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.
On 12th of September Apple Inc. introduced their latest products, including the most expensive smartphone in the company’s history—iPhone XS Max.
The Analysis Department of Picodi decided to check how many days Irish people and citizens from other countries have to work to afford the novelty from Apple. The results of our research are based on iPhone XS 64Gb prices in various countries and official statistic data about average wages in each of them.
You could suppose that the best average wage/price ratio would be in the US—the most important market of Apple. However, it turns out that the ones who would be able to afford Apple’s newest product the fastest are people in the developed countries and the UAE. For example, an average Swiss would have to work 5.1 days, the citizens of Luxembourg—less than 7 days, and Norwegians—7 and a half day. Among the countries where you have to work the least amount of days are also United Arab Emirates—money earned for 7.6 days are enough to buy the newest iPhone. In the US, on the other hand, one would have to work 8.4 days.
It’s already known that in Ireland the latest iPhone will cost 1179 EUR. Under the assumption that average gross wage in Ireland—according to data from Central Statistics Office—amounts to 744.08 euro per week, it would take 10 days for an average Irish man to earn enough to buy the new iPhone. Of course, assuming that the other living costs would be zero.
The longest time to afford the iPhone XS would have to work the Filipinos—over 156 days. It won’t be so easy also in Pakistan—with the local earnings and prices an average Pakistani would have to work over 88 days.
Methodology
This analysis was based on the official prices of iPhone XS 64 GB in 42 countries and publicly available data about average wages in those countries for the year 2017 or the last period accessible.
The Nokia 8110 4G 2018 has finally arrived and we will be going in-depth with it over the coming days. We also have the original 8110 from way back in 96 dubbed the matrix phone – Two of them actually! and have them side by side in this quick unboxing today. The Nokia 8110 is now widely available sim free or via operators and we as always have the latest up to date new on availability here on site anything Nokia related.
— Jim O Brien Tech 👨💻techbuzzireland.com (@techbuzzinfo) September 13, 2018
You can also check out more images we took at the official launch event here and stay tuned here for the latest Nokia news here in Ireland or just use the search bar on the homescreen to get the latest new. Any questions on this device as always feel free to ask below or on social media. So far it is a trip down memory lane especially with having to type in information and even that was fun setting up my twitter account but this phone could be the one to take a bit of a digital detox over the next few weeks.
With new EU regulations coming into place next September 14th, Mastercard is predicting a significant increase in the use of biometric technology to authenticate who is paying.
With regards to card payments, currently just 1-2% per cent of online transactions in Ireland require cardholder authentication, through 3D Secure, to complete a transaction (mostly likely using a password), but this is set to rise to up to 25% or 1 in 4 payments from next autumn.
The European rules aim to tackle online fraud, by increasing the number of transactions subject to two factors of authentication by the payer, known as “Strong Customer Authentication” (SCA).Authentication for online payments and account access will be based on the use of two or more different factors in the future:
Something you know, such as a password
Something you have, such as a phone, or card
Something you are, such as a fingerprint
Phone with fingerprint sensor and face unlock. More phones today have biometrics built in even at cheaper pricepoints which will help..
This will mostly impact card payments made over the internet – be it a desktop or mobile purchase. It will also apply to some contactless transactions, as a periodic check to ensure the card is being used by its rightful owner. However, in store chip and pin transactions are already compliant and use two factors.
Although the heightened security measures are designed to protect consumers and retailers from being defrauded, Mastercard is working with banks and the rest of the industry to ensure they are implemented without ‘disrupting’ the convenience of payments for consumers.
Sonya Geelon, Country Manager, Mastercard in Ireland said: “The use of passwords to authenticate someone is significantly outdated, with people forgetting them and retailers facing abandoned shopping baskets. In payments technology this is something we’re closing in on as we move from cash to card, password to thumbprint, and beyond to innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence. It’s far easier to authenticate with a thumbprint or a selfie, and it’s safer too.”
Mastercard has been leading the advancement of biometric technology in payments for years with a focus on improving both consumer experience and security online and offline.
Identity Check is one such example. This is an authentication solution that enables individuals to use biometric identifiers, such as fingerprint, iris and facial recognition to verify their identity using a mobile device during online shopping and banking activities. This solution dramatically speeds up the digital checkout time, improves security and reduces cart abandonment rates.
With this approach, Mastercard will help banks not only to comply with requirements set out in the new PSD2 legislation, but also to go further in optimising the checkout experience of their customers.
Speck has just released its line of cases for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR which includes the all-new Presidio Pro, Presidio Ultra and Presidio Stay Clear. The entire line of cases for the new iPhones is Speck’s largest ever for a device launch, and features a wide range of fresh, fall colors and new patterns. If you have not tried this companies cases you should do they are really great and you can search for multiple reviews we have carried out here on site.
Presidio Pro is the new standard in all-around device protection, incorporating an antimicrobial treatment that inhibits the growth of bacteria on the case, in addition to Speck’s trademark 3 metre protection and raised bezel screen protection. The modern feel of the scratch-resistant, soft-touch exterior keeps the case looking newer, longer. Ridges of Speck’s proprietary IMPACTIUM™ rubber on the inside perimeter compress on impact to absorb and disperse shock.
Presidio ULTRA, Speck’s 2-in-1 ultra protective case now features a Presidio Pro as the base of the case. The removable ULTRA bumper protects the ports against dust and dirt, while defending the device against drops of up to 4,6 metres. With Presidio Ultra, users can customize the level of protection when they need it most.
Presidio Stay Clear is designed to show off the beauty of the iPhone. The case has a newly developed coating that provides a superior level of protection against yellowing and discoloration, to keep your case looking clearer, longer. It not only resists discoloration from the sun’s UV rays, but also oils that are in makeup, lotions and substances that cases often come into contact with. The inner layer of each Presidio Stay Clear case is made of IMPACTIUM Clear, a proprietary shock-absorbing material that helps protect against drops of up to 2,4 metres.
The full Speck Presidio line for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR includes:
Presidio Pro (£19.95 – £24.95) — Protective, slim case with antimicrobial protection tested to withstand drops of up to 3 metres
Presidio Stay Clear (£19.95 – £24.95) — Features a new innovative coating that resists UV-yellowing and discoloration caused by lotions and other oils
Presidio Ultra (£34.95) — Rugged, slim case with 4,6 metre drop protection and 360 degree port coverage
Presidio Grip (£19.95 – £24.95) — Speck’s iconic angled grip geometry offers a tactile hold perfect for any device
Presidio Sport (£24.95 – £29.95) — Anti-microbial finish and 360-degree port protection perfect for gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts
September, the time of year when the summer holidays come to an end and millions of Brits restart their daily commute back to work. The 16 per cent of individuals who find commuting a constant cause of stress, might want to gain advice from their co-commuters who try to stay relaxed during the journey. Some tips included listening to their favourite music or audio book, or using technology, like voice activation, to make calls and stay energised (43 per cent). However, since only 5 per cent are open to chatting with co-commuters, you are likely to face a lack of response if you make conversation…
These insights into the behaviour of British commuters came to light following research from Jabra. Whilst commuting to work, most people listen to music (37 per cent) but surprisingly, only 7 per cent check emails or work documents. The likelihood of this, is people still see their journey to work as personal time and not a time to be thinking about work.
Despite all best efforts to make the daily commute as comfortable as possible, there are still several annoyances commuters have to deal with. The top five frustrations consisted of delays (29 per cent), crowded public transportation (11 per cent), the costs (8 per cent), wasted time and lack of productivity (8 per cent) and the constant noise levels (7 per cent). In particular, the generation of 18–34 year olds considers the lack of productivity irritating. In comparison to other parts of the country, Londoners get more aggravated by all the noises around them (14 per cent) – which is presumably not unexpected for a buzzing metropole like the capital.
Steven Evans, Managing Director, Retail and Online, Jabra EMEA North: Jabra said: “The research shows that when people are not using their commute to sleep or simply stare out of the window, technology driven activities, like making calls, reading an audio book or listening to music and podcasts, are essential for making the journey bearable.”
“Six in ten consumers are interested in using voice activation to control their smartphones – a feature we see as a major future driver for the adoption of this kind of wireless on-the-go communication. Together with Active Noise-Cancellation (ANC), voice activation is one of the key technologies in headsets that adds value to one’s commuting time by making it both more relaxing, productive and socially enriching.”
Features such as voice activation, ANC and superior sound quality can be found in Jabra audio devices, with the Elite series and the Talk range providing the perfect commuter accessory. For more information, please visit www.jabra.co.uk.
The American headphone specialist SOUL Electronics came all the way from sunny California to Berlin to present its latest highlights at IFA. Absolute eyecatcher were the SOUL Run Free Pro Bio – the world’s first bluetooth headphones with GAIT analysis and real-time coaching. Using the BEFLEX Biomech Engine and the free SOUL Fit Companion app the Run Free Pro Bio measure parameters such as cadence, symmetry, step lenght and -width, balance and even head tilt angle.
If desired, the voice coach can support and advise during running and when finished, the runner receives a detailed analysis in order to minimize injury risk during running and to increase efficiency. The Run Free Pro Bio in-ears are available at Amazon from the end of September at 149.99 £ RRP.
SOUL also scores in the lower price segment – i.e. with the new SOUL Emotion headphones. These True Wireless in-ears are a stylish entry-level model with excellent price-performance-ratio. The handy charging box offers 6 hours playtime and is a real eye-catcher with its fancy design in black and white. As a stylish combination of style and sound the Emotion will be available in black and white at 49,99£ (RRP) just in time for Christmas.
Another convincing entry-level product is the SOUL RUN FREE PRO X – some wireless bluetooth headphones that offer the well-balanced SOUL sound quality with powerful warm bass and clear mids and highs even for a small purse. The RUN FREE PRO X In-Ears are particularly suitable for workout sessions thanks to their 10 hour battery life, the water- and sweat-repellent nanocoating and the reflective neck cable.
The patented Ear-Lock system with changeable Ear-clips guarantees a secure hold and prevent the headphones from slipping out the ear. In combination with different sizes of ear-tips the SOUL Run Free Pro X adapts individually to the anatomical conditions of the wearer. The Run Free Pro X will be available at the end of the year at a RRP of 49,99£.
Smartphones over the last few years have hit the 1K price mark thanks to Apple and Samsung.But do we really need a phone costing that much and has such become more of a status symbol more so than just having the latest tech?? Thankfully we have manufacturers going the other direction bringing in devices at half that or even less and they seem to be getting cheaper begging the question is it over for 1K devices.. I think it is. With biometrics featured on this device with face unlock and a fingerprint scanner there is much on offer here on top of its build quality.
Recently I have been testing phones under the 300 euro bracket and typically I do carry two phones one of which is normally the high-end and one mid ranger. But I have passed on it for around two years now not even getting my upgrade which even still requires a ridiculous deposit to get your hands on the latest. That trend has bucked now and manufacturers need to rethink their strategy with these 1K devices which seem to be catching on by others. It’s over for them now..
I have more sub 300 euro devices on the way but today we check out the NUU mobile G3 and we will today unbox it and walk through the UI and show you what is on offer for £200 Check out the video below and feel free to ask any questions on this device.
The nations all over the globe in collaboration with aviation bodies are setting up policies to standardise drone flight by civilians. The drones in most of the countries will henceforth be part of civil air traffic management. That is to say the operation of drones will adhere to laid laws. The drones are of various sizes as well as types and this greatly influence their operation and ownership. There are drones the size of small birds or much smaller like coins and can fly in the space in near-invisibility. This has provoked many companies, organisations and countries in the sense that their privacy and secrets are on the brink. This article addresses basic regulations or laws that have been put in place across nations to regulate the drones.
Fly only registered drones
The nations have made it a mandatory for their citizens in possession of drones weighing more than 250g to register them. The law however exempts those drones with the least weight and tiniest in size. It takes one only $5 dollars to register a drone. The fee is relatively affordable and millions of citizens have registered their drones. The registration will be done by elders as per individual nations for instance in American states, should be 13 years and above. This has real change the traditional a receipt of purchase is all that one needed to be in ownership of a drone. Registration will also entail labeling so as to help authorities in the tracking of drones both in case of mishandling or a theft.
The effect of this law has been expressed through few drone-aircraft and many light drones being owned by individuals to evade registration requirements.
Do drones possess flight and operation liberty?
Are you planning on flying a done either for commercial or recreation reasons? Where are you going to do the flying? These are some of basic, safety precaution questions someone has to ask himself or herself before setting out to fly the drone. This is important because some regions are out of bound for drones to fly around or over. These places are set aside for special events and include;
Densely populated and residential areas.
Airports
Military bases and prisons.
Emergency/ rescue workers
The list is long. Sincerely speaking it is very hard to keep this law by yourself or manually. That is why the drones are to be fitted with what is termed as a geo-fence. This will automatically recognise and alert the operator when they approach restricted areas. The law has affected the manufacturers too. They have had to expand, re-renovate drones by integrating more programs and settings such as geo-fencing.
Why kids are forbidden to operate drones.
The nations through their intelligence, have realised that most of the incidents of drones crashing are caused by kids. Thus they have barred kids from not just operating but also owning a drone. However, the law has a lenience in that, the underage can own the drone indirectly. Thats if they it registered under the name of elder their elder relatives or guardians. Under the same law of restricted ownership and operation, not any skilled operator will be legible to fly the drone but only the one tested and certified. This will in addition comprise regular renewal of pilot licenses. All this steps shows how drones are being handled as serious gadget capable of causing hazard.
Is any time drone time?
Many parties worthy recording take place both at night and day. Also some activities that call for the aid of drones occur late in the evening or at night in the dark. Unfortunately according to the law, those Parties and activities happening at night might not be filmed or involve drones. UAVs are entitled to operate during day time and 30 minutes before six and darkness sets in. This due to the fact that the visual degree of the operator is key in drone operation. For exemptions to be applicable, the drones will need being fitted with light to enhance the operator’s visual ability.
How high can a drone fly?
It has been made clear by most of the nations that drones are no equivalent for manned crafts. Thus the drone have a certain height or altitude that they can be flown past which it is a punishable offence. The allowed height is not greater than 400 ft. also this goes hand in hand with the acceptable speed which is not more than 100 miles per hour.
Conclusion
The drone laws are inevitably here. Although some countries are quite forgiving to offenders, it won’t go on for long thus citizens need to adjust and accept living by them. Also more restrictions on drone technology is anticipated in the future.
Author
Pae Natwilai, is the founder of TRIK, a former oil and gas inspection and maintenance engineer, who was named as one of the rising stars in the Forbes 30 under 30. Twitter – @GetTrik_
iStorage, the award-winning and trusted global leader of PIN authenticated, hardware encrypted data storage devices, is delighted to announce that theirdiskAshur PRO² portable HDD/SSD and diskAshur DT² desktop HDD are now FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified after months of rigorous tests.We have tried and tested many of their products here and they certainly are secure and a must have piece of tech in your home or office..
This is in addition to recent news announced only a few months ago that both products were certified to NCSC CPA, NLNCSA BSPA & NATO Restricted Level, making iStorage the world’s first and only company to have all these certifications.
John Michael, CEO, iStorage Limited says…
“It has been an incredible year for iStorage – having successfully passed and being awarded both the NCSC CPA and NLNCSA BSPA certificates, then having both these products listed in the NIAPC catalogue after achieving NATO Restricted level, and now this, passing the FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification. This a fantastic accolade and testament to the many years of research and development that iStorage has invested in developing the diskAshur PRO² and diskAshur DT² products. We are proud to be able to offer products with credible certifications that reassure businesses and government organisations throughout the world of the robust level of data protection offered. “
Pricing, specifications and availability:
iStorage diskAshur PRO² and diskAshur DT² can be found on iStorage’s website
