Category: Tech

New IDTechEx Report Addresses Key Questions About the $25bn Hearables Market. #Hearables

IDTechEx have released a new report covering the market, technology and players in hearables. It finds that the hearables market was worth $24.5bn in 2019 and will continue to grow at a forecasted 14% YoY from 2020-2025. This growth is driven primarily by the true wireless headphones category; led by Apple, this area has grown from nothing to be worth an expected $11bn in 2020.

Summary of the market share and major product types for hearables in 2019. Source: IDTechEx report, “Hearables 2020-2030: Technology, Players and Forecasts” (www.IDTechEx.com/Hearables)

 

Hearables are wireless electronic products worn in, on and around the ear, including products such as true wireless headphones, hearing aids, cochlear implants and a range of related and new product types. The report looks at each of these products in turn, assessing the key industry trends unfolding today, and providing a perspective on the key challenges facing the sector as it grows, for example:

 

  • How will the implementation of the 2017 Over-The-Counter Hearing Aid Act in the US impact the hearing assistance industry, including both traditional hearing aid players and any other players that may release OTC products?
  • After two years of frantic development to develop and release true wireless headphone products, how long can the aggressive growth in this industry continue, and can anybody challenge Apple’s dominance?
  • What impact will the adoption of new and existing technology options that can enable health monitoring via ear-worn products have on existing products in the sector and the wider product ecosystems around health monitoring (in both a fitness/wellness and medical context)?
  • Which areas of technology development are most likely to successfully shape the next generations of hearables products, and which are likely to have minimal impact or fail?

 

In order to answer these big questions, the report looks at a 20-year period for the industry, with historic data from 2010-2019 and then market forecasts from 2020-2030. It includes primary research in the form of interviews with more than 20 prominent companies in the space, ranging from leading players such as Bose, Starkey, Widex, Oticon and Sonova, through to leading technology players such as Valencell, Well Being Digital and RelaJet, to prominent startups such as Nuheara, Olive Union, and more. It is then backed up with secondary research covering a total of more than 60 companies from throughout the value chain in order to have a full representation of this industry.

 

For more information about the report “Hearables 2020-2030: Technology, Players and Forecasts” please visit www.IDTechEx.com/Hearables. To find out more about wearable technology research available from IDTechEx visit www.IDTechEx.com/Research/WT or to connect with others on this topic, IDTechEx Events is hosting: Wearables USA, November 18-19 2020, Santa Clara, USA www.IDTechEx.com/EVUSA.

Ancient Ruin Season 2 is coming to Black Desert Mobile! #Gaming #Mobile #AncientRuin

Pearl Abyss is adding a new co-op boss raid mode, a new quest, tier 5 pets and new gear available for production in the latest update for Black Desert Mobile.

  • Ancient Ruin Season 2 – This co-op boss raid mode is beginning its second season on Black Desert Mobile with an even more powerful boss, Kabuamilles. While his name might be familiar to Adventurers who defeated him in the name of Ancient Warrior, he is back and more terrifying than ever before with the new title of “Protector.” By defeating Ancient Ruin, adventurers can look forward to more precious loot and knowledge on Kabuamilles up to level 50.
  • The Bounty Mission Quest – Adventurers who completed the story quest in Southwest Calpheon can get the Bounty Mission quest from the notice board. By completing this quest, Adventurers can receive rewards such as Black Stone, a Shakatu Exchange Certificate, and a Standard Palette. The randomized rewards for the quest will be different every time and can only be obtained twice a day.
  • JIN Liverto Gear – This gear is now available for production by blacksmiths at the camp. Adventurers will need Magical Residue and 2 pieces of Socket Mystical gear to produce the JIN Liverto Gear. This new gear is not just powerful, but also has one additional socket for a magical crystal.
  • Tier 5 Pets – Tier 5 pets can now be acquired by exchanging tier 4 pets! These pets boast unique skills such as raised attacking and defense points, more damage, and a higher filed silver drop rate.

How the coronavirus lockdown is changing hobbies of Irish people. #Hobbies #Coronavirusireland

Like it or not we are in for more self isolation and staying home but over the last few weeks we perhaps have got bored or have enough to do but people are taking up hobbies or just expanding on what they already do..

Picodi.com Analysis Team investigated Google search queries and created a ranking of the activities which gained the biggest popularity in the times of pandemic.

 

After evaluating statistics, it turned out that all activities that require leaving home have become less popular: theatre dropped by 81 per cent, cinema — 78 per cent, concerts — 71 per cent. Irish people also lost interest in foreign languages (decrease of 10 per cent). Probably it’s no longer such a sought-after ability in the world of closed borders.

The biggest increase of interest was noted in board games (338 per cent), workout (150 per cent), and online courses, such as Udemy (150 per cent).. There is a possibility that the uncertain situation in the labour market has made Internet users seek opportunities to gain additional qualifications. Various creative activities and crafts, like origami (79 per cent) or drawing (60 per cent) have also gained popularity. See the full report https://www.picodi.com/ie/bargain-hunting/how-have-the-hobbies-of-irish-people-changed-due-to-isolation

Safe In Our World launches Covid-19 Hub To Share Resources, Information and Advice for Players and Creators. #Gaming #Creators #MentalHealth

Videogames Mental Health Charity, Safe In Our World (www.safeinourworld.org), today announces the launch of a dedicated hub for Covid-19 resources, information, and advice.

With the advent of lockdowns across Europe and the US, Safe in our World, the videogames mental health charity has launched a new hub for those in need of support, advice and information in these unprecedented times. The Covid-19 hub is available online, and will be updated regularly: https://safeinourworld.org/covid-19/

Launching today, the hub offers advice on managing stress, coping with isolation, relaxation and excise techniques, as well as highlighting videogames that may aid those suffering, or finding it hard to cope with the changes in daily life.

Leo Zullo, Chairman of Safe in our World said, “As a charity, we’re doing our best to support those around us, and the wider industry. Whether working from home within the industry, or our players, everyone will be adjusting to a new normal. This dedicated hub is designed to signpost techniques to help deal with the challenge of isolation. We’ll continue to do everything we can to help.”

Officially unveiled in 2019 on World Mental Health Day, Safe in Our World is an accredited charity supported by industry luminaries, veterans and ambassadors across the world, and its mission is to create an online destination where people can seek help, gain access to resources and information, and discover stories from real people within and surrounding the games industry. Safe in Our World aims to enable conversations by destigmatizing the mental health conditions; helping a generation of creators, professionals and players come together in support of each other.

In 2020, Safe In Our World will continue to make more announcements and share updates on its efforts and impact to the global gaming community.

Safe In Our World is a registered charity in England and Wales no. 1183344 but its objectives and mission is global.

Skullcandy Partners With Artists Rina Sawayma, Rico Nasty & More on Mood Boost Campaign #Skullcandy

Together With Non-profit Partner, To Write Love On Her Arms, Skullcandy Looks To Bring More Awareness To Mental Health Issues By Celebrating A Feel-good Mood Every Month

PARK CITY, Utah, April 7th, 2020 – Skullcandy announced today the launch of MOOD BOOST, a vibrant and uplifting program, combining colourful new designs with inspiring content from musicians, athletes and artists.

Every month, MOOD BOOST will spotlight a positive mood and collectively lift spirits through:

Exclusive music artist content
Four fast-rising music stars have joined the campaign to represent a diverse range of music genres and world views: Rapper Rico Nasty; Latinx singer-songwriter, Cuco; Indie-pop singer-songwriter Gus Dapperton and London-based pop sensation, Rina Sawayama.

Insightful athlete content
As a brand founded at the intersection of music and board sports, Skullcandy will also profile its rich roster of surf, skate and snow athletes through interviews designed to offer uplifting stories. Followers will hear from iconic professional athletes like surfer Coco Ho, snowboarder Mark McMorris and skateboarder Jenn Soto, among others.

Limited-edition product/art bundle drops
The hottest Skullcandy true wireless products will be released in small-batch, custom colorways and bundled with free limited-edition art prints by renowned graphic designers and pop-culture artists, including London-based Tina Touli and design duo Rude, as well as New York City artist Queen Andrea and France/Asia-based Paiheme Studio.

“As we looked to create our new take on moods and music, we wanted to listen carefully to the voices of our core customers. It became very clear that mental health is a critical topic for them. Mood Boost is our way of shining a spotlight on this issue and ways to seek help,” says Skullcandy Chief Marketing Officer, Jessica Klodnicki.

Part of every bundle sale will benefit To Write Love on Her Arms to help directly fund treatment and recovery for youth suffering from depression and addiction.

“Music can play a big part in coping with depression and anxiety. Music reminds us that it’s okay to feel and it’s okay to be honest, and those truths relate directly to mental health,” says Jamie Tworkowski, Founder, To Write Love on Her Arms.  “We couldn’t be more excited about this new partnership with Skullcandy. Our dedication to helping people find hope fits perfectly with their Mood Boost program”

The campaign kicks off April 7 by celebrating the mood ‘Blissful.’ For the next 12 months, Skullcandy will explore and spotlight additional moods such as ‘Original,’ ‘Strong,’ ‘Hopeful’ and ‘Determined’ — all designed to bring a daily dose of positivity to the social feeds of the brands’ many followers.

“Our younger customers believe that, if they buy from us, we should have a greater responsibility to the issues facing their generation,” added Klodnicki. “Mood Boost is an important answer to their request that businesses do good in the world.”

About To Write Love on Her Arms
To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Since 2006, the organization has responded to more than 250,000 messages from individuals in 100 countries. TWLOHA has invested over $2.6 million directly into treatment and recovery. More about the story behind the movement can be found at https://www.twloha.com

About Skullcandy®
Skullcandy is the original lifestyle audio brand with the mission “to unleash the visceral power of music for all.” Based in Park City, Utah, Skullcandy designs, markets, and distributes audio products around the globe. The company’s web site can be found at https://www.skullcandy.com.

Limited edition Sesh – https://www.skullcandy.eu/shop/earbuds/bluetooth-earbuds/blissful-bundle

The Open Doors Initiative has released a podcast series to help workers and businesses deal with the new realities of employment during the Covid-19 crisis.

The Open Doors Initiative has today released a podcast series to help workers and businesses deal with the new realities of employment during the Covid-19 crisis. The initiative is also today publishing a ‘Covid-19 Toolkit’ aimed at helping people with information on working from home, upskilling, financial supports and wellbeing.

The podcasts are available on bit.ly/OpenDoorsCovid while the toolkit and many other resources are available on the Open Doors Initiative website.

The four-part podcast series features different experts all addressing different aspects of work / business during the Covid-19 crisis. Those featured in the podcast are:

  • David Joyce, Equality Officer from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions
  • Maureen Walsh, CEO of DeCare Dental
  • Tiernan Brady, Global Director of Inclusion, Clifford Chance
  • Dr Pat McKeon, founder of Aware and former Clinical Director of St. Patrick’s Hospital.

Among the topics they address are mental health supports at this time, the need for inclusion and diversity in the workplace – now more than ever, and what the future of work and working practices may bring.

Alongside the podcasts the online toolkit offers best practice and work planning with links to resources and aids for people affected by this change.

Jeanne McDonagh, CEO of the Open Doors Initiative said: “In recent weeks we have seen employment fall by over 17% in Ireland, mainly affecting those most in need such as employees on a low wage and marginalised people. There is a compelling need for social responsibility and leadership to be taken by the business community, where it can help.

“We have seen many businesses and their workers help where they can and Government, business and unions are working together to ensure that employment continues and the impact on the economy is temporary and recoverable. We are proud that so many businesses and organisations, including our members, are stepping up to help those who need it most”.

The Open Doors Initiative was established to help three marginalised groups in employment in Ireland – those with a disability, under 25s with educational disadvantage, and refugees and asylum seekers.

We know that during the current Covid-19 crisis the impact on these groups is greater:

  • For young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, this can lead to falling into negative behaviour, criminality and other anti-social ways, as supports such as mentoring and training are not available.
  • People in direct provision who have no way to move accommodation and protect themselves and their families through self-isolation while modes of travel are restricted too.
  • For people with many disabilities, who need work routine, or have difficulty working without carer support or have mental health difficulties, can all be very affected by the changes that have come about.

New online dashboard provides maps and data for COVID-19 cases across Ireland. #COVID19 #cornavirusireland

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), today announces that Donegal County Council has used its digital mapping platform to create a comprehensive COVID-19 dashboard with information on confirmed cases across the island of Ireland. The freely available online dashboard is updated daily and compiles data from the Department of Health and Public Health Northern Ireland.

The dashboard helps users to visualise data related to the outbreak of COVID-19 throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Confirmed cases and data can be filtered for analysis by county and district. Charts and graphs on confirmed cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of age groups, gender and transmission type can all be viewed clearly.

Percentage and actual increases in figures, including the number of healthcare workers infected and number of cases in ICU, can be tracked via the dashboard on a day-to-day basis. Links to official guidelines and information from the HSE, Department of Health, Public Health Northern Ireland and World Health Organisation are also available on the platform.

The dashboard can be viewed at: bit.ly/COVID19-All-Island  

Additionally, Esri Ireland has made available COVID-19 Impact Planning infographics for every county in Ireland. The infographics detail the preparedness of each county for coronavirus, by outlining population breakdowns, work status of population and total numbers of healthcare facilities in the county, such as health centres, hospitals and GPs. Detailed infographics for every county in Ireland are available to view at: https://arcg.is/jmr1C.

Protect your laptop from damage and disaster (Infographic). #Laptops #Tech

You spent a good deal of money on your laptop and you most likely have some incredibly important information on it, so why would you run the risk of damaging it through sheer carelessness? We review quite many laptop bags here on techbuzz but how else can we protect our expensive laptops?? This infographic from foamfabricators.ie offers a comprehensive guide on how to protect your laptop from spillages and falls plus more.

 

FREE NOW launches “Medical” initiative offering Healthcare Heroes 50% off taxi fares to help battle against COVID-19 #FreeNow #Medical #Healthcare

Ireland’s leading e-hailing app FREE NOW has created a new “Medical” booking option which offers a 50% taxi-fare reduction to help the travel of healthcare heroes and support medical staff in the national fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new mechanism allows vital healthcare workers to select the new “Medical” fleet-type option on the app to book their taxi and to get 50% off their fare. These critical staff then just need to show their medical ID to drivers at the start of their trip, with FREE NOW taking no commission from drivers for these trips.

It follows a FREE NOW survey of its drivers across Ireland, that showed an overwhelming 87% expressing their desire to directly support healthcare staff in their vital work.

The new support will be available from mid-morning today to all front-line medical practitioners, supporting healthcare workers as well as those working in primary care services, including porters, cleaners and hospital receptionists.

 

In a recent survey, FREE NOW drivers have highlighted some of the precautions they are taking to ensure their cars remain clean. These include providing passengers with tissues and keeping the windows slightly open, cleaning their car after every trip, including  wiping down door handles and seats as well as only accepting card or app payments to limit the use of cash.

Alan Fox, FREE NOW General Manager, Ireland, said: “The health and safety of passengers, driver partners and staff is our top priority and we are now looking at new ways to adapt the fleet of 14,000 taxis to meet the COVID-19 challenge across Ireland.  This new initiative will support the movement of vital healthcare workers performing critical duties, as well as helping drivers to generate income in this incredibly challenging time. We are already working with the HSE as an approved transport supplier to aid its critical work and we are actively guiding drivers and partners on the transport-specific hygiene measures required in line with HSE, Department of Health and government guidance. It is a testament to FREE NOW drivers that they are willing to step up, even when their earnings are taking a hit in these uncertain times to keep Ireland moving.”   

Joe Herron, president of the Irish Taxi Drivers’ Federation, said: “Taxi drivers are extremely glad to be able to play their part in the COVID-19 fight. Our services have been badly hit by the virus and our profession is particularly vulnerable, so this FREE NOW initiative is to be welcomed for multiple reasons.  Taxi drivers have been deemed an essential service by the government, and this initiative will help vital healthcare workers to get to their critically important jobs as well as supporting struggling drivers in this, the most difficult of times.”

FREE NOW has recommended that drivers and passengers adhere to HSE, Department of Health and government guidance when travelling, with drivers advised to disinfect their cars regularly and to switch to card payment only. The company has temporarily turned off its Match taxi-sharing service.

FREE NOW is offering a similar service in Spain, Poland, Romania and the UK and is looking at how this can be rolled out to the 10 countries it operates in across Europe. The “Healthcare Heroes” booking option is available for all healthcare workers from today and will run in the FREE NOW app for the foreseeable future.