Category: Tech News

Coimisiún na Meán publishes Strategy Statement 2025-2027 and 2025 Work Programme

Coimisiún na Meán has today (24.04.25) published its first three-year strategy, which sets out the organisation’s vision for a vibrant and healthy media landscape in Ireland. The Strategy Statement 2025-2027 is accompanied by a 2025 Work Programme, which lists priority projects across Coimisiún na Meán’s remit of online safety, media sector development and regulation.

The Strategy Statement 2025-2027 is built on six key outcomes:

  • Children – a media landscape that upholds the rights, wellbeing and development of children and their safe engagement with content
  • Democracy – a media landscape that supports democracy and democratic values, underpins civic discourse, and reduces the impact of disinformation
  • Trust – a media landscape that consumers can trust, and where they are protected from exploitation and fraud
  • Irish Culture and Media – a media landscape that is sustainable, pluralistic and participative, and that reflects and shapes who we are as a society
  • Diversity and Inclusion – a media landscape that promotes the values of justice, equality, diversity and inclusion
  • Public Safety – a media landscape that strengthens public health and safety

Commenting on the publication of Coimisiún na Meán’s first Strategy Statement, Executive Chair Jeremy Godfrey said: ‘’The publication of our first Strategy Statement, and of our 2025 Work Programme is an important milestone for our young organisation. We are confident that this strategy will help us to create a media landscape that benefits all of society.’’

‘‘Our six outcomes are ambitious and reflect our commitment to the regulation, support and development of a media landscape that underpins fundamental rights and fosters an open, democratic and pluralistic society. As Ireland’s media landscape evolves, we feel a unique responsibility to ensure that we shape the changing media environment to better serve Irish audiences, to uphold fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, and to protect people, especially children, from harm.’’

‘’Since our establishment, we have developed and are now enforcing Ireland’s regulatory regime for online safety, our Online Safety Framework. We have also delivered critical funding support to the independent production and media sector through our Sound & Vision Scheme and new Journalism Schemes, and we have embarked on an extensive re-licensing programme for radio and television stations across Ireland.’’

‘’Guided by our Strategy Statement, and supported by our annual Work Programmes, we look forward to continuing to deliver a thriving, diverse, creative, safe and trusted media landscape for Ireland.’’

Among the priority projects outlined in Coimisiún na Meán’s 2025 Work Programme are the development of a pilot programme for children at imminent risk of harm from online content, the development of an Election Integrity Strategy across all media sources, the creation of educational materials relating to online hate, the preparation of a new Broadcasting Services Strategy and a revised Media Plurality Policy, and the continuation of the Sound & Vision and Journalism funding Schemes.

Strategy Statement 2025-2027
2025 Work Programme

PETLUX V3: The Self-Cleaning, Leakproof Litter Box for Large Cats & Multi-Cat Households

PETLUX V3, a next-generation self-cleaning litter box specifically designed for large cat breeds and multi-cat households. Unlike many automatic litter boxes on the market, PETLUX V3 is engineered to eliminate leaks, reduce odors, and provide a hygienic, hands-free solution to litter box maintenance.

With a 100-liter capacity, a seamless waterproof design, and biodegradable waste management options, PETLUX V3 resolves common frustrations such as small, cramped litter spaces, frequent cleaning needs, and lingering odors. Its app-connected system allows pet owners to monitor waste levels, track their cat’s litter box habits, and activate cleaning cycles remotely. Meanwhile, the ultra-quiet 30 dB operation ensures that both pets and their owners are undisturbed.

A Spacious & Hygienic Litter Box for Large Breeds

Finding a litter box that accommodates large cat breeds can be a challenge, with many models proving too small for breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Norwegian Forest Cats. PETLUX V3 addresses this with a 100-liter drum and a 48 cm inner diameter, providing ample space for cats to turn, dig, and cover their waste comfortably. In a multi-cat household, PETLUX V3 can comfortably accommodate up to four large cats, making it the ultimate litter box for big breeds.

Beyond space, hygiene is a key concern for pet owners. PETLUX V3 features a fully waterproof, seamless design that eliminates the risk of leaks and prevents bacteria buildup. Traditional litter boxes often have seams and hard-to-reach corners where waste accumulates, leading to unpleasant odors and difficult cleaning. With PETLUX V3’s smooth, non-porous interior, cleaning is effortless, requiring only a rinse or wipe-down.

Its self-cleaning rotating mechanism automatically separates waste from clean litter in just 3.5 minutes, ensuring a fresh litter bed after every use. This automation minimizes daily maintenance, allowing owners to go up to 10 days without manually emptying the waste bin in a single-cat household.

Odor Control & Sustainable Waste Management

One of the biggest concerns with any litter box is odor control. PETLUX V3 is equipped with an advanced air filtration system, utilizing resin granules that absorb and neutralize odor molecules. Unlike mechanical deodorizers, this system is natural and low-maintenance, requiring a simple filter change every 60 days to keep the home fresh.

PETLUX V3 also introduces a more sustainable approach to waste management. Instead of relying on plastic waste bags, users can choose between two eco-friendly options:

  • Biodegradable cardboard waste trays: A disposable, sustainable alternative to plastic waste bags, designed for easy removal and composting.
  • Stainless steel waste trays: A durable, odor-resistant, and reusable option that reduces single-use waste.

This dual-option system not only makes waste disposal more convenient but also allows pet owners to reduce plastic consumption, making PETLUX V3 a more environmentally responsible choice.

Smart Features for Effortless Monitoring & Control

For busy pet owners, PETLUX V3 offers remote app connectivity, allowing full control and monitoring from anywhere. The PETLUX app provides real-time updates on:

  • Waste tray levels: Notifications alert users when it’s time to empty the waste bin.
  • Cleaning cycles: Users can remotely activate or schedule automatic cleaning.
  • Filter maintenance: The app notifies owners when the filter needs replacement.
  • Cat behavior tracking: PETLUX V3 records a cat’s visits and weight, offering insights into their health and litter box habits.

The system is designed to be shared with up to 10 users, making it ideal for multi-cat households with multiple caretakers.

Safe & Quiet Operation for a Stress-Free Experience

PETLUX V3 prioritizes safety and comfort for both cats and their owners. Many automatic litter boxes have loud motors that can scare cats, but PETLUX V3 operates at just 30 dB, making it quieter than most household appliances.

It also incorporates dual safety sensors to protect cats during operation:

  1. Weight sensors detect when a cat is inside and prevent the cleaning cycle from activating.
  2. Infrared sensors automatically pause the cleaning cycle if a cat enters mid-process.

 

These features ensure that PETLUX V3 is completely safe for cats of all sizes, giving pet owners peace of mind that their pets won’t be startled or put at risk.

Compatibility with Most Clumping Litters

PETLUX V3 is designed to work with a variety of clumping litter types, including:

  • Bentonite clay litter
  • Corn-based litter
  • Ecolitter and activated carbon-based options

This flexibility in litter choice allows pet owners to continue using their preferred brand, avoiding the limitations imposed by some automatic litter boxes that require proprietary litter. However, non-clumping litter, gel granules, and wood pellets are not recommended, as they do not work efficiently with the self-cleaning mechanism.

Pricing & Availability

PETLUX V3 is set to retail at $699 (650 EUR), with exclusive early-bird pricing for crowdfunding backers starting at $399. The automatic litter is available in black and white, offering a sleek design that integrates seamlessly into any home environment while ensuring a cleaner, fresher, and more convenient litter box experience for pet owners.

Additional biodegradable waste trays and a stainless steel waste tray add-on will also be available for purchase.

For more details on pricing and availability, visit the PETLUX Kickstarter campaign page.

Order HERE

Other pet tech reviews

 

Edifier Introduce NeoBuds Planar: True Wireless Planar Magnetic Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer, has unveiled their newest model in the NeoBuds series of premium high-end True Wireless earbuds. The NeoBuds Planar earbuds combine cutting-edge technology with exceptional sound quality for a truly immersive listening experience. Featuring planar magnetic drivers and advanced noise-cancelling capabilities, these earbuds deliver crystal-clear audio, whether you’re enjoying music or taking calls.

Equipped with six high-sensitivity microphones, Qualcomm aptX™ Voice for clear voice pickup, and up to 30 hours of battery life, the NeoBuds Planar ensure you stay connected and comfortable throughout your day. With customizable features via the EDIFIER ConneX app and smart functions like automatic music pause/play, these earbuds are perfect for both work and play.

Planar Magnetic Drivers

The NeoBuds Planar feature advanced planar magnetic drivers that ensure uniform, exponential audio performance and the capability to be used for active noise cancellation. The diaphragm is ultra-thin, offering excellent transient response for detailed and precise sound reproduction. A balanced magnetic field and symmetric supporting wiring ensure even weight distribution, allowing the diaphragm to move in a piston-like motion across the entire audio spectrum.

Dual magnet arrays on both sides of the diaphragm provide a doubled driving force in a push-pull manner, significantly improving efficiency. Additionally, each pair of earbuds undergoes an auto-calibration process during production to guarantee consistent and uniform performance. This design makes planar magnetic drivers an excellent choice for superior sound quality.

Premium Quality Sound

The NeoBuds Planar are powered by Qualcomm® QCC5181 Bluetooth® audio SoCs and support the Snapdragon Sound™ Technology Suite, delivering a premium and immersive audio experience. They are compatible with multiple HD codecs, including aptX™, aptX™ Adaptive, aptX™ Lossless, Snapdragon Sound™, LDAC, and LHDC, ensuring exceptional sound quality across all devices. With Hi-Res Audio Wireless certification, these earbuds provide rich, detailed sound that brings music to life.

Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation

The NeoBuds Planar feature 3rd generation Qualcomm® Hybrid Adaptive Noise Cancellation technology, which dynamically adjusts the cancellation pattern based on the surrounding ambient noise. This ensures a comfortable and immersive listening experience, blocking out distractions and providing clear audio in any environment.

Crystal Clear Calls


Each earbud is equipped with three high-sensitivity microphones, totalling six across the entire product, ensuring optimal multi-mode audio pickup. With Qualcomm aptX™ Voice technology, these earbuds deliver clear voice pickup during hands-free phone calls, even in noisy environments, for a superior calling experience.

magnetic
Additional Features

The NeoBuds Planar offer up to 30 hours of battery life with wireless charging support. Featuring Bluetooth V5.4, they provide seamless audio streaming and support multipoint connection, allowing you to switch between two devices simultaneously. The EDIFIER ConneX app lets you personalize settings, while wearing detection automatically pauses and resumes music. With an IP55 rating, they’re perfect for active use, and 8 LED colour options allow for a personalized touch. Easy press controls prevent accidental touches, ensuring smooth operation throughout the day.

Price & Availability:

The NeoBuds Planar are available for £199.99 from https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DR7LSNQ7/ 

See our Edifier reviews

Innovation Meets Tradition: Belleek Pottery’s Digital Leap with ATU Donegal

Belleek Pottery, one of Ireland’s most historic and renowned pottery manufacturers, has successfully completed a groundbreaking digital transformation project in collaboration with WiSAR Lab, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal. This initiative, funded by the InterTradeIreland Innovation Boost programme, has not only enhanced Belleek’s operational efficiency but also strengthened cross-border industry-academic collaboration.
Leveraging ATU Donegal’s expertise in computing and digital systems, Belleek Pottery has integrated cutting-edge technologies into its business operations. The project focused on enhancing data management, automating essential processes, and advancing the company’s digital infrastructure. By replacing outdated systems with a fully integrated platform, Belleek has improved operational efficiency, refined inventory management, and strengthened supply chain performance.
“Founded in 1857, Belleek Pottery is deeply rooted in Ireland’s cultural and commercial heritage. In today’s fast-changing and challenging business environment, it’s crucial for us to continuously evolve our processes to ensure the company’s success and preserve its legacy,” said Raymond Wallace, IT Manager at Belleek Pottery. “The funding from InterTradeIreland as well as the support from ATU has been instrumental in modernising our operations, making them more efficient and scalable for future growth. This project is a testament to the power of cross-border collaboration and the innovation potential within the region.”
A key project milestone was transitioning to a modern cloud system, replacing outdated software and improving data integration at Belleek. Advanced APIs, automated shipping, and a Shopify-based e-commerce platform were also introduced, enabling real-time stock updates and streamlined order management.
“This project has provided ATU Donegal with an invaluable opportunity to apply research and academic expertise to real-world business challenges,” said Dr. Kevin Meehan, Principal Investigator at WiSAR Lab, ATU Donegal.
“Working with Belleek Pottery has not only strengthened industry-academic ties but has also enriched our curriculum, offering students hands-on experience in digital transformation.”
The initiative has driven significant business growth, enhancing Belleek’s partnerships with major global retailers. The investment in digital infrastructure is expected to drive sustained growth, with sales projected to increase by 40% over the next three years.
Lisa McManus, the Innovation Boost Project Manager, has also been retained as Belleek’s Integration Project Manager, ensuring that the expertise gained remains within the company.
Encouraged by the success of this collaboration, both Belleek Pottery and ATU Donegal are exploring future opportunities to drive innovation and digital transformation.  “This project exemplifies how innovation and tradition can work hand in hand,” Dr. Kevin Meehan concluded. “Belleek Pottery has not only modernised its operations but also set a new standard for digital transformation in heritage industries. We are excited to see how this momentum continues to drive change and create new opportunities for the future.”
Joanne Deighan, Programme Manager at InterTradeIreland, highlighted the importance of the InterTradeIreland Innovation Boost Programme, saying: “Collaboration with partners across the island fosters meaningful advancements, improving processes, refining products, and enhancing services. The partnership between Belleek Pottery and ATU Donegal has had a lasting impact and created exciting new opportunities for future growth.”

Shape e-Waste into Sustainable Tech Solutions this Earth Day and Beyond

In today’s world, electronic devices are essential, improving our lives and connecting us like never before. While this digital evolution has brought about incredible advancements and conveniences, it also presents the challenge of managing electronic waste (e-waste) generated by digital lives.  By Alex Rice, Field Product Manager at Dell Technologies

Today, as we mark Earth Day, we’re once again reminded of the urgency that technological innovation and the need to protect the planet must go hand-in-hand by embracing sustainable solutions and responsible recycling. we can enjoy the benefits of technology while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

The European Union, a global leader in environmental policy, finds itself grappling with the issue of e-waste. According to the UN, e-waste volumes are growing five times faster than e-waste recycling, with an 82% jump since 2010.

The European Commission’s circular economy action plan offers a glimmer of hope with its promotion of repair and reuse initiatives. However, businesses in Ireland that are expected to be part of the solution are often caught between regulatory pressures, financial constraints, and evolving consumer demands.

For Irish business decision makers often the question is how can we reconcile the pressing need to innovate and remain competitive while being environmentally responsible?

Thankfully, the answer is not about choosing one or the other. Instead, it lies in reimagining our relationship with technology and embracing an end-to-end approach to sustainability: where resources are valued, products are designed with sustainable materials and waste is minimised.

 

1. Smarter product design to promote circularity

Product design plays a significant role in reducing waste and thinking about how to reduce production costs in the long-term. A sustainable approach begins with creating guidelines for how components are designed before they go on to form complete systems.

Product design dictates how practical it is to reuse and refurbish these components or to harvest recyclable materials at the end of a device’s life. Designing with durability and modularity in mind means that parts can come back through a services network before re-entering the supply chain, to be used to repair and refurbish systems. For customers and consumers, there is the added benefit of being able to purchase these products at a lower price point.

For components that cannot be easily reused, manufacturers should focus on easy disassembly paired with clear markings, minimised paintings and coatings and simplified material choice. This makes it easier for the recycling industry to recover more material, more quickly.

2. Design with circularity in mind

Information technology is heavily dependent on finite raw materials, including minerals like lithium or cobalt, which are associated with high energy, water consumption and environmental damage during extraction.

For example, at Dell, we design our products for easy repair, reuse, and recycling at end-of-life to keep products and materials in circulation for longer to help reduce pressure on resources and prevent waste. We use recycled and/or renewable materials from innovative sources to help lower the environmental impact of our products and packaging. Every pound of steel, aluminium, plastic and copper that we recover is a pound of material that doesn’t have to be extracted from the ground.

Demand for alternatives is increasing, particularly as they do not deplete additional natural resources and emit fewer greenhouse gases in their production and during the product life cycle. For example, low emissions aluminium and recycled cobalt are being used in our AI PCs. Another alternative material is a bioplastic derived from the production of paper, which is used as new component for technology casings.

One of the most immediate initiatives is for the IT design process to operate as a closed loop model, which keeps products and materials in circulation as long as possible.

3. Harnessing AI for sustainable innovation

AI presents a transformative opportunity to help Irish businesses meet broader sustainability objectives. AI can help solve complex environmental issues but it’s crucial to balance this with ensuring that the AI model and infrastructure itself has strong sustainability credentials. However, six in 10 customers think AI will compromise their environmental sustainability efforts, and many customers are not sure where to focus.

The opportunity for leveraging AI as a tool lies in its ability to identify issues more efficiently around sustainability, meaning they can be addressed more promptly. By analysing vast amounts of data from various sources, AI can identify fixes quickly than alternatives. The insights derived are useful for informing strategies that reduce waste across everything from the supply chain itself, through to manufacturing and packaging optimisation.

Reducing energy consumption and e-waste within AI requires a multi-faceted approach, including embracing energy-efficient hardware like low-power processors and accelerators which can significantly shrink carbon footprints. For example, our sustainable data centre solutions like storage and servers built with leading liquid and air cooling, emissions tracking and energy efficiency top being top of mind. Therefore, consideration about the modular design and upgradeability of AI hardware can minimise the e-waste coming out of the infrastructure needed to power the models.

4. A holistic end-to-end approach

Because sustainability is now a business imperative, businesses here in Ireland should embed it through every stage of business operations. Responsible practices should be integrated into every facet of the organisation, extending outwards to suppliers, partners, and customers. Having clear, internal, and external alignment on these goals makes it easier to drive more sustainable materials innovation, pioneer new energy solutions and navigate changing regulatory landscapes.

Cross-functional collaboration is key to empowering change within the whole ecosystem; for instance, if it becomes a requirement that products need to be designed with materials innovation at heart, then suppliers are challenged to innovate to meet those specific demands.

Take action this Earth Day The digital revolution has reshaped our world and created new economic opportunities; it’s the environmental impact that can’t be ignored; nor can it continue in the same way.

The escalating e-waste crisis calls for a shift in the way we approach building and designing new technologies.

As we mark Earth Day 2025, it’s time to embrace circularity, resource efficiency and employ longer-term thinking when it comes to technological innovation. By exploring new ways of thinking, businesses can begin shaping a digital future that strives to grow in balance with the environment, creating opportunities for both progress and sustainability.

5G and the Next Generation of Mobile Apps: What It Means for Irish Consumers

5G technology has already made its mark in Ireland, transforming how consumers interact with mobile applications and digital services. Over the past few years, Ireland has progressively integrated 5G into its telecommunications infrastructure, providing users with faster speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability. 

This advancement is paving the way for a new generation of mobile applications that leverage real-time connectivity, immersive experiences, and enhanced interactivity.

The Evolution of 5G in Ireland

The journey of 5G in Ireland began in 2019 when major telecommunications providers such as Vodafone, Three, and Eir launched their initial networks in select cities. Over the following years, coverage expanded significantly, bringing high-speed connectivity to urban and rural areas. Today, most major towns and cities across Ireland have access to 5G, and network operators continue to invest in expanding coverage and improving performance.

Government initiatives and private investments have played a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of 5G in Ireland. The country’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) has been instrumental in ensuring that even remote areas benefit from next-generation connectivity. 

Ireland’s strategic position as a European tech hub has encouraged innovation in mobile services, with companies developing applications that leverage 5G’s capabilities to enhance user experiences. Services such as playing live roulette, online gaming, and streaming have greatly improved due to 5G’s ultra-low latency and high-speed data transfer, making these experiences as immersive and seamless as ever before.

How 5G is Transforming the Mobile Experience

With 5G, Irish consumers are witnessing a significant shift in how mobile applications function. Some of the key improvements include:

1. Faster Streaming and Enhanced Entertainment

One of the most noticeable benefits of 5G is the ability to stream high-quality content without buffering. Platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+ now offer seamless 4K and even 8K video streaming experiences. Additionally, cloud gaming services such as Google Stadia and Xbox Cloud Gaming are more viable in Ireland, allowing users to play high-end games on mobile devices without needing powerful hardware.

2. Real-Time Interactive Applications

Applications that rely on real-time interaction, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), are becoming more mainstream thanks to 5G. Irish consumers can now enjoy immersive experiences in gaming, shopping, and social media. For example, AR-powered navigation apps provide real-time directions, while VR-based training programs offer interactive learning opportunities.

3. Seamless Remote Work and Communication

Remote work has become a staple in Ireland, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. 5G ensures that video conferencing apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet operate smoothly, even in high-demand situations. Additionally, cloud-based collaboration tools benefit from ultra-fast uploads and downloads, making remote work more efficient and productive.

4. Smarter Cities and IoT Integration

5G is also fueling the growth of smart city initiatives across Ireland. With improved network capacity, cities can deploy IoT (Internet of Things) solutions that optimise traffic management, enhance public safety, and improve energy efficiency. For instance, Dublin has seen the implementation of smart traffic lights and connected CCTV networks that rely on 5G for real-time data processing.

Industries Benefiting the Most from 5G in Ireland

Several industries in Ireland are leveraging 5G to revolutionise their services and enhance consumer experiences. Below are some of the key sectors that stand to gain the most from 5G technology:

1. Telemedicine and Healthcare

5G is revolutionising the healthcare industry in Ireland by enabling telemedicine services that provide remote consultations, real-time patient monitoring, and even robotic-assisted surgeries. With reduced latency and improved reliability, doctors can conduct virtual appointments with high-definition video quality, ensuring accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes.

Wearable health devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers also benefit from 5G. These devices allow users to track vital signs in real time and instantly share data with healthcare professionals. This development is particularly beneficial for elderly patients and those living in rural areas with limited access to medical facilities.

2. Remote Work and Digital Collaboration

5G connectivity has further facilitated the widespread adoption of remote work in Ireland. Companies can now conduct seamless video meetings, share large files instantly, and access cloud-based applications without interruptions. This shift has increased productivity, improved work-life balance, and new job opportunities in Ireland’s growing digital economy.

Furthermore, 5G enables innovative applications like virtual reality (VR) meetings and remote training programs, making workplace interactions more engaging and effective.

3. Mobile Gaming and Esports

Gaming is another sector experiencing rapid transformation due to 5G. Mobile gamers in Ireland can now enjoy lag-free, high-performance gaming experiences, even in multiplayer settings. Cloud gaming platforms have also gained popularity, allowing users to play console-quality games directly on their smartphones.

5G has bolstered the rise of esports in Ireland, as competitive gamers require low latency and fast response times. This has increased gaming tournaments, streaming events, and a growing community of Irish gamers engaging in global competitions.

4. Retail and E-Commerce

Retailers in Ireland are using 5G to enhance online shopping experiences through AR and VR applications. Customers can now use AR to visualise products in their homes before purchasing, reducing return rates and improving satisfaction. Additionally, real-time analytics powered by 5G enable businesses to personalise shopping experiences based on consumer behaviour and preferences.

5. Transportation and Autonomous Vehicles

While fully autonomous vehicles are still in development, 5G plays a crucial role in enhancing transportation systems in Ireland. 5G powers smart traffic management, connected vehicle technology, and real-time navigation updates, making roads safer and more efficient.

Public transport systems also benefit from improved connectivity, real-time tracking and better communication between passengers and operators. As 5G continues to evolve, we can expect further advancements in transportation technology across Ireland.

Final Words

5G is not just a faster internet connection—it is a transformative force reshaping the digital landscape in Ireland. With its widespread adoption, industries such as healthcare, gaming, remote work, and retail are witnessing remarkable efficiency and user experience improvements. As Ireland continues to lead in digital innovation, consumers can look forward to a future where mobile applications are more powerful, interactive, and immersive than ever before.

ERP Ireland Encourages Public to Embrace Tech Reuse, Repair, and Recycling This World Earth Day

Tuesday, 22nd April is World Earth Day and the European Recycling Platform (ERP), Ireland’s only pan-European compliance scheme for WEEE and Waste Batteries, is calling on households to stop tech hoarding and consider reuse, repair or recycling their old or broken electrical items.
Whether its cluttering kitchen cupboards or stashed away in the infamous man drawer Irish homes, attics and garden sheds are full of forgotten electrical items. According to new Coyne Research commissioned by ERP, 1 in 3 adults claim they are holding on to unused electrical items because they haven’t got around to recycling them (32%). A further 15% say they are holding onto old electronics because they might repair them in future.
“Irish homes are full of old and forgotten mobile phones, laptops, tablets and gadgets that we haven’t touched in years,” says James Burgess, Country General Manager at ERP. “World Earth Day, just after Easter, is the perfect moment to take stock and do something positive for the planet. We want people to consider how their old tech can have a new lease of life, either by being repaired, or by being recycled so it’s components can be used again.”
Time to Close the Loop
ERP’s research also reveals a shift in how Irish consumers view technology as refurbished tech grows in popularity.
  • 44% of consumers have bought second-hand or refurbished electronics before (44%).
  • Gen Z are leading the charge, with 3 in 5 (60%) opting for refurbished tech, compared to just 1 in 4 (26%) Baby Boomers.
  • Smartphones top the list of most commonly purchased refurbished items (51%), followed by laptops (26%) and tablets (14%).
  • Quality, price, and warranty matter most to consumers when purchasing refurbished motivators.
  • And tellingly, there’s been a +6% increase in people holding onto old electronics with the intention to repair them in the past year but not getting round to it.
This World Earth Day, ERP is reminding the public that repairing and recycling are both central to ensuring a circular economy in Ireland.
“We need to move away from a throwaway culture – and that starts at home,” continues Burgess. “We’re asking everyone to take a moment to clear out those forgotten items and consider bringing them for repair where possible or taking them to a local recycling centre if needed. Don’t let them gather dust – let them make a difference.”
Free Recycling
This week, ERP Ireland launches its ERP Free Electrical Drop Off Events schedule for 2025 with events announced for Cavan, Clare, Fingal Dublin, Kerry, Meath, and Monaghan. The programme offers householders an accessible central collection point to bring their unused and broken electrical items and used batteries for recycling. ERP Ireland also partnered with Lidl Ireland to offer a series of free household electrical recycling events at some of their stores.
Find your nearest ERP FREE Electrical recycling Drop Off event at www.erp-recycling.ie

Viltrox Launches Full-Frame Ultra-Large-Aperture Autofocus Prime Lens: AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE

Viltrox is has announced the launch of a new full-frame ultra-large-aperture autofocus prime lens, the Viltrox AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE. Viltrox’s cutting-edge optical technology raises resolution and bokeh performance of the F1.2 aperture to new heights. The professional lens control system and custom LCD display, offer an efficient personalized shooting experience. Whether for portraits, street photography, or nightscapes, this lens redefines the 35mm prime lens standard with cutting-edge technology and the Viltrox commitment to delivering premium quality at a fraction of the normal cost.

Revolutionary Quad HyperVCM motor: Speed meets precision

At the heart of the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE is Viltrox’s patented Quad HyperVCM autofocus system, which accelerates focus speed by 150% compared to traditional STM motors. By integrating this dual floating focus system, the lens dynamically adjusts lens groups to compensate for spherical aberration and field curvature, enabling quiet, 100ms near-to-far focus transitions — critical for cinematic workflows. At its 0.34m (13.4 inches) minimum focus distance, the lens captures macro-level details with edge-to-edge sharpness, making it a versatile tool for portraits and intricate close-ups.

Optical mastery: Engineering excellence for exceptional imaging

The lens’s fifteen element optical system combines five extra-low dispersion (ED) segments, three high-refractive-index elements, and two ultra-large precision aspherical (UA) lenses, to deliver unprecedented clarity. This design suppresses chromatic aberration and onion-ring bokeh artifacts, ensuring smooth bokeh even at F1.2. The Nano-Hydrophobic Multi-Coating minimizes flare and ghosting in challenging lighting, while the ultra-precision aperture blade drive maintains circular bokeh shapes, with micron-level accuracy, boosting the lens’s artistic versatility for both photography and videography.

Ultra large: F1.2 wide aperture

The F1.2 aperture excels in creating exceptional bokeh, while significantly enhancing light transmission. This gives users sharp images, even in challenging low-light conditions. There is no noticeable optical vignetting at the edges. Whether for portrait photography or nightscapes, the lens easily renders perfect separation between the subject and background, presenting a visually striking composition.

User-centric design: Customization meets control

The AF 35mm F1.2 LAB prioritizes intuitive handling with a dual customizable Fn button array and a multi-functional control ring for seamless aperture adjustments. Its dedicated focus ring allows users to switch between stepped and stepless aperture control, maximizing creative flexibility. Paired with the Viltrox Lens App, photographers can set button functions, LCD startup animations, and monitor real-time parameters, customizing the shooting experience to suit individual workflows. The lens also features a 0.96-inch LCD display for quick access to critical settings, enhancing user convenience in diverse environments.

A new benchmark: Affordable high-end performance

The AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE is a cheerleader for Viltrox’s mission to democratize professional-grade optics. Weighing under 1kg, and built with aerospace-grade magnesium alloy, this lens withstands extreme temperatures (-10 to +40°C) while delivering cinema-grade video performance—minimizing focus breathing and ensuring stable framing during dynamic shoots.

More details and how to buy

For more information, please visit: https://geni.us/35LAB_PR

Amazon Store: 

The US site: https://www.amazon.com/promocode/A1E3IF7KEZO9HV

The European site: https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0F23NB77C

 

MSRP: $999 / €1099 / £959

Other Viltrox news 

Xiaomi 15 Series takes centre stage in London: where mobile photography meets artistic vision

Just over a month after the official launch of the  Xiaomi 15 Series, Xiaomi hosted an exclusive event at the iconic Leica Store  London Mayfair to showcase the photographic capabilities of its new flagship device  through the creative lens of artist and photographer Alixe Lay, Leica Ambassador. 

The event brought together photographers, journalists, and tech experts for an  inspiring journey through the visual storytelling potential of the Xiaomi 15 Series, co engineered with Leica to redefine mobile photography. 

Where technology meets storytelling 

Unveiled in early March, the Xiaomi 15 Series has already captured the attention of  photography enthusiasts with its advanced features designed to deliver professional grade results. Highlights include: 

  • Leica Summilux optics: for uncompromising image quality and natural  colors. 
  • Advanced variable aperture: for precise light control in any environment. • Enhanced computational photography algorithms: for sharp, true-to-life  images. 
  • Ultra-large 1-inch sensor: delivering maximum depth and detail. • Professional portrait and cinematic modes: enabling impactful visual  storytelling. 

An evening of inspiration and innovation 

During the event, Alixe Lay shared her experience with the device, highlighting how  the Xiaomi 15 Series empowers her to express her creative vision on the go. 

“With the Xiaomi 15 Series, I can fully focus on storytelling. It’s a tool that combines  power and immediacy, allowing me to capture the authenticity of a moment without  compromise, wherever I am” – said Alixe Lay, photographer and Leica  Ambassador.

“With the Xiaomi 15 Series, we wanted to offer a tool that inspires. It’s not just  technology: it’s an invitation to tell stories with authenticity, precision, and beauty” – said Jia Wei, Head od Marketing of Xiaomi Western Europe. 

The Xiaomi 15 Series is already available in the UK market on mi.com.