Category: Tech News

Garmin introduces inReach Mini 3 Plus satellite communicator

Garmin is expanding its popular lineup of compact satellite communicators with the introduction of inReach® Mini 3 Plus. Featuring a colour touchscreen display and built-in speaker and microphone, inReach Mini 3 Plus lets adventurers exchange voice messages, texts and photos1—making it easier to stay in touch with family and friends who are back home. Purpose-built to provide extra peace of mind while exploring beyond cell coverage, users can also trigger an interactive SOS message to the Garmin Response℠ centre should an emergency occur. And with up to 330 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode, inReach Mini 3 Plus can be used on multi-day trips without the need for any extra plug-ins or battery chargers.

 “We understand just how important it is to stay connected during both short and long adventures, and that’s why we are excited to bring even more communication tools to the inReach Mini 3 Plus. Tell friends and family that they’re missed, show them the amazing view while standing at the summit and more—all from this compact and rugged device that can be clipped to a pack.”

—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

 More ways to stay in touch

 

  • Voice messaging: Check in with family and friends by exchanging 30-second voice messages right from the device.
  • Voice message transcription: While in an area where listening isn’t possible or it’s necessary to maintain silence in the field, read transcriptions of voice messages directly on the device.
  • Touchscreen texting: Quickly exchange text messages (up to 1,600 characters), emojis and reactions or start a group chat right from the device.
  • Photo sharing: View photos from back home right on the colourful display and share photos from every epic adventure when using the Garmin Messenger™ app.
  • LiveTrack™ location sharing: Let friends and family follow along on the adventure and track progress, including distance, time and elevation1.

 Emergency support when it’s needed the most

 When an SOS message is triggered, inReach Mini 3 Plus will send an interactive message to the Garmin Response centre, where a dedicated team of skilled emergency response coordinators are ready at any time. Photo and voice messages can also be shared during an SOS, giving coordinators the ability to see and hear details of the emergency firsthand. Response coordinators will communicate with the user, their listed emergency contacts, search and rescue organisations and other available local resources and provide updates. With nearly two decades of experience, the Garmin Response team has supported more than 18,000 inReach incident responses – from land to sea to air – in more than 150 countries on all seven continents.

Built for any adventure, inReach Mini 3 Plus is made to operate in extreme temperatures and features an impact-resistant design and IP67 water rating. When paired with the Garmin Explore™ app, adventurers can plan a trip, follow a course to a destination and even follow a track back to the start.

inReach Mini 3 Plus is available now and has a suggested retail price of £439.99. To learn more, visit www.garmin.com.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionised life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday.

1 Active satellite plan required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used.

See our Garmin Reviews

Coimisiún na Meán rolls out nationwide campaign on the importance of reporting harmful content online

Coimisiún na Meán has this week launched a new nationwide campaign raising awareness about harmful content online and how to report it, as well as information available to assist the public on Coimisiún na Meán’s website www.cnam.ie. The campaign aims to raise awareness of people’s rights under Ireland’s Online Safety Framework, particularly regarding the protection of children and young people, and will roll out nationally across radio, print and social media. This campaign is supported by the Department of Health.

The campaign will include a series of short videos for users – encouraging them to report harmful material they might encounter online, including cyberbullying and the promotion of eating disorders, self-harm and suicide as well as dangerous challenges. It will also aim to strengthen the public’s understanding of the importance of reporting such content to platforms. Coimisiún na Meán has information on its website on how to report and what to do if you are not happy with a platform’sresponse to that report.

Speaking on the launch of the new campaign, Coimisiún na Meán’s Online Safety Commissioner Niamh Hodnett said: “There are obligations on platforms under the Online Safety Framework to protect the safety of children online and to restrict content which impairs their physical, mental or moral welfare. Our strategy is to focus on key outcome areas which include children, public safety and public health. We are happy to partner with the Department of Health on this important campaign and I’d like to thank the Minister for Health for her support and interest in these issues.

“We want to remind people that they have rights under our Online Safety Framework, and empower them to report harmful content. Harmful online content is never acceptable. We would encourage anyone who encounters it to report it first to the platform where they see it. For how to report and what to do if you are not happy with the response you get, please visit our website www.cnam.ie.”

Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD said: “Some online spaces contain harmful, inappropriate or illegal content. This campaign, which highlights the importance of reporting such content, will strengthen understanding and empower people to report it where they see it. We have seen the challenges faced by children and young people as they engage with digital environments and I will shortly publish the Final Report of the Online Health Taskforce which contains a comprehensive framework to help tackle these challenges.”

Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD said: “Keeping us safe online, in particular, keeping our children and young people safe online is a top priority for me. Don’t stay silent if you see something harmful, inappropriate or illegal online. You can report it to the platform and you have options if you’re not happy with the outcome, Coimisiún na Meán is here to help and support you. We can help each other and our children stay safe by using our voice and exercising our

right to report.”

The campaign will be supported by extensive new website resources, including the How to Report guides and parents’ information pack.

Twelve South offers almost 30% accesories for Black Friday

Twelve South, the innovative Apple accessories designer, is offering 29% off its popular AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe this Black Friday, reducing the price from £69.99 to £49.99. Twelve South’s AirFly is a jet setter’s cabin bag essential, allowing users to enjoy in-flight entertainment with the immersive sound of their own wireless earbuds or headphones, rather than low quality, wired airline headsets.

Shoppers can also save up to 50% on other Twelve South travel and Apple accessories such as the PlugBug USB-C plug with Find My, Butterfly SE travel charger, PowerCord all-in-one 30W USB-C fast charger and HiRise 2 Deluxe 2-1 Qi2 charging stand on Amazon until 2nd December 2025.

Twelve South’s Black Friday discounts include:

 Twelve South AirFly

AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe – £49.99 reduced from £69.99

AirFly Pro 2 (black) – £41.99 reduced from £59.99

AirFly SE – £33.13 reduced from £39.99

 

Available from Amazon

Twelve South’s AirFly range is renowned worldwide for enabling the seamless pairing of wireless headphones with legacy audio jacks commonly found on in-flight entertainment, gym equipment and older physical media players.

The AirFly allows users to enjoy the superior sound of wireless headphones and speakers with devices that lack Bluetooth functionality.  AirFly is a jet setter’s cabin bag essential, allowing users to enjoy in-flight entertainment with the immersive sound of their own wireless earbuds or headphones, rather than low quality, wired airline headsets.

See our reviews

Twelve South PlugBug Travel Kit

50w – £45.97 reduced from £69.99

120w – £77.97 reduced from £119.99

Available from Amazon

Twelve South’s PlugBug is the first ever USB-C plug with built-in Find My! Travellers will never leave their charger in the hotel or airport lounge again. Simply launch the Find My app on an iPhone so see exactly where it is, even if it’s on the other side of the world. The PlugBug can also act as an AirTag tracker for any bag it’s in, allowing users to find both their bag and charger. Users can even utilise the Notify When Left Behind feature to help ensure it’s not lost in the first place.

It can charge Power Delivery compatible devices much faster than a standard USB-C charger and detects which devices are being charged and delivers the right amount of fast charging power to them. Available in 50W with two ports or 120W with four ports, the Plug Bug also includes EU (Type C) and UK (Type G) interchangeable adaptors.

Folding prongs and ports that are accessible from the bottom of the charger rather than the back, make it easy to plug in to wall outlets in tight spaces, such as behind a sofa or side table. The all-new travel version includes adaptors for US, UK, EU, AU KR and CN as well as a handy travel case to keep things organised.

Twelve South PowerCord

4ft – £26.66 reduced from £39.99

Available from Amazon

The PowerCord is a first of its kind, all-in-one charging solution. Putting an end to tangled cables and confusing adapters, PowerCord combines a 30W fast charging wall adapter with a USB-C cord, creating one seamless solution that simplifies charging. Users can simply plug in the PowerCord and power up their devices, without having to scrabble around for separate blocks, adapters or cables.

Universally compatible with all USB-C devices, PowerCord will charge the latest iPhones, Google Pixel, USB-C iPads, Android devices, earbuds, gaming controllers and even lightweight laptops like the MacBook Air etc. Designed to charge quickly with high-speed 30W charging, it’s perfect for use at home, in the office or on the go.

Bringing style and substance to everyday charging, the Twelve South PowerCord comes in two lengths – four feet, or 10 feet for extra reach.

See the review

Twelve South Butterfly SE

£69.99 reduced from £99.99

(available in pink and iridescent)

Available from Amazon

Combine all your charging needs in one, compact and beautiful solution with the Twelve South Butterfly SE. Ideal for travel as it fits in the palm of your hand, the 2-in-1 Qi charger allows users to simultaneously charge their iPhone and Apple Watch or AirPods from just one outlet, making it a handbag essential.

Strong magnets hold Butterfly SE closed while in your bag, which is then unfolded as required to charge devices. More than a charger, Butterfly SE morphs into a hands-free display stand. Stream shows, FaceTime, or use iPhone’s gorgeous StandBy Mode. The magnetic Apple Watch charger on Butterfly SE tilts up to use Nightstand Mode. Butterfly SE can also be used as a compact display stand when you’re just charging your Apple Watch. A coordinating braided USB-C charging cable is included.

See the review https://techbuzzireland.com/2025/07/11/twelve-south-butterfly-se-2-in-1-qi2-travel-charger-review/

Twelve South HiRise 2 Deluxe

£39.99 reduced from £79.99

Available from Amazon

HiRise 2 Deluxe is a sophisticated Qi2 wireless charger for your iPhone, AirPods or compatible devices. This stylish stand not only saves space, but also raises your phone, allowing you to position it either vertically or horizontally for an optimal standby experience. With a tilt angle of 70 degrees, it offers the right viewing angle for all your needs.

 

Upgrade your setup: CHERRY announces Black Friday offers

CHERRY has announced a series of Black Friday offers on some of its most popular mechanical keyboards, giving gamers, creators, and home workers the chance to upgrade their setup at a fraction of the usual price.

Starting today, and running while stocks last, customers can find these exclusive deals at Currys and Amazon UK. Among the highlights are the CHERRY K5V2 in black or white, now available for £39.99, and the K4V2 in black or white for just £29.99. For those looking for a stylish keyboard that works with Windows and Mac, the K33 White with IP54 dust and water resistance is also included in the promotion at £39.99.

Some of the keyboards feature CHERRY’s latest MX2A mechanical switches, which deliver smoother keystrokes, improved acoustics, and exceptional durability rated for over 100 million presses. Designed for precision and comfort, they are ideal for anyone who spends long hours typing or gaming and wants a reliable, high-performance upgrade.

“Consumers want gear they can rely on, and this is a great chance to make the switch,” said Del Fadipe, Key Account Manager at CHERRY. “Our keyboards are built for comfort and precision, and these Black Friday prices make them even more accessible.”

The deals are available now through Currys and Amazon UK, but only while stocks last.

ESET celebrates Black Friday with up to 50% off

ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, is offering savvy shoppers up to 50% off ESET HOME Security to celebrate Black Friday 2025. Deals are available from now until Tuesday 2nd December, giving consumers the opportunity to save on ESET’s latest all-in-one solution.

Protecting more than 100 million homes around the world, ESET’s cutting-edge security products are based on more than 30 years of research and are continually updated to address real-time threats. ESET HOME Security is a streamlined offering for consumers with three subscription tiers that provide users with broad and reliable digital life protection.

ESET is offering up to 50% off all three subscription tiers from now until 2nd December 2025:

UK Deals*:

ESET HOME Security Essential – 30% off 3 devices/1 year – was £44.99, now £31.49

ESET HOME Security Premium – 40% off 3 devices/1 year – was £74.99, now £44.99

ESET HOME Security Ultimate – 50% off 5 devices/1 year – was £114.98, now £57.49

US Deals*:

ESET HOME Security Essential – 50% off 1 devices/1 year – was $49.99, now $24.99

ESET HOME Security Premium – 50% off 1 devices/1 year – was $79.99, now $39.99

ESET HOME Security Ultimate – 50% off 5 devices/1 year – was $179.99, now £89.99

*Discount varies depending on the number of devices and length of subscription.

Despite ESET HOME Security already having a long list of features including Antivirus & Antispyware, Firewall, Ransomware Shield, Anti-Phishing, Safe Banking, Safe Browsing, Dark Web Monitoring, VPN, Folder Guard and Gamer Mode to name a few. ESET has recently introduced new upgrades to the software that include:

  • Ransomware Remediation – seamlessly creates encrypted backups so users can detect, block, and recover from ransomware with minimal disruption.
  • Enhanced scam protection – now covers SMS, email, phone calls, URLs, QR codes, and malicious files.
  • New tools: Microphone Monitor and Website Security Inspector to improve phishing detection.
  • ESET VPN – now available to Premium users (previously Ultimate only).
  • ESET HOME platform – updated for easier family protection and better overall user experience.
  • ESET Link Checker – a free online tool that scans any URL for phishing, scams, and malware.

These updates are designed to address the evolving threat landscape with special attention to prevention, ensuring a best-in-class user experience.

For more information on ESET’s Black Friday discounts and award-winning internet security for Windows, macOS and Android, visit www.eset.com.

Zack O’Leary wins SciFest National Final 2025

Zack O’Leary from Co. Kildare representing Clongowes Wood College, has won the overall title of SciFest STEM Champion 2025 for his project M.A.N.T.I.S “Muon Analysis for Non-Invasive Tomography and Image Simulation”.  Zack will go on to represent Ireland at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona next May. SciFest is Ireland’s largest, most-inclusive all-island STEM fair programme for second-level students.

The SciFest National Final, held in Marino Conference Centre in Dublin today, was attended by students from every corner of Ireland with 51 students from 31 schools qualifying to participate this year. Students secured their place at the National Final by winning one of the top awards at the 15 regional SciFest fairs earlier in the year.

This year’s programme also featured five international projects from students in Sri Lanka and South Africa, further extending the global network of SciFest.

Since 2006, the programme continues to grow and expand, reporting an increase in student participation year on year. This growth has been made possible by the continued support of the Department of Education and Youth, Research Ireland and our industry partners, Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and Keenova.

As SciFest prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, the programme’s mission remains the same – to encourage students’ participation in STEM in an enjoyable and interactive way. SciFest is free to enter and open to everyone across the island of Ireland, no matter their background or circumstance.

Speaking today at this year’s National Final, CEO and Founder of SciFest, Sheila Porter commented: “On behalf of everyone here at SciFest, I would like to extend a warm congratulations to all the participants, and in particular to Zack O’Leary for winning the title of SciFest STEM Champion 2025. We saw a significant increase in technology projects this year focusing on artificial intelligence and medical devices – it is great to see students take a strong interest in solving real world problems.”

“SciFest’s purpose remains to inspire and empower the next generation to engage with the world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It has been a pleasure to watch SciFest continue to grow and to meet with all the immensely talented and bright students that participate every year. I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who has been involved – from our students, teachers, parents and judges to our wonderful sponsors – all of whom have contributed to this extraordinary event. “

Viltrox Unlocks Full Imaging Ecosystem for Creators for Black Friday

Viltrox is pleased to announce exclusive sitewide savings on the company’s acclaimed LAB, Pro, EVO, Air, Raze, and EPIC lenses, plus lighting and monitoring products, celebrating a decade of innovation in imaging technology. These special Black Friday prices will only be available from November 20th to December 1st, 2025.

As the festive season approaches, Viltrox invites creators worldwide to embrace the spirit of creativity and storytelling with its Black Friday 2025 Sale. Featuring 20% price reductions across all categories, from premium autofocus lenses to compact lighting and monitoring systems, the event continues Viltrox’s mission: to make professional imaging tools accessible to every creator. The Viltrox ecosystem spans the entire creative process from capture to creation, and supports major mounts including Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X, DJI DL, and PL.

 

LAB / Pro / EVO / Air Series: Autofocus lenses for every vision

Designed for photographers and hybrid creators, the Viltrox LAB, Pro, EVO and Air series of lenses cover the full focal range, with fast F1.2 / F1.4 / F1.8 apertures, and more. They offer superb optical performance and color accuracy across E, Z, and X mounts.

 

Viltrox’s LAB Series are flagship lenses that deliver exceptional sharpness, refined color rendition, and robust build quality for professional demands.

 

The Pro Series is built for hybrid shooters, combining fast apertures, consistent AF, and solid reliability across diverse shooting conditions.

 

The Viltrox EVO Series are compact, performance-driven lenses that balance portability and image quality – ideal for creators on the move.

 

The Air Series are Viltrox’s most lightweight, stylish, and intuitive lenses. They’re perfect for travel, lifestyle, and everyday photography.

 

Raze Series – Precision Autofocus Lenses for DJI Systems

Custom-designed for DJI Ronin 4D and Inspire 3, the Raze Series brings Viltrox’s renowned autofocus technology into aerial and cinematic production. The Raze Series includes 16mm / 24mm / 28mm / 35mm / 50mm / 85mm F1.8 and 90mm F3.5, offering cinematic rendering and consistent focus performance for aerial cinematography and gimbal workflows.

 

EPIC Series: 1.33× Anamorphic lenses for cinematic storytelling

Engineered for professional filmmakers, the EPIC Series covers 25mm / 35mm / 50mm / 65mm Macro / 75mm / 100mm / 135mm, all in PL mount, delivering the signature anamorphic 1.33× aspect ratio. The EPIC series produces rich flares, smooth focus transitions, and true widescreen depth, all combined to capture stories with cinematic emotion and scale.

 

Lighting and monitoring systems

Complementing its lens lineup, Viltrox offers compact camera flashes, portable LED lights and color-accurate HD field monitors – empowering creators to refine exposure, lighting, and tone control at every stage of production.

 

Beyond discounts – Empowering creativity

Viltrox’s Black Friday campaign goes beyond seasonal offers. It’s a celebration of creative freedom – a reminder that great storytelling starts with the right tools. With products that merge precision engineering, design simplicity, and creator-centered usability, Viltrox continues to empower visual artists worldwide to see beyond the ordinary.

 

More details and how to buy

Black Friday Promotion Period: November 20th – December 1st, 2025

20% price reduction across all Viltrox products

Available at Viltrox.com and from authorized retailers worldwide

https://viltrox.com/?ref=orbetcnl

Ekco launches new Dublin HQ

Ekco, one of Europe’s leading security-first managed service providers, today announces the opening of its new headquarters, featuring a state-of-the-art Security Operations Centre (SOC), in Dublin’s Grand Canal Dock. The opening comes as Ekco is targeting revenues exceeding €100 million in Ireland and €200 million globally by year-end 2025. Together, the new HQ and SOC will enable Ekco to accelerate its growth in Ireland, boost cyber resilience for businesses, and deliver an enhanced offering to customers.

This is Ekco’s third global SOC and builds on the success of its existing cybersecurity facilities in the UK and Malaysia. It will help to meet growing customer demand for advanced cybersecurity products and services. The SOC will combine advanced threat detection capabilities with Ekco’s expert analysts to identify and respond to threats quickly, and protect businesses from evolving cyber risks. It will also support compliance and enable businesses to align with regulatory requirements, while safeguarding personal and company information.

The SOC can automatically take action when serious threats are detected, including isolating affected devices without the need for manual intervention, helping to ensure faster protection. Ekco’s incident response team has also grown in order to respond to security incidents more effectively, with responses to potential threats increasing by more than 200% over the past six months.

Following a number of strategic acquisitions in Ireland – amounting to seven in the last two years – the new HQ will provide a central hub for Ekco’s approximately 500 employees in Ireland. It will contribute to enhanced collaboration between teams to facilitate more comprehensive customer solutions, while also streamlining processes and service delivery.

In addition, the new HQ provides boosted capacity and will enable the company to expand its customer base in Ireland, with plans to increase the number of customers by 15% in 2026. This will include growth in the public, finance, legal, and professional services sectors. Ekco is also on a path of aggressive global growth and is continuing to expand in key international markets including the UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the U.S.

Steve MacNicholas, CEO Ireland, Ekco, said: “The opening of our new Dublin headquarters signifies our commitment to safeguarding businesses and driving consistent growth for Ekco in Ireland. We are on an exciting acquisition path, supplemented by planned organic growth, and this new hub will provide a central location for employees to collaborate. Furthermore, as our team continues to grow internationally, this state-of-the-art facility cements our commitment to Ireland as a leader in cybersecurity.

“The launch of our third SOC represents a significant step for our business as we look to meet the ever-increasing demand for future-ready cybersecurity services. This will enable us to deliver an enhanced service to our customers, ultimately helping businesses to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats, and provide our solutions to an increased client base.”

JMGO UP TO 43% OFF FLAGSHIP PROJECTORS FOR BLACK FRIDAY

JMGO, the award-winning home cinema innovator, has announced its biggest price drops, ever. For a limited time between November 20 and December 1, film lovers, gamers, and design enthusiasts can experience cinematic perfection at a fraction of the cost.

N1S 4K 38% discount on RRP $1,299, new deal $799

Transform any space into a 4K cinema with N1S 4K lightweight, portable projector that delivers massive 200″ visuals, ultra-vivid MALC triple RGB laser color, and 360° Dolby sound.

Powered by Google TV with built-in Netflix, the 127° smart gimbal auto-adjusts focus and angle on any surface, while ultra-low latency and HDMI 2.1 make it perfect for gaming, movies, or travel. One of the most powerful Smart 4K Projectors under $800. N1S 4K photo.

N1S Ultimate 43% (online only) discount on RRP $2,799, new deal $1,599.

Powered by triple-laser 4K technology, N1S Ultimate delivers breathtaking visuals with cinematic brightness even in daylight. With Google TV 3.0 built-in, you get Netflix, 10,000+ apps, 800+ free channels, and effortless voice control.

Its AI-driven gimbal design auto-adjusts for perfect focus and angle anywhere, while the HiFi audio system with deep bass and DTS-HD support surrounds you in rich, room-filling sound – a true luxury home cinema experience. N1S Ultimate photo.

PicoPlay 28% discount on RRP $449, new deal $349 including a free pair of 3D Glasses

PicoPlay is an all-in-one mini projector, Bluetooth speaker, and ambient light system that brings big-screen entertainment anywhere. Enjoy crisp 1080p visuals up to 200″, vibrant color, and rich sound, all powered by a compact design that runs for hours on a power bank or JMGO battery tripod.

With instant autofocus, smart screen alignment, and an 88° rotating gimbal for effortless setup, it’s portable, powerful, and always ready to play. PicoPlay photo.

These rare discounts on JMGO’s high-end, high-spec projectors deliver exceptional color accuracy, brightness, and immersive sound – all in sleek, minimalist designs that redefine home entertainment.

Availability
Exclusively in the U.S. during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday period – November 20 to December 1, 2025 – from JMGO.com, Amazon.com and CostCo from mid November.

PicoPlay deal available now.