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.

How mobile apps have changed our lives and what the future has in store for them? #Apps

Applications on mobile phones have fundamentally changed every aspect of our lives. This is true from the moment we wake up thanks to our alarm app to staying on top of our finances through mobile banking apps. The truth is technology has seamlessly integrated its way into our day-to-day activities, improving and streamlining them. We use mobile apps so frequently we use them without even thinking about them, a lot like breathing.

 

Truth be told, it’s hard to believe that mobile apps stores have been around for less than a decade. Currently, there are 4.42 million apps available on the Apple and Google apps stores combined. App revenue made in 2019 so far has already reached $462 Billion with a principal projection for growth in the coming years.

 

(A periodic graph provided by Statista outlining the growth of mobile app revenue over form 2014 to 2023).

 

The graph above provided by Statista shows a clear indication of mobile app revenue throughout the years. Form the introduction of apps back in 2014, and in comparison to today, we can see a significant 364 billion dollars increase in revenue generated by mobile apps. This is set to rapidly increase by 2023 by about 473.5 billion, which is almost double the current income. These staggering figures give evidence of how far apps have come and their future potential. 

 

When considering how mobile apps have changed our lives, it’s essential to consider the factors that have lead to their growth. Firstly, apps are popular because users love the ease and convince they provide. By merely downloading apps to their smartphones users were given the ability to use their devices like never before. Secondly, users always have their smartphones on them, which is the key factor that makes apps convenient. These two factors together drove the expansion of mobile apps in comparison to desktop applications.

 

Social apps

Mobile apps have transformed the way we work and communicate. Social apps have fundamentally changed the way we interact with one another. Through social media apps like Instagram, we can communicate through pictures and with people from around the world. Prior to this, we were faced with limitations in the ability to communicate with others from around the globe. Apps have transformed communication from traditional antiqued ways and fast-forwarded them into today’s world. Thanks to apps like Skype and Face Time we can now communicate in real-time video and audio communication virtually no matter their location. 

As businesses seek to capitalize on this transformative power of social media, strategies for boosting your Instagram followers have become essential. With a larger audience, brands can enhance their visibility and engagement, making it easier to connect with customers and promote their products or services. Engaging with users through compelling content and targeted campaigns can lead to organic growth, but sometimes, businesses may also consider additional methods to accelerate this process. By utilizing trusted services that specialize in social media growth, companies can quickly enhance their follower count and establish a robust presence on platforms like Instagram, further integrating into the modern communication landscape.

Work apps

Mobile apps have offered us more than social media capabilities. They have given us a new way of working. Either through apps designed to be used in workplace environments or apps that are specifically tailored to be used for a specialist sector. Apps can bridge the gap between complex matters and problem-solving. They open up the opportunity to learn and share knowledge in work-based environments while streamlining processes. Performace tracking apps are also widely used in the working environment to measure and help improve services creating better working environments and helping an organisation reach their goals. 

Play apps

Mobile gaming apps have also come a long way. Not only are more complex and advanced technologies being brought to entertainment and gaming apps, but the integration of technology such as AR and VR has seen the face of mobile gaming change. A great example of this is the Pokemon Go app which uses Augmented reality (AR) to hunt for Pokemons. In the past gaming was focused on consoles and its games. But now, thanks to apps, gaming is centred around apps and their capabilities which turn our smartphones into portable gaming devices.

Health and other apps

Wearable devices have increased over the past few years and so have health monitoring apps which help users keep fit and stay in shape. Consumers have become more health-conscious and so apps in this sector have increased to feed the demand. The introduction of mobile apps has also seen a rise in navigation apps and online buying apps such as Amazon and eBay. Apps have also given logistic companies the means to use mobile technology to track shipments and delivery drivers in real-time. Instead of physically going shopping, many opt to shop online now, which has impacted our lives and the economy.

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The future of mobile apps

 

The rapid adoption and seamless integration of apps into our lives make imagining life without apps impossible. It is clear that apps will remain hugely popular, even for years to come. It is hard to currently pinpoint what kind of technology will overthrow apps from their current throne. 

Although the underlying technology of mobile applications is changing with the integration of AI, AR and VR technology. The core of mobile applications is less likely to change. However, the usual prospects of new technology on the horizon is imminent. The rapid growth of consumer needs opens the door to new challenges where new technology could be born. The onset of more modern, faster, customised and streamlined technology along with advanced new generation devices might see the end of apps. 

Guest post by Yasmita Kumar –   I am a writer and I have been writing about various topics over the years. The topics I enjoy covering in my writing are predominantly based on Technology as a whole and the impact it can have on our lives and how they are implemented and used in different industries

The Online Shopping Statistics You Need to Know, #Infographic #eCommerce #Shopping

Shopping online has increased Year on Year for the last several years and now is king, No matter what part of the world you are from it is the way most of tend to shop rather than go into a store which has its own caveats and the biggest problem for retailers is returns and having worked in the logistics industry for over 25 years since the inception of eCommerce these two things are a problem and it is down to colour and size in most instances, Free returns is also another issue which we will probably see phased out as it is costing money.

This applies to the world over but there is many other statistics to enjoy which LiftnGift has sent us over so check it out below. Many people here in Ireland always say shop local which is fine but if you can get the same thing half price on the internet with 24/48 delivery why would you??

How to really see 20/20 in 2020. Are you on your phone and PC all day. #Tech #Eyes

Written by Alastair Lockwood, eye health specialist and ophthalmologist at Feel Good Contacts

We already know that the overuse of computers and smartphones can cause significant strain to our eyes, but with changes to work and daily life meaning we are now more reliant on screens than ever before (such as the one you’re looking at right now), it’s integral you take precautions to protect yourself once you have put your smart device away. 

 

For tech lovers, taking care of your eyes is even more important to combat the hours spent on your phone, computer screen or console. Optometrists are finding an increasing number of tech-related eye strains in patients, demonstrating the threat devices pose to our long term eye health.

 

To maximise your health and maintain your vision as close to 20/20 in the upcoming year, we have compiled tips, nutritional advice and guidance on how to really see better in 2020. 

 

  • Take regular breaks from your computer screen

 

Using a computer too frequently can cause computer vision syndrome (CVS), where the eyes become tired, dry and even strained from the glare. To prevent this, employees are advised to blink regularly during the day when working on a computer to avoid dry eyes. 

 

Taking regular breaks is imperative when sitting in front of a screen, where the famous 20-20-20 rule can come in handy.  Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break from your screen to look at something 20 feet away. This vital break will give your eyes a chance to rest and is an effective way to reduce eye strain. 

 

  • Adjust your technical environment 

 

Having a high-quality resolution and adequately bright screen can significantly ease the pressure on your eyes to focus on the computer. Working with a dull screen or glare forces eyes to strain more, making it important to regularly check the screen brightness and resolutions of your equipment. 

 

Employees should request anti-glare screens from their employer, reducing the everyday strain on their eyes. Sufficient lighting is required around desks for equal brightness since shadows and light glare can cause eye fatigue. Computer screens should rest at least 25 inches away.

 

A clean environment with minimal dust is important will cause less irritation. Artificial tears can help supplement your natural tear film.

 

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  • Reduce smoking intake

 

Smoking exposes your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress and has been linked to the risk of cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes and dry eye syndrome. Quitting smoking at any stage of life can be beneficial, reducing the risk of developing eye threatening conditions. 

 

  • Go on 20-minute walks, four times a week

 

Exercising regularly is a recommended way to keep your eyes in check. Exercising will lower the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), helping to protect retinal ganglion cells. It may help in glaucoma patients, but autoregulation, ie independent of exercise is the main control here for blood flow. 

 

  • Try to sleep for 7-9 hours a day

 

For most people, sleeping is the one period during the day when their eyes are not required to focus. During sleep, the eyes are rehydrated with a supply of natural tears, a process which requires a minimum of 5 hours to replenish. 

 

If sleeping is an issue, taking the above steps of exercising regularly are helpful tips to tackle this. Relaxing in bed without using a screen can also help, as well as hot baths, light yoga or reading a book. If your sleep issue persists, visit a doctor to assess if there are any underlying issues to your sleeping patterns. 

 

  • Eat a balanced diet

 

To maintain healthy eyes, eating foods rich in vitamins c and e, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein and zinc are highly recommended. Kale, spinach, salmon, tuna, eggs, nuts, beans, oranges and oysters are some of the many foods crucial to this balanced diet.

 

  • Change your eye makeup regularly

 

With the eye-watering prices of high-end makeup, it is not uncommon for consumers to continue using their eye makeup until it completely runs out. Liquid and cream eye makeups do, however, collect bacteria which can harbour in brushes, lids or the product itself. Eye makeup and mascara should be replaced every 3 months to minimise the risk of infections and products should never be shared with others. 

 

  • Wear sunglasses with the correct protection

 

Although sunglasses make an excellent accessory in the summer, their importance for eye protection should not be underestimated. Fast fashion retailers do not always produce sunglasses with the correct materials to avoid harmful ultraviolet (UV) light. This makes it imperative for consumers to ensure they purchase glasses which cover both UVA and UVB protection. 

 

  • Get your eyes checked regularly 

 

Regular eye examinations are crucial to spotting sight loss or damage before it worsens. Optometrists can help detect conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration which can lead to sight loss, so visiting your optician is an important step in maintaining good eye health. 

The roundup 

To tackle the increasing use of screens in our daily lives, try out these eye health tips to keep your vision as close to 20/20 as you can. Perhaps thought of eating salmon every day and cutting out coffee might not be your ideal news, so trying a balanced approach with work, exercise and food habits may be just the trick to improve your eyesight for the year ahead.

Review – The Aukey T10 True Wireless earbuds. #AukeyT10 #TrueWireless #Tech

The Aukey T10 True Wireless are a new pair of true wireless to consider if you are in the market for a new pair. Here we test countless pairs and what you get for the money here is good and they also look great and have a unique charging case which I really like. Not only this you get wireless charging and USB-C charging too and these are often features left out of more expensive earbuds and it is what people like and for the price this is good having these features out of the box.

The fit is great and they hold down really well and do not budge, coming with the extra wings and tips you are sure to find the right size for you to get that all important seal you need to get the best sound from your earbuds and once you have got this these shine and are loud and if you are into fitness you need not worry about them falling out either they have a really great fit and to top it off you have got IPX5 water rating.

Build quality is also great here and the feel too and they do not stick out too much either compared to some earbuds out there they look good and feel good and if that is what you want this is what you get here with a clean look and finish.

When it comes to battery life these are also up there with offering 24hrs charge off the case and around 7 hours on one charge which is at the higher end of battery life with earbuds off one charge so for those who commute these are ideal and better than some others out there including headphones and this is great considered the size of them packing in this much battery life. Also lets not forget the unique case you get here which I have not seen on any other earbuds yet that crossed my review table and this case offers protection with the swivel top ensuring your buds do not fall out given they already have a good magnet holding them in as you will see in the video.

When it comes to sound they do quite well,they have no aptx though and use 6mm graphene drivers that do quite well overall considering, I did find the music rather close however but not a huge deal,decent dynamic range and there is a good level of bass here for the bass lovers, Everything else was well balanced with nothing crossing into each other,good on instruments, vocals and all the usual genres and sound stages I usually test. When it comes to You Tube and Netflix again they pass the test but again I found things close rather than being more distant or with direction but at full volume they will be a treat for anyone.

 

An important thing to note is there is no lag latency here on both You Tube or Netflix which is always a plus for anyone and after a long period of testing over the Christmas these got a good long run and more so than others I have tested and I was more than pleased at the overall result here. With the Bluetooth 5.0 connection I had no issues here either given the average 30-40 ft distance test and they remained connected and for call quality again they are fine a clear both ends. One thing to keep in mind is they cant be used independently but you can use the right side on its own but not the left,again this is quite common but needs to be pointed out. Having said that they can be used on their own once opposite side is not placed in the charging case.,there is also no auto pause on music when either side is removed from your ear.

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For the money you cant complain,there is no aptx and no app but again this is common with true wireless but you get wireless charging, USB- C charging ,great battery life, an IPX5 rating and they look great and come with a really cool case and I can easily recommend these to check out rather than waste your money on Airpods.

 

BUY HERE

The Nokia 6.2 finally available in Ireland via Littlewoods. #Nokia #Tech

Last year HMD and Nokia announced a slew of devices but not all available here and certainly not in bricks and mortar and the 7.2 has been the main focus over the last few months, Currently we can get the 7.2 and the cute detox 2720 flip and the builder type Nokia 800 we reviewed and most of the range be it on store or online. Until now the Nokia 6.2 has been seen nowhere but now you can pick one up if you have been waiting for it via Littlewoods Ireland.

 

The Nokia 6.2 was not scheduled to launch into the Irish market like many other devices such as the Nokia 9 Pureview but was obtainable by other means as expected. Prices do vary if you shop around and on a quick search Littlewoods is at the higher end, No Surprise there.

Get more for your money with the stylish Nokia 6.2.

With its deluxe display, triple-lens camera and polymer composite body that’s twice as strong as polycarbonate and half the weight of aluminium, the Nokia 6.2 gives you incredible value for money.

STUNNING SCREEN
At 8.3 mm thick, it feels wonderfully comfortable in your hand, while the 6.3 inch, Full HD+ 2280 x 1080-resolution PureDisplay screen with HDR 10 support is sharp and crisp, bringing out the best in your web surfing, photos and video.

TRIPLE LENS CAMERA
We love the triple-lens camera with always-on HDR at the back, which features a 16 MP f/1.8 sensor working in partnership with a 5 MP depth sensor and 8 MP wide angle sensor. They all shoot at the same time and then combine the images for beautifully vivid, lifelike photos. You can also shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second. There’s a 8 megapixel camera at the front too for superior selfies and video chats.

BUY HERE 

Review – The Nextbase 322GW Dashcam. #Dashcams #Tech #Motoring

Over the last while I have been testing out the new Nextbase line of dashcams and the latest one to drop in the the 322 which is more or less mid range when it comes to pricing,having said that it comes with many features included in the 522 GW which costs less and then we have the entry level 122 which is not touch based like the 322 and 522 but still gives results at the end of the day and this is again something for all pockets at the end of the day which some still say is expensive.

At the end of the day if you want good footage and a dashcam that will not fail or corrupt your SD card they are the best in the business given the app needs some work it is the only one I can safely recommend as a whole for results and features. The problem today is that we now see more cheaper alternative dashcams in local garages and euro saver shops and so on costing between €20-€50 offering all kinds of features yet do not work and I actually have one of those here now which I unboxed recently and is a pile of junk and have been in touch with them about it and was just told to format the SD card and heard nothing since telling them it does not work, This is an Amazon seller yet similar can be found in shops advertising the bells and whistles yet simply fail to work.

 

My email and images are available on request, I do have to give them the option to replace this or as I said in my email it could be a faulty unit which is fair as these things happen in tech I have emailed these more than once and no joy since last contact so that says enough for me being honest, however I like to give people a chance,these have had the chance and ignored it and it happens more often than you think,even with high end products but being in the position I am I will engage first with the company but DOA products is a thing in tech and cant be really avoided.

Moving back the the 322 it has been a popular piece of discussion on local forums and the 522 which I am a member of and I offer advice and the 322 came up in discussion recently alongside the 522 so I was in a position to offer advice on such and to be fair it comes down to budget which by all means is a valid choice for anyone and the 322 sits well here offering many features often omitted from rival brands.

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The 322 is well placed offering great features and works well after my time testing it check out the video below for more and any questions hit me up in the usual spots.

Key features: 1080p HD resolution at 60 fps, 2.5” HD IPS touch screen, 140° viewing angle, 10Hz GPS Module, AutoSync, Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi via MyNextbase Connect and PC/Mac software – MyNextbase Player

The 322GW is also compatible with the Nextbase Rear-View Camera Modules to add a second camera. Personalise your Dash Cam and choose one of 3 different rear camera views from Rear, Cabin or Rear Window view.

BUY HERE

 

 

 

Element Case Introduces “Holster” phone cases at CES. #ElementCase #CES2020

Element Case, the creator of original premium grade smart phone accessories, has announced the introduction of Holster, a new “universal design” phone case carrier that securely attaches to a belt or waist band, and holds a wide variety of phone cases. Holster is being introduced in two sizes, each with the ability to fit multiple devices: medium (includes Samsung Galaxy s9/S10/S10e, iPhone 8/X/XS) and large (includes Samsung Galaxy Note 10/10+, Samsung Galaxy S9+/S10+, iPhone 8 Plus/XR/XS Max).

 

“Holster has been created to offer the user plenty of convenience plus security,” said Ethan Nyholm, chief executive of STM Brands, the parent company of Element Case. “You can clip this handy accessory to a belt, grip it to a backpack, or flip it into kickstand mode. With the Holster, there is always a variety of options that securely allow you to keep your phone in ready reach.”

The innovative Holster features an adjustable body with silicone grips and a spring mechanism that allows for a wide variety of phone cases to fit. “If you change your phone case,” added Nyholm, “there is no need to change your Holster.” 

 

Boasting a versatile attachment, Holster conveniently clips and fastens to most belts, including  2¼” duty and tactical belts. The 180-degree swivel belt clip makes it possible for the case to be turned quickly and aligned with a belt for a comfortable seated position. Holster also includes a kickstand that enables the phone (while in case and holster) to be viewed in portrait and landscape mode.

 

The new Holster is making its public introduction at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The world’s preeminent exhibition of new products and technologies returns to the entertainment capital of the world from January 7-10, 2020. Element Case will be at Booth #31558 in the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall 3.

STM Introduces Dux Grip Protective Case with Integrated Handle. #STMGoods #CES2020

STM Goods, a leading designer of innovative bags, cases, and accessories for consumer electronic devices, today announced the arrival of the newest addition to the company’s “best-in-class” line of protective cases for digital devices. The new Dux Grip combines the superior protection of a Dux case with an attached handle to bring maximum comfort to carrying and displaying your 7th generation iPad.

 

“Dux Grip makes working with an iPad even smarter,” said Ethan Nyholm, CEO and co-founder of STM Goods. “This innovative new product combines rugged protection, state-of-the-art ergonomics, and all the exceptional benefits expected from our flagship Dux cases.”

 

 

Dux Grip stands apart from all other handle cases with the addition of an innovative removable 360-degree swivel handle that serves double duty—as an easy-to-grasp handle for your device and a convenient stand for viewing it. The handle can be held in multiple ways for flexibility and personalized comfort. Dux Grip not only safeguards your device from the rigours of everyday use, it also reduces strain on the hand and wrist in a way no other protective handle case does.

 

In addition, Dux Grip features a removable, adjustable shoulder strap plus a wrist loop for additional security; storage for the Apple Pencil or Logitech Crayon; and a transparent back that is ideal for asset tagging or user customization, integrated storage to accommodate a writing tool.

 

The new Dux Grip is making its public introduction at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. The world’s preeminent exhibition of new products and technologies returns to the entertainment capital of the world from January 7-10, 2020. STM Goods will be at Booth #31558 in the Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall 3.

Big data to make a big impact in audio-tech at CES 2020. #CES2020 #SoundID #BigData

Sonarworks, the award-winning audio-tech specialists, announce SoundID – enabling personalised audio perfected for each listener across any device in 2020. 

An early demonstration of SoundID will be debuted at CES, and starting today Beta version will be available on the iOS App Store and Google Play Store, ahead of the full roll-out in Q2 2020. Headphone manufacturer 1MORE will also be showcasing SoundID integration at CES, ahead of further 1MORE hardware and software integration in 2020. 

This transformative SoundID technology has been developed by the same Sonarworks team that is behind the precision audio software used by Grammy-Award winning producers in over 45,000 professional recording studios in the world. Based on the biggest ever research into sound preferences – a 39,000 sample size – Sonarworks have developed a unique method of analysing and augmenting sound using machine learning and big data based sound preference and hearing tests. By comparison, conventional audio-tech companies would develop their software solutions based on a pool of a few hundred respondents. 

 

SoundID solves a long-standing problem in the audio-tech space. Until now, manufacturers have applied a ‘one size fits all’ approach regardless of the many variables – hardware options, audio formats, while not taking into account the variable of the end user – all of whom hear differently and have their individual preferences. 

 

Subsequently audio manufacturers have targeted sound profiles that are favoured by less than 20% of the overall market as the latest identifiable group. By contrast, SoundID enabled audio is favoured by over 78% of listeners in blind testing. 

 

SoundID will transform the way listeners enjoy audio – a quick one-time in-app hearing test that includes age, musical preferences, and hardware configuration will create your SoundID profile. That profile will eventually be automatically enabled across all your devices – including portables, creating a seamless listening experience for the end-user that is individually perfected every time. 

 

Martins Popelis, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Sonarworks, said: In 2012 we transformed the professional audio market with our products that are now used wider as a key tool of the creation process. Now, we are putting a stake in the ground to do the same in the consumer audio sector. Bespoke audio personalised to each listener is now a reality with Sonarworks’ SoundID. Audio profiles have been an issue for the market for decades, having to target the preferences for less than 20% of the market. Now we have a seamless experience in SoundID that is measurably better than the current products on the market.

See SoundID for more and check out the app.