Category: Tech News

Knowles and SoftBank release TW-9100 TWS earbuds Tuned to the Knowles Curve

Knowles Corporation (NYSE: KN), a leading manufacturer of specialty electronic components for innovative technologies, including capacitors, radio frequency (“RF”) filters, advanced medtech microphones, and balanced armature speakers, announced that SB C&S Corp., a SoftBank Corp. group company, has selected Knowles balanced armature (BA) drivers for its latest premium true wireless stereo (TWS) earbuds under the GLIDiC audio brand.

Launching today in Japan, the high-end GLIDiC TW-9100 earbuds feature Knowles BAs in a hybrid configuration with dynamic drivers to deliver exceptional sound performance across the entire frequency spectrum. The Knowles BA drivers handle the critical high-frequency reproduction, while dynamic drivers deliver rich mid and low frequencies, creating a comprehensive soundstage that reveals intricate musical details with natural tonal balance.

Tuned to the Knowles Preferred Listening Response Curve, the TW-9100 earbuds incorporate audio innovations backed by substantial research indicating that consumers of varying ages and hearing capabilities gravitate toward enhanced high-frequency performance extending past 10 kHz, resulting in significantly richer musical enjoyment. Through the implementation of Knowles’ BAs, GLIDiC delivers the extended frequency range necessary for superior sound reproduction while maintaining the authentic sonic signature that sound enthusiasts prize.

“The GLIDiC TW-9100 represents the culmination of years of sound creation expertise, bringing together our unique audio know-how with Knowles’ industry-leading BAs,” said Satoru Takeshita, Head of Product Division 1 Consumer Business Unit at SB C&S Corp. “Our goal with this first hybrid design as the GLIDiC TWS earbuds was to create a high-resolution sound experience that truly resonates with listeners, delivering realistic details from delicate, clear treble to rich, powerful bass in a premium package.”

In addition to superior sound quality, the GLIDiC TW-9100 features an elegant design and advanced capabilities, including adaptive hybrid active noise cancellation that automatically adjusts based on ambient noise levels, AI noise reduction for crystal-clear calls, and multipoint connectivity allowing simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth devices.

“Our collaboration with SB C&S demonstrates how Knowles BAs can help audio brands create truly exceptional listening experiences,” said Jon Kiachian, President of Medical and Specialty Audio at Knowles Corporation. “For more than 75 years, Knowles has pioneered balanced armature technology that enables unprecedented sound performance for its size, and we’re proud to see this heritage continue in premium products like the GLIDiC TW-9100.”

The GLIDiC TW-9100 will be available starting today, at ‘SoftBank’ stores across Japan, as well as through Trend Tech SoftBank SELECTION.

https://glidic.jp/tw-9100/

See the biggest range of earbuds reviews in Ireland

RØDE Reshapes Sound With The NTH-50 Headphones

RØDE has today unveiled the NTH-50 professional on-ear headphones, the latest addition to its award-winning headphone lineup. Designed for professionals who demand pristine audio, the NTH-50s deliver extraordinary sonic precision, exceptional comfort, and superior noise isolation in a lightweight, durable on-ear design. Offering a natural and balanced sound signature with ultra-low distortion and superior passive noise isolation, the NTH-50s are tailor-made for DJs, sound engineers and creators who require premium sound reproduction, all-day comfort, and rugged durability. Priced at just US$99, the NTH-50s provide an unparalleled opportunity for anyone serious about sound to elevate their listening experience.

KEY FEATURES OF THE NTH-50 HEADPHONES
Custom-matched 40mm driver with revolutionary resonant chamber that provides deep and balanced bass while maintaining detailed midrange and treble clarity

Innovative acoustic design that offers accurate frequency response and ultra-low distortion for a rich and detailed listening experience

Superior passive noise isolation for undisturbed critical monitoring

Contoured headband to minimise wearing fatigue and encourage extended creative sessions

Sleek, durable and lightweight construction that offers the ideal blend of contemporary design and long-lasting performance

Detachable cable with locking connector featuring dual-sided attachment for maximum flexibility and convenience

Designed and made with a lifetime warranty using high-grade components in RØDE’s state-of-the-art facilities in Sydney, Australia

“At RØDE, we are committed to developing innovative audio solutions to meet the ever-evolving needs of creators,” said Damien Wilson, CEO of RØDE. “The NTH-50s embody this philosophy, offering a level of sonic accuracy, comfort and durability that marks a new gold standard for on-ear headphones. Engineered from the ground up by our dedicated headphone innovation team in Germany, we’ve crafted a pair of premium headphones at an affordable price point that deliver an incredibly detailed and immersive listening experience in any environment. Once again, RØDE has over-achieved in the pursuit of delivering world-class monitoring technology.”

BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED AUDIO

At the heart of the NTH-50s is a custom-engineered 40mm dynamic driver housed within an innovative resonant chamber. This design delivers impeccable sound clarity, offering incredibly accurate frequency response, ultra-low distortion and a perfectly balanced sound signature that combines rich, natural bass with detailed midrange, and crisp highs. Whether you’re monitoring, mixing, mastering, or enjoying your favourite tracks, the NTH-50s provide incredibly accurate sound reproduction and dynamic tonal depth, capturing every nuance exactly as intended.

Engineered to excel in diverse environments, the NTH-50s offer outstanding passive noise isolation (-21 dBA), minimising external distractions and preventing sound bleed during recording. With high SPL capabilities and exceptional sensitivity, the NTH-50s generate pristine audio even in the noisiest settings, making them ideal for live performances and studio monitoring.

UNRIVALLED COMFORT FOR EXTENDED USE

With any pair of headphones, comfort is just as vital as sound quality, and the NTH-50s deliver on both fronts, seamlessly blending precision engineering with a design that prioritises the user experience. A contoured headband, featuring an integrated fontanel recess has been adopted to alleviate pressure on the top of the head, significantly reducing fatigue during extended creative sessions in the studio, on stage or in the field. Lightweight and fully adjustable, the NTH-50s evenly distribute pressure for a tailored fit that effortlessly accommodates all users, including those who wear glasses, empowering all creators to hone their craft for hours on end in supreme comfort.

Complementing the on-ear design, the earcups are lined with premium memory foam padding, expertly engineered to conform to the unique contours of any ears. This ensures a snug yet breathable fit, enhancing airflow to reduce heat buildup while simultaneously offering advanced passive noise dampening.

BUILT TO LAST A LIFETIME

Designed and built in Sydney, Australia, the NTH-50s have been masterfully crafted using lightweight yet durable materials such as premium aluminium faceplates, developed to withstand the rigours of daily professional use. Backed by RØDE’s lifetime warranty, a modular design featuring replaceable components such as the headband, ear cushions, and cables ensures maximum longevity, while dual-sided cable attachments add flexibility to any workflow. Colour-coded earcup identifiers have also been applied to ensure quick and easy orientation in low-light environments, a thoughtful touch that reflects RØDE’s commitment to innovation. Finished with a scratch-resistant matte black coating, the NTH-50s offer a sleek and professional aesthetic that accentuates their robust performance.

The NTH-50s include a premium 1.7m double-coiled monitoring cable, storage pouch, and a 3.5mm to ¼-inch adapter, ensuring seamless connectivity across professional setups. Thoughtfully designed for creators, they feature colour-coded ID rings for easy cable management and full compatibility with the NTH-100 accessory range, including modular cable options. For even greater versatility, the NTH-Mic transforms them into a broadcast-quality headset, making them the ultimate tool for podcasting, streaming, and content creation.

The NTH-50 on-ear headphones are available to purchase now for US$99 and are shipping worldwide. Learn more about the NTH-50s at https://rode.com/headphones/on-ear/nth-50

See our headphone reviews

Maxcom launches the mRing: Stylish, affordable smart ring

Maxcom, an innovative Polish company producing and distributing consumer electronics has launched the mRing, a beautifully designed smart ring that combines powerful health tracking features with effortless style. Using the latest technology to offer 24/7 wellness insights from a sleek device no larger than a wedding band, mRing is perfect for users who value both functionality and fashion. At just £59.99 and available from Amazon UK, mRing is making wearable tech more accessible than ever. 

Designed with durability and aesthetics in mind, the mRing is crafted from lightweight stainless steel and shaped for maximum comfort, meaning users can wear it all day and night without irritation – whether they’re at the office, at the gym or asleep. Easily mistaken as jewellery, it is available in three refined finishes – silver, black and gold.

This smart ring not only catches the eye but thanks to advanced sensors inside and a companion app, it can provide valuable insights into the body’s condition, motivating users to be more conscious of their health and fitness. Features include:

Precise health monitoring:

mRing can track vital body parameters around the clock, utilising advanced algorithms to interpret data on heart rate, oxygen saturation, temperature and heart rate variability (HRV). HRV provides insights into the body’s recovery level, energy potential and responses to physical and mental stress. Additionally, the mRing can help women track menstrual cycles by monitoring temperature fluctuations. 

Steps taken; calories burned:

During activities, from a casual walk to intense training, mRing collects information about a user’s performance. It analyses the number of steps taken, distance covered, heart rate and energy expenditure in the form of calories burned. Paired with the intuitive Aizo Ring app, the mRing makes it easy to assess current fitness level, track progress and plan future goals. 

Detailed sleep analysis:

During the night, mRing continuously monitors the quality of rest, tracking different sleep phases, from light to deep to REM. It also detects moments of waking, evaluates breathing and measures resting heart rate, providing a comprehensive picture of the body’s recovery. Reports with daily, weekly and monthly data help users understand their sleep patterns and improve sleep hygiene.

Body recovery assessment:

The collected information on activity, sleep quality and key health parameters creates an overall picture of the body’s condition. mRing interprets this data, offering guidance to help improve daily habits. 

Water resistance:

Thanks to its robust construction and IP68 water resistance rating, users don’t have to worry about the mRing getting wet. It can be worn confidently while swimming, showering or washing hands. High-quality stainless steel and meticulous craftmanship ensure durability and long-lasting appearance, no matter how intense activities are. 

Six days of battery life:

Efficient energy management allows the mRing to operate for up to six days without needing a recharge. When it’s time to recharge, the magnetic charger quickly restores the ring’s full functionality, ensuring convenience and readiness every day. 

The Maxcom mRing is available now for £59.99 from Amazon.co.uk in gold, silver and black. There are eight sizes to choose from, based on a user’s finger circumference, to ensure the perfect fit. The mRing works with the Aizo Ring app which is compatible with both iOS and Android. 

See our Maxcom Reviews

Doro unveils game-changing Aurora smartphone series: Empowering seniors and their loved ones

Doro, the global technology leader for seniors, today announces the launch of three new Doro 4G smartphones  – Doro Aurora A10, Doro Aurora A20 and Doro Aurora A30. The devices are available to purchase on doro.com now and Harvey Norman retailers in the coming month.

Developed to meet the evolving needs of seniors and users needing more from their technology, the Aurora series futureproofs Doro’s commitment to user-friendly and help technology. Featuring a new, robust and easy-to-grip design with a simplified interface, each component prioritises ease of use and user peace of mind.

A recent Doro study revealed that 51% of seniors worry about pressing the wrong thing on their devices, while 49% struggle with app navigation. To address these challenges, the phones feature three physical buttons for easy calling and a dedicated home key, making navigation simpler for all users, including those with impaired sight or dexterity. The devices, with the buttons and their streamlined interface, also provide quick access to Google Gemini features.  With loud and clear sound quality powered by Doro ClearSound, they ensure crystal-clear communication.

Users benefit from peace of mind with the signature Doro Secure Button, featured on every device. A single press instantly sends an alert and connects users with their trusted support network when assistance is needed, providing reassurance for both users and their loved ones through Doro’s innovative help technology.

With TeamViewer, the user can gain real-time technical assistance remotely — making technology hurdles disappear with quick, convenient support. This addresses a critical need, as 59% of supporting relatives confirm their senior family members struggle with handling updates and settings on their own. The devices highlight why seniors deserve technology crafted specifically for their unique needs, rather than second-hand devices passed on from friends or relatives.

The phones come in a variety of designs: the Aurora A10 is a perfect compact 4.5” smartphone, the Aurora A20 is a 4.5” smartphone with a flip-down number keypad, and the Aurora A30 is a smartphone with a large 6.1” display. The A10 and A20 feature a 13MP camera, while the A30 offers a Doro-best enhanced 50MP camera.

Ben Crompton, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Doro, says: “With the launch of the Doro Aurora range, we are taking a bold step forward in redefining how technology can empower senior users and their supporting relatives. Our new smartphones are designed to be intuitive and effortlessly accessible, with new and improved features like the Doro Secure Button ensuring users stay safe and then the Doro Easy Call allowing people to stay connected more easily. Research indicates that the number of over-50s experiencing loneliness is set to reach two million by 2026, making connection and communication more important than ever.

The Doro Aurora smartphones are the latest instalment in the Doro ecosystem, meeting our users’ evolving needs. At Doro, we believe technology should boost independence, not complicate it – and Aurora is a testament to that commitment.”

Availability and Pricing

  • Doro Aurora A10 €260
  • Doro Aurora A20 €285 
  • Doro Aurora A30 €335

All three phones will be available on the Doro website from launch, and high street retailers and network operators in the near future.

FEATURES

The Doro Aurora A10, Doro Aurora A20, and Doro Aurora A30 cater to a wide range of needs, featuring:

  • Doro Secure™ Button – One-touch access to immediate support and assistance.
  • Doro Easy™ Interface – A simplified smartphone experience tailored for all users.
  • Loud and Clear Sound – Doro ClearSound ensures optimised audio for enhanced clarity.
  • Remote Support – Loved ones can provide assistance remotely, reducing stress and ensuring a seamless experience.
  • Eco-Friendly Design – Crafted with recycled materials, reflecting Doro’s commitment to sustainability.
  • Easy charging – The Doro Aurora wireless charger makes charging easy and seamlessly blends into the home environment. It is ideal for hands-free video calling and comes with a dimmable light to be able to see at night easily. Available for purchase separately to the phones or as a bundle.

Doro recently launched its new range of Doro 4G feature phones, the Doro Leva L10, Doro Leva X10, Doro Leva L20 and Doro Leva L30, offering a unique blend of style and functionality.

The Swedish company has also launched innovative smart devices tailored to the needs of senior users, including the Doro Hemma Doorbell, the Doro HearingBuds and the Doro Watch.

Other Doro Reviews 

HighPoint’s PCIe Gen5 x16 RocketStor 8631CW Breaks New Ground for GPU Expansion

HighPoint’s RocketStor 8631CW represents a revolutionary leap forward in eGPU (external GPU) connectivity. Designed for professional media, industrial applications, and high-demand computing environments, the RocketStor 8631CW leverages industry-proven PCIe Switching technology and robust CopprLink CDFP connectivity to deliver an unprecedented x16 lanes of dedicated host-to-device PCIe 5.0 bandwidth.

 

Key Features
Burdened by performance and latency bottlenecks imposed by Thunderbolt and OCuLink connectivity? This groundbreaking solution liberates users from the limitations of conventional eGPU solutions, offering unparalleled performance and flexibility.

Unleash the True Potential of Your GPU with Industry-Leading PCIe Switching Technology: The RocketStor 8631CW harnesses the power of cutting-edge PCIe Gen5 switching technology to ensure your GPU operates at its maximum potential. This technology eliminates the performance and latency bottlenecks commonly associated with traditional eGPU enclosures, providing a seamless and efficient connection between your host system and GPU.

Ready for Today’s Fastest, Power-Hungry GPUs: The RocketStor 8631CW is engineered to support the most advanced, power-hungry GPUs available, including full-height, 2-slot, and 3-slot models from NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, and more. It provides a massive 600W of direct power, ensuring that even the most demanding GPUs can operate at peak performance without any power-related constraints.

Robust CopprLink CDFP Connectivity Delivers x16 Lanes of Dedicated Gen5 Host Bandwidth: The innovative CopprLink CDFP connectivity delivers a dedicated x16 lane connection, offering a staggering 128GB/s of bi-directional bandwidth. This ensures that your GPU receives the full bandwidth it needs to handle the most intensive workloads with ease.

Low-Profile LP-MD2 Adapter for Compact Workstations and Mini-PCs: The RocketStor 8631CW includes a low-profile LP-MD2 adapter, making it an ideal solution for compact workstations, rackmount chassis, and mini-PCs. This adapter ensures that even space-constrained systems can take advantage of the RocketStor 8631CW’s powerful capabilities.

Advanced Dual-Fan Cooling System with Programmable Smart Fan Control: To maintain optimal performance, the RocketStor 8631CW features an advanced dual-fan cooling system with programmable smart fan control. This system effectively dissipates heat, preventing thermal throttling and ensuring that your GPU operates at peak performance even under heavy loads.

Simple & Seamless Plug-and-Play Software-less Installation for Linux & Windows Platforms: The RocketStor 8631CW offers a straightforward plug-and-play installation process that requires no additional software. This makes it easy to integrate into both Linux and Windows platforms, allowing for quick and efficient deployment in any professional or industrial environment.

Target Use Cases
AI/ML Computing & Deep Learning: The RocketStor 8631CW is perfect for AI and machine learning applications that require the processing power of high-end GPUs. Its robust connectivity and power delivery ensure that these demanding workloads are handled with ease.

High-Performance Content Creation & Rendering: For content creators and 3D artists, the RocketStor 8631CW provides the performance needed for real-time rendering and high-resolution video editing, making it an invaluable tool for professional media production.

High-End Gaming, VR, and Media Platforms: Gamers and VR enthusiasts can benefit from the RocketStor 8631CW’s ability to support the latest, most powerful GPUs, providing a smooth and immersive gaming experience.

Scientific Research & Big Data Analytics: Researchers and data scientists can leverage the RocketStor 8631CW to accelerate complex computations and data analysis, enabling faster insights and more efficient research processes.

Enterprise Workloads & Cloud Computing: The RocketStor 8631CW is also suited for enterprise environments, where it can enhance the performance of cloud computing platforms and support the demanding workloads of large-scale data centers.

In Summary
HighPoint RocketStor 8631CW is a game-changing eGPU expansion solution that breaks free from the constraints of traditional connectivity options. With its industry-leading PCIe Gen5 switching technology, robust CopprLink CDFP connectivity, and advanced cooling system, it delivers unparalleled performance and reliability for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re a professional media creator, a data scientist, or an enterprise IT manager, the RocketStor 8631CW is designed to meet your most demanding GPU expansion needs.

Learn More
RocketStor 8631CW – PCIe 5.0 x16 GPU Expansion Chassis
https://www.highpoint-tech.com/rs8631cw-individual-page

First ever Dublin Tech Week all set to launch!

Dublin City Council is proud to announce the first ever Dublin Tech Week, running from 23-30 May.

In just over a week, Dublin will become the epicentre of global innovation as it welcomes a week-long celebration that promises to energise the city with the brightest ideas, the boldest technology, and a shared vision for the future.

This first-of-its-kind initiative will unite the capital’s top innovators, global tech leaders, creatives, educators, and the wider community through a dynamic mix of over 30 events, spanning everything from AI and cybersecurity to blockchain, smart cities, fintech and beyond.

But this is more than just a calendar of events. Dublin Tech Week is a movement — one that underscores the city’s position as a bold, collaborative, and forward-looking global tech hub.

Ross Curley Head of Economic Development, Dublin City Council & Dublin Regional Place Brand said: “Dublin is one of Europe’s most important tech hubs and a leading smart city. Dublin City Council and the Dublin Brand are proud to support the City’s first ever Tech Week showcasing our world-class talent, cutting-edge innovation, and collaborative spirit. Initiatives like this not only highlight our position as a leader in the tech industry but also inspire future innovation, and strengthen our city’s reputation as a forward-thinking, welcoming and thriving destination for local and global business.”

From flagship conferences like the Dublin Tech Summit at the RDS, Blockchain Ireland Summit at Trinity Business School, Dublin 2 and ETHDublin at Dogpatch Labs, to grassroots meetups, hackathons, and family-friendly discovery trails, the programme is designed to be as accessible as it is ambitious.

Event highlights include Smart Dublin’s ‘The Connective Detective’ – build your own smart city; ‘All We Feel is How it Moves’ – a live audiovisual work driven by real time data at the Hugh Lane Gallery; a session on the Cultural Audit and Culture Near You Map by the Dublin City Council Culture Company and ‘Learn the Art of Lock Picking’ among many others.

Both the tech and wider community can immerse themselves in topics ranging from the future of AI and immersive tech, to ethical hacking, Web3 governance, smart urban planning, and the power of inclusive innovation. Events range from ticketed to free and open to attend/participate in, with booking information provided on the event listing.

All of this is made possible by a powerful coalition of partners and stakeholders across Dublin’s ecosystem, including: Dublin City Council, Smart Dublin, Dublin Chamber, the Dublin City Local Enterprise Office, NovaUCD, the ADAPT Centre at Trinity College, Dogpatch Labs, Guinness Enterprise Centre, Blockchain Ireland, ETH Dublin, TU Dublin, Tech Ireland, and Enterprise Ireland.

Together, they’re helping to build a platform for discovery, investment, talent, and community impact that will reverberate long after the week finishes.

Dublin Tech Week is open to all. Whether you’re a startup founder, developer, policy thinker, educator, student, or simply curious about what the future holds, there’s a place for you in this citywide conversation.

Explore the full programme and get involved at dublintechweek.com
Follow the buzz: #DublinTechWeek

Version 1 signs €102.7m deal with Department of Education to transform Ireland’s school employee payroll systems

Version 1, a leader in AI and digital transformation, today announced it has been awarded a significant contract of up to 15 years by the Department of Education Ireland, integrating HCM and Payroll Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions that will enable the timely, secure and accurate processing of payroll.

Version 1 will lead on the design, development, integration and management of the technology systems that service approximately 155,000 teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as retirees across Ireland. Version 1 has partnered with The Access Group to deliver on this major change programme.

The project will see the Department of Education providing payees with employee self-service including online access to their payroll related information. Version 1 has proven, long-standing experience of delivering similar technology solutions for other public sector organisations and will work closely with the Department of Education on this change programme. Version 1 will build, integrate and manage the systems, drawing on a reputation of consistent quality of delivery for public sector organisations.

Commenting on the award of the contract, Chief Information Officer for the Department of Education, Anne-Marie Sherkle said, “I would like to congratulate Version 1 on the award of this contract.  Connecting Government 2030 highlights the need to harness Cloud solutions so that we can deliver online services to our citizens. Leveraging Cloud will allow us to provide not just effective public facing services but will help streamline back-end processes and systems.”

Assistant Secretary General, Martin Clohessy with responsibility for Major Operations in the Department of Education commented, “I very much welcome the improved customer service benefits that will be provided to school employees, retirees, and our school administrators. The Department looks forward to working closely with Version 1 to ensure the successful delivery of this very important programme of work.”

“We have been truly inspired by the vision and drive of the team at the Department of Education to meaningfully improve payroll related services,” said Ger O’Sullivan, Head of Public Sector Ireland at Version 1. “Version 1 has industry leading customer satisfaction scores because we deliver on our customer commitments. We look forward to evolving this partnership even further to unlock this transformation”.

Esports World Cup Foundation Welcomes OBSBOT as Official Camera and Webcam Partner for Esports World Cup 2025

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) today announced OBSBOT, as an official camera and webcam partner for the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025, set to return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this summer. The two-year partnership will integrate OBSBOT’s next-generation AI camera technologies into the EWC’s production capabilities, providing enhanced video quality and immersive experiences for millions of fans around the world.

The partnership supports the EWC’s broader strategy to connect Chinese esports with its global ecosystem, strengthening ties with one of the world’s most dynamic gaming markets and bringing the best of China’s innovation to the global esports stage.

The 2025 Esports World Cup will spotlight every player’s journey, showcasing their skill, competitive excellence and relentless pursuit of victory. OBSBOT will support this vision by outfitting player areas, streaming stations, and venue activations with its latest devices, the Tail 2 smart-tracking camera and the Tiny 2 webcam, both designed with esports creators in mind.

“The Esports World Cup is built on innovation, and technology plays a crucial role in creating unforgettable moments for players, Clubs and fans,” said Mohammed Al Nimer, Senior Sales Director, Esports World Cup Foundation. “Our partnership with OBSBOT is at the heart of this vision. Its cutting-edge camera technology demonstrates the power of AI in esports today, capturing the intensity and emotion that defines competition at this level and bringing fans into the moment. We are thrilled to have OBSBOT as our Official Camera and Webcam Partner as we continue raising the bar for esports experiences worldwide.”

OBSBOT offers standout solutions like the Tail 2 and Tiny 2. Tail 2, a 4K PTZR live production camera powered by AI Tracking 2.0, delivers smooth, cinematic shots with minimal manual input and integrates seamlessly with professional broadcasting environments through NDI and other pro-grade outputs. The Tiny 2, the flagship webcam in OBSBOT’s lineup, provides exceptional image quality and unparalleled tracking performance in a compact desktop form. Whether on stage or at the desk, OBSBOT’s technology ensures streamers can stay focused on the game while the camera keeps up.

“We believe that everyone’s story deserves to be seen and shared, and the Esports World Cup provides the perfect platform for us to showcase our vision,” said Liu Bo, CEO & Founder of OBSBOT. “Through our partnership with the Esports World Cup, we are bringing our cutting-edge AI-powered camera technology to millions of gamers and content creators, celebrating the excitement, drama, and triumphs of elite competition on the world’s biggest stage. This collaboration is about more than just capturing moments; it’s about empowering a new generation of storytellers to create, share, and inspire with professional-grade tools that are as dynamic as the esports community itself.”

Returning to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 7 to August 24, 2025, the Esports World Cup will unite global gaming communities for a celebration of esports culture. With 25 tournaments across 24 games, 2,000 elite players, and 200 Clubs from over 100 countries, the EWC will feature the largest prize pool in esports history, over $70 million. Fans can expect exclusive experiences, from high-stakes competition to live music, anime cafes, retro arcades, cosplay, and more, drawing millions of fans online and in person.

To learn more about EWC, visit esportsworldcup.com and follow Esports World Cup Foundation on LinkedIn.

See our OBSBOT reviews 

Handy octopus robot can adapt to its surroundings

Scientists inspired by the octopus’s nervous system have developed a robot that can decide how to move or grip objects by sensing its environment.

The team from the University of Bristol’s Faculty of Science and Engineering designed a simple yet smart robot which uses fluid flows of air or water to coordinate suction and movement as octopuses do with hundreds of suckers and multiple arms.

The study, published today in the journal Science Robotics, shows how a soft robot can use suction flow not just to stick to things, but also to sense its environment and control its own actions—just like an octopus. A single suction system enables the robot to grab delicate items, sense whether it’s touching air, water, or a rough surface, and even predict how hard something is pulling on it—all at once, without needing a central computer.

Lead author Tianqi Yue explained: “Last year, we developed an artificial suction cup that mimicked how octopuses stick to rocks using soft materials and water sealing.

“This research brings that work on, from using a suction cup like an octopus sucker to connect to objects to using ‘embodied suction intelligence’ – mimicking key aspects of the neuromuscular structure of the octopus in soft robotic systems.”

The suction intelligence works at two levels: by coupling suction flow with local fluidic circuitry, soft robots can achieve octopus-like low-level embodied intelligence, including gently grasping delicate objects, adaptive curling and encapsulating objects of unknown geometries. By decoding the pressure response from a suction cup, robots can achieve high-level perception including contact detection, classification of environment and surface roughness, as well as prediction of interactive pulling force.

This simple and low-cost suction intelligence could lead to a new generation of soft robots that are safer, smarter and more energy-efficient. Potential uses include picking fruit gently in agriculture, handling fragile items in factories, anchoring medical tools inside the human body, or creating soft toys and wearable tools that can interact safely with people.

The team are currently working on making the system smaller and more robust for real-world use. They also aim to combine it with smart materials and AI to improve its adaptability and decision-making in complex environments.

“It’s fascinating how a simple suction cup, with no electronics inside, can feel, think and act—just like an octopus arm,” concluded Tianqi. “This could help robots become more natural, soft and intuitive to use.”

Paper:

‘Embodying soft robots with octopus-inspired hierarchical suction intelligence’ by Tianqi Yue, Chenghua Lu, Kailuan Tang, Qiukai Qi, Zhenyu Lu, Loong Yi Lee, Hermes Bloomfield-Gadȇlha, and Jonathan Rossiter in Science Robotics.