UCD Commerce students Oisin Mallon and Oisin Walsh have been crowned the 2024 Red Bull Basement National champions and will go on to represent Ireland in the World Finals in Tokyo next month.
After 1,800 applications nationwide, the search for the next generation of Irish innovators came to a head at TUD Grangegorman on Thursday night when finalists presented their ideas to a panel of judges from across the Irish creative, media and tech landscape.
Teams from across the country were represented in the final. Each presented their own business plan, created with the support of AI technology. After much deliberation, University College Dublin pair Oisin Mallon and Oisin Walsh were announced as the winners, nabbing a laptop each from partners AMD, as well as a place at next month’s Red Bull Basement World Finals in Tokyo.
The team presented their plans for StepAhead, which seeks to connect young people with mentors who have recently navigated the same career or educational paths, offering real-world advice to help them make informed, confident decisions.
On their victory, Oisin Mallon (aged 22 from Omeath, Co. Louth) said:“We are delighted to win the Red Bull Basement National Final with StepAhead and represent Ireland on a global stage in Tokyo with our idea.”
Oisin Walsh (aged 22 from Killarney, Co. Kerry) added:“We are just thrilled to have won the Red Bull Basement National Final. We can’t wait to bring our idea to the global stage in Tokyo. Seeing an idea of ours come to life is an amazing feeling and I’m excited to see where it takes us.”
The next step for the dynamic duo is Tokyo, with over 40 countries set to compete at the World Finals. Across Monday December 2nd, and Thursday December 5th, they will attend workshops, dedicated AI educational sessions, and have the chance to network with international entrepreneurs and business leaders, before they go up against their peers for the World title.
The grand prize for the global winner? A three week accelerator programme, all expenses paid, to Silicon Valley and Los Angeles in 2025, where they will receive hands-on experience, mentorship and opportunities to connect with top industry leaders, including insights from Red Bull Basement global partners Microsoft.
Improving technology-enabled home care for older people to help Ireland reduce the annual €500 million impact on the economy from people falling – especially those over 65 – is one of the goals of a new interdisciplinary research programme at Lero, the University of Limerick-based Research Centre for Software.
A two-year €140,000 research programme focussing on technology-enabled care (TEC) in home environments is being part-funded by Shannon-headquartered Ei Electronics, one of Ireland’s leading indigenous electronics manufacturing and exporting companies, employing 1,250 worldwide.
Lero researcher Associate Professor Katie Crowley said that while technology-enabled care (TEC) in home environments currently has support items such as motion sensors and panic buttons, the innovative development and use of technology can help people function safely and remain at home longer.
Dr Crowley, who is also attached to The Ageing Research Centre (ARC) at the University of Limerick (UL), added: “One example of this is in relation to falls. The National Health Service in the UK report that approximately 1 in 3 adults over 65 years and half of people over 80 will have at least one fall a year. “In Ireland, the economic impact of falls is €500 million annually, according to data from the Health Service Executive. For the elderly, having a fear of falling significantly increases the chance of having a fall, and emerging evidence suggests that having monitoring technology reduces this fear, leading to improved mobility for the older person,” added Dr Crowley, who lectures in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems at UL.
Lero lead researcher Prof. Ita Richardson believes a growing need exists to modify and integrate occupational home practice with innovative technology and software, changing homecare significantly for older people who often have cognitive, physical, caregiving and healthcare needs. “Initially, we need to understand how older people’s lives and the lives of their formal and informal carers could change through TEC,” said Prof. Richardson, who also shares her expertise with ARC.
The Lero team also includes Dr Ann-Marie Morrissey, who brings occupational therapy expertise to the project.
Ei Electronics head of research and development Mike Keegan said they are delighted to work with Lero, whose work in connected health, driverless vehicles, smart communities, and other areas is world-leading.
“At Ei Electronics, we are all about deploying dependable technologies to improve people’s living environment today and into the future. Where lives are at risk, especially among older adults living independently, nothing can be left to chance, and we hope this programme can make life less stressful for those living by themselves and those supporting that independence,” he added.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching but fear not as Samsung’s Black Friday deals are sure to appeal to everyone on the gifting list. From smartphones that enhance productivity, to the must-have home entertainment setup and award-winning TV and soundbar range, get your hands on the latest cutting-edge technology at incredible prices.
In addition to these deals, Samsung users can enjoy the gift of Circle to Search with Google to find the best bargains for all items on their lists. Circle to Search is a Google-powered feature on all Samsung smartphones enabled with Galaxy AI and allows you to quickly search for information about what you see on your screen — including images, videos or text by making a simple circle gesture with your finger or the S Pen. Perhaps you are scrolling on social media and see the perfect jumper or pair of shoes for a friend, or loved one – simply circle it and receive search results for identical and related items, allowing you to compare prices in an instant and make the most of Black Friday.
Mobile[1]
SAVE €100 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE 1
Browse the web in style on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE – Circle to Search means you can circle around an object to get Google Search results. What’s more, you can write, sketch, and draw on your favourite notetaking app with the water and dust-resistant inbox S Pen.
SAVE €100 on the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE 1
Packed with Galaxy AI smarts, Galaxy S24 FE is a pocket-sized companion to make your everyday life easier. Browsing Assist helps consolidate internet searches into concise, digestible content, so you can get straight to the point. Circle to Search means you can search for anything on your screen, so the power.
SAVE €100 on the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G 1
Capture social media worthy shots on the Galaxy A55 5G even in low-light conditions thanks to the triple-lens camera with Nightography mode. The 32MP Selfie camera helps you to capture high-quality selfies with options to choose warm or natural tones.
Enjoy €90 off the Galaxy Watch6 Classic1
With customisable watch faces, the Galaxy Watch6 is packed with wellness features such as sleep-tracking, and a personal HR Zone that will assess your fitness capacity. You can leave your phone at home with added connectivity capabilities. You can make calls, explore cites and find your way to your destination with GPS built in.
SAVE €250 on the Samsung Galaxy S24+1
Welcome to the era of mobile AI. With Galaxy S24+in your hands, you can unleash whole new levels of creativity, productivity and possibility — starting with the most important device in your life. Your smartphone.
SAVE €300 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra (14.6″ Wi-Fi)2
Experience the power of Circle to Search with Google on a larger screen on the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra. Just circle, highlight, or tap an image or text to get Google Search results. You can even get instant translations.
TV/AV Black Friday Offers3
Receive a complimentary The Freestyle 2nd Gen worth up to €700 when you buy any 2024 Neo QLED 8K TV
Get a free sleek, sharp and portable projector which can project up to an 100” frame for free when you buy any 2024 Neo QLED 8K TV
Claim up to €360 cashback on OLED TVs
Purchase any of the award-winning 2024 S90D, S93D or S95D models and claim up to €360 OLED TV’s.
Home Appliances4
SAVE over €500 on the Samsung Silver Classic AI Fridge Freezer [RB53DG706AS9EU]
Maximise space with this smart fridge freezer which offers more room on the inside whilst maintaining the same size on the outside due to its slimmer walls. Smart all-around cooling maintains a steady temperature throughout the entire fridge, without it building up any frost.
SAVE over €500 on the Samsung American Style Fridge Freezer with SpaceMax™ [RS64DG5303S9EU]
This super sleek Samsung fridge freezer is big on capacity, style, and quality, with its larger capacity allowing you to stock up the fridge for the whole family.
SAVE over €500 on the Samsung Series 7 Side-by-side [RS68CG882ES9EU]
With impressive Twin Cooling Plus technology, this fridge freezer uses two separate air flows to stop your food from drying out, meaning it stays a fresh and tasty for longer. Ensure you’re always ready for a celebration, this appliance has an extra wide wine shelf fitted.
SAVE over €1300 on the Samsung Family Hub [RF65DG9H0ESREU]
This fridge freezer helps you keep on top of your groceries in a smart way. With AI Vision, you can monitor the food that are in the fridge freezer and can even generate a shopping list or meal plans based on what’s you already have in stock.
SAVE over €100 on the Samsung Series 5 Classic Fridge Freezer [RB38C605DB1/EU]
With AI Energy Mode, this fridge freezer tracks your power consumption so that you can keep on top of your bills. Not only that, you can also select the perfect temperature and humidity for your fruit and veg with the Humidity Fresh + drawer. This fridge freezer offer optimal personalisation for you and your family.
[1] First phase of MX deals valid until 19th November
2 Tab S10 Ultra Wifi deal valid until 3rd December
Detection Technology, a global leader in X-ray detector solutions, unveils a comprehensive portfolio of flat panel X-ray detectors at the RSNA 2024 exhibition to advance medical imaging. This unique medical flat panel lineup includes 20 solutions that combine high frame rates with exceptional image quality at low doses, and a wide dynamic range. The newly enhanced portfolio is optimized for a range of medical applications, including image-guided surgery, wireless radiography, fluoroscopy, oncology, and dental imaging.
“Our surgical imaging solutions offer versatile options with both amorphous silicon (a-Si) and IGZO (indium gallium zinc oxide) technology-based detectors,” explained Tuomas Holma, Director of Product Management at Detection Technology.
“For example, we have the X-Panel 2121a FDM, featuring a 200 µm pixel size a-Si-TFT design, and the X-Panel 2323z FDM with a 148 µm pixel IGZO-TFT, both ideal for image intensifier replacement. At the top of our surgical imaging and CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) range, the X-Panel 3030z FDM-TG-X, equipped with a 99 µm pixel and a 10 G Ethernet interface, delivers rapid 40 fps (1×1) imaging.”
For fluoroscopy, Detection Technology’s offerings include the X-Panel 4343a FRM with 140 µm a-Si-TFT and the X-Panel 4343z FDM with a 140 µm pixel IGZO-TFT, capable of operating at 40 fps (1×1). The portfolio also extends to a-Si and IGZO detectors for dental imaging, oncology, and portable digital radiography.
Beyond flat panel detectors, Detection Technology is showcasing its off-the-shelf CT (Computed Tomography) detector solutions for all medical modalities. The comprehensive CT range includes the X-ACE 16 HD, a value-oriented solution; the X-ACE 32 for mainstream imaging; and the high-performance X-Tile for advanced volumetric CT systems.
“Our CT portfolio delivers lower radiation doses, faster scans, and superior imaging for an enhanced patient experience. Designed for quicker time-to-market and cost savings, it offers a reliable, one-stop solution built on trusted platforms—because in health and safety, only the most dependable solutions are acceptable.”
Detection Technology is also providing a glimpse into the future of imaging technology with its exploration of photon-counting CT (PCCT) detectors, a promising advancement in imaging accuracy and detail.
“Photon-counting CT represents a transformative leap in imaging technology, offering unprecedented detail and accuracy. It’s a groundbreaking advancement that will empower clinicians with deeper insights and elevate patient care to new levels. We aim to lead the way in photon-counting CT and other next-generation imaging technologies.”
For more information, visit Detection Technology at RSNA 2024 at Booth 4133 in the South Hall, Level 3, from December 1–4, or contact sales online.
open eir and Sky are pleased to announce a strategic five-year partnership aimed at enhancing connectivity between their core network infrastructures. Under the agreement, Sky will leverage open eir’s extensive fibre network, to continue its growth across Ireland.
open eir is actively expanding Ireland’s largest fibre-to-the-home network, already accessible to over 1.3 million homes and businesses today, with plans to extend coverage to 1.9 million locations, serving 84% of premises in Ireland. open eir’s fastest growing and largest gigabit fibre network allows Sky to expand their market size, delivering choice to the Irish consumer.
Oliver Loomes, CEO of eir, stated, “open eir and Sky Ireland’s collaboration marks a significant milestone in the Irish telecommunications industry. This direct relationship with Sky is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional network services. We are excited to work with Sky to enable them to bring innovative solutions to the Irish market. This initiative represents a strong working relationship between the two companies and sets the stage for a brighter future in the world of connectivity.”
JD Buckley, CEO of Sky Ireland, commented,“We selected open eir as a full fibre broadband network partner because of their scalable solution and their proven network capability. Sky will harness open eir’s network to broaden its market reach, providing a wider range of services to Irish consumers. This partnership allows Sky to strengthen our broadband capability as an ever increasing number of our customers migrate to IP based products.”
Maeve O’Malley, Managing Director of open eir Wholesale, commented on the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to partner with Sky in this pivotal venture. This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to extending high- capacity, future-proof network infrastructure to homes and businesses throughout the country. By leveraging open eir’s expansive fibre network, we are ensuring that even customers in the most remote areas of Ireland can enjoy the benefits of world-class connectivity and next-generation services. This partnership marks a significant step forward in delivering superior network solutions to Irish consumers.”
Need some new Earbuds or Headphones this Black Friday well Edifier has you covered and with plenty of deals to pick from there is something for everyone here and with Edifier you know you are getting a quality audio product and we have tested most of them and be sure to checkout the review to make that purchase decision easier
WH950NB
The Edifier WH950NB headphones are designed for superior sound quality with “Hi-Resolution Audio” and “Hi-Resolution Audio Wireless” certifications, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Featuring the LDAC codec for high-quality audio streaming and advanced 4-microphone Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology, these headphones deliver exceptional voice and audio clarity, making them ideal for both casual listening and taking calls in various environments.
The STAX S5 headphones integrate 2nd generation EqualMass™ wiring technology and ultra-thin 2μm film, offering performance that rivals famous electrostatic headphones. Each pair undergoes Production Phase Auto Calibration, ensuring that the sound fidelity matches the original designer’s model. Additionally, powered by Qualcomm QCC5181 Bluetooth audio SoCs, the S5 supports the Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite, delivering a premium and immersive audio experience that meets audiophile standards.
The Edifier Comfo Run Open-Ear Wireless Air Conduction Sports Headphones feature Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity and a built-in microphone for clear calls. With an impressive 17 hours of playtime and fast charging capabilities, they are designed for long-lasting use during workouts, running, and cycling. Their IP55 sweat resistance ensures durability against moisture, making them an ideal choice for active lifestyles while allowing awareness of surroundings during exercise.
mophie, a leading brand in power and innovator of intelligent solutions for mobile devices, today unveiled the third generation of its popular 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe. Additionally, the brand introduced the Magnetic Wireless Charging Vent Mount and Magnetic Vent Mount, making it easier than ever for users to stay powerful at home, on the road, or abroad. These new products highlight mophie’s commitment to delivering seamless, high-quality charging and mounting solutions for Apple users.
Get the best, on-the-go charging experience with the mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger: It’s Qi2-certified and MagSafe compatible, allowing your devices to snap magnetically into place on the charging surfaces for uninterrupted fast-charging power. Even better, the 3-in-1 Travel Charger takes up to 65% less space than previous models, and delivers up to 15W to iPhone, up to 7.5W to Apple Watch, and up to 5W to AirPods.* The iPhone charging surface even lifts, enabling users to take full advantage of Standby mode in landscape orientation.
Designed for simplicity, the 3-in-1 Travel Charger keeps users powered and organized, whether on a business trip or enjoying a holiday. Take it on international trips with confidence—each unit comes with a 40W international wall adapter, complete with plug configurations for the US, UK, EU, and AU. When it’s time to pack up, the 3-in-1 charger folds neatly into a compact travel pouch, making it an ideal travel companion taking minimal luggage space. A product feature video may be found HERE.
Introducing the mophie Wireless Charging Vent Mount and Magnetic Vent Mount:
Whether you’re commuting or taking a road trip, mophie’s new vent mounts ensure your phone is secure and within easy reach.
Magnetic Wireless Charging Vent Mount: Stay connected and keep your device fully charged while on the road. The Magnetic Wireless Charging Vent Mount offers up to 15W of fast, wireless charging power with Qi2 technology, keeping your phone ready for anything. The mount features a secure, adjustable hook that fits snugly against the vent and allows for a wide range of viewing angles, ensuring you can easily follow navigation or stay in touch in the car.
Key Features of the Magnetic Wireless Charging Vent Mount:
Up to 15W Fast Magnetic Charging: Qi2 technology provides fast, convenient wireless charging for your phone.
Secure, Adjustable Vent Attachment: The new and improved hook fastens smoothly to the louvers of the vent and can fully extend or retract with just a few turns of the knob.
Adjustable Viewing Angles: Adjust your phone to an ideal angle for seeing driving directions and more.
Strong Magnetic Hold: The powerful magnet and broad surface area ensure a secure hold for your phone.
One-hand Functionality: The larger magnetic mount provides more stability, making it easier to use just one hand to operate your phone.
Universal Vehicle Compatibility: The vent mount fits most non-circular car vents.
Includes Everything You Need to Charge: Comes with a 1.5m USB-C cable, a 20W USB-C car charger, and two adhesive cable management clips.
Compatible with iPhone 12 or Newer: An iPhone 12 or newer is compatible with Qi2 charging in the Wireless Charging Vent Mount.
Magnetic Vent Mount: For those who need a secure and accessible place to keep their phone while driving, the mophie Magnetic Vent Mount is the perfect solution. It attaches with an adjustable hook that tightens to fit snugly against the vent, ensuring stability even on bumpy roads. Its magnetic surface holds your phone securely and allows for easy adjustments, so you can find the ideal viewing angle for navigation or hands-free calls. The magnetic vent mount keeps your phone securely in your line of sight and is the ideal companion for using Apple CarPlay or viewing map directions.
Key Features of the Magnetic Vent Mount:
Secure, Adjustable Vent Attachment: The new and improved hook fastens smoothly to the louvers of the vent and can fully extend or retract with just a few turns of the knob.
Strong Magnetic Hold: The powerful magnet and broad surface area ensure a secure hold for your phone.
Adjustable Viewing Angles: Tilt and swivel your phone to find the ideal viewing angle while driving.
One-hand Functionality: The stable magnetic mount allows for easy one-handed operation of your phone.
Universal Vehicle Compatibility: The vent mount is designed to fit most non-circular car vents.
Price and Availability:
The Gen3 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe (£164.95), Wireless Charging Vent Mount (£79.95), and Magnetic Vent Mount (£34.95) are available now at Apple.com, Apple retail stores worldwide, and ZAGG.com. Each product comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.
*Actual output will vary depending on the charging surface being used and the number of devices being charged simultaneously from 5W to 15W.
MagSafe, iPhone, Apple Watch, AirPods and CarPlay are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Black Friday is almost here, and there is some serious deals on Jabra headphones that are already available from select retailers. Whether you’re working out to your favourite soundtrack or joining a work call, Jabra’s Elite range of earbuds have got you covered!
Check out what is on offer below and also see our reviews to help you make that purchase decision
Jabra Elite 4 – Was £99.99, Now £49.99
These affordable true wireless earbuds are packed with features with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Multipoint connectivity and Fast Pairing (Microsoft Swift Pair and Google Fast Pair). They offer comfort, optimal sound and convenience, all at a reasonable price.
These affordable true wireless earbuds are packed with features with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Multipoint connectivity and Fast Pairing (Microsoft Swift Pair and Google Fast Pair). They offer comfort, optimal sound and convenience, all at a reasonable price.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are built to endure, offering dustproof, waterproof, and sweatproof protection along with a secure fit thanks to Jabra ShakeGrip™. Experience rich Dolby Audio*, Adaptive Hybrid ANC, and crystal-clear calls with 6-microphone windproof technology.
Immerse yourself in powerful Dolby audio with the Jabra Elite 10, featuring twice the noise cancellation strength through Jabra Advanced ANC™ and up to 27 hours of battery life. What’s more, enjoy a perfect fit all day with Jabra’s revolutionary ComfortFit technology.
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 – Was £229.99, Now £159.99
Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 true wireless sports earbuds are sweatproof, waterproof and workout-proof, with secure in-ear fit, HearThrough for better awareness, and a new smart case for streaming music anywhere.
The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 true wireless earbuds deliver immersive spatial sound with all-day comfort, advanced noise-cancellation, and a new LE Audio smart case, letting you stream music seamlessly wherever you go.
Designed for High- Resolution audio, delivering impressive power output and perfectly suited for any desktop set-up.
With a 3-inch full-range driver and an efficient bass reflex port, the M60 delivers rich, immersive audio for all your multimedia needs.
Stream high resolution audio with the built-in Bluetooth V5.3 audio receiver. It supports the LDAC codec, offering a maximum transmission bitrate of 990 kbps. Stream high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz from Android devices running version 8.0 or later.
Measuring 100 mm (W) x 168 mm (H) x 147mm (D) the M60 fits perfectly on any desk or shelf.
Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer announces the M60 Hi-Res Multimedia Speakers with Bluetooth. The Edifier M60 multimedia speaker system enhances your desktop audio with its compact size and powerful performance, making it ideal for streaming music, watching videos, or gaming. With a focus on delivering crystal-clear sound and user-friendly operation, the sleek design seamlessly fits into any workspace, elevating your everyday audio experience.
Compact Design/Powerful Output
Offering a stylish and compact design the Edifier M60 enhances workspace aesthetics while providing exceptional sound quality. Featuring hand-crafted wooden cabinets with a 1″ silk dome tweeter and a 3″ long-throw aluminium mid-low driver driven by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier from Texas Instruments, the M60 produces 66W RMS for a powerful and clear audio performance.
Wireless Streaming
Supporting wireless streaming through Bluetooth V5.3 and LDAC codec, The M60 enables high-resolution audio transmission up to 24-bit/96kHz at 990 kbps for Android devices running version 8.0 or later.
Modern Aesthetic Meets Functionality
The Edifier M60 is designed for versatile audio enhancement across various media, including music, podcasts, movies, and gaming. Users can switch effortlessly between two audio sources—USB for PC or an analog connection—without the hassle of constantly plugging and unplugging cables. The M60 features a user-friendly top-mounted touch panel that automatically lights up when your hand approaches, enabling easy control via simple touch and swipe gestures,
Speaker Stands Included
The M60 includes a pair of exclusive aluminium speaker stands which effectively minimize sound colorations caused by reflections from the desktop surface. The stands are designed with a 15-degree angle, ensuring the sound is directed precisely at ear-level when placed on a desktop.
EDIFIER ConneX App
Download the EDIFIER ConneX mobile app to unlock a suite of enhanced features for your speaker, including playback control, customization of sound effects, settings for the touch panel backlight, and access to the user manual along with various other configurations.
