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.

Motif’s professional photographers share their top tips on how to take the perfect Christmas picture

Soon, families across the country will be grabbing their cameras to take the Christmas family photo that will be sent to families and friends, but you don’t need to be a professional photographer, or have the best camera money can buy to create the perfect professional Christmas card photo.

The professional photographers at Motif, which has just launched in Ireland, are here to give you some tips for creating the picture perfect Christmas card. The team at Motif has over a decade of experience of printing photos into amazing books and gifts:

Here’s the top tips on setting up the perfect photo from the experts at Motif:

Clothing: ‘Think about what your family should wear in the Christmas photo and try to have a single theme reflected the photo. But don’t go overboard and have everyone wear the same thing.’

Varying heights: ‘Try to keep everyone – including babies and pets – at the same height. Holding up a puppy close to your face will look cute and also stop your favourite pooch from running away!’

Lighting: ‘Make sure the light is in front of you. If the light is behind you, it creates unnecessary shadows – this is Christmas not Halloween.’

Props and decorations: ‘Remember that your beautiful Christmas tree and decorations are only props, and the true stars of the photo are your family members. Don’t fight with the decorations…’

Outdoor photos: ‘If you’re thinking about taking a photo outside, timing is key. With the days getting shorter, there are less opportunities to find great lighting. Later mornings and early afternoons are ideal, and don’t be afraid to take photos on a cloudy day.’

Poses: ‘Avoid false smiles, a photo can really capture the spirit of Christmas. Singing songs or telling jokes are great ways to loosen everyone up and get them feeling festive.’

Focus: ‘Everyone should have one point of focus, whether that be the Christmas tree, the camera, or the delicious meal that you’re about to sit down to. This ensures that anyone looking at the photo will be able to share the same sentiment as you and your family.’

For more information, please visit motifphotos.com.

First look – The Jabra Elite Active 65t in Copper Red. #JabraElite65t #Tech #Jabra

I have been waiting on these since their announcement and today the finally arrived. The All new Jabra Elite Active 65t in the beautiful Copper RED.. I have been using the Elite 65t from Jabra and the Wireless earbuds and they never disappoint and I expect the same from this pair but the colour is what I love most and they stand out and moves away from the industry standard colours we tend to see. We will today have a quick look and unboxing and if you have any questions feel free to ask.

 

The Jabra Elite Active 65t in a fiery red, copper tone that’s sure to turn heads. The Elite Active 65t is the perfect gift for active lifestyles. The secure fitting earbuds promise a snug fit and a dependable in-ear stability, so you’ll never have to compromise on your active lifestyle while enjoying quality music and call experience.

With a 2-year warranty against sweat and dust, the Jabra Elite Active 65t provides up to 5 hours of battery life from a single charge, and up to 15 hours in total with the pocket-friendly charging case, taking you from start to finish as you go through your day.

See Jabra for more Info

Amazon

Google starts to roll out Night Sight. Tips and tricks inside. #Google #NightSight #Pixel3XL

Google is now rolling out is much-anticipated Night Sight feature for its Pixel phones, a ground-breaking AI-driven feature announced first at the Made By Google event on October 9th.

Night Sight allows regulars users to capture vibrant and detailed low-light photos without a flash or tripod, or without any specialist knowledge – just switch on the feature, point, and shoot.

The Pixel phones have been available in Ireland via Vodafone and the Google Store since November 1st, with prices ranging from €899 (64GB) and €959 (128GB) for the Pixel 3, and €999 (64 GB) and €1099 (128GB) for the Pixel 3 XL.

The blog post outlining in more detail the exciting new Night Sight feature, which can also be read online.

OUR GOOGLE PIXLEl 3XL REVIEW 

NEED A CASE FOR YOUR PIXEL 3XL CHECK OUR REVIEWS TO DATE

Night Sight adapts to you and the environment so you can capture the moment effortlessly. Here are some additional tips to get the most out of your phone’s camera in low light:

  • If you’re taking a photo of someone, ask them to hold still for a few seconds before and after you press the shutter button.
  • Hold the phone steady. If you can, try propping it against a stable surface.
  • Make sure the camera lens is clean. It can accumulate oil from fingerprints, creating blurry and soft photos.
  • Try tapping on or around your subject to help your camera focus when taking photos in very dark conditions.
  • Avoid pointing your camera at bright light sources, which may cause unwanted reflections in your photo.
  • Cameras don’t work in complete darkness, so you’ll still need some light to capture a photo.

Dell EMC and GirlCrew host third SupperClub to mark Dublin Start-up Week #StartUpWeek #DellEMC

The third Dell EMC Supper Club, in partnership with GirlCrew has been announced to take place on Wednesday 21st November to mark Dublin Start-Up Week 2018. The Dell EMC SupperClub is an initiative to support female entrepreneurs as they work to grow their businesses and their networks.

The Supper Club meets regularly, bringing female entrepreneurs at similar stages on their start-up journey together around a table to exchange advice and to share ideas and strategies for success.

Dell EMC has a strong track record of supporting budding female entrepreneurs. The company runs the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN), an annual gathering of female entrepreneurs established to address some of the challenges faced by women when starting and growing their business. In the most recent summit in Toronto, DWEN brought together female leaders from across the globe to connect with networks, sources of capital, knowledge and technology.

Building on that success, a special DWEN Women Funding Women event will be held in Dublin in early February to create new links between female entrepreneurs and potential investors who can fuel their scale-up success.

Commenting on the series, Aisling Keegan, Vice-President and Commercial General Manager, Dell EMC Ireland said: “Dell EMC is delighted to announce the third in our SupperClub series that look to nurture today’s start-up female entrepreneurs to become tomorrow’s scale-up success stories. We have consistently received feedback from women entrepreneurs from around Ireland highlighting the value of fostering a network and facilitating the exchange of ideas with other female entrepreneurs as invaluable in helping them to grow their businesses.

“At each SupperClub, we bring twenty female entrepreneurs together around a table to share their experiences and successes over dinner. It’s an exciting and intimate series for us to be involved in, where our team members from Dell EMC have the opportunity to share advice on how to build for growth and scale from day one, how to navigate international markets, embrace digital transformation and access finance. I’m really looking forward to the upcoming one marking Dublin Start-Up Week, it’s set to be a great night.”

Pamela Newenham, Co-Founder, GirlCrew said: “We’re excited to be working with Dell EMC on this series which has proved to be really successful since it started. GirlCrew is a platform for women to make friends and these SupperClubs perfectly complement what we do. We love how relaxed the atmosphere is, yet our attendees get so much out of the night while really enjoying themselves. I have no doubt the 21st November will be another great night as we have some great speakers lined up!” 

Speakers at the third Dell EMC Supper Club on Wednesday, 21st November include Sophie Feruch, Co-Founder of AnyGym and Nuala Murphy, CEO of Moment Health. They will be interviewed on the evening by Ci Moulton from GirlCrew.

Entrepreneurs looking to take part will receive more information through the Dell EMC social channels as well as through GirlCrew. To find out more log onto www.girlcrew.com.

Google Rolls Out New Resources in Ireland To Help Parents Stay In Control. #Google #Parenting

Today Google announces that it has rolled out a new online Safety Centre, a comprehensive site dedicated to helping parents educate children about keeping safe online. This is something that is much needed and ideally should be adhered too.

The Google Safety Centre features resources and information to help parents deal with important topics like data security, privacy controls, and online protections. The site will be available in more than 65 languages in the coming weeks.

These resources include:

  • Helpful security tips to keep parents and children safe whenever they’re online

The new Online Safety Centre follows on from the launch last year of Family Link the Google App that helps parents set online guidelines for their children. Parents can use Family Link to set certain digital ground rules that work for their family, such as managing the apps their child can use, keeping an eye on screen time, or setting a bedtime and daily limit for their child’s device. Ireland was the first country outside the US to launch Family Link to help parents stay in the loop while their child explores and enjoys the benefits of the internet.

Ryan Meade, Public Policy & Government Relations Manager at Google Ireland said: “Not everyone uses the Internet in the same way, but it’s important for parents and children to understand how to explore the online world safely. We designed the Google Safety Centre and Family Link to help parents to make the right choices around online safety for them and their family.”

JLab Audio launches JBuds Air – a true wireless earbud with charging case, EQ3 technology #earphones #JLab

Despite the darker nights, an increasing number of people have got the running bug and heading off, torch on head, each evening. JLab Audio is launching the new JBuds Air true wireless earbud with custom EQ3 sound which allows users to customise the sound to their taste with the option of Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost. Ideal too for the daily commute, city living and travel.

American awarding winning audio brand, JLab Audio, the fastest growing major headphone brand in the U.S, today launches the JBuds Air True Wireless Signature Earbud. The JBuds Air are the smallest, truly wireless earbuds JLab has designed so far, featuring no hook and a secure snug fit. The JBuds Air are available now from John Lewis and from 1st December at Selfridges for just £49.99

With 13-14 hours of Bluetooth playtime and custom EQ3 Sound, the lightweight buds deliver clean, crisp, audio for the daily listener. Automatically turning on and connecting to each other right out of the case, they provide a hassle-free and powerful Bluetooth 4.2 connection. Designed to go anywhere, the JBuds Air and their case are compact and small enough to fit in any bag or pocket.

The JBuds Air feature an ergonomic shape that keeps the earbuds comfortably in place, as well as additional gel eartips and a new style JLab Cush Fin. Designed with easy-to-use technology, the earbuds will automatically turn on and connect to each other when taken out of their case. After the first-time setup, the earbuds will automatically connect to a phone. Each earbud will hold a 3-4-hour battery life and their case provides 10 extra hours.

Amongst the earbuds features are play, pause, change tracks, and adjust volume by pushing or holding the outside buttons. Custom EQ settings can also be adjusted through the earbud and cycle through three sounds: Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost.

A built-in microphone also allows for phone calls to be answered and hung up, as well as activating voice assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant. An IP55 sweat resistance keeps the earbuds durable for day-to-day activities whilst unique technology allows natural ambient noise in so users are able to run and hear important external sounds such as cars or sirens in the background.

JLab CEO Win Cramer commented “The JBuds Air are a game changer. We’ve taken years of learning and built a product that makes true wireless accessible to everyone. Not only is the connection rock solid, the fit super comfortable, and an awesome look, but they sound simply stunning. The quality of sound that we deliver is unmatched. And we back it all up with a 2-year warranty. This is the best £49.99 you can spend for earbuds. We’re thrilled to launch this product.”

JBuds Air Specs:
  • 3-4-hour Bluetooth battery life in each earbud + 10 hours in included charging case
  • 500 mAh charging case
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • EQ3 Sound: Signature, Balanced, Bass Boost
  • 2 gel ear tips, 2 Cush Fins
  • 2-year warranty
  • Universal Controls: play, pause, track forward, track back, adjust volume
  • Built-in microphone: take calls or activate Siri or Google Assistant
  • IP55 Sweat Resistance
  • Auto On and Connect
  • 8mm drivers

The JLab Audio JBuds Air True Wireless Signature Earbud is available for £49.99 now from John Lewis and from 1st December at Selfridges.

First look and unboxing. The Groov-e wireless Play Buds #earphones #tech #groove

Another day another product and its some earbuds this time round from Groov-e , We have tested many of their products over the last few years and still enjoy them today and they make good technology affordable to all. This is a nice compact pair of earbuds that fit nicely in your pocket and come with its own charging case which is great for those on the go.  Today we take a quick look and if you have any questions feel free to ask as per norm during our testing period.

 

Boasting Bluetooth V4.1 technology, users are able to connect the PlayBuds seamlessly with any smart- device that’s up to 10 metres away. With three hours of listening time and 20 hours on standby, users simply place the PlayBuds inside the carry case when the battery is low. The portable case, which doubles up as a charger, will then provide an additional seven hours of music playback, allowing users to stay connected for non-stop listening on the go

Groov-e PlayBuds – £54.99 from www.groov-e.co.uk

 

 

#Adonit launches Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Phone Charger for safe navigation behind the wheel. #motoring

Leading accessories manufacturer, Adonit, is today pleased to announce the availability of its Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger. Extending its popular range of styluses for creatives, Adonit now brings tools for adventurers to work smarter and be more productive on their travels. The Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is ideal for using navigation through a smartphone whilst behind the wheel, being both hands-free and wire free, and is now available to buy from Amazon and Adonit for £74.99.

The Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is a dual Qi certified wireless charger and car mount designed to improve safety, comfort and navigation whilst driving. The certification ensures you can be confident it will deliver a safe and reliable charging experience. Mount in a car to wirelessly fast charge compatible devices at 10W, 5W standard charging speed and 7.5W charging for iPhones whilst navigating to a destination with both hands securely on the steering wheel.

Featuring a fully automatic user experience with a built-in infrared sensor that recognises a smartphone for docking and Qi wireless charging, the mount will automatically open and auto-retract to a custom fit to keep smartphones safely secure. The one hand release also makes it easy to remove smartphones with a simple touch of a button, ensuring the device doesn’t need to be unplugged and no cables are involved.

Easy to position with a versatile mount and installation kits included, the wireless car charger can be placed on either the air vent or suction mount. Once placed into the mount, the telescopic arm and 360-degree ball socket allows for a tilt and users can quickly flip from a horizontal to a vertical angle to set a comfortable position to suit. The secure silicon rubber lined grips and textured wireless charging zone ensure that smartphones are kept securely in place whilst driving reducing the risk of accidents and distractions.

 

Jasper Li, CTO for Adonit comments, “As the modern workspace continues to evolve and intertwine with our everyday life, there is a need for tools to help bridge the two. That’s why we’re excited to extend our range of mobile accessories to provide selective gadgets to make the most of your devices in and out of the office.”

 

The Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is compatible to charge all Qi enabled devices with a minimum phone screen size of 4.5” and a maximum screen size of 6.3”. Devices that work with the charger include the iPhone X/MAX/XS/XR, iPhone 8/8 Plus, Samsung Galaxy S9/S9 Plus, S8/S8 Plus, S7 and Samsung Edge Note 7/8. For more information on compatible devices, see HERE.

The Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is available at an RRP of £74.99 from Amazon and Adonit

Work + Play Backpack Collection launched by Targus #Targus #Tech #Bags

Targus Inc., a leading manufacturer of laptop cases and technology accessories, showcases its Work + Play Backpack collection, which provides a stylish and durable solution to support professionals with busy and active lifestyles.

The intelligently designed collection – which enables today’s busy professionals to carry more than just work collateral – features three dedicated compartments for laptops (up to 15.6″), work accessories and sports gear, is versatile and adaptable to manage every aspect of our personal and working lives.

The Work + Play range features tech protection promise and lifetime guarantee that has made Targus a market leader in its category. The backpacks also provide generous capacity and have a dedicated section to keep clothing – including a detachable laundry bag – separate from a laptop or device, to help balance work and leisure activities.

Alongside these new features, the backpacks also offer a ventilated front compartment designed for transporting work or sports shoes, to provide comfort and easy access.

“Our Work + Play range has been specially designed to meet the needs of busy and active professionals, enabling a more connected lifestyle and helping them achieve a positive work / life balance,” said Huw Bush, Global Product Manager at Targus. “From keen gym-goers and runners to tennis, squash and other racquet-sports players, no matter whatever your sports this new selection provides the perfect solution for our 7am – 11pm lifestyles,” Huw Bush added.

The Work + Play selection consists of three new backpack styles in the following colours: Work +Play Fitness (black / yellow), Work + Play Fitness (grey) and Work + Play Racquets (black / yellow).

Work + Play Fitness features include:

  • Targus’ first ever combination laptop, work and sports backpack (27L)
  • Dedicated laptop compartment for screen sizes up to 15.6″
  • A padded top handle, shoulder straps and ventilated cushioning ensure comfort
  • Lined and ventilated front compartment, designed for transporting work or sports shoes
  • Detachable laundry bag and portable washbag
  • Plenty of pockets, including two for water bottles and a soft-lined, internal zipped pouch to protect small valuables
  • Fitness for multi sports

Work + Play Racquets features include:

  • All of the above and a separate, adjustable outer pocket for up to two racquets and protective sleeves for racquet handles
  • Specially designed pockets to hold tennis balls, squash balls or shuttlecocks

For further information about the Work & Play series, please visit: https://www.targus.com/uk/work-and-play