lab to explore AI’s potential in game development. And then there are things like Oasis, a sandbox similar to Minecraft that showcases just how well AI can build a game from nothing.

So, while the games aren’t great yet, it is entirely possible for AI to create playable games in real-time.

 

Vodafone Ireland Launches Critical Service for Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Vodafone Ireland has announced the launch of Real-Time Text (RTT), a breakthrough accessibility service designed to improve emergency communications for the Deaf and hard of hearing community.
Vodafone Ireland is the first mobile operator in Ireland to introduce RTT, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive, barrier-free digital communication and connection.  The service is now available for emergency calls following pilot tests on the Vodafone network supported by BT ECAS and ComReg.
RTT is a next-generation messaging technology that enables text to be transmitted instantly, character by character, while maintaining a voice connection – eliminating the need to press “send.” This creates a more natural, fluid communication experience, particularly for deaf, hard of hearing, and speech-impaired users.
Vodafone Ireland customers using both Android and iOS devices can now activate Real-Time Text (RTT) directly via their handset accessibility settings. Once enabled, RTT allows users to send and receive text instantly during a call – making communication more accessible, especially for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
 Crucially, RTT is fully compatible with Ireland’s Emergency Call Answering Service, allowing users to communicate directly with 112 or 999 in real time. This capability can be lifesaving in urgent situations where every second counts.

Approximately 5%, almost 270,000, of the Irish population reports a hearing impairment, according to latest Census data. With the European Accessibility Act coming into effect last month, the need for inclusive digital communication has never been more urgent and RTT is a vital step forward in ensuring equal access for all, especially in critical services like emergency response.

The RTT service is natively supported on smartphones that meet international accessibility standards.
These devices allow character-by-character text transmission during voice calls, without requiring third-party apps or additional hardware. This ensures that users can communicate directly and immediately in emergency situations and in everyday interactions.
Commenting as the service was launched today, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan T.D. said:
“The introduction of Real-Time Text by Vodafone Ireland marks a significant milestone in our national journey towards digital equality. As the European Accessibility Act comes into force, it is heartening to see Irish tech leaders stepping up with meaningful innovation which instantly improves lives. Most importantly, RTT empowers people who are deaf or hard of hearing to access emergency services with the same immediacy and simplicity as anyone else. This is not just a technological advancement – it is a statement of inclusion, of equality and our shared commitment to building a digital society with universal access.

The RTT service is already available on the majority of Vodafone smartphones in Ireland right now, meaning the opportunity to make inclusive communication the norm is already in our hands.  I encourage not only the Deaf and hard of hearing community, but the wider public also to embrace RTT. By making it part of our everyday communication and help ensure it becomes a turning point for real inclusion in a more connected society – one where everyone has the tools to engage, contribute and to be heard.”

Welcoming the launch, Chief Executive of Vodafone Ireland, Sabrina Casalta, said:

“At Vodafone Ireland, we’re committed to keeping everyone connected – our mission is to ensure digital access and connectivity for everyone, everywhere. RTT represents a significant step forward in digital accessibility, especially in emergency scenarios where real-time communication can save lives.  We are proud to be the first in Ireland and one of the leaders in Europe to bring this innovative service to market, that we believe can change lives for the better. The RTT launch has been developed in partnership with government stakeholders, accessibility advocates, and emergency response teams. Vodafone’s RTT deployment places Ireland at the forefront of inclusive tech innovation in Europe.”
Speaking at the launch, Mark Byrne,  CEO of Chime, Ireland’s national charity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people said:
“Chime is excited to see Vodafone Ireland leading the way in ensuring crucial accessibility to emergency services through its RTT service. We know this is a major challenge for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people who face barriers in reaching emergency services when they need to.
We commend Vodafone for gathering important feedback from Irish Sign Language users on the RTT, ensuring inclusivity for everyone. We hope to see further investment and expansion of digital accessibility across the communications sector in Ireland.”
Vodafone is Ireland’s leading total communications provider with 2.4 million customers and employs over 2,000 people directly and indirectly in Ireland. Next year, Vodafone Ireland will mark 25 years in Ireland. Vodafone Ireland was recently named Ireland’s best mobile operator for the 10th year in a row by independent benchmarking organisation, umlaut. Vodafone Ireland was also recognised as Best in Reliability, Best in Voice, and Best in Crowdsourced Reliability.
What is Real-Time Text (RTT)?
RTT is an accessibility service that allows text to be transmitted instantly as it’s typed, allowing for natural, real-time conversations. Unlike traditional SMS or legacy TTY systems, RTT doesn’t require waiting for a full message to be typed before transmission. It is especially useful for Deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired users and supports full interaction with emergency numbers 112 and 999.
How to Enable RTT on Your Device
Vodafone Ireland customers using both Android and iOS devices can now activate Real-Time Text (RTT) directly from their handset settings.
·       On Android, users can go to Settings > Accessibility > Hearing > RTT and toggle the feature on.
·       iPhone users can enable RTT by navigating to Settings > Accessibility > RTT/TTY and switching on “Software RTT.” Once enabled, RTT allows users to send and receive text instantly during a call — making communication more accessible, especially for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
For more information, please visit www.vodafone.ie.

How Top Agencies Use Visual Annotation to Cut Delivery Times by 40%

Feedback can make or break a project timeline. It’s often not the creative work that slows things down—it’s the endless cycle of revisions, miscommunications, and the frustrating hunt for clarity. Agencies trying to deliver high-quality websites or digital experiences often find themselves bogged down not by the work itself, but by how feedback is managed.

And that’s where visual annotation tools are changing the game.

What Slows Agencies Down? It’s Not Just the Workload

A lot of agencies have tight internal systems. They use project management tools, they run stand-ups, they track deadlines with discipline. But when it comes to collecting and actioning client feedback, even the most organized teams hit a wall.

Think of it this way: your client sends an email that says, “Can you fix the spacing on that thing under the testimonial?” Suddenly, a developer is opening three different browsers, resizing their screen, and still isn’t sure what that thing actually is. Multiply that by a dozen pieces of vague feedback and now your team is spending more time decoding than developing.

Why Visual Feedback Changes Everything

Visual annotation tools let clients drop comments directly onto a live site, wireframe, or image—pinpointing exactly what they mean. It’s like placing a digital sticky note on a specific button, section, or layout element. But it’s not just about convenience. These tools typically capture screenshots, browser data, screen resolution, and even the device used—all automatically.

So, instead of asking “Which version of Chrome are you using?” or “What did it look like on your end?”, your team has everything they need from the get-go.

Less guessing. Less back-and-forth. Way faster fixes.

How Agencies Are Actually Using These Tools

For a growing number of web and creative agencies, visual annotation tools aren’t just nice-to-have—they’re core to their workflow.

During the QA phase, project managers use them to review builds internally before involving clients. Designers gather precise change requests during the approval process. Developers get all the context they need to resolve bugs quickly. And clients? They finally feel like their feedback is being heard and acted on—without having to send long-winded emails.

Many agencies also loop stakeholders in without forcing them to create an account or learn a new system. A simple shared link is often all it takes to bring someone into the review process. It’s feedback made easy—for everyone involved.

From Two Weeks of Back-and-Forth to Two Days of Clarity

One agency we spoke to used to spend about 10–14 days just gathering and clarifying feedback for a mid-sized web project. After adopting a visual annotation system, they saw that drop to less than three days.

They didn’t rush the creative. They just cut out the lag time between misaligned feedback, miscommunication, and confusion. Multiply that time savings across several projects and it’s easy to see how 40% faster delivery isn’t just possible—it’s practical.

Yes, There Are Tools. But Not All Are Equal

If you’ve searched for markup alternatives, you’ve probably come across a few popular platforms offering visual collaboration features. Some are geared toward developers, some toward designers, and some offer feedback on a range of media—from PDFs to video.

But here’s what top agencies really look for:

  • A way to drop comments in context—on the actual site or design
  • Automatic capture of screenshots and technical specs
  • A smooth way to turn comments into tasks
  • No need for client logins or complicated onboarding
  • Integration with tools they already use, like Trello, Asana, or Jira

The best visual annotation tools don’t just help you collect feedback—they plug into your process like they were always meant to be there.

Why It’s Not Just About Speed

Faster delivery is a big win, no question. But agencies are also seeing softer benefits. Clients feel more involved and confident throughout the build. Team members feel less frustrated chasing down unclear comments. And projects, overall, just feel smoother.

That kind of workflow creates happier clients and happier teams. And, let’s be honest—when your team isn’t spending hours rewriting feedback as tasks or jumping between email threads, they have more creative energy to put into what really matters.

Cutting Through the Noise

Agencies aren’t strangers to project chaos. But the smartest ones are finding ways to cut through the noise—to align their teams, clients, and tools in a way that brings clarity and flow.

Visual annotation is more than a helpful add-on. For many, it’s become the cornerstone of a modern feedback process. It brings everyone onto the same page—literally—and gives teams the confidence to move fast without sacrificing quality.

Because when feedback stops being a bottleneck, delivery becomes a whole lot easier.

 

HBK introduces IO-Link connectivity for proven force sensors

Global leader in precision measurement solutions, Hottinger Brüel & Kjær (HBK) has announced the integration of IO-Link communication into its trusted U10M, U10F, and C10 force transducers.

These fatigue-resistant sensors, widely used in critical test and production applications, now combine their renowned mechanical robustness with smart digital connectivity.

Thanks to this enhancement, HBK can meet the growing demand for simplified integration, real-time sensor diagnostics and cost-efficient automation solutions – all while maintaining the company’s hallmark precision and reliability.

Digital integration for demanding applications

The C10 series is optimised for measuring compressive forces, while the U10M and U10F have been designed for tensile and compressive loads. Already valued for their large measurement range and long-term stability, these sensors now offer a high-quality integrated amplifier and IO-Link interface, opening the door to plug-and-play setup in smart factory environments.

All models include built-in temperature measurement, allowing engineers and operators to simultaneously monitor mechanical and thermal conditions in real time – a key feature for ensuring sensor performance, process stability and long-term reliability within dynamic industrial environments.

The key performance enhancements include:

  • Linearity error improved to a factor up to 7
  • Temperature zero drift reduced by up to 50%
  • Enhanced resistance to dynamic overloads

Sensor health monitoring: A new standard in reliability

One of the major innovations is the introduction of Sensor Health Monitoring, a built-in system that continuously monitors applied forces and temperature levels. If physical limits are approached or exceeded, the system issues real-time alerts, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing the risk of unexpected downtime. Even short-term overloads are detected, recorded and reported, ensuring full transparency and improved operational safety.

Smarter connectivity with IO-Link

The adoption of IO-Link, a widely supported industrial communication standard, allows HBK transducers to be integrated easily into modern automation systems, providing:

  • Standardised, cost-effective cabling
  • Rapid sensor replacement and configuration
  • Seamless communication from field to control level

This development marks a significant step in HBK’s commitment to supporting digital transformation in measurement and testing environments.

More information about these sensors is available here: https://hbm.wistia.com/medias/kkrq5ajn4s

Dell launches new Pro Max laptops with AI features in Ireland

Dell Technologies has today announced the launch and availability of its next generation of flagship laptops, now rebranded under the new Dell Premium line. The range marks a new chapter in Dell’s premium offering, replacing the XPS brand while retaining its hallmark craftsmanship, performance, and design. The new line includes the Dell 14 Premium and Dell 16 Premium and are positioned as the company’s lead offering for users seeking high-performance, future-ready devices. The laptops are now available in Ireland.

Built on Intel® Core™ Ultra 200H series processors, the Dell Premium range delivers significant gains in both performance and battery life. The 14.5-inch and 16.3-inch screens offer increased display real estate without expanding the devices’ footprint, while OLED options with 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rates provide enhanced visual quality. The range also includes features such as EyeSafe® technology for reduced blue light exposure and Liquid Crystal Polymer fan blades designed for more efficient, quiet cooling.

Kevin Terwilliger, Vice-President and General Manager of the PC Product Management Group, Dell Technologies said: “We’re in a dynamic era where technology serves as both the tool and the canvas for ideas and innovation. Built for the power users, engineers, creators and AI developers transforming industries, these AI PCs not only handle the most demanding AI workflows but set the standard for performance and creativity.

“Reliability, configurability, and performance aren’t just features—they’re the foundation. We know professionals need tools they can count on to tackle their most critical and impactful workloads, and that’s what we deliver.”

Early benchmarks show up to 33% improved performance for general use and up to 21% faster speeds for lighter creative workloads. The 14-inch model offers up to 20 hours of streaming battery life, with the 16-inch version extending to 27 hours using energy-efficient 2K displays. Both laptops support memory speeds up to 8400MHz, while advanced multithreading improves performance for heavier workflows such as video editing or content processing.

The Dell 16 Premium can be configured with up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processors and offers 45W sustained CPU power. An optional NVIDIA RTX 50 Series GPU delivers AI-enhanced graphics and DLSS 4 for accelerated image rendering, while Thunderbolt 5 connectivity (optional) supports transfer speeds up to 120Gbps and multi-monitor setups with up to four 8K displays.

The smaller Dell 14 Premium model includes integrated graphics with 29% faster processing, and optional RTX 4050 GPU for enhanced creative performance. Both models support Wi-Fi 7 for improved network speed and responsiveness.

Build quality and materials used by Dell remain a key focus, with both devices featuring CNC-machined aluminium, Gorilla Glass 3, and a streamlined edge-to-edge design. Sustainability measures have also been expanded, with the range meeting ENERGY STAR 9.0, EPEAT Gold Climate+, and integrating recycled aluminium and plastics in both construction and packaging.

All devices ship with Windows 11 and include Copilot on Windows, Microsoft’s integrated AI assistant. The release comes ahead of the October 2025 end-of-support date for Windows 10, as businesses and consumers here in Ireland prepare to upgrade to more secure and modern platforms.

Pricing and Availability

  • Dell 14 Premium starting at €1,899.00 is now available
  • Dell 16 Premium starting at €1,998.99 is now available

Over 6,500 Irish SMEs directly helped by National Enterprise Hub in its first 12 months

Over 6,500 SMEs have been directly supported by the all-of-Government National Enterprise Hub (NEH) in the first 12 months since its launch.

The top grants availed of by businesses ranged in value from €3,000 to €7,000 and  focused on supporting businesses with cashflow, expansion and productivity to help them deal with concerns around rising costs, and competitiveness.

The National Enterprise Hub has attracted over 220,000 active online users to its website over the last 12 months and also offers a full-time dedicated phone line, connecting business owners with specialist advisors who can discuss potential grant options over the phone.

The National Enterprise Hub, an initiative of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and Enterprise Ireland, brings together information and resources on over 250 Government supports from 30 different Departments and State Agencies. Looking ahead, there will be a continued and renewed focus on simplifying business grant applications for SMEs engaging with the National Enterprise Hub.

The businesses are from a range of industries however the majority fall within Tourism & Hospitality, retail & consumer products, food, health & beauty, professional services and the construction sector. This free service makes it easier and more efficient for businesses to access and avail of supports such as grants, funding, loans and expert advice across a range of sectors.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, said “With over 6,500 companies engaging in its first 12 months, the National Enterprise Hub has proven effective in streamlining and simplifying access for SMEs to government supports, equipping them with vital digital and sustainability resources to navigate rising costs and stay competitive.

Research from my Department shows that four in five businesses believe sustainability is important. An awareness campaign is currently underway showcasing how the NEH can support businesses in cutting costs through grants such as the LEO’s Energy Efficiency Grant and SEAI’s Business Energy Upgrade Scheme.

My focus now with the NEH is on reducing administrative burdens and red tape for businesses by consolidating multiple grant applications into a single, simplified process. We must redouble our efforts to simplify processes for businesses and make sure that we think about small businesses first. I look forward to its continued growth and positive impact on Irish SMEs.”

Conor O’Donovan, Head of Start-Ups and the National Enterprise Hub, said: “SME engagement with the National Enterprise Hub has met and exceeded our targets to date, supporting 6,500 businesses within our first year of operation. One of the main aims of the Hub was to engage with businesses who haven’t availed of government supports to date and to make the process of availing of government supports faster and easier.”

“We know that Irish SMEs are operating in a complex environment and being able to access grants and supports is more important than ever. Small businesses who are engaging with the National Enterprise Hub are concerned about rising cost of business and competitiveness – that is why a single source of government supports for businesses is important to ensure that accessing the right information is made easier.

The National Enterprise Hub has a team of dedicated advisors who are directing SMEs to the right support that will help them. It’s for every business in the country and we’d encourage every business to go online to neh.gov.ie or pick up the phone and start the conversation around your business needs today.”

Audrey Hughes, CEO ofPrinciple HR said: “Like so many Irish SMEs, we are focused on providing the highest quality of service delivery to our customers, while remaining competitive. Accessing government supports to assist can feel daunting but the National Enterprise Hub made the process so much easier by putting us in contact with the right agency whose support and expertise fitted our needs. Through our initial engagement with the National Enterprise Hub, Principle HR is now an Enterprise Ireland client and in a short period of time our business has been helped through the strategic marketing review support and engagement with their overseas market advisors. With the business environment constantly changing, I’d encourage all SMEs no matter what stage they are on their growth journey to contact the NEH today to learn about what supports could be available to them.”

 

Top Supports Availed of by SMEs through National Enterprise Hub:

•    Dept of Social Protection: Wage Subsidy Scheme

•    Dept of Social Protection: Jobs Plus Subsidy

•    Enterprise Ireland: Pre-Seed Start Fund

•    Enterprise Ireland: New Frontiers Programme

•    Enterprise Ireland/LEO: Innovation Vouchers

•    LEO: Energy Efficiency Grant

•    LEO: Mentoring

•    LEO: Start Your Own Business Programme

•    LEO: Grow Digital Voucher

•    MicroFinance Ireland: Start-up Loan

•    Revenue: Start-Up Relief for Entrepreneurs SURE

•    SBCI: Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme

•    SBCI: Leasing and Hire Purchase

•    SEAI: Exceed Grant Scheme

•    Skillnet Ireland: Skillnet Business Networks

•    Skillnet: Mentoring

•    Solas: SOLAS Micro-Qualifications

 

The Hub team can be contacted through the website (www.neh.gov.ie), email enquiry@neh.gov.ie  or by phone (01 727 2100), where users can engage directly with an advisor.