Category: Tech News

ZAGG Unveils Pro Keys 2: New Wireless Keyboard Designed to Maximize iPad Productivity

ZAGG, a global leader in accessories and technologies that empower mobile lifestyles, today announced the Pro Keys 2 folio case with detachable, wireless keyboard crafted specifically for the iPad Pro 11 (M4), iPad Air 11 (M2), iPad Pro 13 (M4), and iPad Air 13 (M2).

The Pro Keys 2 folio case and keyboard turns your iPad into a mobile powerhouse, allowing for seamless productivity wherever users go. With refined, laptop-style keys for a responsive typing experience and up to 6.6 feet of iPad drop protection, the Pro Keys 2 features a detachable keyboard, multi-device pairing functionality, an adjustable stand, backlit keys for dimly lit environments, a stylus holder, and more.* It’s the perfect tool for anyone needing a flexible keyboard and protective case solution for their iPad.

“Our goal is to provide premium keyboards and accessories that elevate our users’ mobile experiences,” said Gavin Slevin, Managing Director at ZAGG International. “The Pro Keys 2 keyboard combines productivity-enhancing features with a price point that delivers excellent value to ensure users have the right tools to stay efficient and connected from any location.”

Unlock the full potential of your iPad with the Pro Keys 2 wireless keyboard and detachable case. It boasts an upgraded keyframe for smoother and more precise key travel, providing an effortless touch-typing experience. The case is designed to magnetically hold the stylus with the iPad, offering a streamlined user setup.

Key features include:

  • Enhanced Protection: The durable polycarbonate shell, combined with rubberized edges and reinforced corners, delivers drop protection from heights up to 6.6 feet (2 meters).
  • Magnetic Folio Cover: When detached from the keyboard, the folio-style cover protects your screen from scratches and bumps.
  • Superior Typing Experience: The redesigned keys are crafted for quicker, more comfortable typing with accurate keystrokes.
  • Removable Keyboard: Separate the keyboard from the case to position your iPad on one surface while using the keyboard on another.
  • Adjustable Viewing Stand: The foldable cover converts into a stand, providing two viewing angles for your convenience.
  • Long Lasting Battery: Benefit from prolonged battery life thanks to the efficient sleep/wake function that conserves power.
  • Stylus Storage: Keep your ZAGG Pro Stylus or Apple Pencil securely stored with the snap-fit holder.
  • Dual-Device Pairing: Seamlessly switch between two paired devices with the Bluetooth keyboard.
  • Forward-facing Speakers: Audio is directed straight toward the user for a better listening experience.
  • Customizable Backlit Keys: Choose from seven vibrant colors to keep working efficiently in low light.
  • Space-Saving Design: The foldable stand occupies minimal space, ideal for working in tight or compact areas.

 Pricing and Availability:

The ZAGG Pro Keys 2 folio case with detachable, wireless keyboard is available today at ZAGG.com and at select retail stores globally for €109.99 / £109.99 / $109.99 for the iPad Pro 11 (M4) and iPad Air 11 (M2), and €169.99 / £159.99 / $169.99 for the iPad Pro 13 (M4), and iPad Air 13 (M2). Designed to provide unmatched productivity on the go, the Pro Keys 2 offers a premium solution for iPad users at a competitive price. Visit ZAGG’s website or your nearest retailer to enhance your iPad experience today.

See our ZAGG reviews

Boom Goes Large with Dedicated ‘Meeting Room In A Box’ Conference Kit

Conferencing manufacturer Boom Collaboration has launched a dedicated ‘meeting room in a box’ video kit for large rooms.

The all-in-one innovation features an intelligent videobar, expandable mics and one-cable connection hub – designed to simplify installations and capitalise on high demand for Bring Your Own Device deployments.

It’s part of a new range of complete solutions, demonstrating the Texas-based company’s ethos of delivering better meetings, simply.

Rollercoaster

The BYOD Large Videobar Kit can be found at boom.co and features the popular HALO videobar, two mics and the ZYGO multi-connectivity hub. It’s available in black or white colours.

“In recent years the video conferencing market has been a rollercoaster ride offering two distinct ways forward – with dedicated in-room systems on the up, whilst Bring Your Own Device alternatives seemed to be heading down, particularly for many larger organisations,” explained Co-Founder Fredrik Hörnkvist.

“But wider industry analysis mirrors our own findings that the use of individual devices is taking over. From our conversations, sales and interest from around the world, it’s an 80/20 split. BYOD is back with a bang with plug-and-play simplicity, lower costs and a platform agnostic approach some of the main driving forces.”

He emphasised: “Our new approach sees the creation of complete ‘meeting room in a box’ kits. These are designed to simplify the process of choosing the right equipment for the right rooms, to optimise the overall user experience and take away any installation headaches. Our new videobar kit for larger rooms will add further fuel to the BYOD fire.”

The solution is spearheaded by the HALO videobar which boasts ultra HD 4K performance, a wide angle 120° field of view, AI Auto-framing and speaker-tracking, 10x ePTZ, six digital array mics plus the option of up to eight additional expandable mics.

Embracing

Many businesses are now opting for flexible, cost-effective solutions, agrees fellow founder Holli Hulett. “The pandemic created a shift towards more agile, plug-and-play systems, where users wanted to use their own devices without relying on permanent room systems. There’s more personalisation too such as when screen sharing.”

She added: “The flexibility and lower cost of BYOD solutions – where users bring their laptops or mobile devices to connect to a room’s AV system – have seen a significant rise, as hybrid and flexible work models became more common.

“This is especially popular for SMBs embracing hybrid work. They greatly outnumber bigger organisations by around 1000:1 so there’s more volume and more reseller opportunities compared to fully-fledged room systems. Our new dedicated kit for larger rooms makes it easy for installers and their customers to create the optimal BYOD meeting experience.”

 

Ookla partners with Dublin City Council to tackle telecoms deficits in the city

Today, Ookla, a global leader in connectivity intelligence, announces its partnership with Dublin City Council and the City Telecoms Association to identify and tackle telecoms deficits in Dublin. This first-of-its-kind initiative, fueled by Ookla’s Speedtest Insights®, offers a practical blueprint for l cities across Europe to drive digital inclusion and optimise network outcomes through actionable, data-driven insights.
The partnership demonstrates how a data-driven approach can enhance connectivity outcomes in a tangible way, empowering cities to better serve citizens. For the first time, the city is addressing connectivity gaps through targeted policy interventions, and fostering collaborative efforts with operators to attract investments that were previously hindered by site acquisition challenges.
You can find the full partnership case study here with more information about the five high-impact use cases created by Dublin City Council using Ookla’s network intelligence data.
Key points from the study:
  • Telecoms strategy and digital inclusion:  A proactive data-driven telecom strategy aimed at bridging digital divides, with significant analysis of how socio-economic factors affect connectivity outcomes, especially in areas with high social deprivation.
  • Identification of connectivity gaps: Ookla’s real-world data has enabled DCC to pinpoint key areas in Dublin with significant connectivity issues, influencing policy and planning to prioritise interventions where they are most needed.
  • Innovative use of city assets: Dublin’s approach to leveraging city-owned assets for telecom infrastructure, including facilitating multi-operator site access, represents a strategic move to optimise asset use and reduce urban clutter, aligned with EU regulatory goals​.
  • Transparency and public engagement: The Council has launched a public educational initiative on telecom infrastructure, including visualisations of before-and-after network improvements from new site deployments, to engage citizens and increase acceptance of new infrastructure.
  • Comparative benchmarking in Europe: Through Ookla’s data, Dublin has gained insights into its telecom performance relative to other European cities, highlighting areas of competitive strength in 5G availability and identifying room for improvement in 4G speeds​.
Key data and methodology:
  • The collaboration saw Ookla collect Speedtest® network data across the city over two 12-month periods (June 2022-June 2023 and June 2023-June 2024) with a sample size in the tens of millions; creating the most comprehensive analysis of mobile network performance ever conducted at the city level in Ireland.
  • Leveraging Ookla’s Speedtest® Insights platform, DCC were able to integrate other data sources, such as internal city asset registries, mobile site location maps from Ireland’s telecoms regulator ComReg, and social deprivation data from Pobal.
  • Geospatial analysis created a localised tile-based grid across the entire city to categorise mobile network performance at different times of the day. Performance was evaluated against two metrics; signal strength and download speed. Each location tile was categorised as unacceptable if it had less than 11 dBm signal strength and 5 Mbps download speed. Anything above 11 dBM and 5 Mbps was categorised as ‘acceptable’.

Yanmar Unveils “YANMAR PRODUCT VISION” for Future Product Platform

Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. has introduced the YANMAR PRODUCT VISION (YPV), outlining the future of its next-generation design. Rooted in the philosophy of “Intrinsic Design,” which focuses on the core functional value and purpose of products, YPV presents Yanmar’s design goals for the future. The company plans to combine the design elements developed through YPV with its established design expertise to create a platform that will be implemented across its product range, including agricultural machinery, construction equipment, boats, and services.

Yanmar HD has been working to cultivate its brand image through designs that resonate with stakeholders, including customers, employees, and the general public, under the concept of “inclusive branding.” This effort has been achieved through co-creation with internal and external partners.

The new initiative, based on the concept of Intrinsic Design, aims to platformize the design elements included in YPV. This approach will not only standardize components and designs but also enhance intuitive operability and comfort with new interfaces designed for future tasks. Additionally, it will contribute to increased development efficiency and cost reductions.

These concepts will be applied to each product within Yanmar’s core business areas of land, sea, and city to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.

About YANMAR PRODUCT VISION (YPV)

YPV represents Yanmar’s vision for the future, setting out the ideal direction for its business domains in 2035. Rooted in the philosophy of Intrinsic Design, which prioritizes functional value over form, Yanmar describes its design approach as “Gentleness and Toughness,” reflecting its tradition of producing machines that are both user-friendly and durable in demanding environments. By standardizing elements like new design aesthetics, cabin structures, and Human-Machine Interfaces as defined through YPV, Yanmar aims to streamline product development while enhancing functionality from a customer-centric perspective.

YPV in the Land Domain

One example of platformization is a redesign of the cabin structure to standardize components between agricultural and construction machinery. The life-sized concept agricultural machine YPV-L (Land), unveiled at the YANMAR DESIGN EXHIBITION held at YANMAR TOKYO from November 8 to 15, 2024, features a large monitor in the cockpit that functions as a command center, controlling other autonomous machines. The cabinless version, designed with full automation in mind, allows for customization based on work location and operator needs.

Unified cabin design and expansion to other business areas (YPV-C)

YPV in the City Domain

YPV-C focuses on the electrification of construction equipment to meet the anticipated increase in indoor work and renovation projects. The concept uses wheels (tires) instead of crawlers to enable swift movement to disaster sites. To address battery life and charging challenges, an autonomous battery vehicle will supply power when needed.

Image of a self-propelled battery vehicle automatically supplying power to electric construction equipment.

YPV in the Sea Domain

YPV-S (Sea) introduces a foiling sailboat that proposes a new marine lifestyle. Drawing on Yanmar’s extensive marine technology and expertise, the design leverages natural forces through foiling, which lifts the boat above the water, and sailing, maximizing the use of wind power to shape both propulsion and onboard experience.

Concept foiling sailboat YPV-S (Sea)

Reasons Why VoIP is the Future of Telecommunication

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology has transformed the telecommunications landscape, offering businesses and individuals an affordable, flexible, and reliable alternative to traditional phone systems. With the rapid advancements in internet infrastructure, VoIP is quickly emerging as the preferred method for voice communication. Here’s why VoIP is set to lead the future of telecommunications and become the go-to choice for modern communication needs.

Cost Efficiency and Affordability

One of the primary advantages of VoIP is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional phone services, particularly for businesses with international operations, can incur significant expenses in both installation and call rates. VoIP, on the other hand, uses internet connectivity to transmit calls, resulting in dramatically reduced costs. By eliminating the need for dedicated phone lines, VoIP allows users to make local and international calls at a fraction of the price of conventional phone services. Additionally, there’s no need to maintain separate voice and data networks, which reduces infrastructure costs and simplifies management for companies.

For businesses, this affordability can make a considerable impact on the bottom line. Many of the top VoIP systems offer tiered pricing plans, so businesses only pay for the features they need. This flexibility allows companies of all sizes to implement VoIP technology without overextending their budget, making VoIP a practical choice for startups, SMEs, and large corporations alike.

Enhanced Accessibility and Flexibility

VoIP has the unique ability to work anywhere with a reliable internet connection, giving users unparalleled flexibility in how and where they communicate. Whether a team member is in the office, working from home, or traveling, VoIP systems ensure they remain connected. This accessibility is crucial in today’s world, where remote work and flexible office arrangements are becoming increasingly common. VoIP systems also support a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops, enabling users to make and receive calls from virtually anywhere.

The ability to unify communications across multiple devices makes VoIP an essential tool for businesses seeking to stay agile and responsive. Employees can use one number across various devices, ensuring seamless communication regardless of location. This flexibility not only improves productivity but also enhances customer experience, as clients and customers can reach team members quickly and easily. For businesses, the adaptability of VoIP technology translates to better communication and collaboration across the board.

Advanced Features and Integration

VoIP systems offer a host of advanced features that go beyond the capabilities of traditional telephony. Many VoIP solutions come with functionalities like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, video conferencing, and instant messaging. These features enable businesses to manage communication efficiently, create personalized client interactions, and enhance team collaboration. VoIP systems can also be integrated with other business tools, such as CRM software, allowing for a seamless flow of information and streamlining workflows.

These integrated features are especially beneficial for customer service teams, as they can access client records, track call histories, and resolve issues in real time without switching between systems. Additionally, VoIP systems’ ability to support video calls and conferencing means businesses can host virtual meetings and communicate visually, eliminating the need for third-party conferencing platforms. This functionality enables VoIP to act as a comprehensive communication solution, consolidating various tools into a single platform and making it easier for teams to stay connected and productive.

Scalability and Customization

As businesses grow, their communication needs evolve. Traditional phone systems often require costly hardware upgrades and time-consuming installations to accommodate additional lines. VoIP, however, is highly scalable, allowing companies to add or remove lines and features as needed. Businesses can adjust their VoIP system to meet seasonal demands or expansion needs without the hassle of installing new physical infrastructure. This scalability is invaluable for businesses that are expanding or that experience fluctuating communication demands.

VoIP systems also offer high levels of customization, enabling companies to tailor their communication setup to suit their specific needs. Whether it’s adding call-routing options, creating a virtual receptionist, or setting up automated responses, businesses can configure their VoIP system to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. This ability to scale and customize ensures that VoIP can grow with a business, making it a forward-thinking investment.

Businesses like to utilize AI-powered ringless voicemail technology to automate customer outreach, ensuring messages are delivered efficiently without disrupting recipients’ daily routines.

 

Improved Sound Quality and Reliability

In its early days, VoIP was often criticized for inconsistent sound quality. However, with improvements in internet speeds and better codecs, VoIP now offers sound quality that rivals, and often surpasses, traditional phone lines. Many VoIP systems use HD voice technology, which provides crystal-clear audio quality and reduces background noise, ensuring a professional call experience. VoIP also allows for multiple data packets to be sent simultaneously, so if one part of the transmission is lost, the conversation remains intact.

Reliability has also improved with the advent of advanced VoIP infrastructure. Most modern VoIP systems are equipped with failover mechanisms, which automatically reroute calls to a designated backup line or voicemail in case of an internet outage. This ensures uninterrupted communication and business continuity, making VoIP a dependable choice for companies that rely heavily on consistent and reliable communication.

 

With its cost efficiency, flexibility, and advanced features, VoIP is rapidly establishing itself as the future of telecommunications. Its scalability, customization options, and integration capabilities make it an essential tool for modern businesses seeking to enhance communication and productivity. As technology continues to evolve, VoIP will remain at the forefront of telecommunications, offering solutions that adapt to the ever-changing needs of businesses and individuals alike.

Northcoders launches new part-time JavaScript bootcamp with financing option to drive tech career accessibility

In another groundbreaking move to make tech education more accessible, Northcoders – the leading tech training provider – has launched a new part-time, 20-week JavaScript bootcamp that can be paid for in interest free monthly payments.  The course has been specifically designed for individuals balancing work or personal commitments who aspire to enter the tech industry without quitting their jobs.

Priced affordably – €500 deposit and then €179.16 for 24 months – the remote course will start on Monday 24th February 2025. Students will follow an industry-leading curriculum and with a flexible schedule allowing them to learn from anywhere, studying around their work, family, and personal lives. Tuition can be spread across 24 months in interest-free instalments, making it one of the most affordable paths into tech.

Based on Northcoders’ award-winning program, the bootcamp covers everything from JavaScript fundamentals to advanced front and back-end development, preparing graduates for immediate employment in tech.

In weeks one and two, the curriculum will focus on Core Skills. Topics will include Distributed Version Control, Visualising Function Executions and Debugging. For the next seven weeks, JavaScript Fundamentals will take centre stage; followed by Back End (weeks 11 to 15) and then Front End (weeks 16 to 20).

Each block will include one to one mentoring sessions, live lectures, live seminars, self-study periods and study groups. Careers support is also given to part-time students, including career support documents that Northcoders supplies to its full-time students, as well as access to its jobs board which includes roles at hiring partners right across the UK.

David Bartlett – Tech Lead at Northcoders – said: “We are really excited to be launching this new part-time bootcamp and payment plan. We believe it is a big step forward in opening up tech careers to even more people. We understand funding is an issue for many, so our aim is to break down those barriers and equip aspiring developers with the skills needed to launch successful coding careers.

Majority introduces the Moto Plus Bluetooth Turntable with 2.0 Bookshelf Speakers

Following the triumphant success of the Majority Moto, Majority, a leading innovator in audio technology, introduces its impressive Moto Plus Turntable and Bookshelf Speakers with Bluetooth, USB Recording, Audio-Technica cartridge and a precision-engineered dampening platter. This cutting-edge audio solution is set to redefine the home entertainment experience, delivering unparalleled sound quality and an immersive musical experience.

With 5.3 Bluetooth capability, easily pair your devices for wireless music streaming and pair with Bluetooth devices for room-filling audio. Perfectly complemented by the exceptional sound reproduction of the Audio Technica AT3600L cartridge, the Majority Moto Plus ensures a superior listening experience for both classic and new vinyl releases.

Teamed with a stylish pair of bookshelf speakers with a walnut wooden finish to match the turntable and a 2.0 Speaker Channel, the Moto Plus is the next generation of turntable entertainment from Majority to deliver surround sound across both physical and digital media.

Complete with a precision-engineered dampening platter and feet minimize vibrations, the Majority Moto provides a stable foundation for your vinyl records and delivers a distortion-free sound experience. Additionally, the Majority-branded slip mat for smooth rotation and reduced friction, enhances the overall performance.

With a sleek design, precision tonearm, and user-friendly controls, this turntable is where style meets function for home entertainment.

The Moto is available on Amazon for £129.95 today

Key Features of the Majority Moto Plus:

  • 2.0 Bookshelf Speakers
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: In & Out
  • AT3600L Audio-Technica Cartridge
  • USB Recording
  • Dampening Platter
  • Plays 33/45/78 Vinyl Records
  • Dimensions: 45.1cm x 20.1cm x 41.8cm; 3kg

See our Majority Reviews 

mophie Celebrates rebrand with the launch of the Juice Pack for iPhone 16 series

mophie, a leading brand in power and innovator of intelligent solutions for mobile devices, has announced a new brand identity, including a refreshed corporate logo. The new branding represents a major evolution for mophie, reflecting the company’s commitment to innovation, user experience, and providing powerful charging solutions. The new brand identity aims to embody mophie’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to delivering top-tier charging solutions that empower users to stay powerful.
In celebration of the new logo and brand identity, mophie today announced the Juice Pack cellphone battery case for iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max that bear elements of the company’s new brand identity. The newest iteration of the Juice Pack expands mophie’s robust range of portable charging solutions, offering a convenient way to keep devices powered throughout the day. Tailored specifically for iPhone 16, Juice Pack contains an internal 2,800-3,600 mAh lithium-ion battery, providing ample capacity to ensure users stay powered without interruptions.
Product features include:
·         A key enhancement with the iPhone 16-compatible Juice Pack is its integrated passive magnet, allowing users to easily attach Qi2 and MagSafe-compatible accessories, such as car mounts, wallets, and stands. This feature offers greater flexibility and convenience, letting users easily secure iPhone in various setups whether at home, in the car, or on the move.
·         Staying true to mophie’s legacy of smart power management, the updated Juice Pack features the advanced Priority Plus pass-through charging technology. This intelligent feature delivers power first to iPhone when connected to an external power source, and then recharges the battery case itself. This guarantees a seamless and efficient charging experience, minimizing downtime for users.
·         Designed with user comfort in mind, Juice Pack for iPhone 16 offers a soft-touch finish using a premium acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, ensuring a comfortable grip that feels great in the hand. Despite the robust internal battery, the case maintains a slim and ergonomic profile, with strategically reinforced edges that provide protection against everyday bumps and drops.
In a continued effort toward sustainability, mophie has incorporated up to 50% post-consumer recycled materials into the Juice Pack for iPhone 16.1
Additional Juice Pack Technical Specifications:
iPhone 16: contains an internal 2,800 mAh battery
·         L: 16.91 mm (0.67 in)
·         W: 75.6 mm (2.97 in)
·         H: 161.34 mm (6.35 in)
iPhone 16 Pro: contains an internal 2,800 mAh battery
·         L: 17.3 mm (0.68 in)
·         W: 75.45 mm (2.97 in)
·         H: 163.85 mm (6.45 in)
iPhone 16 Pro Max: contains an internal 3,600 mAh battery
·         L: 17.3 mm (0.68 in)
·         W: 81.1 mm (3.19 in)
·         H: 174 mm (6.85 in)
Availability:
The mophie Juice Pack for iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max (£99.95) are available today at mophie.com. Each product includes a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, offering peace of mind with each purchase.2

Beta Festival, Ireland’s art and technology festival starts today

Featuring a robot that rolls its eyes at live social media algorithms, the opportunity to reduce emissions by distracting fossil fuel companies and digital tools that investigate real-life conspiracies, Beta runs until Sunday, November 17th at The Digital Hub and wider Dublin 8 area.
Co-founded and supported by The Digital Hub, Beta has announced a full line-up of artists, exhibitions, installations and workshops that will focus on the key theme of the relationship between technology and power, with specific focus areas including artificial intelligence and facial recognition technology.
In addition, a first-of-its-kind Assembly on AI and Art will bring together leading experts in technology and culture to discuss critical areas in the arts industry which are impacted by AI and should be considered for future policy developments. AI Ambassador for Ireland Patricia Scanlon will be among the facilitators leading discussions.
Cannes Film Festival winner Noire, the Unknown Life of Claudette Colvin will make its Irish debut at this year’s Beta Festival at the Samuel Beckett Theatre from Thursday, November 7th to Sunday, November 10th. Noire tells the real-life story of 15-year-old Claudette Colvin, who refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in a segregated 1950s Alabama. The production uses virtual reality to provide viewers with an immersive digital experience. Tickets for Noire are limited and range from €15 – €22.
Beta will also host an international exhibition Unsettling the Algorithm: Seeds of Resistance, which will explore how digital systems and algorithms shape, influence and govern our daily lives. Curated by Aisling Murray and Nora O’ Murchú, the exhibition will feature artists including Basil Al-Rawi, Tega Brain and Sam Levigne, Firas Shehadeh, and Winnie Soon and Tzu-Tung Lee among others.
Separately, the Local Artists Network will spotlight emerging Irish artists with new work from Conan McIvor and new commissions from Aisling Phelan and Cailean Finn. Both exhibitions are free of charge and will run from Friday, November 1st to Sunday, November 17th. Additional workshops covering digital democracy, facial recognition technology and artist networking events are taking place over the two weeks and will be free of charge to attendees.
Events and exhibitions will take place predominantly in buildings across The Digital Hub campus, including iD8 Studio, The Bank and wider Dublin areas including Pallas Projects Studios, Fire Station Artists Studio and the Samuel Beckett Theatre.
Beta will officially launch on Friday, November 1st with events including the Assembly on AI and Art, keynote from Abeba Birhane as well as free workshops and panel discussions.
The conference over the opening weekend will cover topics from digital activism to immersive storytelling, algorithmic resistance and future archives. Tickets for the conferences are available to purchase from the Beta website from €15 – €25.
Key highlights from the weekend will include:
  • Samuel Beckett Theatre will host performances from Noire, an immersive virtual reality performance that tells the story of Claudette Colvin who refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in the 1950s segregated Alabama. Directed by Stéphane Foenkinos and Pierre-Alain Giraud.
  • The Ethics Studio, a space for members of the public to engage with real ethical concerns and potential real-world impacts of new and emerging technologies developed with the festival research partner ADAPT Research Centre. This will include The Bigger Picture – an exhibition of new commissions that challenge outdated tropes and offers a more grounded, realistic portrayal of AI.
  • Keynote talks from Kay Watson, Head of Arts Technologies at London’s Serpentine Gallery and Abebe Birhane, who is a member of the United Nations Secretary-General’s AI Advisory Body and was featured in the TIME 100 Most Influential People in AI list.
  • International exhibition Unsettling the Algorithm: Seeds of Resistance, which will explore how algorithms and technology influence and impact our daily lives, with work including Cold Call, a call centre that reimagines carbon offsetting by encouraging viewers to call fossil fuel companies and distract them for as long as possible, delaying carbon-emitting activities.
The opening will take place on Friday, November 1st with a preview of the exhibition at The Digital Hub, with a reception supported by Diageo Ireland.
Aisling Murray, co-founder and director of Beta Festival, commented:
“In a moment where much of our interaction with the world is mediated by screens and dominated by AI-driven narratives —both utopian and dystopian—Beta aims to create a space where people can come together to critically explore the complexities of our digital culture. This year’s festival brings together artists, researchers, and technologists to examine the power dynamics embedded in new technologies and offer alternative approaches to how we engage with them. Through exhibitions, workshops, and discussions, we hope to empower the public with a sense of agency, encouraging them to question, resist, and rethink the platforms that shape our daily lives.
Ireland is uniquely positioned at this intersection of art, research, and technology, with a wealth of creative talent and intellectual rigor, alongside some of the world’s leading tech companies. By bringing these diverse voices into conversation, we aim to spark meaningful public engagement with the critical issues surrounding technology today. I am so grateful to The Digital Hub for supporting this project and seeing its value and relevance and am excited for this year’s edition.”
Fiach Mac Conghail, co-founder of Beta Festival and CEO of The Digital Hub, added:
“The Digital Hub has a strong track record of supporting digital technology industries, creative enterprises and community learning programmes in our Dublin 8 community and wider area. Beta aims to be a culmination of activities within the Liberties campus and act as a starting point to foster discussions on how we can make complex technologies more accessible and tangible for all communities. Beta’s programme for 2024 gives us a prime position to further these objectives and create a meaningful impact with communities interested in art and technology. We are delighted to see the return of Beta following its successful first year and look forward to seeing the work of many great artists and greet the visitors that join us for the festival from November 1st.”
The Digital Hub and Aisling Murray are being supported in its preparations for Beta by Science Week, Ambassade de France en Irlande and Institut Français, British Council, ADAPT Research Centre, Smart Dublin, Fire Station Artist’s Studio, Creative Futures Academy, The Arts Council and Pallas Projects.
Beta Festival will kick off Friday, 1st November with a variety of events and exhibitions during that time with the centrepiece exhibition, Unsettling the Algorithm: Seeds of Resistance and additional events at The Digital Hub running until Sunday, 17th November.
To find out more about Beta Festival 2024 and how to purchase event tickets, visit https://2024.betafestival.ie/