Category: Tech News

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. 

 

Samsung Introduces Real-Time Visual AI on Galaxy S25 Series With Gemini Live Update

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. have announced the rollout of a new AI experience with Gemini Live, bringing real-time visual conversations with AI to Galaxy users. This feature is currently available on the Galaxy S25 series available for any users free of charge.

Through AI-powered assistance, Galaxy users can more naturally engage in conversational interactions that make everyday tasks easier. Just press and hold the side button to show Gemini Live what you see while simultaneously interacting with it in a live conversation.

Imagine picking out an outfit or reorganising a closet. Gemini Live can now make those everyday decisions easier. By simply pointing the camera, users can get suggestions on how to categorise items and optimise space, or share their screen while browsing online retailers to receive personalised style advice. With the ability to see what the user sees and respond in real time, Galaxy S25 series feels like a trusted friend who’s always ready to help.

“Together with Google, we are marking a bold step toward the future of mobile AI, delivering smarter interactions that are deeply in sync with how we live, work and communicate,” said Jay Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Office, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “With this new visual capability, Galaxy S25 series brings next-generation AI experiences to life, setting new standards for how users engage with the world through their devices.”

Gemini Live with camera and screen sharing capabilities are available to all Galaxy S25 series users at no additional cost.

See our Samsung reviews

Sony Interactive Entertainment establishes digital innovation and engineering centre in Ireland, plans to hire 100 local employees in engineering and operations

Sony Interactive Entertainment, the company behind the iconic PlayStation brand, today announced it is to open an office in Dublin, with plans to hire 100 employees to staff the new operation. The establishment of this office is supported by the Irish government through IDA Ireland.

The Dublin team will focus on research and development in projects that optimise digital operations, customer and employee servicing, as well as external operations through technology, digital tools, and data. Applications for the roles are open, effective immediately.

“Establishing a presence in Dublin allows Sony Interactive Entertainment access to top-tier talent in digital innovation and technologies, in a region I know full well is ready to support our innovative approach to interactive entertainment,” said Paul Walsh, SVP, Head of Digital Technology, Engineering, IT, and Operations, Sony Interactive Entertainment. “We’re excited to contribute to Dublin’s vibrant economy and looking forward to bringing onboard bright minds at all career levels. Through IDA Ireland, we’re seeing first-hand how the Irish business community is nurtured at all levels, creating an environment that we’ll be proud to play our part in supporting.”

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said: “This significant investment by Sony Interactive Entertanment highlights Ireland’s commitment to advancing our vibrant tech ecosystem and providing opportunities for top tier talent. I very much welcome Sony Interactive Entertainment’s decision to establish its digital innovation centre here which demonstrates the continued appeal of our business environment.”

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland said: “I am delighted to welcome Sony Interactive Entertainment to Ireland. Their decision to expand and hire 100 talented software engineers here underscores Ireland’s reputation as a hub for innovation and technology. This investment is also testament to the quality of our workforce and the vibrant tech ecosystem we have in Ireland.’’

Information on career opportunities can be found at https://www.playstation.com/en-us/corporate/playstation-careers/

Samsung Introduces Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced the new Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro, enterprise-ready devices designed to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced, high-intensity work environments. Continuing the legacy of Samsung’s ruggedised devices, these latest Pro models are versatile, optimised and secure — delivering enhanced durability, steady performance and optimised workflow to empower frontline workers, from the office to the field and beyond.

With 5G connectivity, an upgraded processor and increased memory, the XCover7 Pro and Tab Active5 Pro offer enhanced mobility and reliability. The XCover7 Pro features a powerful new stereo speaker system with anti-feedback technology, which minimises unwanted audio loops for clearer communication. Both devices offer enhanced battery capacity, with the XCover7 Pro equipped with a 4,350mAh battery for longer usage, while the Tab Active5 Pro comes with a 10,100mAh battery set designed to support demanding workflows. The Tab Active5 Pro also supports Dual Hot-Swap battery functionality, allowing workers to replace batteries without powering down their devices and ensuring seamless operation even when battery levels are low.

With the ruggedised smartphone market expected to reach 4.46 million units and the ruggedised tablet market projected to hit 1.89 million units by 2028, these devices can be increasingly essential in industries such as retail, government, logistics, healthcare and manufacturing. Reliable, high-performing and durable, they can be critical for ensuring seamless operations in any work environment.

“At Samsung, we understand that frontline professionals need technology that adapts to their fast-paced and demanding work environments,” said Jerry Park, EVP and Head of Global Mobile B2B Team, MX Business at Samsung Electronics. “The Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro combine ruggedised durability, enterprise-grade security, seamless connectivity and intuitive AI-driven features to help businesses operate efficiently in harsh conditions while maximising productivity and minimising downtime.”

Ruggedised Durability: Built To Withstand Any Environment

The Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro are designed to thrive on the frontlines of all industries. Having undergone rigorous durability testing to ensure they withstand demanding environments, they are ideally built to offer reliable performance in the field. Both devices feature IP68-rated water and dust resistance, helping to protect against dust ingress and exposure to water – making them a dependable choice for conditions where accidental splashes or occasional submersion may occur.

The Tab Active5 Pro’s S Pen — an essential tool for field professionals who annotate documents, sign forms or input data on the go — further extends usability by functioning even in certain wet conditions. Additionally, both devices have been tested for use with common workplace sanitisers, ensuring durability in environments requiring frequent cleaning.

Their MIL-STD-810H certified designs help ensure resistance to drops, extreme temperatures and vibrations, while the Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®+ display on the Tab Active5 Pro helps provide enhanced scratch and impact protection. Those in retail, government and manufacturing settings can also depend on enhanced touch sensitivity in both devices, allowing seamless use with compatible gloves.

Work Continuity: Staying Connected and Powered Throughout the Day

Clear communication is crucial in fast-paced work environments, especially for teams relying on walkie-talkie functionality in industries like construction and emergency response. The Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro enhanced speaker technology with anti-feedback noise reduction, minimising disruptive sounds that can occur when multiple devices that share the same channel are in close range. With higher volume and improved clarity, these upgraded stereo speakers help frontline workers stay connected and relay critical information without disruption. The Tab Active5 Pro further strengthens communication with optimised audio tuning, boosting volume levels and incorporating intelligent sound processing to filter out background noise, making collaboration even more effective.

Both devices also offer Vision Booster, which enhances outdoor visibility by improving screen readability in bright environments. The Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro further builds on this with an upgraded display brightness of up to 600 nits — a notable increase from 480 nits in the previous model — ensuring clearer visuals even in challenging lighting conditions. Whether reviewing critical information on-site or navigating workflows outdoors, these upgrades provide better contrast, improved tone mapping, and enhanced visibility against strong illumination, allowing users to stay focused wherever the job takes them.

With extended battery life and seamless power solutions, the Galaxy XCover7 Pro and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro support uninterrupted workflow. Both devices feature POGO charging interfaces, making it easy for workplaces with POGO docks to charge multiple devices at once. For environments in which devices remain plugged in, the Tab Active5 Pro supports No Battery Mode, allowing it to function when connected to a dedicated power source — ideal for in-vehicle setups, kiosks and workstations.

Seamless connectivity is also key to maintaining work continuity. The XCover7 Pro and Tab Active5 Pro both support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E and network slicing to prioritise device communication even in dense network environments and ensure fast and stable network access. With dual SIM support (pSIM + eSIM) on the Tab Active5 Pro, workers can effortlessly switch between networks, keeping them connected in any environment.

The Tab Active5 Pro introduces front-facing NFC Tagging, enhancing usability in retail, hospitality and logistics environments where fast, secure interactions are essential. Enabling seamless authentication, asset tracking and mobile payments, the tablet can effectively be used as a mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) system in retail stores and restaurants alike. Employees can quickly validate credentials, process transactions and manage assets without any additional hardware, enhancing efficiency in industries where speed and security are critical.

Maximised Productivity: Smarter Tools for the Frontline

Samsung’s latest ruggedised devices also introduce AI-driven enhancements, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to expanding AI capabilities across its entire ecosystem. These intelligent features make everyday tasks more intuitive and efficient, helping frontline professionals work smarter and faster in dynamic environments while making advanced AI more accessible across a broader range of devices.

Equipped with high-performance chipsets, enhanced usability features and intuitive AI-powered tools, both devices enable workers to multitask with ease. Features like Circle to Search with Google, Object Eraser, AI Select and Read Aloud allow users to complete tasks more efficiently, reducing manual effort and improving accuracy. The Galaxy XCover7 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon® 7s Gen 3 Mobile Platform (4nm Octa-Core) chipset which optimises power efficiency and processing speed, while the Tab Active5 Pro, featuring the same chipset, delivers increased RAM and expanded storage options to handle demanding workloads.

Designed for professionals who need flexibility, both devices support Samsung DeX, allowing them to connect to a monitor for a desktop-like experience. Whether managing field reports, performing administrative tasks or presenting data, users can transition seamlessly between mobile and desktop environments.

Additionally, programmable keys allow users to assign shortcuts to frequently used applications, such as barcode scanning, push-to-talk, integrated with Microsoft Teams or emergency alerts. This customisation enhances workflow efficiency, reducing time spent navigating menus and improving responsiveness in critical situations.

Security remains a cornerstone of Samsung’s ruggedised devices, with Samsung Knox Vault safeguarding sensitive data through advanced encryption and authentication to ensure compliance with enterprise security standards. Beyond that, Samsung offers a comprehensive suite of security innovations designed to provide strong protection, transparency and user control. Real-time Kernel Protection and DEFEX deliver runtime protection at both the app and kernel layers, while Samsung’s Warranty Bit detects tampering and restricts access to sensitive applications, such as Work Profile, helping to maintain a trusted device environment.

See our Samsung Reviews

Availability

The new Galaxy XCover7 Pro (RRP €639) and Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro (RRP €899) will be available starting April 2025.[

For more information about Samsung’s latest Galaxy devices, visit news.samsung.com/uk/galaxy

SKULLCANDY’S Method 360 ANC Earbuds Feature Premium sound by Bose

Skullcandy, in partnership with Bose, is breaking  barriers in personal audio with the release of Method 360 ANC – a premium true  wireless earbud engineered for high-quality audio, advanced noise canceling, and  everyday style.  

Designed for those who want it all – sound quality, comfort, and design – without  breaking the bank, this is Skullcandy’s most advanced audio experience to date.  

“This product sets a new standard,” said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing at Skullcandy.  “We’re launching at £99.99 because we want more people to hear what’s next. But  make no mistake – Method 360 ANC belongs in the premium tier.”  

Refined fit, redesigned experience: Method 360 ANC features an all-new slider  charging case with a built-in O-ring clip, upgraded tactile finish, and up to 40 hours of  battery life. The earbuds come with multiple sets of fit fins and gels that leverage licensed technology from Bose for a secure, ultra-comfortable fit and superior noise  isolation.  

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC with Sound by Bose technology is now available globally  at Skullcandy.com (https://www.skullcandy.com/products/method-360-anc) and select  retail locations. Consumers can choose from five unique colorways including Black,  Bone, Primer, Plasma, and Leopard.  

  

Technical Details Include:  

  • Sound By Bose technology – Industry-leading audio tuning and performance.  ● Battery Life – Up to 40 hours when ANC mode is turned off (11 in buds, 29 in case).  Up to 32 hours when ANC mode is turned on (9 in buds, 23 in case).  ● Noise Isolating Fit – Ergonomic, ovalized design provides all-day comfort and a  noise-isolating fit. Three different sized pairs of fit fins and three sets of ear gels,  leveraging licensed technology from Bose, help ensure a perfect fit and block out  unwanted sound.  

  • Adjustable 4-Mic Hybrid Active Noise Canceling – Next-level premium noise  cancellation with customizable Stay-Aware mode options.  
  • Low Latency Audio – Provides an optimal experience for watching videos or  playing games.  
  • Auto On/Connect and Wear Detection  
  • IPX4 Sweat + Water Resistant  
  • Skull-iQ App Compatible – Unlock Method 360 ANC’s full potential with the Skull iQ App. Choose one of 3 preset EQ settings or customize your own, reconfigure the  button functions, adjust your Stay-Aware or ANC modes, and more.  
  • Rapid Charge – A 10-minute charge provides 2 hours of playtime.  ● Clear Voice Smart Mic – Provides a reduction in background noise to ensure calls  are crystal clear.  
  • Spotify Tap Compatible  
  • Preset & Custom EQ Modes  
  • Google Fast Pair  
  • Multipoint Pairing – Pair to multiple devices at once for seamless transitions.  ● Natural Voice Sidetone for Calls – Counteract occlusion, allowing users to hear  their own voice more naturally.  
  • Bluetooth® (v5.3) + LE Audio  

  

Launch Event  

Skullcandy debuted Method 360 ANC on April 15 during an exclusive event at Hall des  Lumières in New York City, where brand partners, top creators, and leading tech and  lifestyle media got a first look.  

The evening featured on-stage appearances by Skullcandy CEO Brian Garofalow,  Bose CMO Jim Mollica, brand visionary Bimma Williams, and skate icon Tony Hawk,  who also headlines the campaign launching alongside the product.  

“Method 360 is the real deal—killer sound, zero hype,” Tony Hawk, skate legend and  Skullcandy brand ambassador.  

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