Category: Tech News

Jabra announces the Evolve2 65 Flex, Evolve2 55 and Evolve2 50.

Jabra, world’s leading professional audio brand, expands its best-selling line of professional headsets, the Jabra Evolve series, with new Evolve2 mid-range headsets. The revolutionary Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex, the Jabra Evolve2 55 and Jabra Evolve2 50 are engineered for ultra-flexible hybrid working. 

Jabra’s 2022 research found that 80% of all meetings globally are either fully virtual or hybrid, and hybrid natives like Gen Zs consider their “office” to be their laptop, headset, and wherever with a strong internet connection, and find themselves working in a “third space” such as a co-working space, café, or library. The new Evolve2 headsets are meant to empower users with the most useful and professional features to protect their focus zone and enable them to take calls and meetings no matter their environment. Additionally, they have optimised sound for professional use and music, so there is no need to switch headsets when it is time for a break. 

 
Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex: the most portable professional headset* with unique fold-and-go design  

To provide maximum flexibility, the Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex has a unique fold-and-go design with a collapsible hinged headband, slimmed-down earcups. It comes with a soft sustainable pouch, allowing users to easily tuck it into even the smallest of bags, or your pocket. With the headset, users can be sure to be heard clearly even in loud locations, thanks to a powerful chipset, advanced digital algorithm, and beamforming Jabra ClearVoice microphones for the open office. The chipset and noise-cancelling technology delivers a best-in-class Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and close-fitting memory foam earcups help seal out even more of the surroundings.  

Using the headset for flexible working and for entertainment means that users would likely be wearing their headsets for hours each day. Evolve2 65 Flex features the Jabra Air Comfort technology and flexible earcups that rotates to move whenever users do – making the headset incredibly comfortable, no matter how long it is on. The unique technology also layers ultra-soft perforated foam inside the collapsible headband for a gentle cushioning effect.  

The headset has a 360° busylight, a shorter hide-away boom arm and it is certified for all leading virtual meeting platforms, like Microsoft Teams, Google Meet and Zoom. Workers can be rest assured for all-day work and play with the headset promising up to 32 hours of music time and up to 20 hours of talk time with ANC/busylight off.  

Jabra Evolve2 55 and 50: on-ear headsets designed with new, revolutionary comfort technology 

With more flexible working, and therefore more potential for distractions, Jabra is bringing Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) into more professional headsets, with a wireless option, Evolve2 55, and a corded version, Evolve2 50. The headsets are built with powerful ANC that has a unique acoustic chamber design, 28mm custom speakers, a specially designed chipset that powers speech-separating, and two premium noise-cancelling microphones.  

Both products are certified for all leading virtual meeting platforms, like Microsoft Teams, Google Meet and Zoom, all while providing a comfortable fit with the Jabra Air Comfort technology.  

Holger Reisinger, SVP for Enterprise Solutions at Jabra says, “The current generation of hybrid workers are in search for comfortable, flexible, and easy to use devices for both work and music. Meanwhile, headsets are evolving from mere accessories to a business necessity for productive work. This was why we sought to create high-quality mid-range headsets so we can meet the needs of both the business and end-user. Particularly with the foldable version, everyone will have the ability to look, sound and be professional, working from anywhere.” 

Key features of all three Evolve2 products:  

·         Maximum comfort with Jabra Air Comfort technology 

·         Jabra ClearVoice Microphone systems that meet premium microphone for the open office standard 

·         Integrated 360° busylight  

·         28mm custom speakers deliver premium sound for music  

·         Certified for leading virtual meeting platforms (UC-certified and Microsoft Teams-certified variants available) 

·         Up to 30m/100ft wireless range (Evolve2 65 Flex & Evolve2 55 only) 

·         Personalisation with Jabra Sound+, Jabra MySound and voice assistants (Evolve2 65 Flex & Evolve2 55 only) 

·         Connect two devices at the same time with dual connectivity (Evolve2 65 Flex & Evolve2 55) and connect to another device via Bluetooth while plugged in (Evolve2 50) 

·         Boom arm mute and answer call 

·         Available in stereo and mono (Evolve2 55 & Evolve2 50 only) – Evolve2 65 Flex available in stereo 

·         UC and Microsoft Teams variants 

·         Optional charging stand (Evolve2 65 Flex & Evolve2 55 only) 

Key features only of the Evolve2 65 Flex: 

·         Most portable professional headset* with unique fold-and-go design 

·         Best-in-class Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)*  

·         Hide-away boom arm for discreet on-the-go professionalism 

·         Up to 20 hours of talk time with ANC/busylight off, up to 15 hours talk time with ANC/busylight on, up to 32 hours of listening time with ANC/busylight off, up to 21 hours listening time with ANC/busylight on 

Key features only of the Evolve2 55: 

·         Up to 16 hours talk time with ANC/busylight off, up to 10 hours talk time with ANC/busylight on, and up to 18 hours listening time with ANC/busylight off, up to 15 hours listening time with ANC/busylight on  

·         A comfortable fit that’s the best-in-its-class 

 

Pricing and availability 

The Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex, Evolve2 55 & Evolve2 50 will be available in April. 

Evolve2 65 Flex MSRP £265/€299 (£310/€349 with Wireless Charging Pad) 

Evolve2 55 Stereo MSRP £199/€229 (£233/€269 with charging stand) 

Evolve2 55 Mono MSRP £189/€219 (£224/€259 with charging stand) 

Evolve2 50 Stereo MSRP £155/€179 

Evolve2 50 Mono MSRP £147/€169  

Find out more about Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex at www.jabra.co.uk/evolve2-65-flex 

Find out more about Jabra Evolve2 55 at www.jabra.co.uk/evolve2-55 

Find out more about Jabra Evolve2 50 at www.jabra.co.uk/evolve2-50 

Minister Coveney Opens Digital Manufacturing Ireland

Minister Simon Coveney TD has today, Monday 27th March 2023, officially opened Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI). Located in the IDA Ireland National Technology Park in Limerick, DMI is the national centre of excellence designed to support Irish based manufacturers, both multi-national businesses and SMEs, to access, partner and accelerate their adoption of transformative digital technologies and to drive their future competitiveness.

Digital Manufacturing Ireland (DMI) is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Joining Minister Coveney at the event was IDA’s Interim CEO Mary Buckley and the Board and Management of Digital Manufacturing Ireland, along with members of the manufacturing and business community. DMI boasts a unique technology offering in the form of a fully representative end to end Physical and Digital Production Line with digital twin capabilities designed to provide DMI clients with access to the latest digital technologies, expertise and deployment support in a real-world manufacturing environment. Industry led, and resourced to solve manufacturing industry challenges, DMI will be instrumental in ensuring the future resilience and competitiveness of Irish-based manufacturing.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Simon Coveney TD said: “I am delighted to join the Digital Manufacturing Ireland Board, IDA Ireland, and industry representatives at the launch today. DMI is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland and will play a pivotal role in advancing the future competitiveness of the manufacturing sector as well as supporting the delivery of Ireland’s Industry 4.0 Strategy 2020 – 2025.

Over 270,000 are employed across MNCs and SMEs in manufacturing in Ireland and are developing and producing world leading products for global supply.  As the world’s supply chains continue to be disrupted, competitiveness challenges prevail and international competition for investment intensifies, it has never been more important for Ireland to invest in the future of its core manufacturing capability. Digital Manufacturing Ireland will support Ireland’s manufacturing base in remaining at the forefront of digital transformation and ensure that Ireland is recognised internationally as having a vibrant, collaborative, competitive and digitally enabled industry base.

This is directly in line with Government’s goal to ensure Ireland remains resilient, competitive and absolutely ready to win the next wave of manufacturing investment”

Mary Buckley, Interim CEO of IDA Ireland said: “Enhancing Ireland’s manufacturing capability is a strategic national priority and a core component of the transformation agenda within IDA Ireland’s Strategy – Driving Recovery & Sustainable Growth 2021-2024.  Engaging with industry, we recognise the challenges facing companies as they balance the need to drive competitiveness with the disruption and opportunities around new technologies.  DMI will ensure that Irish based manufacturers have access to the infrastructure, technology and skills to help them solve real issues and to kickstart and continue to drive their digital transformation journeys”.

Lionel Alexander, Chairperson of Digital Manufacturing Ireland Board said: “We are delighted to have officially opened our world-class facility today alongside IDA Ireland and the Irish Government. The manufacturing sector in Ireland, from medtech and biopharma to food and drink and engineering, is a key contributor to Ireland’s economic resilience and ongoing economic success. After the unprecedented global disruption of the last 24-months, now more than ever, it is critical for our manufacturing sector to deploy the new technologies and tools to serve the drive for innovation and ultimately business differentiation.

“We are committed to supporting all manufacturers regardless of their size or level of technological maturity in their transformation journey, right across their manufacturing value chain, through collaborations and partnerships. We will provide a platform to test and create new technologies and use-cases in an industry environment, but also provide the necessary training and capabilities among the Irish workforce to effectively compete by being digital-first.”

Digital Manufacturing Ireland has also announced a new strategic partnership with global Medical Technologies company Edwards Life Sciences to focus on digital transformation across its sites in Limerick and Clare.

Andrew Walls, Plant General Manager of Edwards LifeSciences in Limerick said, “Edwards Lifesciences is proud to be partnering with Digital Manufacturing Ireland, to support the development and delivery of Edwards digital transformation programme. We will collectively be working across the three pillars of Technology, Human Centric Manufacturing and Supply chain operations in order to advance the digital capabilities of our operations and workforce.”

Urbanista Launches Two New Bluetooth Speakers – Nashville & Memphis

Urbanista Nashville and Memphis bring your favorite music with you, whether you’re headed for a weekend in the city or to the great outdoors. The rugged and durable speakers are water-resistant, and pack a surprising punch in terms of their sound, delivering a balanced mix of high quality audio in all environments. Built from recycled plastic and fabrics, Nashville & Memphis are the perfect portable speakers for any music lover’s backpack.

URBANISTA NASHVILLE

Urbanista Nashville brings your favorite music with you, whether you’re headed for a weekend in the city or to the great outdoors. The rugged and durable Nashville is IPX7 protected against water, and packs a surprising punch in terms of its sound, delivering a balanced mix of high quality audio in all environments. Urbanista Nashville is great for campers, travelers, or anyone who wants to experience their music out loud. Made from recycled plastic and fabrics, Nashville offers everything you need to immerse yourself in music, wherever it takes you. The integrated carabiner hook and rugged design are built for convenience, water-resistance and durability so you can take your tunes anywhere.

KEY FEATURES

Playtime 18 hours
Rain and splash proof (IPX7)
Button controls
USB Type-C charging
Dual speaker support
Carabiner hook
Dual stereo sound
360° direction sound
100% recycled outer plastic

BUY

Urbanista Memphis

Urbanista Memphis is a truly portable water-resistant Bluetooth outdoor speaker thanks to its compact size and convenient attaching on the go with the included carabiner hook. With its sleek design, solid build and water-resistant features, Memphis is ready for any adventure that comes your way. With IPX5 protection against splashing water, Urbanista Memphis is the perfect portable speaker in the city, by the pool or in the great outdoors. The compact and versatile Urbanista Memphis can also be easily attached to your backpack or belt loop so that you can enjoy music wherever you go. Built for durability from recycled plastic and fabrics, Memphis will last for up to 12 hours on single charge, making sure you won’t run out of playtime when you need it the most.

KEY FEATURES

Playtime 12 hours
Rain and splash proof (IPX5)
Button controls
USB Type-C charging
Dual speaker support
Carabiner hook
Dual stereo sound
100% recycled outer plastic

BUY 

Businesses in Ireland to benefit from quantum computer access via Equinix

Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC), a leading global Quantum Computing as a Service (QCaaS) company, and Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX), the world’s digital infrastructure company, today announced that OQC will make one of the most powerful quantum computers available commercially to businesses in Ireland via Equinix’s TY11 Tokyo International Business Exchange (IBX®) data centre.

OQC is installing its quantum hardware in TY11 and plans to leverage Equinix’s on-demand interconnection solution, Equinix Fabric®, to make its Quantum Computing as a Service available to businesses and organisations around the world, including Ireland, on Equinix’s global platform in late 2023.

Once connected to Equinix Fabric, businesses will benefit from the ease of access to quantum computing as if it is on-premises, meaning that they can trial and experiment with the ground-breaking technology by directly connecting to QCaaS within their own digital infrastructure with greater security and ease.

It is expected there will be growing demand from organisations, with the technology set to support a wide range of sectors, from drug discovery and development to risk management, banking and advanced manufacturing.

Peter Lantry, Managing Director for Equinix in Ireland, spoke of the benefits to Irish businesses: “Quantum computing is set to be a transformational revolution in processing speed and power for businesses, and there is already an exciting ecosystem building around it in Ireland. The country has been investing in quantum computing research and experimentation and this will open the technology and the great potential it holds to a much wider audience. Quantum computers can solve certain highly complex computational problems in a matter of minutes, when even the most powerful supercomputers would take thousands of years to solve the same problem. This cutting-edge technology will create unique opportunities for Irish companies in all areas as it can better optimise investment strategies, improve data encryption or even assist in the discovery of new products in areas like MedTech and pharmaceuticals, where Ireland is already a world leader. As the country continues to grow its digital economy, we are very proud to be at the forefront of enabling that growth.”

Commenting on the news, Dr. Ilana Wisby, CEO at OQC, said: “The world has been waiting for quantum computing to mature to the point that it can change our lives. Installing quantum computing in Equinix’s world-class TY11 data centre brings us a step closer to this reality.

Quantum computing represents a major shift in terms of technology and process. Unlike traditional classical computers, quantum computers can crunch vast amounts of data at incredible speeds. We are excited to work with Equinix to help businesses around the world to build their quantum skillset and capabilities. The future is here, and we are setting the pace for the era of quantum computing.”

Andrew Buss, Senior Research Director, Europe: Future of Digital Infrastructure, IDC points to recent research IDC carried out: “For data-driven businesses, the ability to differentiate and remain competitive comes down to delivering meaningful insights on ever-more complex scenarios and in tighter timespans. This is driving them to invest in cutting-edge technologies, such as quantum computing, that have the potential to revolutionise key data-to-insights functions. IDC predicts that by 2026, 95% of companies will invest in compute technologies that deliver faster insights from complex data sets to drive differentiated business outcomes. Making quantum computing available ‘as-a-Service’ on a globally interconnected digital infrastructure should significantly reduce barriers to experimentation and adoption such as cost, skills, and the complexity of integration—and open up quantum technology to many more organisations to test and use.” 

Arun Dev, Global Head of Digital Interconnection at Equinix, highlights the benefits and importance of Equinix Fabric for customers such as OQC wanting to expand their connectivity opportunities: “Quantum computing has the potential to transform the way businesses solve problems both now and into the future, especially as our customers look for more innovative solutions. As the world’s digital infrastructure company, we are proud to enable easier, secure, high-bandwidth access to this pioneering technology to thousands of businesses around the world. Welcoming OQC’s quantum computer to our global interconnection ecosystem on Platform Equinix underpins our commitment to supporting innovation. We are looking forward to working together to solve some of the key digital challenges organisations face today.”

Esri maps ancient Irish woodlands to celebrate National Tree Week #BiodiversityBeginswithTrees

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has created a digital map highlighting nearly 500 ancient and long-established woodlands around Ireland this National Tree Week, which runs until Sunday 26th March.

Ancient woodlands have been continuously wooded since before planting and afforestation became common practice, some of which date back to the 1600s. These woodlands are steeped in both biological and cultural significance, and their roots may even have links to prehistoric wildwoods.

The interactive map also explores a diverse range of woodland types, including conifer plantations, mixed woodlands, and those with non-native tree species.

The theme for National Tree Week 2023, #BiodiversityBeginswithTrees, aims to inspire the public to plant and protect trees and highlight the crucial role that trees play in improving biodiversity. Since its inception in 1985, National Tree Week has been responsible for planting over half a million trees in Ireland.

ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces ROG Phone 7: For Those Who Dare Virtual Launch Event

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced the ROG Phone 7: For Those Who Dare virtual event, which will unveil the latest generation ROG Phone 7 series gaming phones and gaming accessories. The online-only event will take place on April 13, 2023 at 20:00 p.m. CST.

At the event, ROG will unveil the groundbreaking ROG Phone 7 series, equipped with the latest Qualcomm flagship processor, revamped cooling system, and next-level immersive gaming experience. Combined with our smoothest ever gaming display, a monster battery, incredible gesture control and intelligent features, the new ROG Phone 7 series delivers the competitive edge that gamers need. This time, ROG Phone is not just about performance – its stylish and unique new design based on contrasting colors and materials sets it apart from the competition. With its futuristic design and enduring firepower, the ROG Phone 7 series once again pushes the limits of gaming. It’s the ultimate gaming phone, For Those Who Dare.

Event Page: https://rog.gg/ROG7.pr ASUS

Pioneer DJ announces the DDJ-FLX10 – a 4-channel DJ controller, packed with new features for the most innovative performances

Pioneer DJ, a world-class manufacturer of DJ equipment, announces the release of the DDJ-FLX10. This 4-channel performance DJ controller, for rekordbox and Serato DJ Pro, includes a host of brand-new features that enable new creative possibilities, including functions you can use to easily perform mash-ups on the fly with no need to prepare tracks in advance.

Thanks to the new Track Separation technology in rekordbox, you can load tracks from your music library to the DDJ-FLX10 as you normally would, then manipulate different musical parts to create infinitely unique performances, including live mash-ups. The controller focuses on the 3 track elements that are crucial to DJing – vocals, drums, and inst (other instruments) – so you can easily play around with each one.

You can see more of the information you want on the jog wheels of the DDJ-FLX10, and customise the look of the controller, thanks to the expanded On Jog Display. Improving on the jogs from the popular DDJ-1000, there are 4 modes to choose from, giving you the option to display different types of waveform information.#

The DDJ-FLX10 introduces Mix Point Link, a new rekordbox-compatible feature that enables you to neatly and seamlessly link the playback of tracks in your set while freeing up your hands so you can get creative by applying effects and making live mash-ups.

Looking for an extra way to captivate your audience? You can add hypnotic lighting effects to your performances with the DDJ-FLX10, which includes a DMX output so you can easily connect lighting fixtures without the need for any other equipment. Available now for £1,469, the DDJ-FLX10 is the ultimate DJ controller that will have anyone bossing
the decks in no time and delivering a supreme club-standard experience like no other. For more information, go to pioneerdj.com.

Twelve South reveals new HiRise Pro for MacBook with redesign and MagSafe base

Twelve South, a leading designer of Apple accessories, today introduces the new HiRise Pro, the first height-adjustable, MagSafe compatible MacBook stand. More flexible than a fixed stand, the HiRise Pro adjusts up and down to the perfect height for eye-level video calls or to align perfectly with an external display. HiRise Pro is also the first and only stand with room in the base to add a MagSafe charger, providing users with a streamlined workspace. HiRise Pro is available now for £99.99 from Amazon UK.

With a sleek metal design and vegan leather-trim, Twelve South’s latest MacBook stand beautifully matches the silver and black aesthetic of Apple’s Pro accessory line. Height-adjustable, the HiRise Pro allows users to elevate their MacBook 6-inches off their desk, placing their webcam at eye level for more natural video calls. After the call, the laptop can then be repositioned to seamlessly align with an external display or lowered to as little as 2.5-inches off the desk, for a comfortable working height if using one screen. Perfect for creative professionals, an adjustable laptop stand such as the HiRise Pro enables them to align external monitors to create one huge panoramic screen, making it easier to work.

An ideal addition to any desk or home office, the option to add a MagSafe charger into the base of the HiRise Pro also means users have somewhere to power their iPhone or AirPods while working, without taking up space on the desk or needing extra cables.  Completely redesigned, the HiRise Pro picks up from the original HiRise for MacBook, the very first adjustable laptop stand in the world which was launched over 10-years ago.

Andrew Green, Founder of Twelve South comments: “At Twelve South we’re always striving to create innovative new products that help users’ daily lives. Despite the first edition being over ten years old, HighRise is still a best-selling range for us and we’re so excited to have modernized it further by integrating a MagSafe charging slot in the base”.

The Twelve South HiRise Pro fits all laptops and MacBooks from 11-inch Air to 16-inch Pro and is available now for £99.99 from Amazon.

The all new Jabra Elite 4 – feature-packed entry earbuds for both work and play

Jabra, a leader in personal sound and hybrid work solutions, is launching the Elite 4 earbuds, the latest addition to its unique Elite lineup. Following in the footsteps of the entry-level Elite 3, these affordable true wireless earbuds are a step up from its predecessor, ideal for the modern earbud user. At the push of a button, users can escape from a busy day by immersing themselves in media or connecting with colleagues, friends or family.  

The Elite 4 has been tailored to cover earbud essentials, such as comfort, optimal sound and convenience, all at a very reasonable price. For users that need to connect to two different devices simultaneously, the Jabra Elite 4 offers Bluetooth® Multipoint, facilitating smooth and stress-free switching, without skipping a beat. Even the initial pairing of earbuds to a device is simple, with Fast Pair connecting instantly to a mobile device and Swift Pair linking straight to a laptop or computer.  

Ready for travelling or commuting, the feedforward Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) in these earbuds filters out unwanted sounds, so distractions fade into a thing of the past. It doesn’t end there, as the Elite 4 are engineered for crystal-clear sound with 4-microphone call technology and 6mm speakers, so users can be rest assured that they too will be heard loud and clear. For those seeking tailored listening experiences, the Jabra music equaliser and intuitive Sound+ app lets users customise the sound to suit their individual tastes. Personalisation like this is key to creating an earbud experience that feels seamless.  

The Elite 4 last for 5.5 hours of play time on your chosen device, and 22 hours with the sleek case (28 hours with ANC off) – all while providing all-day wearing comfort with its Danish ergonomic acoustic engineering. The earbuds are made with premium durable materials that offer an IP55 durability rating against dust and water and come in four classic colors: Dark Gray, Navy, Lilac and Light Beige. 

Calum MacDougall, SVP at Jabra, said: “The modern earbud user is looking for tech that’s ready for work and play at their fingertips, whilst not compromising on key features. The Elite 4 offer a solution to this and is the perfect all-rounder, designed to help users to concentrate, connect, and call without distractions. It is the ideal companion to balance work and life.”    

Key features of the Elite 4:  

·                     Bluetooth® Multipoint means seamless switching between calls and apps 

·                     Fast Pair and Swift Pair* ensure instant connections to laptops/phones 

·                     Active Noise Cancellation blocks out background noise 

·                     Comfortable fit for all-day wearing 

·                     4-microphone technology for optimised call clarity 

·                     Up to 22 hours total battery with ANC on (28 hours ANC off) 

·                     Go solo feature to use either earbud for listening or taking calls while the other charges 

·                     Spotify Tap playback 

·                     Qualcomm® aptXä unlike competitors 

·                     IP55-rated rainproof protection, plus 2-year warranty** 

The Jabra Elite 4 is available in selected retailers, MSRP £99.99 / €99,99 

 Find out more about Jabra Elite 4 at www.jabra.co.uk/elite4