Category: Tech News

ŌURA Debuts Oura Ring 4 Ceramic in Striking New Colours

ŌURA, maker of the world’s leading smart ring, introduced Oura Ring 4 Ceramic in Tide, Petal, Cloud, and Midnight colours. Crafted from high-performance ceramic, the new Oura Ring combines advanced health technology with refined design. ŌURA is also giving members more flexibility and access to personalised health insights.

The new Oura Ring 4 Charging Case makes it easier to charge on the go, while a new multi-ring-support software feature allows members to connect multiple Oura Ring devices to a single account and switch among them effortlessly. These new products give members more ways to integrate ŌURA into their lifestyle, adapt to their routines, and deepen their understanding of their health.

“At ŌURA, we believe that health is deeply personal and intricately woven into everyday life,” said Tom Hale, chief executive officer at ŌURA. “Today’s announcements mark a significant leap forward in empowering our members to take charge of their well-being. The refined elegance and resilience of the Ceramic Collection, the freedom to switch rings to match personal style, and the convenience of portable charging all contribute to a truly individualised experience.

Together, these innovations offer unparalleled flexibility and personalisation to our members—whether through design that reflects their identity or data that reflects their bodies—giving them the confidence to take control of their health on their own terms, in their own style, every single day.”

Oura Ring 4 Ceramic: Refined Elegance Meets Everyday Durability

Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is a smart ring made from high-performance zirconia ceramic—a material prized in fine jewellery for its durability, lightweight comfort, and biocompatibility. Meticulously shaped and fortified using a time-honoured ceramic firing process that strengthens the material and delivers a smooth, polished finish, the Ceramic Collection is designed to stand up to daily life while blending style and function.

Its four distinctive colours—Tide, Petal, Cloud, and Midnight —were inspired by traditional ceramics around the world and chosen to complement a wide range of skin tones and personal styles, enhancing self-expression while delivering all of the innovative Smart Sensing capabilities of Oura Ring 4. Unlike painted or coated finishes, the colour is created with minerals inherent to the ceramic material itself, ensuring the colour remains rich and vibrant without fading over time.

“Oura Ring sits at the intersection of technology, health, jewellery, fashion, and industrial design,” said Miklu Silvanto, chief design officer at ŌURA. “Ceramic is a remarkable material that gives us the freedom to explore form, colour, and texture in a way that feels deeply personal. By merging tradition with innovation and pairing it with the most advanced technology, we’ve created a ring that is as sophisticated in its design as it is in function—refined, enduring, and distinctive. Our goal is to make this wearable technology as beautiful and expressive as the jewellery we cherish.”

Oura Ring 4 Ceramic comes with a Ceramic Polishing Pad, gifted with purchase, that easily shines Oura Ring 4 Ceramic by wiping off scuffs that may be left behind by softer, less-tough metals, like those found in dumbbells or cookware.

Building on Ceramic: New Tools for a More Flexible ŌURA Experience

To complement the Ceramic Collection, ŌURA is making it easier for members to integrate Oura Ring into their lives, no matter their style, schedule, or location:

  • Oura Ring 4 Charging Case: For members who live life on the go, this new portable charging case stores up to five full ring charges, fits easily into a pocket or bag, and charges with a USB-C cord. Both the case and Oura Ring fully charge in 90 minutes. The outside of the case is made from recycled aluminium for durability and splash resistance, and the charging case can serve as a secure and well-designed storage solution for any of your Oura Ring devices when not being worn.
  • Multiple Oura Ring 4 styles supported under a single account: Members can now pair and switch between different Oura Ring 4 colours under a single account. Whether switching for a workout or matching an outfit, the transition is simple, ensuring uninterrupted health tracking across Oura Ring devices and giving members new flexibility to match their Oura Ring to their devices.

Pricing and Availability

  • Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is available in four colours–Midnight, Petal, Cloud, and Tide–and twelve sizes (4 to 15).
    • Oura Ring 4 Ceramic is €549. Both Oura Ring and Oura Membership are HSA- and FSA-eligible.
    • Oura Ring 4 Ceramic collection is available at ouraring.com and online & in-store at Harvey Norman.
  • Pairing and switching among multiple Oura Ring 4 devices on a single account will be available on iOS starting Oct. 1, 2025, and on Android starting Oct. 20, 2025.
  • Oura Ring 4 Charging Case is €109 and will be available to order later this year.

Device Recycling

ŌURA is also launching device recycling. As Oura Members upgrade to a new generation, switch styles, or receive a replacement, they will have a convenient way to return their Oura Ring for recycling. This program provides a simple, responsible option for disposing of devices. For more information, visit the company’s website.

Jabra powers Zoom’s new frontline platform with Perform 75

Jabra today announces that it has teamed up with Zoom to achieve new certifications for its professional headsets, underscoring their shared commitment to empowering both frontline and hybrid workers with communication tools that help them stay connected and productive in any environment.
Jabra Perform 75: Certified for Zoom Workplace for Frontline
Zoom announced its new Workplace for Frontline platform in April 2025 to better serve the 80 percent of the global workforce that operates on the frontline. The Jabra Perform 75 mono headset is now the first audio device to be certified for that program. Designed for employees who spend their workdays on the move, Jabra Perform 75 integrates with Zoom Workplace to keep teams connected, hands-free and more focused during every shift.
Zoom Workplace for Frontline combines on-shift communications and work management, giving frontline teams tools for chat, calling and push-to-talk (PTT), shift scheduling and reporting. Paired with Jabra Perform 75, frontline workers gain easier access to these tools, remaining heads-up, hands-free, and comfortable throughout their shift, while managers benefit from task overviews and attendance insights that keep operations running smoothly.
AI at the Core of Collaboration
Zoom AI Companion is a generative-AI digital assistant, that delivers powerful, real-time capabilities to help users improve productivity and work together more effectively. With this certification news, Jabra plays a key role in ensuring that frontline workers can interact with Zoom’s AI features through clear, accurate voice input and dependable audio performance. This collaboration helps make AI-driven communication practical and effective in busy, real-world environments.
Jabra Evolve2 75: Certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset
In addition, the Jabra Evolve2 75 professional headset has been certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset. This headset enables workers to enjoy the full Zoom collaboration experience without the need for a dongle. The result is greater flexibility and consistent performance for teams who depend on straightforward tools to stay connected.
Janne Jakobsen, SVP for Enterprise Headsets at Jabra said: “These certifications mark a special milestone for our collaboration with Zoom. Users can trust that our headsets deliver not only premium sound and comfort but also full compatibility with Zoom, the platform they rely on every day. Together, we are enabling an even better experience for mobile professionals worldwide.”
 
Key Features of the Jabra + Zoom Collaboration
 
Jabra Perform 75: Certified for Zoom Workplace for Frontline
  • Hands-free Bluetooth headset built for shiftwork, helping associates stay connected and focused
  • Noise-cancelling microphone technology that blocks out 99% of background noise for clearer conversations in busy environments
  • Modular design with hot-swappable battery and easy pairing for smooth shift handovers and uninterrupted performance
  • Lightweight comfort with cushioned earcups and multiple wearing styles, seamlessly integrated with Zoom Chat, push-to-talk, task management and scheduling tools for both associates and managers
 
Jabra Evolve2 75: Certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset
  • Enables seamless connectivity without a dongle
  • Delivers dependable, flexible performance for teams who need effective tools to stay connected
Eric Yu, Head of Hardware Partnerships, at Zoom said: “Our goal is to provide users with the best possible tools for their daily work. By certifying Jabra’s headsets, we make it easier for mobile professionals using these Jabra products to enjoy seamless connectivity, and the confidence of full Zoom Workspace performance.”

Twelve South offers up to 50% off its latest travel accessories

 Twelve South, the innovative Apple accessories designer, is offering up to 50% off a selection of its latest travel accessories during Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days event 2025.

On October 7th and 8th, Amazon Prime customers will be able to snap up a PlugBug Travel 50W, the world’s first power supply with Find My for just £39.99, reduced from £79.99. Additionally, the recently launched PowerCord, which combines a 30W fast charger and USB-C cable into one cord, will have  £20 off both the 4ft and 10ft cables.

Twelve South will also be offering discounts off a selection of other products including the bestselling AirFly range that enables users to stream audio from the inflight entertainment, gym TVs or gaming consoles to their wireless headphones as well as the ButterFly, an ultra-compact, 2-in-1 Qi2 charger.

Twelve South’s Amazon Prime Big Deal Days discounts include:

Twelve South PlugBug Travel Kit

50w – £39.99 reduced from £79.99

120w – £79.99 reduced from £99.99

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 – £19.99 reduced from £39.99

10ft – £29.99 reduced from £49.99

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.

Twelve South AirFly  See reviews

AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe – £59.99 reduced from £69.99

AirFly Pro (black) – £44.99 reduced from £54.99

AirFly SE – £34.99 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.

Twelve South ButterFly SE  see review

£79.99 reduced from £99.99

(available in black, pink, white, midnight plum and irredescent)

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.

STEALTH expands its range of cross platform light-up gaming accessories

STEALTH, one of the UK’s leading gaming accessories brands, has expanded its range of light-up gaming accessories to include more innovative lighting designs and premium features, ideal for bedrooms and gaming dens for gamers of all ages.

The latest collection includes stylish headsets with full RGB light-up earcup designs, headset stands with light-up trims and PC peripherals which add a splash of personality to any desk setup, whether that be for gaming, study or work.

All of the below products are available from high street retailers now, and are cross-platform compatible, including the Nintendo Switch 2. The timely launch makes them ideal gifts for Christmas.

In addition to its commitment to producing affordable, yet high quality gaming accessories, STEALTH also prioritises sustainability and was the first UK gaming brand to introduce 100% plastic-free packaging in 2018.

STEALTH RADAR Glow Headset

Price: £29.99

Available in black from Smyths

Available in White from Argos and Very

 

 

This stylish white LED aviator-style gaming headset by STEALTH features five animated RGB effects on the earcups for a fun and immersive gaming experience.

The 40mm speaker drivers deliver clear sound and a built-in mic with pop filter ensures clear streaming and chat functionality.

Compatible with PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox series X and S, PC, Nintendo Switch (including Switch 2), and Switch OLED.

STEALTH Radar Light-Up Night Sky Headset & Stand Bundle

Price: £49.99

Available from Smyths

 

Budding astronauts will love this night-sky themed matching LED headset and stand bundle by STEALTH. Perfect for kid’s bedrooms, both the stand and headset feature night-sky LEDs on the base of the stand and earcups of the headset, with 5 changeable RGB lighting effects.

The RADAR headset boasts 40mm speaker drivers for immersive sound and pop mic with filter for clear chat when gaming with friends. It also has additional charging ports to charge other devices.

Compatible with any headphone jack, so they can also be used for remote learning on desktops/mobile devices as well as gaming on many different platforms, including Nintendo Switch 2.

STEALTH Panther white LED headset

Price: £29.99

Available from Smyths

 

Previously only available in black, STEALTH has released its premium Panther headset with light-up ear cup trims in white, to coordinate with more consoles and colour schemes.

Multi-platform and lightweight, it has an adjustable headband and soft foam, breathable mesh earcups for comfort during long gaming sessions. The speakers offer high quality audio for immersive gameplay, while the pin-point mic and integrated audio controls make in-game chat functionality seamless and won’t disrupt the flow.

Its wired design, featuring a braided cable for extra durability, means set up couldn’t be easier – just plug and play.  Compatible with most gaming platforms thanks to the 3.5mm audio jack, including Playstation, Xbox, Nintendo (including Switch 2), PC and mobiles and tablets. Older Xbox One controllers may require a separate headset adaptor.

STEALTH Light-Up 3D Wired Gaming Mouse

Price: £12.99

Available from Argos

 

With a light-up 3D geometric design, this wired mouse from STEALTH is ideal for a PC gaming setup. Compatible with consoles and PCs, it has 13 static and animated lighting effects to choose from.

It has six sensitivity settings up to 7200dpi for selecting the perfect speed, making it perfect for gaming and regular use alike.

STEALTH Light-Up Wired Gaming Keyboard and Mouse

Price: £27.99

Available from Argos

 

Featuring a full-sized keyboard with numeric pad and four-button mouse, this matching light-up set has three different, co-ordinated, animated lighting effects, including breathing mode.

The keyboard has a 360 light-up base for creating the perfect gaming ambience on a desk. It also has silent click keys, so late night gaming sessions don’t disturb others, and anti-ghosting keys so that complex commands register correctly.

The mouse has adjustable sensitivity for different types of gameplay, four buttons and a scroll wheel.

See some gaming reviews

Irish Girl Guides providing community learning for empowering older adults with digital skills

To celebrate and honour the older adults in our community, Irish Girl Guide members are teaching digital skills. This past week, Leaders from 10 new Units across Ireland joined a growing cohort of Hi Digital trained Members.

In total, 30 Units are ready to work with older people on the island, which include 60 Leaders and 402 Guides (10-14 y.o.) and Senior Branch (14-30 y.o.).

Since Irish Girl Guides started the partnership with Vodafone Foundation, over 2,000 older people have learned new skills, and this number will continue to expand.

The members learned about some of the barriers older adults face in navigating the digital landscape and how they can help combat social and digital isolation through the Hi Digital programme in partnership with the Vodafone Foundation.

The Units host sessions in their community centres, in parish churches, in Men’s and Women’s Sheds and Active Retirement Groups. Hi Digital sessions last one to two hours and the older adults get a chance not only to learn new skills but also to chat over a cup of tea or a mug of soup.

Learning digital skills is not just about understanding the step-by-step instructions but building confidence and skills towards a more independent life. This is achieved through comprehensive education that demonstrates not just how singular apps work but through universal symbols and recognizable instructions while supporting the growing confidence in the older adult.

One older participant said, “I feel more at ease, knowing that much more about my phone”. While the Irish Girl Guides grow into confident Leaders, they are also helping show the older adult’s new ways to lead more independent lives as they navigate their phones. As one Clogherhead Senior Branch member highlighted, “it was really great for our personal growth but also our community growth”.

Watch this video to see the Hi Digital programme in action!

To see more about Hi Digital check out www.hidigital.ie and for more about the Irish Girl Guides go to www.irishgirlguides.ie

NBA AND AWS ANNOUNCE NEW MULTI-YEAR PARTNERSHIP

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced a multi-year partnership to power the league’s next generation of innovation as AWS will become the Official Cloud and Cloud AI Partner of the NBA and its affiliate leagues, including the WNBA, NBA G League, Basketball Africa League and NBA Take-Two Media.

As part of the partnership, the NBA and AWS will launch NBA Inside the Game powered by AWS, a new basketball intelligence platform that will turn billions of data points into compelling insights and interactive experiences, reimagining how fans engage with the game of basketball worldwide.

Built on AWS’s industry-leading AI infrastructure, the platform will introduce a suite of features that enhance live broadcasts and elevate fan experiences across the NBA App, NBA.com, and the league’s social channels.

“Partnering with AWS provides us with an opportunity to elevate the live game experience through innovation and offer fans a deeper understanding of the game of basketball for years to come,” said NBA Executive Vice President and Head of Media Operations and Technology Ken DeGennaro. “AWS has a proven track record of delivering unique statistical insights and offering transformative experiences that will resonate with NBA fans around the world.”

“At AWS, we’re excited by the NBA’s vision to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sports,” said Francessca Vasquez, Vice President of Professional Services & Agentic AI at AWS. “This partnership will showcase how cloud and AI can reimagine the game of basketball – from generating new insights to creating experiences that bring fans closer to the game they love. Together, we’re delivering technology that not only enhances live broadcasts and digital platforms, but also transforms how players, coaches, and fans understand basketball.”

AI-Powered Advanced Stats

The NBA will leverage AWS’s AI capabilities to provide fans with live stats and comprehensive analytics during games. This new advanced statistics platform processes the NBA’s player tracking data, which analyzes the movements of 29 data points per player using machine learning and AI to contextualize in-game developments and generate real-time insights. Fans can deepen their understanding of the game by accessing new statistics via the NBA App, NBA.com and during live NBA games, including during NBA on Prime broadcasts.

Throughout the 2025-26 season, the NBA and AWS will introduce new AI-powered stats that capture aspects of basketball performance that have not been measured previously, starting with:

 

  • Defensive Box Score: Reimagining Basketball’s Fundamental Metric
    Defensive Box Score quantifies individual defensive contributions that traditional statistics cannot measure. AI algorithms detect which defender is responsible for each offensive player in real-time. Once the primary defender is determined, the traditional box score can now be enhanced by identifying the defender at the time each stat was recorded. Additional new metrics like ball pressure, double teams and defensive switches can now be viewed and tallied as well.
  • Shot Difficulty: The Science of Shooting

Shot Difficulty transcends traditional make-or-miss statistics to evaluate every aspect of each shot attempt. The difficulty of attempted shots will be quantified with new stats such as Expected Field Goal % which takes into account various factors such as the shooter’s orientation and setup, defensive contest details related to pressure, interference, and each player’s positioning on the court. This new statistic gives fans a deeper appreciation for the skill and strategy behind every scoring attempt.

  • Gravity: Quantifying the Invisible Impact
    Gravity showcases what coaches and analysts have observed for years – how certain players create advantages for teammates simply by being on the court, even without touching the ball. This new stat measures the level of attention a player receives from the defense, including how closely they’re guarded with or without the ball, to quantify the amount of space they create for their teammates. This revolutionary system processes optical tracking data 60 times per second, using custom neural networks to analyze how defenders react to specific players, while factoring in real-time game context and historical data.

Transforming Basketball Intelligence

NBA Inside the Game powered by AWS will also feature a first-of-its-kind technology called “Play Finder,” which uses AI to analyze and understand player movements across thousands of games.  Utilizing AWS services such as Amazon Bedrock and Amazon SageMaker, the feature will enable instant search and retrieval of similar plays, laying the foundation for future generative AI integrations built on player tracking data.  Play Finder will help fans and broadcasters learn common offensive strategies and explore deeper insights by combining play results with advanced analytics.

A real-time alert system within Play Finder will enable commentators to instantly provide historical context and strategic insights, making every live game more engaging, educational, and insightful for viewers.  NBA teams will have direct access to the ML models powering Play Finder to improve their front office and coaching workflows.

Future iterations of Play Finder will allow fans to explore basketball strategy with unprecedented depth on the NBA App.

Global Fan Engagement

The NBA App, NBA.com and NBA League Pass, delivering year-round NBA coverage and programming to fans around the world, will run on AWS. Through this partnership with AWS, the NBA will accelerate basketball’s growth worldwide by offering fans new and unique opportunities to understand team strategy and the concepts that lead to execution on the court. Additionally, the NBA and AWS will deliver in-language content and personalized experiences to fans across platforms.

The NBA’s partnership with AWS broadens its strategic relationship with Amazon. This season marks the start of Prime Video’s landmark 11-year media rights agreement with 67 regular-season NBA matchups streaming on Prime Video globally, and a suite of new interactive features set to debut.  The first night of the NBA on Prime will feature a doubleheader on Friday, Oct. 24 during the first week of the season, with the Celtics visiting the Knicks (7:30 p.m. ET) and the Lakers hosting the Timberwolves (10 p.m. ET) in two rematches from the NBA Playoffs 2025.

Amazon launches ‘Think Big Circle’ to connect Irish students with peers worldwide

Today, 25 students from Gaelscoil na Giúise in Tallaght will join 130 schools from over 30 countries to compete in the Coding4Mandela Tangible World Cup.

Sponsored globally by Amazon, the event marks the official launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle, a global collaboration platform designed to connect and empower Amazon Think Big Spaces worldwide.

The Tangible World Cup is an annual online competition that brings together learners to solve engaging, never-before-seen Tangible Coding challenges. This unique unplugged approach teaches key problem-solving and coding skills using physical grids, tokens, and mobile devices.

Following the launch, the Amazon Think Big Circle will become the central hub for continued collaboration, supporting the co-creation of programmes, peer-to-peer learning, and innovative global events that inspire creativity and build community impact.

Opened in 2022, the Amazon Think Big Space in Tallaght was the first of its kind to launch in Europe, and was created in collaboration with South Dublin County Council (SDCC) and South Dublin Libraries to provide a place beyond the classroom for students to explore and cultivate an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) and STEM-related careers.

The facilities were thoughtfully designed to ensure that students and the wider community have access to high-quality resources to learn about cloud computing and technology in an equitable way. To achieve this, AWS has donated interactive screens, tablets, VR headsets and other resources to furnish the Amazon Think Big Space, and create an immersive, hands-on approach to learning.

Joanne Reynolds, Regional Community Engagement Manager at AWS in Ireland, said: “The launch of the Amazon Think Big Circle marks an exciting new chapter for the Amazon Think Big initiative, and global learning and collaboration. We are delighted to have Tallaght’s very own Gaelscoil na Giúise representing Ireland among over 130 schools participating in the Tangible World Cup today globally. This initiative demonstrates what’s possible when we empower young people with the tools, space, and confidence to solve problems together, regardless of their location. It’s not just about coding skills, it’s about breaking down barriers, building connections, and inspiring the next generation to think big!”

For the learners in Tallaght, the event is about more than just a competition, it is a chance to connect with peers across the globe, experience the excitement of a live international challenge, and develop skills that will help address both the digital divide and the social divide.

Ellie Nì Mhaonaigh, aged 12, a participant from Gaelscoil na Giúise said: “The coding is like a puzzle, and I love working with my friends as a team to solve the different levels. It was also cool to see schools from other countries.”

The Tangible World Cup is supported as a part of Amazon’s global investment in STEM education and community development, ensuring that students everywhere – from rural villages to major cities – have the opportunity to build skills needed for the future.

For more information:
Website: https://aws.amazon.com/about-aws/global-infrastructure/community-engagement/

Appeals Centre Europe’s First Transparency Report Shines Light on Social Media Mistakes

The Appeals Centre’s first Transparency Report (covering November 2024 to August 2025) highlights the urgent need for independent review of social media decisions. The report shows that where platforms make mistakes, people pay the price: from unjust account suspensions cutting people off from family and friends, to vital health information being removed, or hate speech against vulnerable communities being left online.

More than three-quarters of our decisions overturned Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or YouTube – either because we disagreed with their decision after reviewing the content, or because the platform did not send us the content and we ruled in the user’s favour. The majority of these decisions promoted freedom of expression by recommending that a user’s content or account be restored. 

Across the EU people are standing up to social media companies by challenging their decisions:

  • We received nearly 10,000 disputes about decisions by Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok and YouTube.
  • These came from every single EU country, covering content in more than 50 languages.
  • Of these, more than 3,300 disputes were within our scope, for which we have already issued 1,500+ decisions, with the rest expected in the coming weeks.
  • Since November we have expanded to account suspensions and new platforms (Instagram, Threads, Pinterest) to allow more people to use our service.
  • We received the most eligible disputes from Poland, followed by France and Italy.
  • We saw an upwards trend in case numbers, with the number of eligible disputes received increasing by more than 500% from December 2024 to August 2025.

Under EU law (the Digital Services Act), social media platforms must engage in good faith with dispute settlement bodies like the Appeals Centre and tell their users about this new option.

  • Today, however, dispute settlement bodies are Europe’s best-kept-secret. Most people don’t know we exist and some platforms seemingly want to keep it that way. This needs to change. Social media platforms should clearly tell their users about this new option on a dedicated help-page and as part of their internal appeals process.
  • More generally, co-operation with platforms has been mixed. Progress with YouTube, in particular, has been very slow. We have received no content from the company, meaning that – by the end of August – we had made decisions on just 29 of the more than 340 eligible YouTube disputes submitted to us. As such, we are concerned that people and organisations using YouTube in the EU are being denied meaningful access to out-of-court dispute settlement.

The CEO of Appeals Centre Europe, Thomas Hughes, said:

“Decisions by social media companies have very real consequences: from denying people a say in important debates, to cutting off a crucial source of income. But – as our Transparency Report shows – they don’t always get it right. If you’re in the EU, you can challenge the platform’s decision free-of-charge to the Appeals Centre and get an expert, impartial review.”

Twelve South launches matching iPhone 17 Case and Apple Watch Band collections

Twelve South, an innovative Apple accessories designer, today launches a new collection of iPhone 17 cases and matching Apple Watch Bands. Both made from premium liquid silicone with a soft-touch finish, the iPhone 17 cases provide everyday protection and Apple-ready features, while the light, soft and easy-to-clean watch bands promise all-day comfort and style. Available in Coastal Blue, Dune and Slate from www.twelvesouth.co.uk, the cases and watch bands pair perfectly.

Twelve South iPhone 17 cases

 

Crafted from silky liquid silicone with a soft-touch finish and microfibre lining, the new durable hard-shell iPhone 17 cases feel as refined as they look. Featuring a slim profile with reinforced edges and a precision frame around the iPhone camera to keep it protected, Twelve South is providing everyday defence without the bulk.

Buttons are protected but remain responsive and easy to use while the camera control button is protected by scratch resistant glass for smooth sliding. The matte finish of the case ensures a secure grip at all times. Additionally, the new cases work seamlessly with MagSafe chargers and accessories for effortless power and pairing.

The new Twelve South iPhone 17 case collection is available now for £49.99 from www.twelvesouth.co.uk. Available for iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max in Coastal Blue, Dune and Slate.

Twelve South Apple Watch Band

Crafted from premium liquid silicone with tonal hardware and subtle dual-colour accents, the new Twelve South Apple Watch Band balances style with all-day comfort and everyday durability. Lightweight with a silky soft finish, it feels soft and flexible on the wrist, moving comfortably with the user, whatever they are doing. Durable, water and sweat-resistant and easy-to-clean it’s perfect for workouts but also stylish enough for the office or weekend wear.

The Twelve South Apple Watch Band is available now for £39.99 from www.twelvesouth.co.uk. Sizes include 38mm-42mm and 44mm-49mm. Designed to coordinate seamlessly with the new iPhone 17 cases, they come in Coastal Blue, Dune and Slate.

See our Twelve South Reviews