Detection Technology, a global leader in X-ray detector solutions, today unveiled the Aurora XS to address the cost efficiency and reliability requirements of the urban security screening market. The Aurora XS adapts to versatile X-ray imaging systems, which secure safety on train and metro stations, and in public buildings and event venues, for example. The Aurora XS is available as a complete subsystem that includes detectors, a control unit, and software libraries for rapid time-to-market of cost-effective X-ray systems.
“Almost everything is extra small in the Aurora XS, the newcomer to our Aurora product family. The abbreviation XS in the name stands for small bill of materials, small mechanics, small weight, small pixel size, small carbon footprint, and last but not least a smaller price, which is the most important enabler for succeeding in this price-driven segment. With the Aurora XS, small efforts and less risk-taking are required to introduce X-ray systems to entry-level non-aviation security systems that are known for their small form factors,” summarizes Jyrki Still, CTO at Detection Technology.
“What is not small in the Aurora XS is innovativeness and reliability. The Aurora XS is built on a novel detector platform that is boosted by unique algorithms and an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC. These smart features make reliable dual-energy imaging with a single-layer sensor possible. In our view, we are the first in the industry to introduce such a simplified detector structure to the security market. This is a good example of our aim to simplify hardware by rethinking detector designs.”
Aurora XS
The Aurora XS has a durable structure with reliable mechanical and electrical interfaces, and a robust sensor for stringent radiation hardness requirements, and harsh imaging conditions such as humidity, mechanical stress, and temperature changes. With its robustness and simplified structure, the Aurora XS also enhances more environmental sound screening than conventional detector solutions in the segment. Furthermore, it supports safe and easy installation and maintenance.
The Aurora XS provides imaging performance that meets industry regulations and responds to urban security requirements, even at low X-ray flux. The low-noise Aurora XS features a fully digitalized data path. It is equipped with an application-optimized, single-chip ASIC, which effectively mitigates the impact of external electromagnetic interferences. The Aurora XS has a wide sensitivity range from 0.25 pF to 31.75 pF with 127 controllable gain-setting steps, which ensure adaptability for the entire range of the urban X-ray screening applications.
“The Aurora XS completes our offering to the security segment, as now our Aurora solutions cover all imaging needs from entry- to high-tier applications. The original Aurora detector series was introduced for mid-tier, and the Aurora CT for high-tier imaging, and now we have a perfect match for the entry level as well.”
Engineering samples of the Aurora XS are available immediately. Shipments in volumes will be available starting the second half of 2021.
With us all looking ahead for 2021 travel inspiration once lockdown measures have lifted; the top lesser-known locations across Ireland show we have unparalleled levels of beauty on our shores, Snapped on the Xperia 5 II; the handset comes with a professional-quality triple lens camera; complete with the Photography Pro feature which brings Alpha technology to the palm of your hand for fast and accurate AF/AE – allowing us all the opportunity to take incredible imagery from our everyday devices
From luscious green hills to quaint towns with colourful vibrance, Ireland is rich in stunning destinations. It’s no surprise then that with the restrictions on international travel, there was a significant rise in people staycationing; as well as an increase in search requests for places that were off the beaten track throughout 2020.
Sony Mobile and Lonely Planet have paired up to publish a photo series revealing the top less-frequented destinations in Ireland for 2021 so travellers can escape the mundane of lockdown once measures have been lifted and reignite the sense of wonder and discovery – including the pristine sandy shores of Lackan Sands and the sub-tropical Garnish Island, home to exotic plants and foliage from around the world.
Too often, these lesser-known tourist spots are overlooked with staycationers opting for the bigger cities to satisfy their wanderlust; they try to find places that are off the beaten track rather than opting for the bigger tourist spots, such as Dublin. With 2021 now underway, this photo series gives inspiration for the future to encourage us to explore our own shores; along with photography you can easily recreate yourselves.
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland
Top lesser-known post-lockdown destinations from around Ireland
Mizen Head Cliffs, Co. Cork, Ireland (above)
Lackan Strand, Co Mayo, Ireland
Sky Garden, Russagh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Birr Castle, Co Offaly, Ireland
Garnish Island, Bantry Bay, Ireland
Slieve Bloom Mountains, Co Laois, Ireland
Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs, Co Donegal
Cobh, Co. Cork, Ireland
Tom Hall from Lonely Planet, said: “The pandemic caused us all to pause and re-evaluate how we travel, and now is the perfect time to update that bucket list with some of these under-the-radar places you might have overlooked in the past.”
Offered in Black, Xperia 5 II is available from retailers across Ireland.
Twelve South, a leading designer of Apple accessories, today introduces the HoverBar Duo, an adjustable iPad stand that frees a user’s hands so they can do more and create more. Height adjustable with the ability to hold an iPad in multiple positions and angles, the HoverBar Duo includes a weighted desktop stand as well as a desk/shelf clamp to suit every iPad setup. The HoverBar is available now for £79.99 from Amazon.co.uk and Apple.
The HoverBar Duo is a useful stand that’s ideal for both personal and business use. Lifting the iPad camera up to eye level, users can have more natural conversations, showing their best side, whether they’re on a video call with work colleagues or face timing family and friends. The HoverBar Duo’s included iPad clip rotates 360-degrees enabling users to set their iPad or iPhone horizontally or vertically to ensure it captures their best possible angle.
Perfect for use at a desk, in the kitchen or workshop, the HoverBar Duo is incredibly versatile. Creatives can make use of its flexible arm stand to securely hold an iPad low to the desk, enabling them to capture hands drawing or crafting. Musicians could set the stand on a table for a virtual guitar lesson or on the floor to record the latest TikTok dance moves. The HoverBar Duo could even be clamped on a workbench to make ‘how to’ videos or positioned under a cabinet, allowing users to follow recipes while cooking rather than propping their iPad up against the olive oil. Portable, sturdy and stable, there are a long list of clever ways to use the HoverBar Duo.
hoverbar duo in use
overbar duo kitchen
The sleek HoverBar Duo puts an iPad into a comfortable viewing position, ideal for those who want to watch the latest Netflix series in bed or while waiting for dinner to cook. The adjustability of the HoverBar Duo also means that users could position their iPad right next to their iMac, external monitor or MacBook to serve as a second, or even third display. Even better, add a wireless keyboard and mouse to create a super comfortable mini desktop setup. When it’s time to recharge, users can do it without removing it from the HoverBar Duo.
The HoverBar Duo is available now for £79.99 from Amazon.co.uk and Apple.
Reinforcing its mission to optimize human performance through improved sleep, acclaimed Finnish tech innovator QuietOn™ today announced the launch of QuietOn 3, the world’s smallest active noise cancelling earbud that significantly reduces low-frequency noise to deliver Nordic calm and quietude regardless of one’s sleeping environment.
The new QuietOn 3 earbuds are the first earbuds small enough to fit entirely inside the ear, making them the only active noise cancelling (ANC) sleep solution that is comfortable enough for everyone, including side sleepers. The superior comfort and pure Nordic quietude lets users enjoy a good night’s sleep for better overall health and a readiness to tackle each day with a clear, rested mind.
According to QuietOn CEO Jussi Lemiläinen, QuietOn 3 debuts at an ideal time – as consumer interest in the benefits of sleep health is at an all-time high, thanks to better sleep education and new tracking devices.
“Everything that we want in life – professional success, personal well-being, physiological health – begins with a good night’s sleep. And a good night’s sleep begins with quietude,” Lemiläinen said. “QuietOn 3 leverages breakthrough ANC technology to create a better environment for sleep, effectively eliminating the low-frequency noises that so often disrupt our sleep.”
Some of the most common noises that interrupt sleep are low-frequency sounds from heating systems, appliances, traffic, airplanes, snoring and noisy neighbors. QuietOn 3’s ANC technology eliminates ambient sound by automatically generating opposite waveforms to nullify the low frequencies, resulting in a much quieter and more peaceful environment for sleep.
“While white noise machines and other noise-masking devices help with lulling one to sleep, the addition of a new noise to overpower background noises can actually prevent or disrupt deep sleep,” continued Lemiläinen. “QuietOn 3 and its breakthrough ANC technology works to eliminate noise to create a sense of calm and quietude that increases both quantity and quality of one’s sleep.”
Additionally, by significantly reducing the earbud’s dimensions, QuietOn succeeded in making the impossible possible – creating the first ANC earbud that fits entirely in the ear, with zero protrusion. Engineering QuietOn 3 to be even smaller than previous versions was a challenge, but the company exceeded expectations by reducing the physical size while increasing battery life.
The size reduction can be traced to QuietOn 3’s sleep-focused design, which eliminates the need for transmitters, receivers and other components typically found in music earbuds. The lack of these audio-specific components also enables operation with zero electromagnetic field (EMF) radiation.
To ensure maximum comfort, each pair of QuietOn 3 comes with four sizes of eartips. With no wireless setup or connectivity required, and automatic charging in the included case, QuietOn 3 earbuds are always ready to pop in and provide more restful sleep.
The QuietOn 3 earbuds charge in the included carrying case, which contains its own battery to guarantee a full-charge at all times. A single charge provides 28 hours of use, so the earbuds have the power to last all day, or for several nights.
QuiteON 3 techbuzzireland
“The introduction of new technologies like circadian-based lighting and sleep trackers underscore that high-quality sleep is now a central focus of people’s efforts to improve their general health and well being,” Lemiläinen added. “With QuietOn 3, we look forward to joining this movement by demonstrating the critical importance of quietude to sleep performance and, ultimately, overall wellbeing and human performance.”
From the rapid growth in connected devices to the shift to ecommerce, organisations are struggling to manage the explosion in the growth of data. Edge computing is the answer to managing this data deluge and gaining business benefits from it. Many technology leaders in Ireland know it is no longer a nice to have, it is essential for businesses looking to innovate with real-time insights in a digital-first era. What’s more, as 5G connectivity comes on stream, those who embrace data at the Edge will reap the rewards on the road to recovery.
There is no doubt that the powerful convergence of cloud, AI and edge technologies will help organisations across Ireland to transform at speed. Paving the way for intelligent cities, homes and real-time services, turbocharged data management and processing power at the edge will drive businesses’ ability to consume more data. There is much to be gained for society as a whole, as well as the businesses that serve them when it comes to ramping up infrastructure at the edge – to seize today’s opportunities and prepare for tomorrow’s world.
As our lives become increasingly connected there is more data to be processed than ever. We’re no longer talking about gigabytes or even terabytes–the new unit of scale is the Zettabyte, equivalent to a billion terabytes. Our growing reliance on this data makes the evolution of core cloud technologies so important. Keeping up and staying ahead of the curve as these demands increase is already business critical – and requires an infrastructural step-up.
Jason Ward, Vice-President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland
The “5G Future SME Report”, by Amárach Research, highlights that the failure to invest in Ireland’s 5G network over the rest of the decade could see a significant loss of €12.6 billion in GDP by 2030. With 64% of Irish SMEs also believing effective 5G investment will be critical to Ireland’s economic recovery, it is clear that setting the groundwork now will serve businesses well as they look to grow over the coming months.
To feel the benefits of connected devices that provide real-time AI-powered insights, whether it’s in our factories, cars or shops, we need to embrace high performance computing. Then we can truly benefit from 5G speeds. This means firing-up the edge – and putting automation in the hotseat. The recent launch of our PowerEdge Server provides a window into the future, revealing how the Zettabyte era will be managed – with automation, security and sustainability at its core. Only with turbocharged compute can the edge meet today and tomorrow’s challenges.
Overcoming data challenges with Automated Edge computing
In 2019, 53% of global data and analytics technology decision makers say they have implemented some form of AI or are in the process of doing so. By harnessing data for key insights, it enables them to respond rapidly to business opportunities, while maximising productivity. As these workloads grow there will be more demand on compute, speed and agility.
Today’s increasingly complex data landscape means many Irish organisations struggle to manage these workloads, applications, and data securely from edge to hybrid cloud. According to Gartner, 75 % of enterprise data will be processed outside a traditional centralised data center or cloud by 2025. So it’s imperative that these issues are addressed swiftly with modernised platforms that support their data-driven goals.
Ultimately, businesses must grow and evolve IT infrastructure to meet these challenges while keeping the lights on. In Ireland, our teams are at the forefront of these challenges. Thanks to their expertise and the work being undertaken in the 5G Edge Labs of Cork and Limerick, we are using the power of 5G and Edge Computing to bring next generation products and services to life .
However, the pandemic threw additional challenges into the mix, fast-tracking our hybrid working futures. It accelerated our reliance on hybrid cloud technologies, while spotlighting the need for greater efficiencies and security.
Cyber risks are obviously something front of mind for everyone right now and over the past year we’ve been reminding customers to increase their cyber security as workforces operated in a remote environment. Our latest Global Data Protection Index has shown that 82% of organisations globally have suffered from a disruptive event. Building proactive resilience and embedding trust into their digital transformation plans with security by design is key. This will help secure interactions, providing the ability to anticipate potential threats.
These challenges can be met with edge solutions that combine the compute power, to combat intense workloads at speed, with inbuilt automation to enhance productivity and seamless management. Apart from keeping businesses in Ireland competitive, getting to grips with the Edge will crucially enhance the sustainability of their data management too.
Edge tech
Sustainability is key to a future-proof edge
When we process data at the Edge, we are actually reducing a lot of power consumption, which is ultimately kinder to the environment – it also requires a smaller cooling footprint. The more we evolve edge computing to meet the needs of businesses and generate better outcomes, the more we accelerate inevitable adoption. The quicker businesses embrace the Edge, the quicker we can minimise resource heavy data transfers between devices and data centers. Dell is committed to, reducing the energy intensity of its entire product portfolio by 80% come 2030 – and by 2020 had already achieved a 69.9% reduction. Edge solutions are core part of this commitment.
What’s more, as Edge Computing lays the groundwork for 5G connectivity, it forms the backbone of a core technology set to help bridge digital divides – connecting those in more remote areas. Paving the way for 5G means preparing for a world in which everyone has access to remote learning, ehealthcare and digital public services. Understanding the bigger picture and human impact from today’s infrastructural decisions should empower businesses as they embark on their digital transformation journey.
Seizing future opportunities from the edge
As we look to the future, Edge technology can help to shape our digital future, driving innovation for business and helping to address societal challenges we face. It is imperative that amid today’s many challenges and opportunities, businesses and organisations in Ireland build their foundations with a long-term view, taking advantage of the immense compute power. There really is no other way to stay on top of the complexities of data-driven future
Managing a non-profit organisation is one of the most rewarding things that anyone can think of. It comes as no surprise that those who are part of non-profit organisations, regardless of the field or sector, are truly working towards making this world a better place. As a non-profit manager, you should often step back and take pride in what you do; you know that you are making a difference even if you are still at the beginning stages. All the activities that go on inside the organisation are intended to improve it, making the organisation even more influential. In a non-profit organisation, you have the chance to treat people and be treated as a person and not just a figure or a number as opposed to the corporate world. The rewards of managing a non-profit are endless. However, it is a challenging job that never gets easier. We know that you may wonder if the tiny milestones are worth all the challenges that come your way at times, and this is why we are here to tell you how managing a non-profit can be as easy as it is rewarding.
Review Your Policies
Any non-profit organisation’s board must cover all the fundamental policies in the aspect of good management and governance. New policies should also be established regularly whenever new issues or topics of interest arise. The key to effective management is to ensure that the policies cover all issues, are reviewed frequently, and are updated whenever necessary. Having a “Code of Conduct and Professional Ethics” policy is a must; it is one of the basic management policies that organisations should have. This policy serves as a guide for the organisation’s ethical and moral principles, behaviours, and management decisions. A “Conflict of Interest” policy is also one of the most basic and important non-profit policies. This policy prohibits that any party can benefit personally from the organisation. Parties must announce the conflict and abstain from voting on anything that has to do with it. A “Whistleblower” policy that allows employees to point out inefficient accounting or financial practices without being at risk of retaliation is another fundamental policy. A policy that outlines document destruction and retention practices is also needed. You should refer to IRS Form 990 to find out the standards of this policy. Your policy should generally state when and how documents should be destroyed, which documents should be kept, and how long they should be kept.
Incorporate Technology
Technology and innovation have undoubtedly made various jobs much easier. As a non-profit manager who has plenty to take care of, you should make use of novel software, click here to find out how it can make your job easier and efficiently manage your resources. Using board management software, board directors and vital members of the organisation will be able to share files and communicate effortlessly, easily, and securely. This saves time, diminishes miscommunication, and decreases cyber-security threats. You will ensure that all your data is present on one platform and is available whenever you need it, wherever you are.
Be Transparent
Non-profit organisations are all about the public good and trust. Having people’s trust is one of the most important aspects of a successful non-profit organisation. This can be made possible by being totally transparent with the public and holding yourself accountable for your actions. You should always keep in mind that negative feedback spreads faster than positive. If one donor loses their trust or speaks up about a negative experience, your non-profit organisation will be quick to lose its reputation. As a result, your organisation’s finances will be severely hindered as well. Having clear policies and disclosing copies of the organisation’s tax-exempt status application, the most recent tax annual returns, and similar documents can help earn the trust of the public. You should also consider answering the optional questions at the end of IRS Form 990. These questions typically revolve around executive compensation, conflict of interest, document retention policies, and other topics of importance. Being transparent with your policies can show the public that your management practices are well.
Fundraising and Financing
Having a finance committee for your non-profit can help you manage your organisation better. This committee should be able to work on a budget and follow the financial policies. You should regularly follow up with and oversee the committee. It is great to have access to financial experts that the board can consult whenever needed.
Managing a non-profit organisation is one of the most rewarding jobs you can find. There is nothing that compares to knowing that you are making a difference as you set out for work each morning. Though, like everything else, being a non-profit manager has its challenges. Hopefully, these tips can help make your job easier.
More than 4 in every 10 Irish businesses are still struggling with elements of GDPR in their day-to-day operations three years after its introduction. This is one of the primary findings of the latest nationwide survey from the Association of Compliance Officers in Ireland (ACOI). The survey of over 300 organisations, answered by ACOI members with responsibility for compliance in financial organisations throughout the country, was released in tandem with the third anniversary of the introduction of the EU wide regulatory system for data control and privacy. The survey found that while two thirds of organisations are fully or almost fully compliant, another third of firms have yet to reach that level.
Speaking of the findings, Michael Kavanagh, CEO of ACOI, commented,
“It’s encouraging to find that everything is ‘running smoothly’ for 54% of businesses in their GDPR operations and control. This is certainly something to be lauded, as implementing the code has proved a complex and often time-consuming task for many. Which is why it’s concerning, but perhaps unsurprising, to find the remaining organisations that participated in our survey (46%) are still struggling, despite being three years into the regulations. This raises questions around whether or not businesses feel they have enough support in this area? And more importantly, is there more that can be done to help companies struggling in this regard?”
GDPR regulation requires businesses to protect the personal data and privacy of EU citizens for transactions occurring within EU member states.
Mr. Kavanagh commented,
“The survey reveals that a quarter of businesses are “fully compliant” with the regulations. This means they have successfully implemented all the measures required and that they have limited their exposure to regulatory penalties. A further 42%, the majority of respondents, were “almost fully compliant”, meaning they still have elements to work on in terms of their exposure to penalty. This could be in an area of accountability and governance they have overlooked, or it could be to do with privacy rights, or data security. 31% agreed that they were “somewhat compliant”, but that gaps remained.
To any companies that may overlook their compliance in this critical area of business, or indeed who may have let their systems lapse owing to pressures in other areas of operations, we would advise them to rectify the issues as soon as possible, because EU regulatory bodies have, and will inflict heavy penalties on companies that do not adhere to the required GPDR standards.”
COVID & GDPR
The ACOI survey also found that almost 4 in 10 businesses believe GPDR would make it very difficult for businesses to collect and collate employee health and vaccination data.
Mr. Kavanagh went on to say,
“Like most things, COVID will have implications for GPDR and vice versa in terms of collection of employee health and vaccination data. It is evident from our survey that if employers were to gather this data, many employers feel that GDPR could hamper their efforts – so consideration would have to be given to this area”.
Mr. Kavanagh concluded,
“We would encourage business owners to make full use of the various supports and resources available to businesses to help them in this area, which range from online GDPR checklists to compliance professionals which can audit your GDPR compliance, improve systems, and fill in any outstanding gaps.”
Political parties are not the only bodies overstepping GDPR boundaries – organisations the length and breadth of the country would fail to meet the required ePrivacy standards if put to the test. Such is the contention of experts at Baycloud, data protection specialists, who say reports on the misuse of electoral data is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of non-compliance across all industries. The experts say they believe a significant percentage of non-compliance cases are a result of a genuine lack of knowledge around GDPR and ePrivacy and a dearth of know-how as to how to put the correct structures in place to ensure a business complies with what is required of them by the Data Protection Commissioner and European regulators.
Baycloud’s Founder Mike O’Neill spoke of the importance of ensuring businesses are supported in data protection, which will ultimately ensure better protections for public privacy,
“It makes sense for companies to use their public facing websites to build trust, and this means not only being transparent about personal data, but also ensuring their website visitors have full control and a clear choice. Our mission is to make this as easy and automated as possible for companies to become fully compliant with privacy laws”.
Baycloud say the issues raised by the Data Protection Commissioner Helen Dixon recently in relation to the capture of data by political parties through social media is only one signal of the more widespread non-compliant practices of businesses and organisations when it comes to the collection of personal data.
Gail Chalmin of Chalmin Data Protection and consultant to Baycloud said,
“As the DPC publishes its draft Regulator Strategy and as Schrems enforcement moves across the EU, we can expect a robust follow through on the assertions they made and a clamp down on any organisation that does not meet the compliance standards that have been put in place.”
Baycloud warn that Irish organisations are leaving themselves hugely exposed to fines and penalties from Data Protection regulators both here and at a European level.
Mike O’Neill explained,
“It is incumbent on those who interact with clients, customers and/or the general public to arm themselves with the power to understand their data networks and therefore enable their customers to freely give informed and specific consent”.
Baycloud is challenging the public to use its free tool to check the websites they access most often and take note at the levels of non-compliance. The check will also give an insight into the use of tracking analytics that can identify individual users, as well as the countries in which sites process their personal information.
Liam Coyle, head of iSeek.ie and consultant to Baycloud said, “I think people would be shocked to learn how many organisations do not meet the standards required of them. Anecdotal evidence has suggested to us that the complexity of GDPR requirements and a misunderstanding of obligations around cookies and ePrivacy etc., is hampering businesses from maintaining the necessary standards – rather than an outright disregard of regulation. But the reality is that, in most cases, legislation surrounding cookies is much less complex than it seems, which is why Baycloud’s services are designed so that organisations can automate their compliance solutions across multiple domains, enabling companies to maintain their focus and attention on their core business activities – without having to worry about GDPR.”
The Baycloud cookie consent management platform was the first to market in 2010 and since then has helped organisations ranging in scale from SMEs to blue chip global consumer goods companies to ensure they are GDPR compliant.
Baycloud have published a top ten steps/checklist that, they advise, all businesses with an online presence to consider:
Use the new online resource to first help you determine the data protection/ePrivacy status of your website.
Prepare evidence of and know your own data processing, including your website cookies, and the requests transmitted to or from third parties.
Remember that consent from the end users must be obtained before placing or using non- exempted cookies on the end users’ end terminal.
Ensure that this consent meets the requirements of the GDPR.
Note that pre-checked boxes do not satisfy consent requirements under directive 95, e-Privacy, and GDPR.
Be sure to inform users of the duration of the cookie, what it is being used for and whether third parties will have access to the data.
It is also worth noting that the applicability of Article 5(3) of the e-Privacy directive is wider than just cookies. In fact, it applies to ‘storing of information or the gaining of access to information already stored, in the terminal equipment of an end user’ if this is not ‘strictly necessary’ in order for the ‘provider of an information society Service’ explicitly requested by the end user.
Engage with the experts to simplify your website compliance programme.
Do not forget about Transparency Notices for compliance with Art12.13 and 14 of the GDPR with a view to enforcing data protection compliance across your website.
Have a carefully drafted Privacy Notice which will build trust for your business partners and customers alike.
Five of the most common mistakes on business websites when it comes to cookies:
Deploying a generic cookie notice with only an “accept all” button for cookies, and no ability to continue to use the site when the user has not agreed.
Soliciting advice from website designers who are not always fully versed in data protection legislation when it comes to controlling the use of cookies on their domains.
Applying a cookie policy page to their website but failing to update it when changes occur.
Connecting 3rd party services to their websites, such as Facebook or Instagram feeds, whilst not taking into account their impact on data protection and cookies.
Prioritising systems like Google Analytics ahead of their visitors’ data protection rights and their website’s compliance with data protection legislation.
Baycloud has just opened an office in Cork, Ireland following on from the opening of our branch office in Marseille, France, last year. 2021 will also see us release a unified product, combining our state-of-the-art website privacy auditing and governance tools, our first to market cookie consent platform, our privacy preserving website analytics which serves as an alternative to conventional analytics platforms where users have declined their consent to the invasive use of cookies, as well as bot detection systems, together with our new California Consumer Privacy Act compliance service and support for the Global Privacy Control (GPC) Signal. Everyone, from individual website owners and online privacy consultants to the web controllers of vast multinationals can bring their sites up to date with global legislation and maintain a clear picture of their compliance status from our comprehensive management dashboard.
Poly recently announced the Voyager Focus 2, the latest addition in Poly’s best-selling line of stereo Bluetooth headsets. The Voyager Focus 2 is a smart, wireless headset with amazing audio that’s intuitive and easy to use, combining Poly’s next generation Acoustic Fence technology with Advanced Digital Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) to help you concentrate on what matters most.
“In this work-from-anywhere era where background noise comes at you from all sides, we saw an opportunity to build the next closest thing to a virtual sound wall by creating a literal ‘focus zone’ with the new Voyager Focus 2 headset,” said John Lamarque, vice president and general manager of the voice collaboration & professional headset business unit at Poly. “The Voyager Focus 2 is packed with three levels of hybrid ANC so all you hear is your call, while on the far end, all they hear is your voice because of our high-performance microphones and Poly’s Acoustic Fence technology. This headset is the best of the best, with the all-day comfort you need to stay focused.”
Crazy good sound
Callers are guaranteed to hear you clearly – not your surroundings – when you’re using the Voyager Focus 2 headset. Poly’s pro-grade noise-cancelling microphones with Acoustic Fence technology provides Poly’s best noise reduction yet, delivering crystal clear phone calls. Poly’s Advanced Digital Hybrid ANC comes with three settings: high, mid, and off so you can set the right level for your surroundings. A convenient carrying case is also included, so you always have a headset to use wherever you go.
Pro-grade performance
While the Voyager Focus 2 is smart, you’ll never have to worry about not being heard. The Dynamic Mute Alert feature lets you know if you’re speaking while on mute, and an online ear cup indicator flashes when you’re on a call for a visual cue to others that you’re busy. Additional smart sensors will help you answer calls and play or pause music, and the smart microphone boom will automatically switch left and right audio no matter which side the headset is worn. The headset intuitively mutes the headset when the boom is in the up-right position to make sure you are always in control of your call.
Longer talk time
Poly has supersized its most popular Voyager Focus headset by not only extending the battery life in the latest model, but by also providing the option to use it as a corded device, with audio over USB mode. The battery alone will offer longer talk time, with up to 19 hours.
Works the way you do
The Voyager Focus 2 headset is available in two different options to meet users’ complete connectivity needs. The VoyagerFocus 2 UC headset connects to mobile phones and PC/Mac via Poly’s new BT700 USB adapter that ensures a more stable audio connection and extended range in an ultra-compact form factor for when you need to step away from your device while staying connected. It also has a convenient desktop charging stand option to ensure one is always charged, plus serves for easy desktop storing. For those who need to connect to multiple communication devices throughout the workday, the Voyager Focus 2 Office headset connects with desk phones, mobile phones, and PC/Mac. The Office version continues to charge in the base when the headset is not in use, so you are always ready to take a call. It can also be used as a wired headset when plugged into the computer’s USB port.
Microsoft Teams Open Office certification
The Voyager Focus 2 headset has earned the Microsoft Teams Open Office premium microphone specification with its noise-cancelling microphone that’s enhanced with Poly’s Acoustic Fence technology, ensuring nearby conversations are always kept private. It is Microsoft Teams-certified and comes with a dedicated Teams button for instant access to the app. It’s also compatible with Zoom right out of the box to seamlessly support all your collaboration and communications needs.
“As employees look for more flexibility in the way they work with a greater need to focus and work from anywhere, the Voyager Focus 2 aims to please,” said Mohamed Alaa Saayed, ICT industry director & fellow – connected work, Frost & Sullivan. “Poly’s Acoustic Fence technology and Advanced Digital Hybrid ANC technologies are premium features that improve not only the user’s experience, but also the experience on the far-end – providing an all-around amazing pro-grade, audio experience.”
Poly+ and Poly Lens supported
For added convenience, the Voyager Focus 2 supports Poly Lens, a personal device support service, making it easier for IT teams to troubleshoot and manage devices while working remotely. The Voyager Focus 2 comes with a two-year limited warranty and access to Poly’s standard support. For additional peace of mind Poly+ is available, a paid subscription service that offers 24/7 technology support for personal devices around the world and a third-year warranty.
Availability
The Voyager Focus 2 joins Poly’s ever popular Voyager Focus UC line, which will continue to be available for purchase worldwide. The Voyager Focus 2 headset is available today on Poly.com and with authorised resellers worldwide.
For more information on pricing and availability of the Voyager Focus lineup, please visit: Voyager Focus 2 and Voyager Focus UC.
