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.
If you are in the market for a new security camera or an additional one that is easy to set up with no issues this is the one, Right now on Amazon this sells for around €32 which is good for the money in my book.
Set up took me around three minutes and that for sure is a good thing,some cameras take much longer and can be annoying but here it is almost plug and play and you are good to go,you have to enter minimal information and connect to your WiFi from the app and thats it,no messing with location or qr codes for the camera to scan,you then place it where you want and you are done.
You are limited to an extent as to where you can put it as it is a wired camera but there is a decent cable inside the box and the camera is also small and light and not cumbersome and can be placed just about anywhere. The app is easy to navigate too you will see all this in the video review below and the options to change the settings is simple and nothing too difficult about the whole process which is welcome and compared to other apps it is less convoluted and nothing hidden deep in menus.
You can set up up to 4 activity zones which is handy and can cut down on notifications you do not need the camera is sensitive but can be changed but having the option to insert activity zones is good and not seen to often at this price range. I have tested the camera out in several situations and found for example pointing out one window my neighbours washing on the line constantly set it off but with some adjustments that cured it, You can point out the window too you do not have to have it strictly pointing indoors so that is also good, For indoor use it is where it will shine best with two way audio that is clear and clear footage which can be changed from 720-1080p though this requires a stronger internet connection.
You will get good footage day or night you can see samples in the video review and this is well worth the money and the only gripe I have is in the app where you cant dismiss notifications and they stay in the timeline but this is something I have seen on other cameras at this pricepoint.
Check the video below for footage and the app review and feel free to comment below or on our social channels.
Features
Sharp and clear 1080p full-HD video
Crisp two-way audio for seamless communication
Wide angle view 130 degrees – Set it up in a corner and get a full view of your room
Night vision up to 20 feet
Automatic alerts when your Spot detects motion or sound – No need to check your Kasa Spot throughout the day
Configure up to 4 customizable zones for more meaningful alerts at no extra cost
Nokia today launched a new range of handsets to suit all pockets and from October Three of the 5 handsets will be available in Ireland in various stores across the country, You can read more on that over HERE
These new earbuds are an upgrade to their previous model and I will look forward to checking these out in the coming weeks as I am on a true wireless buzz at the moment and we have some reviews on the way this week and more to come soon.
They claim up to 150 hours battery life which is impressive by true wireless standards and are IPX7 rated which means waterproof for up to 1M, They also have USB-C charging with a charge case which again is welcome and future-proofing themselves and they sport Bluetooth 5.0 which means a better connection,they will come in two colours Charcoal Black and Light Grey..
The specs on the new earbuds are as follows..
• Battery time: Earbuds: Up to 5 hours
• Including charging case: Up to 150 hours (up to x30 additional
charges of earbuds)
• Durability: IPX7 – Waterproof at 1m for up to 30 minutes
• Drivers: Graphene, 6mm
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
• I/O: USB Type-C charging | Touch controls
• Form Factor: True Wireless
• Battery Capacity: Earbuds: 50mAh per earbud
• Charging case: 3000mAh
• Dimensions: Earbuds: 25mm(L) x 23mm(W) x 23.8mm(D)
• Charging case: 79mm(L) x 48.5mm(W) x 31mm(D)
• Colour: Charcoal Black | Light Grey
This year at IFA 2019, Targus, a leader in laptop cases and mobile computing accessories, will be launching new ranges and solutions to tackle the global challenges we face; living more sustainably, the evolving retail landscape and productivity whilst working from home.
With a new EcoSmart range of bags and cases being announced at the event, Targus is demonstrating its dedication to becoming more sustainable. Targus’ AR showcase will bring the future of retail to life with an innovative solution that addresses shrinking store footprints and growing customer demands for an immersive retail experience over the week-long event. As well as this, Targus will be showcasing a range of solutions dedicated to suit the modern office worker, offering chiropractic advice in person.
EcoSmart range: Targus continues its sustainability journey
Targus has responded to the plastic waste challenge by developing a versatile and minimalistic range of backpacks and cases made from recycled plastic that still deliver durability, protection and organisation. Making its debut at IFA, the EcoSmart range includes multiple products for an active work life balance, from backpacks to briefcases to sleeves. Products are made from at least 70% recycled PET, nickel-free hardware and feature recyclable zips.
The designs for this product portfolio incorporate the need for versatility – the ability to carry heavy loads, security for commuting or carrying multiple devices – as well as catering to the growing trend of environmentally conscious consumers. The planet-friendly range is in line with the Global Recycling Standard.
AR try before you buy: Experience the future of retail
With the face of retail constantly evolving thanks to the proliferation of technology, Targus believes that innovation is key to remaining competitive.
Targus has initiated an AR programme as a response to what it has been seeing in the retail industry – shrinking store footprints and growing customer demands for an immersive retail experience. The AR experience will give visitors the exciting opportunity to explore different backpacks so they can find the perfect fit for every working lifestyle.
At IFA, Targus will have a 3D-printed polygon mannequin with a QR code printed on the back. Users who scan the QR code can “see” and “try on” the product without it being physically present. Users can also rotate the bag, “try on” different products, “look into” the bag and explore its various compartments – all through the magic that is AR.
Tech innovation like AR is the perfect way to showcase a whole range of products, even if the retailer only stocks one item from the range. The long-term view is to link up the experience to the retailer’s ecommerce site, so they can purchase items that may not be stocked in store.
The changing needs of modern office workers
Targus will be bringing its unique ‘Workspace in retail’ concept to life as well, emphasizing efficiency and productivity in the home, whilst acknowledging that work spaces can be compact. It will be showcasing its range of docking stations, including the DOCK190. Its range of stations allow users to be more efficient and productive when working remotely and flexibly, easing the transition between home and office. All users have to do is plug their devices into the docking station, eliminating the need to connect each device individually. A ‘work from anywhere’ set up will be demonstrated so retailers can learn how to show their customers how the technology works together and what the ideal workspace looks like.
Also on-site will be certified chiropractor, Dr Samera Bhatti, who will be conducting posture analysis sessions on Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th. She will provide visitors personalised tips on working well from home and improving overall workplace well-being.
Elevating customer service with the right tech
During the event, Targus will also be showcasing a tablet cradle workstation solution developed to work with the Samsung DeX solution. Samsung will also be presenting the solution on their stand.
Targus has seen the need for mobile workstation solutions growing amidst the customer service industry – whether this may be in the retail space, fast-food establishments or financial institutions.
The Targus tablet cradle workstation works seamlessly with Samsung’s desktop experience solution, DeX. It gives customer service representatives the ability to be mobile and switch from tablet to desktop by simply placing their tablet devices within the Targus cradle.
Flexibility, improved audio quality, and longer wireless battery life are some of the most important features for earphone consumers. Today, Shure announced that its innovative line of detachable SE Sound Isolating™ Earphones is now available with enhanced features that provide enriched audio quality, improved wireless battery life, and convenient options to switch between wireless or wired listening.
The Company’s established line of SE earphones now includes Shure’s High-Resolution Bluetooth® 5 Earphone Communication Cable (RMCE-BT2), offering music lovers and mobile listeners the best wireless audio experience to date.
Engineered with the same precision components used by professional musicians, the upgraded and expanded configurations deliver detailed sound and durability. With new BT2 integration, listeners can easily transform from wired to wireless via the SE earphone solution of their choice—regardless of price or model.
High-Performance Audio
No matter the connection, the comfortable Sound Isolating design eliminates outside noise, easily transforming a daily commute, gym workout, or airplane trip into a personal concert.
Even the most discerning sound aficionados and casual listeners alike can take advantage of the convenience and portability of wireless without sacrificing quality. The dedicated, high-performance headphone amplifier provides lower noise and distortion while accurately maintaining frequency response, supporting popular audio codecs, including Qualcomm® aptX™ audio, aptX™ HD, aptX™ Low Latency, AAC, and SBC. Retaining a wireless range of up to 30 feet, the SE line maintains quality even from a distance.
“Not only do professional musicians use Shure earphones, they trust Shure microphones and other Shure audio equipment to record and perform live,” said Sean Sullivan, Associate Director of Global Product Management at Shure. “From the performer’s voice and the instrument’s sound to the listener’s ears, the complete end-to-end audio experience starts and ends with Shure.”
25 Percent Better Battery Life and Fast Charging
The wireless option has been upgraded, offering up to ten hours of continuous quality sound when paired with any Bluetooth-enabled device – a 25 percent improvement over the previous version. With ten hours of playback, it essentially might mean that commuters could go an entire week using these earphones during their commutes without having to recharge. Even a quick 15-minute recharge can provide up to two hours of wireless enjoyment.
From Wireless to Wired in a Snap
If the wireless charge runs out, the SE earphones quickly and conveniently switch to a wired connection to an Apple or Android device through the innovative detachable cable system.
“Our SE earphones have long been a staple for artists, musicians, and music lovers all over the world. In recent years, we’ve worked to elevate this product line even further, prioritizing wireless connectivity and features that mobile listeners want,” added Sullivan. “We understand modern-day situations like lengthy flights and commutes can interfere with long-lasting wireless listening, which is why we offer a solution to go from wireless to wired. With a quick twist of the earphones, listeners have multiple options that help them stay connected no matter the device or situation.”
Fit and Function
Secure, over-the-ear design ensure the earphones stay in place for unmatched, long-wearing comfort. The Sound Isolating™ design features a fit kit with a variety of sleeves for a custom fit that can block up to 37 dB of outside noise for immersive listening no matter the location – airplane, school, bus, the gym, or home.
Conference Calls and Calls from Mom
The flexibility of the SE line of earphones extends into calling features, where the audio continues to shine. The inline microphone and three-button remote ensures clarity for calls and voice prompts and provides volume and playback control with ease, so key details won’t be missed like who joined the conference call late or the big news from mom about holiday plans.
Product Options
Shure has various options in its SE line based on listening preferences. Each model has a wide variation of color choices to fit the personality of every user.
SE215 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones provide clear sound and amazing bass in a secure, over-the-ear design with detachable cable and choice of sleeves for long-lasting comfort and custom fit.
• SE846 Wireless Sound Isolating™ Earphones feature four high-definition drivers for extended high-end clarity and a groundbreaking low-pass filter for true subwoofer performance. Featuring a customizable frequency response and an innovative, detachable cable system, SE846 Earphones provide a perfectly tailored listening experience.
Availability
Shure’s updated SE Sound Isolating Earphones are available now. All models are now available on www.shure.com and at participating authorised dealers.
TCL communication has today revealed the Alcatel 3x at IFA 2019 in Berlin. It is the latest addition in their extensive smartphone portfolio which delivers users striking features in one complete package. Featuring an impressive performance, the Alcatel 3x offers a Super Full View Display, Google Assistance and a real focus on true-to-life photography. The triple rear camera component demonstrates TCL’s commitment in providing mobile handsets that keep up with the latest trends and enjoyable experiences.
“With current trends showing us how smartphones are leading the race when it comes to digital photography, it’s only normal that our products offer greater flexibility and product differentiation when it comes to camera sensors and lens combinations,” says David Derrida, Product Director Europe at TCL Communication. “This is why we are delighted to announce the Alcatel 3x, which is our flagship device with triple camera option. Not only does it deliver premium eye-catching images and a powerful performance but it also remains at an absolutely affordable price.”
The Alcatel 3x provides consumers the chance to obtain the latest in cool features, with a sleek 2.5D dual-sided glass design which won’t break the bank. With an immersive
6.52-inch HD+ Super Full View display with stylish mini notch, the viewing experience is outstanding, incorporating the 89 percent screen-to-body ratio for clean-cut details and captivating visuals. Alcatel 3x is outfitted with a powerful Octa-core processor and extremely durable 4000mAh battery, ensuring top-level performance that will cover every aspect of your digital life on the go.
Armed with three versatile 16MP+8MP+5MP rear cameras, combining real-time bokeh, super wide angle, night video and AI scene detection, the Alcatel 3x will take your digital photography to the next level when it comes to producing impressive and dynamic images.
The Alcatel 3x is also furnished with a dedicated one tap button for easy Google Assistant access. From launching apps, to using the convenient Google Lens functionality, your own personal Google is ready to help, anytime, anywhere.
The Alcatel 3x will be available later this year starting at €149.99 EUR (4+64GB version). The high memory variant, Alcatel 3x (6+128GB) will also be available in select countries, starting at €179 EUR. Both variants will come in Jewelry Black.
TCL Communication today announces the launch of TCL PLEX, a smartphone that brings the brand’s renowned display expertise to a mobile form factor. Featuring TCL NXTVISION™, a proprietary advanced display optimization and camera technology, you can see your screen come to life with enriched color, clarity and contrast enhancement in real- time and have an elevated camera experience. TCL PLEX will embody the brand’s new ‘Display Greatness’ philosophy to relentlessly pursue mobile innovation excellence leveraging its unique display heritage. It offers best-in-class imaging standards with an industry-leading camera with super low-light sensor and super wide-angle lens, as well as a fluid, intuitive interface to ensure efficient interaction between you and your smartphones at all times.
“TCL’s legacy in display technology is second to none. We are the No. 1 TV brand in China and No. 2 TV brand globally. With the launch of the TCL PLEX, we not only want to bring our display know-how to more consumers and deliver on the key smartphone experiences – display, camera, user interface and design. We also want to open doors to a whole new future by introducing an ecosystem of smart devices that help our consumers lead more connected lives,” said Peter Lee, General Manager, Global Sales and Marketing at TCL Communication. “The TCL PLEX is the first of a new range of devices we will be releasing from next year, including our 5G products and devices with foldable displays.”
Indulge in a cinematic immersion with dedicated display engine and real-time SDR to HDR video enhancement
Equipped with a dedicated display engine, you can now indulge in a cinematic immersion anytime you want. With cutting-edge color accuracy thanks to TCL NXTVISION, colors on the TCL PLEX’s screen are intensified with a 6-axis color enhancement for radiant images. Edges are honed with 2D edge enhancement for sharper pictures and visual contrasts are made more striking without being over-exposed with targeted contrast enhancement. With an SDR to HDR real-time conversion feature, the TCL PLEX offers a HDR-like video enhancement with increased contrast, amplified color, brighter highlights and darker shadows. Now, you can expect stunning HDR quality entertainment at all times.
With so much time spent on smartphones, it is imperative to protect your eyes from strain and ensure the best display clarity constantly. The TCL PLEX does just that with ‘Adaptive Tone’, ‘Reading Mode’ and ‘Eye Comfort Mode’. ‘Adaptive Tone’ automatically adapts display brightness and adjusts color temperature so you get the best viewing experience in any condition. ‘Reading Mode’ offers a paper-like reading experience and allows you to select a list of frequently used apps where this mode can apply automatically on startup. ‘Eye Comfort Mode’ reduces eyestrain by removing 66 percent of harmful blue light emitted from the screen.
Featuring an in-house 6.53-inch FHD+ TCL Dotch™ Display with 90 percent screen-to-body ratio1 and a discreet front camera, as well as a Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor, you can now enjoy more screen and afford an exceptional entertainment experience.
Capture like a pro even at night with impressive low-light photography capability
The TCL PLEX is equipped with a triple camera setup so you can capture like a pro. Sporting a main camera that utilizes a 48MP ultra high-res Sony sensor with 4k recording function and a separate dedicated video camera with an industry-leading 2.9μm big pixel low-light sensor, users can make every moment extraordinary even at night with the TCL PLEX. Equipped with an innovative algorithm, the TCL PLEX has the capability to integrate auto-brightness, denoising, super resolution, HDR and more into a single AI model in the camera’s auto mode. This results in a night shot capability of up to three times brighter2 in the darkest environments. Users may also choose to up- level the night photography experience with a dedicated ‘Super Night Mode’, producing exceptionally detailed images that have greater definition, clarity and color in the dark.
A 16MP 123° super wide-angle camera allows users to capture four times the content3 in a single shot so they can pack more details into their images in any environment. For those who prefer to slow things down, the TCL PLEX has a flagship-level slow motion feature capable of shooting 960fps super slow-motion HD videos, even in nighttime conditions. Smart video recording detects and tracks moving subjects, automatically zooming and stabilizing the capture to keep your subject sharp at all times. What’s more, you can also stay on top of your selfie game with brighter shots on the 24MP front camera made possible by a 4-in-1 big pixel technology that combines four pixels into one during image capture.
Seamless user experience made possible by fluid interface housed in a compact, elegant design Take efficient interaction with your smartphone to a whole new level on the fluid and intuitive TCL UI thanks to smooth folder browsing, automatic app organization by function and swipeable image deleting. Further personalize your smartphone with ‘Smart Panel’ that adapts to your navigation habits, so going through the different functions will be a breeze. Shortcuts to preferred shooting modes can be selected in camera quick access. You can also customize the ‘Smart Key’ in 3 convenient ways – single, double and long press to access various mobile apps or commonly used features. Battery life is often at the core of every smartphone experience. The TCL PLEX also supports Qualcomm’s quick charge feature, allowing you to juice up half your battery in 32 minutes so you will never be held back by a cable.
Seamlessly control selected TCL smart TVs with your smartphone with full integration through T- Cast, a universal remote control and smart TV assistant app, so you never have to reach out to find the remote again. ‘TV Remote Control’ allows you to control your TV with your smartphone via touchscreen or voice commands. ‘Content Casting’ lets you to cast videos, pictures and music to your TV. Connect up to four Bluetooth speakers4 to amplify your Bluetooth experience or pair with up to four Bluetooth headphones4 to multi-share music with your friends with the Super Bluetooth multi-streaming audio solution. That way, you would always be able to share your entertainment experience.
Availability
The TCL PLEX will be available in Obsidian Black and Opal White in Q4 2019 starting with select markets in Europe at a recommended retail price of €329 (pricing varies with local VAT).
To see all the latest mobile devices from TCL Communication at IFA 2019, please visit our booth at Hall 21, Stand 102 – Messe Berlin.
Uncover a powerfully smooth user experience within everyone´s reach with the new Alcatel 1v. TCL Communication is pleased to announce the release of their new instalment in the Alcatel 1 Series. Inside its compact frame, the expanded view goes along with optimised photography functions and performance including the Google Assistant Button.
Expanded View
With a pocketable size and impressive wide views, the Alcatel 1v offers the user a solid base that will correspond to their everyday requirements. With its 5.5-inch 18:9 Full View Display, the Alcatel 1v is not only an easy grippable device with sleek design but it also provides an expanded view to enjoy all media types.
Smooth Experience
The Alcatel 1v gets the most out its Octa-core CPU and Android™ Pie (Go edition) generating a powerfully smooth performance. With 4G connectivity and dynamic efficiency, the user will benefit from the device’s considerable storage, streamlined apps, data saving and security that all goes towards ensuring a swift and flexible mobile encounter.
One Tap Google Assistant
Your own personal Google at a click of a button. The Alcatel 1v’s dedicated Google Assistant button enables you to effortlessly launch these features which clears the way for fluid navigation and usability. From launching apps, personal searches, message dictation and over one million other actions, this handy little helper will optimise the way you interact with the virtual world around you at a tap of a button.
Optimised Photography
Awaken the photographer in you with the Alcatel 1v’s 5MP rear camera and AI scene detection. When using this smart photo automation, the device will be able to distinguish up to 12 different scenes which will produce stylish photos and save time when it comes to photo editing. Moreover, the Alcatel 1v also comes with a 5MP front camera and an LED flash, which means that your Selfies will be illuminated just as well as your rear facing snaps.
Availability
Alcatel 1v is available in select countries for €79.99 Euros (RRP) in Anthracite Black and Metallic Blue.
Hong Kong based travel technology expert, Masterspace, is today pleased to announce the full availability of its revolutionary and extremely powerful handheld vacuum – Pacum. Following a hugely successful Kickstarter and Indiegogo campaign with 5,101 backers and over $270,000 USD raised, the essential travel gadget is available now on the Masterspace website for GBP £49/USD $59.99.
With strict luggage sizes and ever increasing charges on most airlines and only a small amount of space in most family cars, nowadays luggage space is at a premium. The ability to fit as many necessary travel items into your bag as possible is a must for most travellers today.
Pacum is the most powerful, multi-functional, handheld vacuum & air pumping device in the world. For its size, it packs a mighty punch with capabilities of compressing items 25% more than other competitive vacuums and four times faster.
Using a USB Type-C connector and a power input equal to 5v/2a or above (the common output for portable power bank or wall charge point), Pacum can produce up to 65Kpa or 9.4Psi which is much a more powerful suction than a traditional vacuum cleaner, allowing it to compress a large clothing vacuum bag in 90 seconds. Whilst Pacum comes with its own vacuum bags & accessories, it also is equipped with a “Padaptor”, to ensure the majority existing vacuum bags owned are also compatible with Pacum including food bags. All included, the moisture, water and dustproof Pacum bags are not only ideal for enhancing luggage space, they are also great to keep odour and bacteria at bay by placing used clothing in them for the return trip so it can be emptied directly into the washing machine.
Pacum is one of the most versatile multi-functional travel devices on the market. Not only can it take the air out, it can also PUMP AIR IN! Inflatables at the pool or beach no longer have to be a lung busting pain. Simply change to Inflation mode and Pacum will also blow them up in minutes. Pacum, can also be used around the home or garage as required throughout the year to pump up footballs or basketballs.
Henry Lee, Co-founder, Masterspace, commented,“No matter where people are going, it could be flying somewhere for a family vacation, traveling on business, going on a camping trip, or even just heading to the beach, there are always items that need to be packed, and it is always a struggle to fit them all in. That’s why we made Pacum with an intelligent design that’s very easy to use!”
As well as inflation mode, Pacum also features an Eco mode for smaller vacuum bags (giving a maximum run time) and boost mode which allows the device to be used intensively for a shorter period. Using both modes, Pacum will stop automatically when the bag is fully compressed and thanks to a super silent compressor, it only makes 60 decibels of noise, similar to that of an air conditioning unit.
Functions and features
Panel lights indicate the function setting
2 pump modes. “Eco-mode” & “Boost”
Pacum stops automatically
Double packing capacity in just over 1 minute
Height:86mm width:43mm depth:43mm Weight : 145g
Pacum is available now on the Masterspace website for GBP £49/USD $59.99 including shipping
This is aimed at kids more so but it is also great for parents alike and a great tool using technology,this is a simple product executed well and its robust an easy product to set up and use be it with your smartphone or laptop.It is a new audio experience..
The idea works on storytelling and there is many character to pick from plus you get a creative tonie in the box and this is where it shines as it allows you to create your own story and not only that you can create messages for loved ones too and it works again via your smartphone or laptop and can be synced you can also use both to adjust some settings on the toniebox.
It is a simple well executed idea which can only improve with time and more options to add as time goes on, the current characters in the Tonie-Family already include some well-known faces such as The Gruffalo, Stick Man, Little Red Riding Hood and The Snowman, and whilst Creative-Tonies allow users to upload up to 90 minutes of their own audio content.
Portability also plays a roll here which allows you to take this anywhere once it is kept charged you can of course you bring the charger with you but the main thing here is you are not stuck to a power outlet to use it..
If your child is into reading or audiobooks this is a great idea and I can certainly recommend it and my only gripe with the product is that it has its own proprietary charger so if you loose it you are done.
Visitors to the tonies Facebook page via the mobile app can access the feature whether they have a Toniebox or not. Once the AR is activated, an animated Baloo or Simba Tonie will appear on screen and users will be able to preview an exclusive audio sample as well as having a glimpse of the characters in 3D on the box before they go on sale. It allows you to super-impose the new Disney tonies onto the tonie box, so that you can trial it without buying it which is pretty cool.
BUY – Tonies and Tonieboxes are available to purchase from selected toy retailers, bookshops and via the tonies® website www.tonies.com/shop.
