Category: Tech News

Stylish Twelve South accessories for iPhone 14 and new Apple Watch

With the Apple iPhone 14 series now out we always see a raft of new products, not only that we have the new Apple watch series out too so of course the same follows suit. Twelve South are here again with a range of products to make life better and easier for you and here is what is on offer now and of course products for you to check out, Twelve South make high quality accessories and we can vouch for them over the years and stay tuned for some reviews coming soon here.

Charge your new iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods simultaneously with this stylish wireless charging stand and storage solution from Twelve South. Available in black or white, the elegant vertical design of the HiRise 3 allows users to charge all three devices while taking up less desk space than an iPhone, and using only one single plug. It’s the perfect solution for freeing nightstands and desks from the clutter of numerous charging cables.

 

HiRise 3 holds an iPhone upright while charging, allowing users to easily read notifications, tap the snooze button or make a FaceTime call – all without having to lift their phone. Its elevated charging pad is reserved for MagSafe iPhones (including new iPhone 14 models), and is also compatible with MagSafe cases. The base pad charges any wireless-capable AirPods, iPhones and smartphones, and is compatible with thin shells. The small shelf at the top of HiRise 3 is compatible with all versions of Apple Watch (including the new Series 8).

BookBook case for iPhone 14/14 Pro

Price: £54.99

Available from Amazon UK (due in November- samples available for older iPhones)

 

A staple in the Twelve South cases collection, this MagSafe compatible 3-in-1 leather case, wallet and viewing stand blends modern technology with the look and feel of a vintage book. The premium leather not only looks great, it also disguises your new iPhone, deterring thieves.

The case is packed with useful features for iPhone 14 too. Keep your Apple Card and other credit/membership cards safe with the wallet section or separate the magnetic shell to keep the phone protected while using it in the gym or docked in a car holder. The camera cut-out is precise, offering protection while ensuring it doesn’t encroach your best shots. The case also folds to serve as a viewing stand so users can watch their favourite movies and TV shows while on the move.

You can also use the BookBook shell with MagSafe accessories, without removing the phone. Available for iPhone 14 and 14 Pro models.

Forte MagSafe stand

Price: £39.95

Available from Apple

Forté is a modern desktop charging stand made exclusively for iPhones with MagSafe, including the new 14 models.  Snap an Apple MagSafe Charger (not included) into Forté for a clever way to dock the iPhone while it wirelessly charges. Creating a magnetic platform, Forté can securely hold the iPhone vertically or horizontally, making it ideal for hands-free use and perfect for streaming shows or for FaceTime calls. The platform can be tilted up to 70-degrees so users can find the perfect viewing angle or use it as a charging pedestal for their AirPods.

Twelve South ActionSleeve 2

Price: £34.99

Available from Amazon.co.uk

Great for fitness fans, the ActionSleeve 2 is a fabric armband that safely houses Apple Watch and can be worn on the upper arm or bicep. It’s ideal for sports like kickboxing, weightlifting and crossfit training where protective sports gear and full wrist mobility is often needed, ruling out the use of the Apple Watch on the wrist.

ActionSleeve 2 is made from a hand-washable non-allergenic material that is soft against the skin. Extra fabric is placed beneath the hardware to eliminate any rubbing or pinching.  Whether cycling, playing golf, doing yoga or weights, users will be able to move more naturally without the Apple Watch getting in the way of their workout.

The 41mm and 45mm models are compatible with Apple Watch Series 8 (as well as 7).

Twelve South ActionBand for Apple Watch

Price: £24.99

Available from: Amazon

The Twelve South ActionBand keeps Apple Watch safe while running while also doubling up as a regular sweat band to keep your cool in hotter climates. Offering comfort while exercising, it has a protective frame to keep Apple Watch safe, clean, secure and pressed against your skin to track your progress.

ActionBand includes one pair of machine-washable wristbands, one with an Apple Watch frame, one without so you can wear one on both wrists. Available in 40mm and 44mm sizes and 41mm and 45mm for the series 7 and 8.

Nokia Mobile Dublin Launch event October 2022

Today Nokia Mobile (HMD Global) had a private launch event in Dublin, Check out the products on show and stay tuned for more soon on here and techbuzzireland.com One message Nokia made clear at this launch is sustainability and being eco friendly as you will see with their new packaging and a clean portfolio of devices you will recognise unlike other that flood the market with multiple devices.

There is a phone for everyone here at all price points and send a message, feature phones is one great place to start for a digital detox yet giving you the basics and my pics is the Nokia 5710 Express Audio which combines two products in one, that being earbuds built into the device itself and the earbuds will work with other products too and not just the phone itself..

Check out a quick video below at what is on offer and stay tuned for more and reviews coming soon. I have been an avid Nokia fan over the years and own a huge collection of devices from yesteryear which I plan to take a look down memory lane soon here and on our YouTube channel.

Video Link 

 

Dell Unveils New Upgrades to Alienware Flagship Desktop, Reveals Tenkeyless Keyboard and New QD-OLED Display

Dell Technologies has today unveiled a revamped Alienware Aurora R15 with next-gen tech, the first-ever Tenkeyless (TKL) keyboard, and a new QD-OLED gaming monitor.

Alienware Aurora

The new Alienware Aurora R15 desktop sees a significant performance boost, thanks to the latest 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors, NVIDIA® GeForce RTX® 40 Series GPUs and an armada of system refinements.

To achieve higher thermal efficiency and help ensure peak performance, Dell has equipped 240mm liquid cooling, five 120mm fan and a hexagonal side-venting to generate additional airflow. A 12-phase, processor, voltage regulation helps enable long-lasting peak performance, while a voltage regulator heatsinks on the motherboard help ensure maximum cooling.

The device also sports a 80 Plus Platinum-rated power supply, an increased memory speed to DDR5 4800MHz (or MT/s) and defined memory architecture that enables the highest speed UDIMM for faster performance.

With these advancements, Dell is delivering 58% more power to the processor, obtaining double digit performance improvements, and simultaneously running the CPU up to 5˚ Celsius cooler.

The Aurora R15 now also includes up to a 1350W power supply (up from 1000W in the previous generation), designed to support NVIDIA’s flagship GeForce RTX® 4090 graphics card. addition to offering NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series and 30 Series GPUs, Aurora R15 will also be configurable with AMD Radeon™ RX 6000 Series graphics.

Alienware’s first-ever Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard

Alienware’s new space-saving Tenkeyless Gaming Keyboard (AW420K) helps users win back valuable desktop real estate while staying at the top of their game. Whether curating a minimal desk setup or looking for more room to manoeuvre your mouse, this smaller form factor design drops the number pad to maximise space and free up more area for fast-action swipes. Promoting a clean and organised gaming environment, the AW420K makes cable management simple and versatile.

Another benefit to this compact keyboard is that it’s more travel friendly than its full-size siblings. When packing up, users can remove the USB paracord cable for easier storage.

 

Outfitted with a robust suite of technology, the AW420K delivers a typing experience that is responsive, consistent, and long-lasting. Industry-leading CHERRY MX Red switches provide incredible reliability and durability with their gold-based cross-point contact system. The thick gold layer makes the electrical contact enclosure self-cleaning and gives the key switch permanent protection against corrosion, guaranteeing more than 100 million actuations without loss of quality.

New QD-OLED monitor

After unveiling the world’s first QD-OLED gaming monitor earlier this year – subsequently named Tom’s Guide Product of the Year and GamesRadar+ Best Ultrawide Monitor – Dell is continuing to expand its QD-OLED offerings with the introduction of a new Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor (AW3423DWF).

For those seeking increased realism the Alienware 34” Curved QD-OLED Gaming Monitor delivers stunning picture quality and ultra-smooth frame rates that transform the entire gaming experience. Just like the previously launched AW3423DW model, this new monitor offers the same impressive picture qualities of Quantum Dot-OLED technology including consistent colour uniformity, wide colour coverage, deep black tones and incredible brightness. With WQHD (3440 x 1440) resolution and blazing-fast 0.1ms GtG response time, gamers can stay ahead of the competition without stuttering, input lag or motion blur while playing fast-paced games. It also supports the latest generation of consoles with VRR up to 120Hz.

Available in dark side of the moon colour and now with a slimmer design to facilitate easier wall mounting. It ships standard with 3-year limited hardware warranty.

Pricing and availability

  • All three new devices will be available later this autumn with pricing to be revealed closer to availability.

 

Cyber security in the post-pandemic world, headlines the agenda for the Integrity360 Security Roadshow 2022

Integrity360, UK and Ireland’s largest cyber security services specialist, has announced the agenda for the launch of its Security First Roadshow 2022 that will take place on 5 different dates, across 5 different locations around the UK and Ireland. Post pandemic cyber security will headline the event, as Richard Ford, CTO at Integrity360, discusses the difficulties posed by the rise of remote working and puts Identity, Data and the Cloud front and centre, as organisations struggle to get to grips with the challenges.

Commencing on Wednesday 5th October in Reading, the half-day conferences (10am-2pm) will bring together industry professionals and experts to discuss the key topics effecting businesses today; from the challenges of managing remote working, to ransomware. and will give attendees’ advice and support on how to establish a security first strategy across their businesses.

Other items on the agenda will include thought provoking keynote sessions from leading cyber security specialists, alongside inciteful panel discussion and debates. The events are being sponsored by Integrity360’s cutting edge, market leading partners.

Senior experts from Integrity360 and their industry partners such as Deep Instinct, Rapid7, Mimecast, Check Point, XM Cyber and Trellix will take to the panel to provide insights on topics such as whether ransomware can put you out of business and consider the real impacts and cost of a ransomware attack.

Richard Ford, Integrity360’s CTO, says: “Threats, solutions and the costs involved, are elements that evolve as fast as the attacks that come before them. Tackling some of these vital topics is crucial and we must be prepared to get ahead of the game and put security first.”

“The success of the Security First conference earlier this year was the fuel we needed to take the show on the road. It’s a great opportunity to join forces with some of our key partners and customers to make our voices heard and share industry knowledge and advice across the UK and Ireland.

“Our recognition as a Representative Vendor in the 2022 Gartner Market Guide for Managed Security Services (MSS) and Managed SIEM, earlier this year was further testament to our growth and knowledge of the security industry and our need to continue to educate on these issues.”

The content of the Security First Roadshow is relevant to all organisations and is designed to meet the needs of professionals who have responsibility for managing cyber security, governance, compliance, risk management and IT operations.
Registration is open here.

Fairphone continues quest for device longevity by selling refurbished phones

Fairphone, the Dutch social enterprise building a market for ethical smartphones, will today start selling refurbished devices – Fairphone 3, New Life Edition – via its website, originally released in September 2019.

In line with Fairphone’s mission to promote longevity in smartphones to reduce e-waste and save valuable resources, the refurbished phones will complement the existing offer of new Fairphone devices currently available.

These pre-owned phones have been refurbished in France and tested to ensure 100% functionality. They come with a new or almost-new battery, guaranteeing at least 80% of the original capacity. They have the same 2-year manufacturing warranty originally reserved for new devices of this model. The amount of refurbished phones is limited and will be sold while stocks last. Refurbished Fairphone3+ devices will be available in the coming weeks

Its modular design also allows for easier refurbishing and upgrading, since broken parts can be replaced. The company gives refurbished Fairphone devices a second life, a logical step in its quest for device longevity and a circular economy.

About Fairphone

Fairphone is building a market for ethical phones and motivating the industry to act more responsibly. We design, produce and sell smartphones to uncover the supply chain behind our products, raise awareness for the most urgent issues, and prove that it’s possible to do things differently. Together with our partners and collaborators, we’re working to make caring for people and the planet a natural part of doing business.

Sony Expands Cinema Line with New 4K Super 35 Camera, the FX30 for Future Filmmakers

Sony has just announced the newest addition to the brand’s prestigious Cinema Line – the FX30 (model ILME-FX30). The new FX30 is a 4K Super 35 compact cinema camera that offers many professional features of the Cinema Line, such as Dual Base ISO, Log shooting modes, and user-imported LUTs (Look Up Tables) at a price point that appeals to many aspiring filmmakers.

In addition to introducing the new FX30, Sony announced two new CFexpress Type A Memory Cards – CEA-G320T and CEA-G640T. Both are large capacity cards that support high-speed performance with high-speed performance in both reading and writing.

“The new FX30 is a great fit for anyone looking to get started in filmmaking,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of IP&S Marketing at Sony Europe. “It features many of the professional features of our high-end cameras at a price point that makes it easily accessible for filmmakers at any level. This camera is an excellent starting point to our full line-up of Cinema Line Cameras.”

Creating a Cinematic Look

The FX30 offers up-and-coming filmmakers’ cinematic expression with the latest imaging systems. It features a new back-illuminated 20.1 megapixels APS-C Exmor R™ CMOS sensor (Super 35 format) with a dual base ISO (800/2500) to deliver high sensitivity, low noise, and 14+ stops of latitude.

The ILME-FX30 supports a variety of video recording codecs. It can shoot 4K Super 35 (16:9) by oversampling from 6K at up to 60fps. The ILME-FX30B also features the ability to shoot in high frame rates, including 4K at 120fps and full HD at 240fps. Both16:9 recording modes can shoot at 10-bit 4:2:2 while an HDMI Type-A connector can be used to output 4K, 16-bit RAW to an external recorder.

Like the rest of the Cinema Line, the FX30 features Log shooting modes by enabling Cine El, Cine El Quick, and Flexible ISO modes for recording with the S-Log3 gamma curve, which allows more flexibility when colour grading. All three modes allow video shooting while monitoring with an appropriate LUT to preview the final image. In addition, the FX30 includes a selection of built-in cinematic looks, such as Sony’s S-Cinetone™, and can shoot single stills. The camera offers advanced image processing capabilities with the BIONZ XR processing engine for natural gradations and realistic colour reproduction.

Designed to Support the Creators’ Needs

The FX30 features Sony’s fast and reliable autofocus, with settings including:

  • Real-time Eye AF (human, animal, or bird
  • Real-time Tracking
  • Detailed AF settings
  • AF Assist

Creatives also have more control when using the Focus Map, which makes it easy to visualise depth of field, and Breathing Compensation offers a stable angle of view when focusing. The camera also includes effective stabilisation for run and gun shoots using Active Mode thanks to the optical in-body 5-axis image stabilisation and time code sync.

The FX30 incorporates other features that retain the spirit of the Cinema Line, including:

  • New customisable list-style main menu screen which provides quick access to frequently used items
  • New standby movie screen that provides an unobstructed view of the subject
  • Buttons and dials dedicated to movie shooting

The FX30 also includes added functionality to assist with the creative workflow, such as post-production editing using embedded LUT, and EI metadata. This metadata is available using the latest version of Sony’s Catalyst Prepare or Catalyst Browse applications. A new “Catalyst Prepare Plugin” for Adobe Premiere Pro was released in August.

Easy Operation and a Compact Form Factor

Compact and lightweight, the FX30 has a flat-top design with threaded accessory attachment points, making it easy to use for shooting handheld, capturing low-angle shots, mounting on a gimbal, or adding accessories. The FX30 also features an XLR handle unit which can be used to capture low-angle shots and also allows filmmakers to capture crystal clear audio through various audio inputs, including two XLR audio inputs and a 3.5 mm stereo mini jack for 4-channel recording. External microphones can be connected directly to the camera via the Multi Interface Shoe or microphone jack. The FX30 also features an internal stereo microphone for audio recording.

The FX30 and FX30B are equipped with two memory card slots that are compatible with both CFexpress Type A cards and SDXC/SDHC cards, bringing a wide range of shooting experiences to creators. The FX30 is also compatible with the newly announced large capacity CFexpress Type A memory cards.

The FX30 offers not only advanced performance but also outstanding reliability. It features an innovative heat dissipation structure for uninterrupted 4K/60p recording, reliable power for extended recording, and a durable magnesium alloy chassis. A comprehensive selection of E-mount lenses, high-performance microphones, and other essential components gives creators extraordinarily flexible systems for a broad range of creative needs.

Sony Future Filmmaker Awards

 The new FX30 is an ideal choice for filmmakers that are actively working on or considering an entry into the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards, a major new annual awards program for short films.  Sponsored by Sony and free to enter, the Awards set out to elevate original voices from around the globe with a fresh perspective on storytelling.  For more information, please visit: www.sonyfuturefilmmakerawards.com/

Pricing and Availability

The new FX30 will be available in late October for approximately £2,100/€2,300. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers throughout Europe.

The FX30 enables ultimate creative freedom and comes with an option to purchase with or without the XLR handle.

The new FX30B will also be available in late October for approximately £2,500/€2,800. It will be sold at a variety of Sony’s authorised dealers throughout Europe.

For detailed product information,  visit: https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/professional-video-cameras/ilme-fx30

The FX30 will also be compatible with the new version of Camera Remote SDK (Version 1.06), a development kit for software that enables remote operation and configuration changes.

Konftel Helps Fast-Growing Reseller Capture Conferencing Success

Conferencing specialist Konftel is forging a productive partnership with a fast-growing reseller, which has become an official supply partner – to trigger a new wave of sales success.

Exitech Digital is an innovative digital products supply and installation company based in Ballygawley, Northern Ireland, with clients across the Republic of Ireland, Scotland and England.  

General Manager, George Condell, says that after supplying Konftel products for over a year, the company is delighted to become an official partner across its entire collaboration range.

Condell stated that as a digital equipment supply and installation company it is critical to source the best equipment at an affordable price for customers.  

“After testing a range of other manufacturers with limited success and mixed feedback from clients, we were fortunate to come across Konftel and as a result we are now supplying and installing the entire range which has provided a dramatic rise in our sales success as we continue to develop this side of our business.”

He continued: “Client feedback has been very positive as the Konftel product quality is second to none. Following installations by Exitech Digital, clients consistently comment on the fantastic quality of the video and audio pickup compared to their previous solutions.”

Konftel Audio Dynamite

Konftel’s high quality ‘Bring Your Own Meeting’ video solutions where users start remote meetings via their own laptop have earned plenty of plaudits whilst its new Attach video kits for in-room PC-based locations are set to further accelerate growth.

Konftel’s support structure is’ fantastic’ too, according to Condell who concluded: “As Exitech Digital supply, install and setup the equipment while also providing training to our customers it is of utmost importance that we have reliable technical support from the manufacturer.

“In this respect Konftel have always provided a fast and responsive service which is critical when resolving client issues should they arise. Overall, Exitech Digital is delighted to be supplying Konftel products and looking forward to a bright and innovative future with the company.”

His positive comments were echoed by Konftel’s UK Sales Director, Jeff May, who commented: “We are delighted by the positive impact we are making with Exitech Digital as a powerful partnership continues to flourish. Video meetings have become the de facto standard for many organisations and Exitech Digital is forging many new business opportunities, spearheaded by our product range.”

Creative Launches Katana V2X Soundbar

Creative Technology today announced the release of Sound Blaster Katana V2X, its latest gaming soundbar which offers the same all-conquering audio prowess that the Katana series is known for, and has been re-engineered to not just suit users with smaller spaces for their gaming set-ups, but is also easier on the pocket.

It is the slimmed-down alternative to the highly-rated Sound Blaster Katana V2 which has won various plaudits from reviewers as a choice gaming soundbar, including ‘The best soundbar for gaming is now even better’ (Windows Central), ‘The best PC upgrade you can make’ (VentureBeat), ‘An excellent soundbar for PC gaming and all other media’ (GamesRadar+).

 

Sound Blaster Katana V2X features a slimmer subwoofer ideal for tighter spaces.

A cluttered desktop or TV console may not be the fancy of every gamer – Sound Blaster Katana V2X frees up valuable footprint with a subwoofer that is 40% smaller than its predecessor. The peak power output of 180W makes perfect sense for gaming set-ups in smaller rooms.

That said, the audio quality is maintained where it always matters. This soundbar retains the familiar sound signature of a high-end Sound Blaster, delivering hi-fidelity multichannel audio via the acclaimed tri-amplified Xamp technology, where Creative’s proprietary multi-core DSP controller powers the tweeters, mid-range and subwoofer drivers individually. Super X-Fi Headphone Holography, an award-winning technology which recreates the soundstage of a high-end multi-speaker system in headphones, is perfect for late-night game binges without disturbing the neighbors.

Avid FPS gamers gain an edge in enemy-spotting with special gaming audio modes. SXFI BATTLE Mode enhances in-battle audio cues, both for directionality and distance, while Scout Mode focuses on sound detection so that opponents are heard before they are seen moving on screen.

The cinematic experience is not just limited to gaming – with the integrated Dolby Audio decoder, users get to enjoy Sound Blaster Katana V2X while movie-binging on streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime.

Users can make this soundbar their very own when connected to the Creative app, by customizing the audio via the Acoustic Engine suite and choosing their favorite RGB illumination modes. These settings can be saved as customized profiles on either the app or the programmable buttons on the remote control.

There are various connectivity options to choose from, including HDMI ARC and optical ports, wireless Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C port for USB audio support, 3.5mm AUX-in and SXFI-out for certified Super X-Fi products. This versatile soundbar is compatible with desktops and consoles alike, including PC, Mac, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One and Nintendo Switch.

Pricing and Availability

Sound Blaster Katana V2X is priced at £ 259.99 and is available at Creative.com.

For more information, visit www.creative.com/KatanaV2X.

Tronsmart Launches Bang Mini Portable Party Speaker With Punchy Bass

Tronsmart, an established audio brand specializing in premium Bluetooth headsets and speakers, has expanded its business across over 90 countries. The global expansion is synchronous with the release of its latest portable party speaker with a handle, called ‘Bang Mini’. The speaker is available at  $89.99 on Amazon US, £89.99 on Amazon UK, and €99.99 on Amazon ES. 

Besides, three promotions are available to celebrate the launch from September 28 to October 13. Customers will receive 15% off their entire order when they purchase one Bang Mini speaker. A 20% discount will be applied to orders containing two Bang Mini speakers. Customers who purchase a Bang Mini speaker at its full price, they will receive a red Tronsmart Trip speaker for free. Get details and coupon code on Tronsmart website before purchasing. 

“Following on the heels of our 2021 outdoor party speaker, Bang, we wanted to design a shrunken-down, more portable edition for people on the go,” said Eric Cheng. “We shaved off three inches and more than a pound to make it the perfect companion for parties and picnics. Moreover, with its IPX6 waterproof rating, music lovers can eligibly take it with them to the beach or by the pool without worrying about spills, splashes, or sand.”

Bang Mini offers great specs and exceptional stereo sound, with no bulk. It leverages Tronsmart’s proprietary SoundPulse® Audio, which has three main characteristics. Firstly, it’s designed to counteract harmonic distortion and eliminate noise, making the vocals gentler, the sound richer, and allowing listeners to enjoy their music for a longer period. Secondly, SoundPulse technology changes the sound output position of the chamber to the front of the speaker, broadening the sound range to fill the entire room with quality vocals and strengthening the stereo sound effect. Thirdly, SoundPulse technology offers an enhanced bass effect. A common problem for full-range speakers is the inability to produce high-pitched vocals and deep bass simultaneously. SoundPulse® technology allows differences in sound to be processed separately. This means the bass can be enhanced while managing to produce high-pitched vocals as well.

Perhaps Bang Mini’s most eye-catching feature lies in its beat-driven light show mode. The speaker has seven neon-colored lights that react to the rhythm of the music playing. Users can freely switch among circling, breathing, and beat-driven patterns. Furthermore, NFC seamless pairing quickly connects to your device with one touch. Other features include stereo pairing, a long 49-foot range, up to 15 hours of playtime, Bluetooth 5.3, and a built-in powerbank to give the mobile device a boost. The speaker measures just 11.9” long and weigh 5.22lbs.

“Bang Mini offers 50W of popping sound thanks to two independent speaker cavities,” continued Eric Cheng. “The front cavity houses two mid tweeters and one passive radiator that offer crystal clear treble in superior clarity. The rear cavity presents punchy bass via two woofers. The end result? Listeners can pump out the volume in a party ambiance, without carrying around a bulkier speaker.”

Check out our review here