Leading real hands on tech review site in Ireland with technology, business news and more. Jim O Brien Tech.
Author: Jim O Brien/CEO
CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.
Want to save money before the Christmas shopping spree? Virgin Mobile’s ‘Red Friday’ 545 offer is here – offering unlimited 4G Data, calls and texts for as little as €5 for 5 months on a 30 day contract!
What’s the deal?
Virgin Mobile Unlimited Plan €5 a month for 5 months on a 30 day contract. Just €25 after offer.
What’s new?
This is the first time non-Virgin Media customers have been able to get this 545 offer.
When’s it available?
Now until 2nd of December.
What’s in the plan?
Unlimited 4G data, calls and texts. get that RED Friday feeling – check it out on www.virginmedia.ie
Motif, the Apple-approved personalised photo book app, has announced the launch of its free iOS app – bringing its top-rated photo app extension for the macOS desktop to the estimated 1 billion+ iPhones and iPads currently in use. This app is available globally in 32 countries, including the United Kingdom and Ireland, and can be translated into 5 languages. The Motif app syncs directly with the iOS Photos app library, making it quick, easy, and convenient for iOS users to create beautiful, personalised photo books with a professional feel, straight from the photos already stored on their device. You can avail of our exclusive code below if you wish to check it out.
Launched in July 2018 as a native macOS extension, Motif quickly earned the highest rating for an Apple Photos Extension in the Mac App Store. The platform is beloved by Mac users for bringing their photos to life with advanced technology, intuitive editing tools, and easy-to-use personalisation. Now, Motif on iOS joins its desktop counterpart just in time for Christmas, putting the ease of creating gorgeous photo books at every user’s fingertips on the go.
The Motif iOS app is designed to be user-friendly. Clear and easily accessible views provide direct access to page editing, image and text editing, and overall book organisation in just a few taps. Whether choosing an overall design theme for the book or specific layouts for a page or spread, Motif presents all options with images in place and in context. A simple three-step wizard guides you through the photo book process in a snap. Key features include:
Syncs directly with your photo library: No need to export or upload photos; Motif works locally with the images and albums in the Photos app on your device, so there’s no need to spend time exporting or uploading your pictures anywhere else. Motif’s machine learning algorithms create memories from your photos that highlight your recent vacations, family events, and other favourite moments that can be made into a personalised photo book in seconds.
Finds your best pictures for you: Motif’s smart technology combs through thousands of photos so you don’t have to, analysing images for overall quality and similarity to identify duplicates and recommend the very best ones. This includes checking images for focus, clarity, people, faces, image orientation, panoramas, and more; it even weeds out unwanted images such as screenshots.
Automatically lays out your book: Motif auto-flows your selected images into more than 80 professionally designed layouts, picking the best combinations of vertical and horizontal compositions, while correctly centring and cropping to fit the layouts. Or, create your own mix and give it a personal touch.
Delivers photo-first quality: Motif is a photo-first brand, so every book features clean themes and a premium, professional look. Users can type or dictate text, and customise the pages with pops of colour, patterns and professionally designed themes.
“One year after the successful launch of Motif, we knew the natural next step would be an expansion to iOS, to bring this functionality to the full ecosystem of iPhone and iPad users,” said Craig Bauer, Global Managing Director of Motif. “Millions of people now have access to the simple functionality and advanced technology that Motif delivers to create the most beautiful, professional-looking photo products available.”
Find the new Motif app in the iOS App Store, available in the UK and Europe. The app is free; pricing for photo books starts at £6.99 for a soft cover photo book and £17.99 for a hard cover photo book. For more information, visit www.motifphotos.com.
Get a 20% discount with the code TechBuzzIrelandMotif
Tronsmart have sent us their latest True Wireless earbuds with a catchy name called the Spunky Beat,We are in peak true wireless mode right now and have many more to cover before the Christmas season and we will be giving you our views on what is hot and what is not.
The Spunky Beat are an affordable pair of true wireless but come some new technologies starting to creep into true wireless earbuds and we look forward to checking out how these perform and sound. Check out the speck list below and see what is on offer and in the interim hit us up with any questions.
【Adopted Qualcomm Chip】The chip we use in the earbuds is Qualcomm QCC3020, it’s the most advanced TWS earphone chip there is. Which means the most stable signal connection, better sound quality, lower power consumption. Bluetooth 5.0 and HD rendering technology, producing incredible high quality sound with deep bass.
♫【aptX / CVC 8. 0 Noise Cancelling technology】Thanks to the Qualcomm aptX/CVC audio technology, Tronsmart earbuds will allow you to enjoy perfect 3D stereo sound quality. It can block a range of surrounding noise and avoid wind noise during running, cycling, jogging, etc. Particularly suitable for driving, running, traveling and other indoors or outdoors activities.
♫【7 Hours Continuous Playing TIME】The most advanced Qualcomm chips have lower power consumption, which means that the earbuds can be used continuously for 7 hours(50% volume) after being fully charged. The charging case provides up to 2.5 times more charge for the headphones, in total up to 24 hours. Besides, there are two charging solutions for choose, integrated USB-A cable or the coming with USB-C cable.
♫【IPX5 Waterproof Ergonomic Design Superb Compatibility】Thanks to the IPX5 Waterproof, protects your headphones from rain, splashes and sweat for undisturbed use. Small and lightweight Bluetooth headsets, Ergonomically designed, Snug & comfortable wearing, Fits perfectly in the ears with different sizes S / M / L high quality silicone earplugs and firmly attaches the headphones in the ears, never falling out even when you are working out, Works with almost all Bluetooth devices.
♫【Two Mini Earphones with Unique Touch Function】All functions in a touch key, the operation is more simple and convenient. The headphones can be used separately or together. Intuitive gesture controls allows users to listen to music and answer phone calls on the go without worry of wire entanglement. And the built-in microphone is compatible with Siri, as well as Google Assistant. [1 Year ] if you have any problem please contact our customer service to get help.
You may of heard of Blackpods of late which are an affordable pair of true wireless that have a H1 chip built in and less then half the price of Apples overpriced version, The new Version 3 have just arrived today and come in a glorious matt black finish which Apple fans will adore as Apple just dont do black.
Today we check these out before we give them a test run and you get the full hands on experience with us and less of the “Hands On” with stock image two paragraph “reviews” that we are seeing to much of,of late,so if you have any questions in the meantime feel free to ask below or on our social handles.
Over the last few months I have been using the Jabra 85h and the Elite Active 65t in Orange which both are great pairs of listening tools and still work as new to date and are part of my daily routine and travel pack asides some others and ones that come in for review, We have an extensive range of true wireless here which is popular today with most people and its not all about Airpods.
The 75t is the 4th gen from the company and have landed and we look forward to testing these out, We of course will go full hands on and share our thoughts in the coming weeks about these which I look forward to testing out fully. Check out the package contents below and if you have any questions feel free to ask as usual..
Key features..
New compact earbud shape tested for comfort and secure fit
More than 7.5 hours battery life, up to 28 hours with the charging case
4-microphone technology for crystal clear calls even in noisy and windy environments
Fast charging with USB-C
Reliable true wireless connectivity with no audio dropouts
Music your way with the customizable equalizer, available in the Jabra Sound+ app
IP55-rated durability and 2-year warranty against dust and water*
One-touch access to Amazon Alexa**, Siri® and Google Assistant™
Compatible with all Bluetooth audio enabled phones and tablets
The Jabra Sound+ companion app is compatible with iOS and Android devices
Groov-e, a leading UK tech brand, is pleased to add the Zen wireless headphones to its range. Taking the audio experience to another level, the over-ear Zen wireless headphones combine 40mm Neodymium drivers and Active Noise Cancelling to deliver superior, crystal-clear sound.
Sleek and lightweight, with swivel earcups that fold down to take up minimal space, the Zen headphones are perfect for long journeys or commutes. The Groov-e Zen headphones are available now for £54.99 from www.groov-e.co.uk.
The Zen wireless headphones are ideal for those who want an affordable headset packed with all the latest technology. Active Noise Cancelling reduces unwanted ambient sound to provide an immersive listening experience whilst 40mm drivers handle heavy beats well and can reproduce a full range of frequencies so music can be heard as it was intended. Featuring premium, soft foam earpads the Zen headphones also ensure a comfortable listening experience at all times.
Connect to any compatible device via Bluetooth and the Zen headphones will enable users to immerse themselves in their music or films for up to 10 hours wirelessly. If 10 hours isn’t enough then users can plug in the included audio cable meaning the headphones require no battery and can be used continuously. If users need to make calls then a built-in microphone for hands-free conversations ensures this is as easy as possible.
Built in control buttons are conveniently placed on the ear cup allowing for full control of song selection and volume and enable users to answer incoming calls quickly and easily. The intelligent folding design reduces the space required for storage when not being used so that they fit into any bag or luggage comfortably.
Kunal Patel, Director, Groov-e said: “With Zen, we’ve proven that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality pair of noise cancelling headphones. Whether on a long-haul flight or working in a busy office, the Zen headphones are not only comfortable but do a brilliant job of blocking out any unwanted noise. As with our other headphones in the range, Groov-e is a brand that should be considered when looking for a quality, affordable alternative.”
The Groov-e Zen Wireless Headphones are £54.99 available now from www.groov-e.co.uk.
A few months there was a scam going around purporting to come from Revenue offering you a refund of income tax and it was a good attempt to scam people but of course seeking personal information. This time of year is always busy with the scam front and I have been subject to an ongoing issue with PayPal myself which they are still trying to sort out.
Again this email is similar and here is what you need to look out for and it will ask you to open a link and fill in information but by all means DO NOT open any link in the email and just discard it straight away you can see the information provided in the link as what you need to watch out for so you have been warned and it is another phishing attempt.
Revenue do have an advice section on their website if you need or feel you have got a suspicious link HERE
Granite Digital, Ireland’s leading full-service digital agency, today announces that it has acquired Galway-based app development company, Apps Made Easy. The deal, which is part of an ambitious growth strategy for Granite Digital, will allow the Deloitte Fast 50 company to treble its app development revenues to €750,000 in the next 12 months.
Established in 2008, Granite Digital is a consulting group of more than 60 professionals providing Strategy, UX Design, Web solutions, SEO & managed hosting services to clients across a wide range of industries in the private and public sector. To meet growing market demand for the development of customer-focused mobile apps, the company has collaborated with award-winning Apps Made Easy on a number of projects for high profile clients including Fexco, Dublin City Council, UCC and Bon Secours Health System.
Pictured announcing Granite Digital’s acquisition of Apps Made Easy are (l-r) Robert Carpenter, founder, Granite; Conor Buckley, CEO, Granite; Alf Smiddy, Chairman, Granite; Niall Campbell, director, Apps Made Easy and Seamus White, co-founder, Granite.
As the provider of digital solutions for clients, Granite identified the opportunity to expand and enhance its mobile application offering further through an acquisition. By acquiring Apps Made Easy, Granite Digital will be able to extend its mobile app development service and establish a new dedicated division that will produce user-oriented mobile solutions.
Granite Digital is on an ambitious growth path, with overall revenues expected to hit €5 million in 2019 and to reach €10 million by 2022. The end-to-end provider for clients wishing to transform their digital presence cites the digital transformation of the financial services sector as a key driver of this. Current clients in this sector include Davy, Fexco, Aon and The Central Bank.
The announcement will also see Granite Digital’s geographical footprint expand to three locations in Ireland, adding Galway to its existing Dublin and Cork offices.
Pictured announcing Granite Digital’s acquisition of Apps Made Easy are (l-r) Robert Carpenter, Co-Founder of Granite Digital; and Niall Campbell, Director of Apps Made Easy.
Robert Carpenter, Co-Founder of Granite Digital, said: “Apps Made Easy is an exciting new addition to the range of services that Granite Digital provides. This acquisition will transform our service offering, enabling us to establish ourselves as a one-stop-shop for every aspect of our clients’ digital presence – whether that’s Digital Strategy, UX Design, Applications Development, SEO or App development.
“Having worked alongside the Apps Made Easy team on a number of projects in the past few years, we have seen first-hand their technical experience and premium service quality. We have ambitious growth plans and the acquisition of Apps Made Easy is part of the continuing expansion of our services.”
Niall Campbell, Director of Apps Made Easy said: “As one of Ireland’s most established brands in web development, Granite Digital is an ideal partner for Apps Made Easy. Our complementary expertise means we can offer unique and unparalleled software solutions to clients. We are excited to see how Granite Digital and Apps Made Easy can continue to grow together in the future.”
Pearl Abyss today released a free update to Black Deserton PlayStation 4, bringing Awakening Events for Striker and Tamer classes that boost their combat power. In addition, fairy companions have been added to support adventurers, and world bosses Quint and Muraka are now available.
Striker Awakened Skills
Echo Spirit – Summon the Striker’s spiritual alter-ego to bring down the apocalypse onto enemies.
Infernal Destruction – Bring down enemies with a leg-sweep followed by a powerful punch.
Skull Crusher – Spin in the air and and use the momentum to knock enemies down with a downward kick.
Rampaging Predator – Relentlessly chase down enemies and unleash a flurry of attacks.
Tamer Awakened Skills
Allround Spinner – Spins the Celestial Bo Staff around, striking enemies from all directions.
Legendary Beast Dance – Channel the spirits of the four legendary beasts through your Celestial Bow Staff to perform different attacks on your enemies.
Flow: Cloud Ride – Using the Celestial Bo Staff, Tamer launches herself forwards dealing damage and knocking enemies down.
Fairy Companions
Fairies offer great utility in Black Desert offering skills which help you on your travels. These celestial beings can provide auto-potions and Desert drinks, instant resurrections and more!
New World Bosses
Quint – As the first ancient troll, Quint is a statue-like being that will be difficult to topple. Since he does not take damage while standing, it is imperative to take out his legs first, where adventurers can unleash attacks on his relatively weak body.
Muraka – Emerging from the thick woods of Mansha forest, Muraka brings death and destruction to anyone foolish enough to stand in his way. While relatively slow, he unleashes incredibly powerful attacks that only increase in power when enraged.
Black Desert on PlayStation 4 is featured within the PlayStation Double Discount event, with 25% off all three game bundles and PS+ members receiving 50% off until November 22. Sales of Black Desert on PlayStation 4 have increased tenfold since the start of the event!
