Category: Tech News

Edifier launch the G2II gaming headset. #Gaming #Tech #Edifier

Edifier® International, prominent designer and award-winning manufacturer of consumer audio electronics for both the lifestyle and multimedia markets announces its latest offering to the gaming headset world – the G2 II headphones.

Featuring virtual 7.1 surround sound, the G2 II headset offers full 360° surround sound effects for a totally immersive gaming experience. With accurate sound positioning, Fortnite, Call of Duty and Destiny 2 – to name a few – all come alive, pinpointing exactly where the sound is coming from. This sound placement ensures you have the advantage in complex gaming situations thus enhancing your play. 

The next generation 50mm composite diaphragm unit produces clear sound and powerful low-frequency sound performance. This driver, combined with the professional e-sports team tuning, optimises gaming styles. 

The high-performance, noise cancelling microphone features a detachable 6mm, electret condenser microphone with omnidirectional reception, vital for making sure your teammates can always hear you despite your surroundings. 

The vibrant RGB lights use backlight technology to pulse when the headset is in use to enhance your gaming set up and create a dynamic atmosphere. 

Ergonomic and lightweight, the headband reduces pressure on your head to make certain a comfortable fit. Utilising soft leatherette to encase soft earmuffs, the design also ensures elongated wear. The G2 II is equipped with a USB connector for easy plug and play with PCs and laptops. 

Slip the G2 II headphones on and submerge yourself in your gaming world. 

 

Main Features:

  • 7.1 surround sound offering 360° sound positioning, accelerating your advantage. 
  • 50mm driver unit produces clear sound and excellent low-frequency performance. 
  • Noise-cancelling detachable microphone for uninterrupted game play.
  • Dynamic RGB light effects. 
  • Comfortable wearing for longevity. 

 

Specifications:

IMPEDANCE: 32Ω
FREQUENCY RESPONSE:  20Hz-20KHz
SENSITIVITY:  98dB
DRIVER UNIT:  Φ50mm dynamic drivers

 

Price & Availability:

Available for £49.99 from Amazon – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-Headset-Head-band-Black-Red/dp/B081S6FLWQ#ace-g09792493

EZ Living Furniture (@EZLivingFurn) launches Augmented Reality App. #EZLiving #Apps #AR #Furniture

Shopping safely from the comfort of your own home has now become a reality, augmented reality in  fact. EZ Living Furniture is proud to announce the launch of its AR app (Augmented Reality), the first  of its kind in Ireland. With the magic of technology, you can now bring sofas, bed frames, wardrobes,  lighting and so much more directly and virtually into your own home. 

“There’s nothing normal about operating a business in a pandemic therefore instead of finding fault,  we decided to find a remedy”, informed EZ Living Furniture’s E-commerce Manager Robert Walsh. 

Teaming up with AR specialists Intiaro, EZ Living Furniture developed the first real Irish furniture AR  app for the retail sector. 

What can you do with the app? 

Simply pick an item from our collection available in the app. Once you have found your favourite, point  your phone or tablet at a flat surface and watch as the item appears before your eyes. Next, place the  item in the room and choose from all available colours and materials. 

Using your mobile phone or tablet, bring EZ Living Furniture’s catalogue of virtual furniture into your home with their new augmented reality app. 

 

Unleash the virtual interior designer in you and add multiple pieces of furniture to your scene at once.  See how your favourite sofa, table and lamp will look in any room setting and zoom in or walk towards  it for a more detailed view. Create virtual walls with the press of a button and hang virtual wall art  from them (perfect for new builds). 

Your personally designed space can be easily saved and returned to later for further changes. Or if you  are happy with your creation, take screenshots and share these with your family and friends. 

This is the future of retail and EZ Living are delighted to present this exciting app to you. It’s a more  immersive and convenient experience than browsing through countless online websites. The AR app  allows you to view life-sized pieces of furniture in your room and all products are available to purchase from their online store. Further information can be found by accessing the link below 

https://www.ezlivingfurniture.ie/view-at-home-augmented-reality-app 

Download the free app for Android or IOS 

IDA Ireland welcomes Qualcomm’s multimillion-euro expansion of Cork facility. #IDA #Qualcomm

IDA Ireland welcome today’s announcement that Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. a wholly-owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated, will establish a Research and Development facility in Cork City. The multimillion-euro four-year investment is expected to create hundreds of highly skilled engineering roles. The project, which is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland significantly enhances the reputation of the Irish semiconductor industry, adding to Ireland’s strong reputation in microelectronics R&D.

Ajay Bawale, VP, Engineering, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. said: “We are excited about the new workplace in Penrose Dock. Not only are the offices state of the art, but they also have specially purposed and designed labs to enable continued ground-breaking security and validation work.”

Paul Kelleher, Sr. Director, Engineering for QT Technologies Ireland Limited and the site lead for the new facilities in Cork added: “This city centre location will help us to attract the world-class engineering talent needed to fuel our continued success.”

Qualcomm Technologies’ local affiliate moved into the new 4,600 m2 facility at Penrose Dock in Cork City Centre in October and is recruiting for roles in the ASIC areas of Digital, Analog, Machine Learning, Automotive, CAD, Automation, System Validation, Advanced Design for new Technologies and Software Engineering using leading-edge technologies to work on the next generation of ASIC Chips. For more information visit Qualcomm.Com/Careers

Commenting on the announcement, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar said: This is really welcome news for Cork. Ireland is known for being one of the leading Research, Development and Innovation locations in the world and today’s announcement is further evidence of our strength in this area. This announcement from Qualcomm to invest €78m to establish a new Research and Development centre in Cork, is expected to create hundreds of highly-skilled roles over the next four years. Our skilled and talented workforce allows companies like Qualcomm to embed and grow their operations here. I wish them every success with their expansion plans.

CEO of IDA Ireland, Martin Shanahan said: “Qualcomm’s new Research & Development Centre in Cork will operate on the cutting edge of technological innovation in Ireland. It is a terrific project for Cork and the South West region, and demonstrates IDA Ireland’s proven record of winning investments for regional locations. This investment also significantly enhances the reputation of the Irish semiconductor industry, adding to Ireland’s strong standing in microelectronics R&D.  I wish Qualcomm every success with today’s announcement and assure them of our continued support.”

New health insurance comparison site launches to help curb customer confusion. #Health #Insurance #HealthCareCompare

HealthCare Compare (HCC.ie) has today, launched its new platform which aims to remove the confusion and overpaying associated with health insurance plans. The Dublin based company hopes to help consumers make informed decisions on reviewing cover at the renewal stage. HCC.ie is unique in that it helps users identify the most suitable healthcare plan to suit their requirements and budgets through its advanced comparison tools and advice from health insurance specialists.

 

The launch comes during one of the busiest periods for the sector (November to March) which sees thousands of policies up for renewal. According to the HIA, 2,289,000 Irish people currently have health insurance policies. With over 320 on the market and 2 in 5 Irish people purchasing health insurance, many consumers are becoming overwhelmed with options, resulting in many overpaying. In addition to this, research has revealed an inertia or fear when it comes to changing providers. According to recent figures from the ESRI, 14% of Irish people claim it is too much hassle to switch insurers with 11.2% saying they couldn’t be bothered. It was also found that 7.2% of people said they failed to change providers as it was too difficult to compare plans.

HCC.ie offers a wide range of easy to navigate plans from Ireland’s three providers, Irish Life Health, Laya Healthcare and VHI. HealthCare Compare enables consumers to choose the right insurance premium for them through conducting a full review of their insurance wants and needs and providing users with alternative plans that are a better fit. Through the site, consumers can compare all insurance plans through selecting the type of cover they require, whether it be a basic, corporate or high end plan. They can then select their annual budget, outline the level of excess they would be willing to pay and tailor their premium through selecting which benefits are most important to them. Some of the benefits they can select include cardiac, maternity, fertility, back pain and prescriptions among others. HealthCare Compare also hopes to recruit at least 10 insurance experts across Ireland over the next six months. This opens the idea for those looking for insurance coverage a bit more scope.

The concept for HCC.ie came from young female health insurance expert Barbara Sheahan. She developed the concept for a personalised insurance premium comparison platform following her years of experience within the industry. Sheahan noticed a sizable gap in the market for a health insurance policy comparison platform that would better inform consumers on the best plan for them and their families.

 

Commenting on the launch of HealthCare Compare, Managing Director Barbara Sheahen said:

“We are delighted to have launched our personalised health insurance comparison site to give consumers better insight into the benefits and cost savings associated with selecting a health insurance plan. December to March is when most consumers renew their health insurance, and we understand it can be difficult to sieve through the endless options available. Although many would like to review their options, fear of change and inertia prevents them from doing so. Through HCC.ie we hope to be able to help consumers identify the most suitable plan for them at the best rate, whether that includes fertility benefits, maternity, cardiac, health screening, counselling. Our team of experts will help advise on the most suitable options available, helping them navigate their way through the huge, often-confusing maze of options available to them. We offer a personal service and ensure everyone fully understands the benefits of their plan by simplifying the overwhelming amount of information into their key requirements.”

Buyer Beware! Consumers worried about fraudsters survey reveals. #Fraud #Scams #Shopping #online

More than six in ten (62%) consumers are worried about being targeted by online fraudsters and over four in ten (43%) feel more exposed to online fraud threats due to being online more since COVID-19, according to research by Bank of Ireland. The survey also found that almost six in ten (58%) intend to shop more online this Christmas compared to last year and nine in ten consumers are now banking or shopping online. In recent weeks we have seen several scams which we posted here and now you need to be more vigilant than ever and always remember if it looks to good to be true it probably is as the saying goes

The study of 1,000 consumers was carried out as Bank of Ireland launches the most extensive public awareness campaign on fraud by any bank in Ireland. Fronted by TV personality Baz Ashmawy and running across TV, radio and social media through November and December, the campaign aims to remind consumers to be alert for potential fraud and provides guidance in the lead up to Christmas. Fraud awareness and prevention is a critical part of Bank of Ireland’s Financial Wellbeing Programme for customers.


Pictured above  – Gavin Kelly, CEO, Retail Ireland, Bank of Ireland and Baz Ashmawy.

The research also shows that over half (53%) admit to spending more time shopping online since the onset of COVID-19, rising to two thirds (66%) of 18 – 34 year olds. Four in five (80%) consumers are opting to use debit and credit cards in place of cash during the pandemic. More than half (55%) of consumers indicated they have received a fraudulent email, text message or call claiming to be from their bank in the past, while seven in ten (69%) say they regularly consider the threat of fraud when online.

Commenting on fraud, Gavin Kelly, CEO Retail Ireland, Bank of Ireland said: “Due to COVID-19 we’re all spending a lot more time online – for work, keeping in touch with people, and shopping – which means we are more susceptible to fraud. As we head towards the Christmas period, at Bank of Ireland we are ramping up our efforts to remind people to remain vigilant, particularly when online.

“With Level 5 restrictions now in force and many retail outlets shuttered across the country, online activity will spike even further in the coming weeks. Our research shows that over half of us have received a fraudulent email, text message or call claiming to be from our bank, and this trend is very likely to continue as our use of cards, online shopping and digital banking continues to increase. Our new nationwide fraud awareness campaign will help protect customers’ financial wellbeing and emphasises that by working together we won’t let the criminals win.

 “Fraudsters target customers of banks, utility companies, postal, taxation and social welfare services and other organisations. They are active day in, day out, 24/7. We see the stress it causes for consumers and businesses on an ongoing basis. As a bank we have a responsibility to be extremely vigilant to these attacks and to advise our customers how to deal with the various threats. We will never text, send emails or call a customer looking for their confidential banking details. You can forward any suspicious emails or texts to us at 365Security@boi.com and if anyone is concerned that their account or personal information has been compromised, they should call our 24/7 freephone line 1800 946 764.”

 

The research also revealed:

  • 66% believe they know the kind of tactics used by fraudsters in attempting to steal their money.
  • 95% said they would have little or no trust in receiving a text message or e-mail from their bank with a link requesting them to login to internet banking.
  • One in four (25%) feel comfortable sharing their personal information, rising to one in three (33%) of 18-34 year olds.

For more advice and information on fraud, visit www.bankofireland.com/security or www.fraudsmart.ie

The research was commissioned with RED C and the survey was conducted from 8th to 13th October 2020 with a national representative sample of 1000 respondents.

Groov-e launches ULTRA affordable Bluetooth Headphones with Wireless Charging #Tech #Headphones

Groov-e, a leading UK tech brand, today adds the Ultra to its headphone range. These stylish and affordable Bluetooth headphones allow users to experience crystal clear audio and the freedom of being completely wireless, even when it comes to charging. The Ultra headphones are available now in black or gold from www.groov-e.co.uk for £34.99.

Featuring 40mm drivers, the Ultra headphones provide superior sound and Super Bass for an immersive listening experience every time. Whether users are listening to music, an audiobook, or watching their favourite TV show, these headphones have been designed with comfort in mind. Soft ear-cushions and a padded headband ensure they are comfortable and easy to wear for long periods of time.

Users can enjoy up to 30-hours of wireless audio playback with any Bluetooth enabled device within a ten-metre range. What’s more, the removable 3.5mm headphone jack offers a corded option for unlimited playback and ensures compatibility with older devices.

When the battery does run low, charging couldn’t be easier. Simply place them on a wireless charging pad (not included) and they will be fully charged within 2-3 hours. The included micro USB charging cable means they can also be charged without a wireless charging pad. The LED light indicates when they are fully charged or if the battery is running low when in use.

A built-in mic and voice assistant functionality allow users to place calls and control their listening experience completely hands-free. The folding design offers a compact storage solution which is ideal for travel purposes or the daily commute.

Kunal Patel, Director, Groov-e said: “We pride ourselves in being able to offer stylish and affordable products with the latest technology. By integrating wireless charging into the Ultra headphones, we are providing a completely cable free experience.”

The Groov-e Ultra headphones, which come in gold or black, are £34.99, available from www.groov-e.co.uk

PHILIPS Projection updates the NeoPix Collection with 3 new LCD projectors

Philips Projection is launching 3 new NeoPix home projectors. After the success of the NeoPix Collection last year, Philips Projection is upgrading the NeoPix Easy, Prime and Ultra with the Easy 2+, Prime 2 and Ultra 2.

“This year, we have decided to push the limits even further by bringing the PicoPix Collection’s premium features to our NeoPix collection. Our customers can now enjoy our smart Philips OS with pre-loaded apps, Wi-Fi Dual Band for maximum speed, Bluetooth, a new light engine delivering better color and contrast, upgraded resolution up to True Full HD and a brand-new AirMote control for a super easy navigation.”

The NeoPix Prime 2 and Ultra 2 get smart image correction, including a 4-corner correction to place it wherever you want in the room, digital zoom, and projector settings appearing on the top of every content. The Philips OS will constantly evolve, adding brand new features and extra apps via Wi-Fi.

The Prime 2 gets the Philips OS with built-in apps, new speakers and fan, and an updated AirMote for the same price as the 2019 Prime. The Ultra 2 gets smaller, smarter and projects True Full HD 1080p images for only 329USD/EUROS.

The Easy 2+ stays our most affordable projector and gets double brightness with 720p resolution compared to the first iteration.

NeoPix Easy2+

Enjoy a comfortable True HD 720p image and project all your content up to 65” thanks to the wide range of connectivity (HDMI, USB, MicroSD). Just connect your USB stick or hard drive to play movies, images, and even music with the built-in multimedia player. The NeoPix Easy 2+ uses advanced electronic keystone correction technology resulting in a 16:9 image, even at an angle or in variable environments. The stereo speakers will ensure you have sound wherever you are, and with the 3.5mm audio jack you can plug in your external speakers for louder sound.

NEOPIX ULTRA 2
NEOPIX PRIME 2
NE0PIX2+

 

The NeoPix Easy2+ will be priced at 149USD/EUROS and is available this month.

NeoPix Prime 2 and Ultra 2

Comfy movie nights or gaming in your bedroom in 720p HD (Prime 2) and True Full HD with the Ultra 2! These projectors deliver convenient entertainment in nearly any room, with a lamp free light engine optimized to last more than 30,000 hours. The built-in smart Philips OS and Dual Band Wi-Fi connectivity lets you stream and binge from your favorite content providers like YouTube (more apps will be pushed via FOTA) or play videos, pictures and music directly from USB Sticks. You can also stream multimedia content from your mobile devices via Wi-Fi screen mirroring. The keystone, 4 corner correction and digital zoom corrections help eliminate crooked and distorted images for a perfectly proportioned picture even when the device is not straight in front of the wall, so place it wherever you wish!

The NeoPix Prime 2 will be priced at 199USD/EUROS and the NeoPix Ultra 2 at 329USD/EUROS. Both projectors are available this month.

House of Marley announce eco-conscious Champion True Wireless earbuds. #Tech #Eco

House of Marley today announces the expansion of their true wireless earbuds collection with the release of Champion, an eco-conscious alternative to traditional earbuds. Crafted using renewable bamboo, natural wood fibre composite and REGRIND™ recycled silicone within a sleek, compact case, Champion is the third true wireless offering from the sustainably-minded audio maker.

Designed as an everyday companion, Champion invites you to wake up and live, bringing music and convenience wherever life takes you these days. The true wireless earbuds offer market-leading battery life with 8 hours between charges and 28 hours of total playtime with the case. Its exceptional seal provides a snug, ergonomic fit and noise isolating environment, so nothing gets between you and the wireless sound.

With an IPX4 certified water and sweat resistance rating, Champion is designed for active lives and environments, ensuring you stay connected even during intense workouts. On-ear control lets you easily play, pause, change tracks and take calls at the click of a button while on the go. Crystal clear stereo voice communications allow you to hear and be heard during calls with seamless connectivity. Conveniently packed in House of Marley’s most compact case design to date, Champion effortlessly slides into your pocket or bag without added bulk or weight.

“This year marks the 10th Anniversary for House of Marley as an eco-minded audiomaker,” explains House of Marley’s Director of Product Development Josh Poulsen. “With that, we wanted to offer a greener alternative within the under £60 category for true wireless earbuds. For the Champion, we’ve taken our popular Liberate Air and reduced the charging case by 30% to offer a sleeker, smaller design for those looking for even more portability and convenience. The result is a stylish and affordable option that answers the consumer demand for more environmentally conscious products.”

Continuing their commitment to reducing plastic waste, Champion follows House of Marley’s shift to 100% recyclable packaging. As part of a conscious effort to use FSC™ certified materials, recycled paper, recycled PET and paper fibre ties instead of the plastic standard, the new packaging is addressing the need for simpler, fully-recyclable packaging within consumer electronics. Additionally, the Champion case includes a braided charging cord made of 99% post-consumer recyclable polyester, a design innovation to be reflected in future House of Marley offerings.

CHAMPION PRODUCT FEATURES

  • Materials: Bamboo, natural wood fibre composite, REGRIND™ recycled silicone
  • 8 hour battery life, 28 hours of total playtime
  • Ear housing touch control
  • IPX4 certified water and sweat resistant design
  • USB-C quick charge technology (15 min = 2 hours)
  • Bluetooth™ 5.0 + BLE
  • RRP: £59.99

Champion will be available today at thehouseofmarley.co.uk, Amazon and selected retailers nationwide.

Urbanista offering site wide 30% discount for singles day. #Tech #Urbanista

Whether you’re single or taken, it’s time to pair up with your perfect audio companion. This Singles’ Day Urbanista are now offering you 30% off everything on-site. So if you are in the market for new headphones or earbuds this is a chance to grab a great pair of headphones or true wireless at a great price also check out our full review catalogue of the range we have covered here to see what we think by searching “urbanista” in the search bar you will find we have covered the entire range to date and they get an easy recommendation from me. They also have created a playlist on Spotify for you to listen to right HERE

SHOP HERE