Category: Tech News

First LOOK – Fujifilm INSTAX MINI 12 Instant Camera and the new INSTAX UP App!

FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Division, has launched the new INSTAX MINI 12 Instant Camera (hereinafter “MINI 12”). Built with all the best bits of the popular INSTAX MINI instant camera series in mind, plus impressive upgrades, MINI 12 combines a fun aesthetic and enhanced features in a camera designed to fill the world with joy.

With its inflated, bubble design, MINI 12 carries over the main features of the most recent INSTAX MINI 11 Instant Camera (launched in 2020), including Close-Up/Selfie Mode and Auto Exposure adjustment capabilities, but also features a new Parallax Correction feature, in which the camera’s viewfinder aligns with the lens when using Close-Up Mode, reducing object shifts, resulting in a centered photo. MINI 12 also features automatic flash control, which helps create beautiful images in both bright or low-light situations. Its updated lens structure provides intuitive steps for both powering the camera on and off and accessing the popular Close-Up/Selfie Mode with a simple twist of the lens.

“The INSTAX MINI series has long been an incredibly popular choice to introduce the fun of instant cameras to photography lovers, old and new, thanks to its playful design, ease of use, and affordable price,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe.  “MINI 12 takes this series to the next level with an iconic bubble design that pops with joy and creativity. How you see the world is shaped by the lens you see it through, and MINI 12 brings users a new unique perspective.”

Five exciting colorways

MINI 12 will be available in Blossom Pink, Mint Green, Clay White, Lilac Purple, and Pastel Blue. It is expected to be available from 16th March 2023 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €90.00. The INSTAX MINI 12 will be available for purchase at FUJIFILMI stockists nationwide.  For more information, please visit  www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-12 

And that’s not all – FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Division, have also 

announced the launch of Fujifilm’s free, downloadable INSTAX UP! Smartphone App (hereinafter “INSTAX UP!”), designed for INSTAX instant photography fans to digitally scan, store, and share their photos in one place. 

With INSTAX UP! users can:

 

  • Scan their INSTAX prints and store them digitally in one place
  • Organize their photos by category/list views for easy locating
  • Easily share stored photos and collections via social media or text
  • Import photos from other INSTAX apps (INSTAX mini LINK, INSTAX Link WIDE etc.) into the INSTAX Up! 
  • Keep informed about the latest INSTAX updates, tips, and other creative content

INSTAX UP! has been developed with the help of consumer feedback; where users wanting to digitally store and share INSTAX prints have previously used simple smartphone picture taking of photographs. This technique can result in the glossy surface of the print to cause reflections, as well some distortion including loss of texture of the border film. INSTAX UP! simplifies and improves the process for storing your favourite INSTAX prints digitally and turning them into shareable posts.

“INSTAX UP! is a new solution that solves the problem of easily digitizing and sharing high-quality INSTAX prints,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe. “Enhancing the overall INSTAX experience, INSTAX UP! will enable instant photo fans to digitally organize and archive their creativity, and easily share their photos with the world, helping preserve special memories and inspire more.”

 

INSTAX UP! is available to download today. 

https://apps.apple.com/app/instax-up/id1664064756

OR 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fujifilm.instaxup

Unboxing Video 

 

Check Your Drink releases results of a nationwide survey on drink spiking

Ireland’s first drink spiking detection test, CYD Check Your Drink, has released the results of a nationwide survey on drink spiking, shedding light on the issue’s prevalence and impact on the Irish population.

According to the survey, more than half of respondents, at 57%, know someone who has been spiked in the past, while nearly 19% of respondents self-reported being spiked themselves. When asked about their feelings towards drink spiking, 54.15% of people said they were more afraid of being spiked now than in the last five years, while 30.77% reported having the same level of concern as before.

The survey indicates that the Irish population is more aware of drink spiking issues than before and recognises the need to address the problem.

Commenting on the research, Owen McKeon, CEO of Phrassa, CYD Check Your Drink states: “Our research clearly shows that drink spiking is a pervasive problem in Ireland, and it’s time we took action. We are extremely proud to offer a simple and effective solution that can help people protect themselves and prevent becoming victims. It’s our hope that Check Your Drink’s self-test kits will become a standard part of any night out, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a safe and positive social experience.”

Evolve IP To Celebrate The Power Of Partnerships With Tower Of London Event

Fast-growing global collaboration provider, Evolve IP, is hosting a special Partner Day at the Tower of London later this month to showcase the power of partnerships.

Leading industry names will gather at the iconic venue on March 23rd for a full day of insightful talks, interactive workshops and an evening of entertainment.

“Productive partnerships are becoming ever-more prevalent in today’s dynamic business world, where fluidity, versatility and innovation can help build long term sustainable success,” says Evolve IP’s EMEA Managing Director, Paul Harrison.

“We recognise the importance of partnerships which is a key cornerstone of our ethos and evolution. Partnerships help create best-of-breed solutions and can unlock new doors, opportunities and deliver greater customer value and service.”

Industry leaders

Evolve IP works with many of the world’s biggest tech companies and innovative industry leaders to create robust and reliable solutions for a growing reseller base. As a global collaboration provider it specialises in bringing together unified communications, collaboration tools, contact centre, voice, and omnichannel solutions securely into the cloud. 

Harrison continued: “It’s great to be able to host events like this again. This annual gathering is integral to building relationships with our partners as a team and understanding how we can best support them and their growth. We have some great talks planned and some enjoyable entertainment for the evening. It’s important we have fun on the day too.”

A mix of high profile Evolve IP technology partners will be in attendance, hosting talks and joining the exhibition space to help demonstrate their product suites and solutions. These feature Akixi, Enghouse, PRD, Dubber, Snom, Mondago, Poly and Tiger TMS.

The day will begin in the Armouries where guests will get the opportunity to meet vendors, learn about their latest solution updates and collaborate with technology partners. Attendees will then move to The Revellers, to wind down, watch the sunset over the Thames, and enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Evolve IP’s EMEA Managing Director, Paul Harrison.

Impressive impact

The iconic location has been specifically chosen, as Evolve IP wants to make an impressive statement of intent with its first event back since the pandemic. 

Harrison highlighted: “We want to make a big impact with our first event back. The team has grown and the business has come a long way since we last hosted an Evolve IP Partner Day in 2019. Members of our Netherlands team are coming over too, reflecting our growing presence not just in the UK but across EMEA.”

Evolve IP spent 2022 streamlining the business, simplifying messaging and growing its talented team. It says 2023 is going to be a big year for growth for both the company and its EMEA partners. Harrison concluded: “Our ultimate objective is to enhance today’s hybrid workplace and help make the future of work better for everyone. The Tower of London event provides the perfect platform to showcase strategies and plans for this year and beyond – reinforcing why partnerships take centre stage.”

 

To find out more about the Evolve IP Partner Day, visit: www.evolveip.net/en-gb/partner-day-2023 

 

Bank of Ireland announces 100 technology roles to accelerate digital delivery

Bank of Ireland has announced 100 new technology roles to further accelerate a range of digital projects across the Group. This follows the recruitment of 230 similar tech specialists since 2021.

The new roles – which include Cloud Platform Engineers, Cybersecurity experts, Data Infrastructure engineers, specialised Project Managers and Business Analysts – will be part of the Group’s Technology and Customer Solutions team.

Irish consumers are becomingly increasingly digital-led in their interactions with their financial services providers, and Bank of Ireland is once again expanding its digital and technology base with the creation of these new roles.  Last year, the Bank of Ireland mobile app was enhanced through the introduction of a new digital money management service which offers customers more than 40 insights into their spending.  The Bank processed 366 million contactless transactions, up 41% since 2021. Over 90% of everyday product applications are now digitised.

New hires will be involved in some of the Group’s most critical strategic initiatives. These include developing new customer features on digital channels, delivering against the Group’s Cloud Strategy, protecting customers against emerging cyber threats, and capabilities such as advanced data analytics.

Eimear Harty, HR Director, Group Technology & Customer Solutions said: “Bank of Ireland is one of the most attractive and dynamic places to build a career right now. We have some exciting digital projects underway across the Group, and we’re looking for talented specialists who want to drive improvements in the banking experience for millions of customers.

 “As well as interesting work, Bank of Ireland is a great place to grow your career. Colleagues benefit from some of the most progressive and inclusive workplace policies in the market, flexible working supported by a network of remote hubs, and competitive pay.

Banking is changing fast, it’s exciting, and these new positions will be at the forefront of advances in the sector. These new roles will further support our progress and momentum as we build a world-class, diverse technology team, delivering improvements for customers.”

Commenting on the announcement, Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation said: “I want to warmly welcome this investment and jobs announcement from Bank of Ireland. These are high value tech jobs and I am glad that Ireland has the talent and demand for this type of expansion.”

The roles will be recruited in line with the Bank’s flexible working policy, meaning applicants will be able to work from a combination of home and central office locations, as well as a network of 13 remote working hubs.

All new recruits will have day-one entitlement to Bank of Ireland’s suite of market-leading Family Matters policies including maternity and paternity leave, parents leave, foster care leave, early pregnancy loss, surrogacy, fertility leave, all of which are paid leave entitlements.

In addition, the Bank has also recently announced the introduction of a performance-related Profit Share Scheme. This will see colleagues rewarded by April 2024 based on both the financial and operating performance of the company and individual performance during 2023.

 To apply for roles currently live, click here:

IT, Digital and Analytics (bankofireland.com)

SHURE Announces New GLX-D+ DUAL BAND Wireless System

Shure introduced its new and improved GLX-D+ Dual Band Wireless system, providing the perfect solution for guitarists, bassists, vocalists, and presenters who want to go wireless with confidence and without complexity.

Introducing GLX-D+ Dual Band Wireless Technology

A major enhancement from the previous generation that more than doubles available bandwidth, the system’s new Dual Band Wireless Technology can operate in 2.4GHz and now 5.8GHz, providing reliable and consistent signal by automatically scanning for and selecting the cleanest available frequencies.  GLX-D+ Dual Band intelligently avoids interference and ensures dropouts won’t stop the show, enabling users to focus on performing while benefiting from superior, transparent wireless audio.

GLX-D+ is available in rack-mount, tabletop, and guitar pedal receiver options with a wide selection of lavalier, headset, and handheld microphone choices – including the legendary SM58®.

Always Charged When You Need It

End battery life uncertainty with GLX-D+ Dual Band rechargeable battery. Featuring improved battery life over the previous generation, GLX-D+ now offers up to 12 hours of runtime. The system’s useful quick charge capability provides 1.5 hours of use from a 15-minute charge, perfect for times when getting and staying on stage swiftly is a priority.

GLX-D+ features multiple smart rechargeability options. The new lithium-Ion SB904 battery can be charged directly on the tabletop and half-rack receivers or through a USB-C connector on the transmitter.

“Equipped with our legendary Shure audio technology, GLX-D+ users are guaranteed to experience exceptional digital wireless audio that captures their tone and includes everything you need for rechargeability in the box.”

– Mike Nagel, Associate Director of Product Management, Shure

For Those Who Always Have A Guitar Or Bass In Their Hands

Engineered in a rugged metal design that can be completely integrated into a pedalboard (9V DC power), the GLXD6+ Digital Wireless Guitar Pedal makes it easy for guitarists and bassists to go wireless without compromising tone or complicating their rigs.

The guitar pedal receiver includes a tuner and a new ¼” input for flexibility when wired practice and performance are preferred. Players can easily switch between two or more transmitters linked to a single receiver, making on-stage transitions between instrumentation seamless.

Rock-Solid RF Performance for Multiple System Installations

GLX-D+ Dual Band Wireless provides improved RF performance, antenna distribution, and automatic frequency management for up to 11 half-rack systems in typical environments (16 under optimal conditions). Separately available Frequency Manager (GLXD+FM) and directional antenna accessories are required.

“From modest concert halls and auditoriums to the largest global tours and stages – musicians, presenters, and houses of worship count on Shure wireless microphone systems to instill the confidence that their performances will be extraordinary. GLX-D+ provides an effortless setup, eliminating barriers to entry for those who want to take their first step on their wireless journey.”  – Eduardo Valdes, Associate Vice President of Global Marketing, Shure

Endlessly Customisable Wireless With Legendary Microphones

The tabletop and rack mountable GLX-D+ systems are available with three handheld wireless microphone options, including the legendary SM58, BETA® 58A, and BETA 87A.

GLX-D+ systems and components are available in various configurations designed to meet the needs of musicians and presenters. Since all GLX-D+ Dual Band Wireless systems operate in a license-free frequency range, users won’t have to worry about technical hurdles while traveling.

Curious about which GLX-D+ Digital Wireless System is best for you? Shure Support can help you identify the most suitable configuration for your needs.

Pricing and Availability: GLX-D+ Dual Band Wireless Systems will be available early Spring at Shure.com and select retailers starting at RRP  GBP 549.

Ørsted become first renewable energy sponsor of STEM showcase for young women

Leading global renewable energy company Ørsted, has become the first renewable energy company to sponsor the I Wish STEM showcase event which promotes careers in STEM to young women. The ninth annual I Wish STEM Showcase attracted 3,000 female students to the event in Dublin, with more than 15,000 attending virtually.

During the Girls in STEM 10 Fast Facts panel discussion, Olivia Roche, Project Developer at Ørsted spoke about her experience as a woman in STEM and the diversity of her role at Ørsted. She shared insights with those attending on the development of wind and solar farms in Ireland and globally, as well as the processes behind securing land, engaging with communities, and working with planners and environmental experts to assess projects’ possible impacts. Ørsted has to date invested over €500m in Irish renewables, managing 10% of the total wind assets across the island of Ireland which is equivalent to powering over 250,000 homes. Their Irish headquarters are based in Cork City, where it employs 90 people. 

Dell unveils refreshed XPS Desktop, XPS 15 and XPS 17

Dell Technologies has unveiled details of the refreshed XPS Desktop and the refreshed XPS 15 and 17 laptops. The new portfolio of devices features 13th Gen Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics, in a move that promises a powerful performance and exceptional graphics to fuel intensive creative projects.

XPS Desktop

From the prestigious XPS portfolio comes the latest and most powerful XPS Desktop yet, now equipped with up to 13th Gen Intel®Core™i9k processors, up to NVIDIA®GeForce RTX™4090 or AMD Radeon™RX 6900 XT graphics and DDR5 memory, with up to a 60% faster clock speed than DDR4.

In addition, Dell has made a few updates to the exterior design including an aluminium bezel and refined front grille, as well as new colours, Graphite and Platinum. The desktop is available with liquid cooling and new side venting on the XPS DT to provide extra cooling.

It will be launching first with 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and NVIDIA 4080/4090, however, the remaining configurations will be made available in mid-2023.

XPS 15 & 17

 Whether streaming or editing photos, the XPS 15 and XPS 17 are beautifully designed, high-performance machines that are built to fuel intensive creative projects. Now outfitted with the latest 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and NVIDIA® 40 Series GPUs, these laptops intersect cutting-edge technology, artful craftsmanship and stunning displays to deliver the best experience for content creators on-the-move.

The XPS 15 is the perfect balance of power and portability with an unrivalled immersive visual and sound experience. The XPS 15 delivers high performance in a thin design thanks in part to thermal engineering. Along with dual fans and heat pipes, hidden exhaust vents in the hinge also help with airflow and a slight ramp aids in lifting more heat out.

The XPS 17 on the other hand is Dell’s most powerful XPS laptop yet, with extreme power to fuel the most intensive creative pursuits. The XPS 17 with DDR5 memory has up to 50% faster clock speed than DDR4 memory.

Both devices sport the Dell Performance application, which allows users to customise their laptop’s performance to suit specific needs. Default optimised mode enables the best balance of performance and thermals.

Pricing and Availability

  • The XPS Desktop is available for purchase today, starting from €1,137.40 excluding VAT.
  • XPS 15 and XPS 17 will be available for purchase on March 7th. Pricing is to be announced upon release.

Skullcandy and burton reveal limited-edition collaboration

Skullcandy, the #1 selling brand in true wireless earbuds under $100, announced today its all-new collaboration with Burton, the world’s leading snowboard brand. The limited-edition collection includes Skullcandy fan-favorites Crusher Evo true wireless headphones, along with Push Active and Mod true wireless earbuds. Each offering features a bold asymmetrical aesthetic in a unique Naughty Nature colorway inspired by nature’s wild energy and the drive to push boundaries on and off the mountain. The collaboration is available globally, exclusively on Skullcandy.com.

“Jake Burton Carpenter spent more than four decades advancing snowboard design and fighting for lift access for snowboarders at resorts around the world. Skullcandy was born on one of those chairlifts. Without Burton, snowboarding wouldn’t be what it is today. In a way, Skullcandy might not be either,” said Derek Steiner, director of global brand partnerships, Skullcandy.

Both a Skullcandy and Burton ambassador, Olympic Gold Medalist and three-time female Snowboarder of the Year Anna Gasser, lends her image to the Skullcandy x Burton collaboration. She not only drives progress in her sport but in her community as well, pushing boundaries and inspiring up-and-comers to follow their dreams.

“With similar backgrounds and philosophies, this collaboration with Burton has been a long time coming,” Steiner continued. “A collection with a look this loud, needs serious performance to back it up and Skullcandy’s Crusher Evo, Push Active and Mod deliver just that. We hope this unique collab inspires our fans to express themselves on the mountain and in life, always daring to venture down the road less traveled.” 

The limited-edition Crusher Evo, Push Active and Mod true wireless solutions feature a uniquely-wild asymmetrical look with a Naughty Nature peach, pink and purple cheetah-print on one side and olive green on the other, channelling the fierce energy brewed within those who venture off the beaten path. The design takes inspiration from Burton’s Rewind and Name Dropper board graphics.

Additional features of the Skullcandy x Burton limited-edition drop include:

Skullcandy x Burton Crusher Evo True Wireless Earbuds –  £179.99 RRP

  • Personal Sound with Skullcandy App

  • Crusher Adjustable Sensory Bass

  • 40 Hours of Battery + Rapid Charge

  • Call, Track and Volume Control

  • Built-in Tile™ Finding Technology

  • Flat-Folding and Collapsible

Skullcandy x Burton Push Active True Wireless Earbuds – £79.99

  • Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology

  • Hands-free voice control

  • Up to 44 hours total battery + rapid charge

  • IP55 sweat and water resistant

  • Flexible, over-ear hooks for a secure, exercise-focused fit

  • Update features with the Skullcandy App

  • Built-in Tile® finding technology

Skullcandy x Burton Mod True Wireless Earbuds – £54.99 RRP

  • Multipoint Pairing

  • Clear Voice Smart Mic

  • Adjustable Stay-Aware Mode

  • Customization via Skullcandy App

  • Up to 34 Hours of Battery Life + USB-C Rapid Charging Case

  • True Wireless via Bluetooth® 5.2

  • Auto On/Connect

  • IP55 Sweat and Water Resistance

  • Built-in Tile® finding technology

For more information visit Skullcandy.com or follow along on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

PSB Speakers, Sonical and MQA announce partnership to create next-generation headphones

PSB Speakers, together with hearables start-up Sonical and audio specialists MQA, announced a partnership that will define a new category of high-resolution audio headphones. The product combines high resolution wireless transmission, proven high-fidelity design, and Sonical’s CosmOS platform. Released under the PSB Speakers brand by Q1 2024, it will be the first headphone to feature Sonical’s ear computing platform, enabling a variety of apps and software upgrades. It also includes MQA’s latest technology, SCL6, the most advanced codec for adaptive, high-resolution audio streaming.

CosmOS is Sonical’s revolutionary operating system that runs on powerful low wattage processing cores, bringing unprecedented levels of connectivity and computational power to headphones. CosmOS offers mobile audio product manufacturers the versatility to keep pace with rapidly changing consumer demands for convenience and performance. The integration of Qorvo’s Ultra-wideband (UWB) radio technology enables a superior audio experience thanks to UWB’s higher data rate and extremely low latency. Using Antennaware’s UWB antenna directly addresses any issues associated with Body Blocking which could occur with wireless wearable devices.

Canada-based PSB Speakers, a pioneer in psychoacoustics and an early brand to create audiophile grade wireless headphones, will innovate through deep relationships with Sonical and MQA to push the boundaries of mobile listening. The product will utilize MQA’s new technology, SCL6, an innovative, time domain-based codec for the highest quality audio streaming. Developed by industry veteran and MQA founder, Bob Stuart, SCL6 ensures high-resolution sound even at low data rates.

“Given PSB Speakers’ long-time commitment to the science of audio and music listening, it’s a pleasure to be in this partnership which shows the world what CosmOS can do,” says Gary Spittle, Founder and CEO of Sonical.

“Our use of the CosmOS platform to make the world’s first software defined wireless headset and the inclusion of MQA’s adaptive wireless codec helps set a new benchmark for a high resolution, mobile high-fidelity product. We believe this product underscores what Paul Barton and the PSB team have accomplished over the brand’s 50-year history in the pursuit of audio excellence for listeners at home and now on the move,” says Gordon Simmonds, President and CEO of Lenbrook Industries, PSB Speakers’ parent company.

“MQA was founded by one of the great innovators in audio. We design by thinking of the consumer experience first which means we are comfortable challenging the status quo. The vision shared by our partners at PSB Speakers and Sonical, bringing together superior audio quality and the next generation of consumer convenience, makes this a perfect fit for our latest technology SCL6,” says Mike Jbara, CEO of MQA.