Category: Tech

Blink launches UK’s most affordable outdoor security camera. #BlinkXT Security #Tech

Blink is the wirefree, home security and HD video monitoring system that’s simple to install and runs on two standard AA lithium batteries for two years. Blink video security provides a watchful eye and one-click connection to the home through the free Blink Home Monitor app for iOS and Android devices, allowing customers the ultimate peace of mind when they are away. We have tried and tested their last offering which still serves me well today and is 100% reliable and efficient which does not require an expert or registered electrician to install. This time of year would be also a great idea to get some form of security installed at home or office if you have yet not done so and this is also affordable.. Check out our review HERE of Blink for home..

 

 

In response to customer demand for a weatherproof model, Blink is launching the Blink XT, suitable for outdoor use in all seasons. The Blink XT works with Blink’s indoor models, so current users can integrate seamlessly with existing systems, but can also be used independently with the Blink Sync module, the base station sync module hub.

“We are thrilled to announce our affordable outdoor camera so Blink customers and new users alike can protect their entire home, inside and out,” comments Peter Besen, Blink CEO. “The Blink XT demonstrates our commitment to developing integrated products that serve the home protection needs of consumers by fitting perfectly into their lifestyles.”

The Blink XT detects motion, and immediately sends a push notification alert and an HD quality video to a user’s smartphone. The system can be armed/disarmed remotely, and live video can be watched anytime from anywhere. The Blink XT includes configurable 5-60 second clip length, IFTTT and Amazon Alexa integration, a two-year battery life, weatherproof technology, infrared night vision and 1080p HD video quality. Priced at £149.99 inc VAT for the XT camera and sync module, it is the most affordable outdoor camera on the market, with no monthly contract or storage fees.

Blink’s free online storage, with no contracts or monthly fees, allows users to manage their clips the way they like to, save locally, share or enable automatic management.

Key features:

Two-year battery life – With two off-the-shelf AA lithium batteries, Blink XT cameras will last two years versus other battery-operated cameras that have a battery life of only a few months.

1080p full HD video – Blink XT is the only battery-operated camera to offer 1080p support for crystal clear full HD video. Customers can select between the 720 HD default or 1080p.

Weatherproof technology – Blink XT is IP-65 rated to ensure that the water-resistant unit delivers clear, HD quality video no matter the conditions.

Infrared night vision – Allows for round-the-clock surveillance, day or night.

Blink units can be purchased on amazon.co.uk or directly through the brand’s website at blinkforhome.co.uk

Pricing:

1 Blink XT outdoor camera system: £149.99

2 Blink XT outdoor camera system: £239.99

3 Blink XT outdoor camera system: £329.99

5 Blink XT outdoor camera system: £499.99

Blink XT Add-on outdoor camera: £119.99

Additional Blink sync unit £89.99

All pricing includes VAT and all systems include a Blink sync unit

Bought the new iPhoneX, You might want to insure it,here is why. #Apple #iPhoneX

The new Apple iPhoneX is seen as the must have gadget this year and its now available but jesus the price is just not in any way justified.Not only that we of course have some idiots trying to cash in on the new device commanding  €500 more than the official price,do not give into these people the iPhone X is just not worth that money full stop. Asking up-front payments on many billpay plans are even rediculous, I have never been an Apple fan and not been shy about it but I genuinely do like this handset and considering one but that dam boring OS thats locked down still keeps me taking my finger off the upgrade or purchsae button. It might happen yet….

https://twitter.com/techbuzzireland/status/927132586350137344

You can of course avail of APPLE CARE which also costs money on top of your brand new overpriced status symbol. This begins at €29 for the screen only and for other incidents it will cost you €99 and if you check the pure rip off prices Apple command for the iPhone 8 and X just check them out below. You can see the full list HERE 

You can of course buy a phone case,the cheapest way around it but is it really going to protect you? Depending on the case this is an arguable topic and again we already have seen mutiple drop tests giving different results from different drop heights with different cases to protect the phone so these tests whilst legit in their individual test still boil down to pot luck on how and where the phone lands.

A fine example is one where a phone was dropped from 3 ft NAKED and cracked and one from HEAD HEIGHT also NAKED did NOT crack. You decide. At the end of the day the screen and back panel is made with glass, It does not matter what Apple claim it is not indestructable. In the short term a case is always the right way to go, I love phone cases and I also love the naked feel of a phone particulary if the phone is nice to look at so I have cases for all my phones and take them off when indoors at home mostly but when out I bally up if you will.

 

One insurance company right now offering a good deal vs Apple Care is mobile phone insurance direct where you can now get some quotes, AS IT STANDS some are NOT offering insurance at the time of writing for the 256GB model of the new iPhone X. check out the prices now on offer above or head to the website no matter what phone you have and check their prices https://www.mobilephoneinsurancedirect.ie/

#Mixcder introduces its premium #MS301 wireless Bluetooth headphones to the UK.

American global audio specialist Mixcder, announces the UK availability of its latest headphones, the MS301. The MS301 wireless headphone is available from Amazon for just £69.99 and offers premium sound and customer service at a truly affordable price.

The Mixcder MS301 headphones are designed and built utilising all of the company’s knowledge and experience gained in the audio sector. The headphones feature an aluminium alloy shell with a smooth glossy metal finish on the outer ear cups to avoid unnecessary vibrations. The adjustable headband is made of stainless steel for strong durability and is padded headband for extreme comfort. The headphones are also foldable for easy transportation.

Inside, the MS301’s are equipped with 40mm ultra large-aperture backed dynamic drivers with advanced APTX-LL and shock sound to deliver a unique sound performance, with an incredible booming bass, a detailed midrange, and extended treble. With the latest Bluetooth 4.2 for fast pairing and strong capability and APTX-LL technology, the MS301’s provide lossless transmission and crystal clear, smooth sound without compression or interruptions.

The high capacity built in 500mAh battery allows for over 20 hours of music play or talk time and a standby of 2200 hours. If the battery is running low, simply plug in the included 3.5mm audio cable so the music doesn’t need to stop. Hands-free calls can also be taken using the versatile power button on the headset where it is simple to switch between a song or a phone call.

Mixcder’s goal is to make great sound truly accessible to everybody offering the best quality headset in today’s market whilst also being great value for money. The MS301’s are built using premium quality materials and Mixcder is so confident in its audio range it offers a 30 day money back guarantee if a customer is not completely happy. Add to this the glowing customer reviews on Amazon and a 12 month warranty, the Mixcder MS301’s is set to become one of the best performing, best value headphones in the UK sector.

The Mixcder MS301 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones with aptX Low Latency are available from Amazon for £69.99

 

Lomography launches The Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Kilimanjaro. #Lomography #Photos

Back in March,Lomography launched the Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Magellan, the world’s first instant camera with a wide-angle glass lens. And now, inspired by Africa’s highest snowy summit, the Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Kilimanjaro is the freshest, new edition inspired by the snowy mountains. Not only does it automatically adjust aperture, shutter speed and flash output for perfectly exposed snaps, thanks to the ultra wide, built-in 38mm glass lens, your shots will be immensely crisp.

AN AWESOMELY CREATIVE AUTOMAT: Featuring an advanced automatic exposure mode,
this super easy to use, special edition camera comes with a closest focusing distance of 0.3m, two additional lens attachments and so much more!

A TREMENDOUS INSTANT TREAT: Make sure your loved ones never run out of creative steam with this elegant, white punctured leather camera — it’ll thrust the quality of their snaps to extraordinary new heights this holiday season.

LOMOGRAPHY — THE HUB OF INSTANT PHOTOGRAPHY: Lomography champions material
memories. And, with a wide range of cameras, dedicated instant photography competitions, and an unrivalled online platform for analogue and experimental photography, Lomography continues to showcase the very best of instant creativity.

THE PINNACLE OF LOMO’INSTANTS.
The Lomo’Instant Automat Kilimanjaro has a fantastically sharp, ultra-wide, built-in 38mm glass lens. With a maximum aperture of f/4.5, it performs exceptionally well in low-light situations — even without flash. From wintery nights ablaze with fireworks, to brightly lit holiday festivities, this special edition camera will automatically measure the ideal shutter speed, aperture and flash output for you. Perfect for portraits and street photography, this brand new memory maker is everything you need to step up your instant adventures.

The Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Kilimanjaro comes with two additional lens attachments, and is available now in the Lomography Online Shop and Gallery Stores worldwide for 189 EUR.

AN AWESOMELY CREATIVE AUTOMAT
This mighty camera has mountains of creative opportunities waiting to be discovered. Shoot effortlessly with the advanced automatic mode that adjusts shutter speed, aperture and flash to your surroundings so your shots will be perfectly exposed wherever your wanderlust takes you — simply snap the shutter release and watch your memories develop in the palm of your hand in seconds! Play around with its peak performance intuitive zone-focusing system, long exposure mode, and so much more. Take super sharp selfies using the tiny built-in mirror, or steep your shots in an array of rich and varied hues with a set of Color Gel Flash Filters.

The lens cap even doubles as a remote control shutter release, so group shots have never been so simple. The Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Kilimanjaro comes with a closest focusing distance of 0.3m, but you can get even closer to your subject with the Close-Up lens attachment that lets you dramatise the details at an even more intimate distance of 0.1m. Experiment with the Splitzer lens attachment and and start slicing and dicing your shots.

 

A TREMENDOUS INSTANT TREAT
The gift that keeps on giving, this special edition camera is the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer! Get into the holiday spirit of giving and let your friends reach the summit of instant creativity with this super experimental camera —it’ll be sure to heighten your celebratory spirit all year round. The pinnacle of instant style, the Lomo’Instant Automat Glass Kilimanjaro comes in a chalky, white punctured leather design reminiscent of Africa’s highest snowy summit. Make your present even more epic this year with this elegant, new camera that promises to be your loved one’s perfect new companion on every experimental expedition.

LOMOGRAPHY — THE HUB OF INSTANT PHOTOGRAPHY
Lomography first dived into the wonderful world of instant photography eight years ago when it developed the Diana F+ Instant Back. Since then, Lomography has introduced an unmatched range of instant cameras and accessories. Lomography keeps the analogue aesthetic alive, always innovating with an ever-growing range of creative cameras, as well as countless dedicated instant photography competitions.

Millions of creatives all over the world enjoy shooting on mini, wide, and square instant films every single day, and Lomography is proud to keep the instant momentum accelerating on with cameras to match any style or format. The Lomography online magazine keeps the inspiration flowing with articles about established and emerging artists, as well as all the latest photography tips and tricks.

All over the planet photographers continue to scan and share their pocketsized memories on the Lomo’Instant App which lets you archive your shots, turn them into a stop motion video, or enter one of Lomography’s many competitions to win some awesome prizes. On Lomography’s community website you can also browse through tens of thousands of instant pictures. Create a free account now and become part of an ever-expanding curation of photography talent.

See more over at https://www.lomography.com/

 

 

Garmin debuts its first dive computer, the Descent Mk1, #Garmin #Descent #Mk1 #Diving

Garmin International, Inc. today 31st October 2017 have announced the Descent Mk1, a dive computer offering surface GPS positioning with rich colour mapping. Designed for recreational, technical and free divers, the Descent Mk1 allows divers to plan their underwater adventure right on the watch and use GPS waypoints to automatically mark dive entry and exit points to upload their dive log via the Garmin Connect Mobile app to Garmin’s online dive community. The Descent Mk1 also offers multiple dive modes, 3-axis compass, in-dive data, as well as multi-sport functions like wrist-based heart rate and activity profiles.

 

“No matter what kind of diver you are, the Descent Mk1 is the intuitive dive computer you won’t want to take off.” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “The Descent Mk1 was built by divers, for divers and we are so excited that our passion for engineering purpose-built devices, now supports the passion of underwater explorers.”

The Descent Mk1 supports up to six gases including air, nitrox and trimix. When the diver submerges, the device will automatically start the dive, and when the diver surfaces from the water, the dive automatically ends. While enjoying their dive under the water, users can review useful information such as depth, dive time, temperature, NDL/TTS, ascent/descent rates, gas mix, PO2, N2 loading, decompression/safety stop information, time-of-day, and more on a crisp 1.2-inch colour display. The Descent Mk1 also includes an Apnea mode for recreational and competitive free divers, and Apnea Hunt mode for spear fishers. The diver can switch to the dive compass and additional data pages with the push of a button, or with a quick double tap on the screen.

 

The dive computer utilises the Bühlmann ZHL-16c algorithm with configurable conservatism settings. Choose from three pre-set conservatism settings, or enter custom Gradient Factors.

Selectable tone and vibration alerts help keep divers informed throughout their dive. When worn over a diver’s bare wrist, the Garmin Elevate wrist-based heart rate technology will monitor pulse and track exertion levels. The Descent Mk1 will automatically upload dive logs to Garmin Connect for post-dive analysis. Divers can name their dive, and go back in the app to review dive data such as type of dive, temperature, entry and exit points and more.

 

Topside, the Descent Mk1 features a high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite tracking for map-based surface navigation including ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) sensors.  Beyond the full range of diving functions, the Descent Mk1 offers a complete feature set of sports/training, fitness and outdoor navigation tools. It comes preloaded with activity profiles for swimming, running, biking, hiking, skiing, rowing, paddle boarding and more. When paired with a compatible smartphone, the Descent Mk1 allows a user to receive and view text messages, emails and smart notifications right on the watch. Users can customise the watch display with free watch faces, apps and data fields from our Connect IQ store.

 

Crafted with premium materials, the Descent Mk1 dive computer will be available in two styles. A stainless-steel bezel with silicone watch band or a premium version with titanium bezel and brushed DLC titanium bracelet. Using QuickFit bands, the diver can easily change between regular and longer bands, for use over thick wetsuits or dry suits. QuickFit bands also allow the diver to tailor their wrist-worn style for any daily activity or special occasion — no tools required. Both models feature a domed sapphire lens for scratch resistance, and a bright, high-resolution full colour 1.2-inch display with LED backlighting, assuring readability in all lighting conditions, above or below the water. The Descent Mk1 is rated for dives of up to 100 meters at EN13319 standard. Divers can enjoy a battery life of up to 40 hours in dive mode, 21 days in watch mode, 12 days in smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS/HR activity mode, and up to 30 hours in UltraTrac mode.

The Descent Mk1 is expected to be available in Q4 2017 for a suggested retail price of €1,025/£999.99 for the stainless-steel and €1,537/£1299.99 for the premium version. To learn more, visit www.garmin.com/descent

 

 

Double Unboxing – Sony Xperia XZ1 and XZ1 compact. #Sony #Xperia #XZ1 #tech

Our new Sony devices have arrived and we will have today a quick unboxing and walkaround of both devices side by size and talk some little about them. It has been a while since I have used Sony as my daily driver but the last experience was great and hope that experience continues with the new offerings at hand here today and I look forward to testing them out and their capabilities. These are now available to buy in Ireland so you should check with your provider and if you have any questions in the interim feel free to ask while we take these two devices on a test run for the next fortnight.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact may be small, but it packs a powerful punch. With the latest Sony innovation, a Motion Eye camera with Super slow motion and a premium audio experience – everything becomes wow.

The Xperia XZ1 Compact Motion EyeTM camera with Super slow motion and Predictive Capture lets you see moments you’ve never seen before.

With a 120° field of view,you can fit more people and scenery into the shot. Switch from super-wide to wide in a single click.

 

Irish #StartUp aims to create 1,000 jobs for south-east region through remote working. #Jobs #Abodoo

An Irish start-up is aiming to create 1,000 jobs in the south-east region by encouraging employers to hire remote workers. Abodoo, the online portal for remote and flexible careers, announced this target today following an event for regional business-leaders in Gorey last night.

Abodoo is headquartered in Gorey, and has attracted support from open eir and the IDA.  It launched in Ireland last month, with plans to launch in the UK in the coming months and to expand globally next year.

Denis Naughten TD, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment delivered a guest address at Abodoo’s recent event at The Hatch Lab, Gorey via live video link from Dublin.

Commenting today, Vanessa Tierney, co-founder of Abodoo, said: “We have set the ambitious goal of getting one thousand people employed across the south-east region through the Abodoo platform. 

“We anticipate this will be a combination of skilled people who are currently unemployed but want to return to work, and people in employment who no longer want the exhausting commute to Dublin.

“We will achieve this goal by encouraging up to 100 companies to hire an average of 10 skilled remote workers each.  These will be people living in the south-east region, who can either work from home or from a co-working hub like the Hatch Lab in Gorey, where we are based ourselves. 

“We are working with our partners, open eir and the IDA, to identify suitable employers and demonstrate to them the benefits of hiring remote workers.”

Co-founder of Abodoo, Vanessa Tierney, pictured speaking at their recent event on remote working in The Hatch Lab, Gorey.

Cost Savings

Ms. Tierney said an increase in remote working would lead to significant cost-savings for government, employers and workers themselves.

“One of the biggest savings is in relation to transport, and this has knock-on benefits for the environment,” she said.  “Remote workers save, on average, between €2,000 and €7,000 and hundreds of hours of travel time per year – just by removing their daily commute.  One thousand new remote workers in the south-east would equate to a saving of 235 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.

“The business case for remote working is also strong:  companies will save an average of €11,000 per remote employee, and 91 per cent of companies that facilitate remote working experience increased productivity.  Companies that promote remote working also report an increase in staff retention of over 50 per cent; and a reduction in absenteeism of 63 per cent.”

Pictured speaking at Abodoo’s recent event on remote working in The Hatch Lab, Gorey was Brendan Mc Donald, IDA Regional Manager, South-East Region.

Ms. Tierney said Abodoo is seeking expressions of interest now from employers interested in hiring skilled remote workers in the south-east region.  Employers and those seeking flexible careers can register at www.abodoo.com.

First look at Virtuali-Tee #AR #VR #Eductaion #Curiscope

VR/AR has kind of nosedived the last year and hopefully this will turn around and I am a huge fan with lots of headsets an testing apps quite often. One great use of VR /AR which is now getting some attention is in education which is useful and also fun and for kids its really a good way of learning rather than looking at boring pictures in a book or again drawings on the blackboard,this kind of technolology puts it in your face and I find it has a longer lasting effect which is much better..

 

Two recent things for example in this area is INVIVO and VEATIVE which I have tried and tested and continue to test with VEATIVE which is edcuational VR for the classroom.. This new product from Curiscope is a simple genuis idea and can be shared via Airplay and Chromecast to the masses and its cost effective too and I have started testing it out with my child here and she loves the idea and not only does it use AR it can work with VR headsets. Check it out below and if there is any questions in the interim drop us a note below or get us on social.  You can also follow the guys below on the links provided..

Belkin Joins Google’s Inaugural “Made For” Program – USB-C 3.1 Express Dock HD

Belkin has joined Google’s inaugural “made for” program to bring consumers more peace of mind when it comes to buying Google-compatible accessories for their devices. These products will bear Google’s “made for” badge, indicating that they’ve been designed for use with Google Pixel 2 and Google Pixel 2 XL and have been certified to meet Google’s compatibility standards.

Consumers can stock up on the highest quality, Google-certified Belkin accessories for their new devices starting with the Belkin USB-C Car Charger with Hardwired USB-C Cable and USB-A Port.

 

“The new made for Google program complements the Belkin approach of creating people inspired products starting with consumer insights so that we give consumers exactly what they want and need,” said Steve Malony, GM & VP, Belkin. “To participate in the inaugural class gives us a seat at the table as these programs are being developed and we are excited to be a part of the process from day one.”

Belkin also announced the new USB-C 3.1 Express Dock HD, delivering speed, power and efficient charging through a single one meter cable. Users can connect up to eight devices and utilize the 4K HDMI video output, gigabit Ethernet connection, and crystal-clear audio in and out.

This dock is the perfect for PCs and smartphones which support power delivery, such as the iPhone 8, Pixel 2, and HP Spectre x360. Now consumers can connect, power, communicate, sync and transfer data on their devices with just one dock and one cable.

USB-C 3.1 Express Dock HD Features:

  • Connects up to eight devices at once
  • 4K HDMI video output for clear, defined picture quality
  • 60W power delivery powers your computer through 1M USB-C cable
  • Power Priority technology provides an optimal charge to connected USB-C devices
  • One gigabit Ethernet port for fast, reliable Internet

Ports included:

  • Two USB-C 3.1 ports to connect and charge new smartphones and laptops
  • Three USB-A ports to connect and charge USB-A devices
  • One HDMI port to support 4K video output
  • One gigabit Ethernet port for fast, reliable Internet
  • Two audio ports for headphone or speaker connection

Availability

 The new USB-C 3.1 Express Dock HD is available today for an MSRP of £229.99 on belkin.com.