Category: Tech News

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/

Dreame’s Black Friday Sale Arrives Early

Dreame Technology, a pioneer of innovative household appliances, has announced the launch of its early Black Friday sale, with the company offering unmissable deals between the 1st and 7th of November. 

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or get ahead on Christmas shopping this Black Friday, these offers are the best way to get your hands on Dreame’s smart home appliances for less.

Dreame X40 Ultra Complete (Was £1,299, now £1,149) 

Equipped with Dreame’s latest core technologies, the X40 Ultra Complete offers exceptional cleaning efficiency in even the tightest spaces around the home. It features an extendable side brush, which moves in sync with the mop and main brush, separating wet and dry cleaning.

With Dreame’s MopExtend™ RoboSwing Technology, the robot vacuum can remove dirt from under low furniture and in hard-to-reach corners, as deep as 4cm. It also has 12,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, swiftly lifting debris with fewer passes on hard floors and carpets. AvDreame’s Black Friday Deals Arrive Early and They’re An Absolute Steal!
Available with an anti-tangle TriCut brush, the X40 Ultra Complete prevents clogs, making your cleaning routine easier and more efficient.

For improved versatility, the X40 Ultra Complete can auto-lift mops to 10.5mm and protect carpets from moisture. Additionally, you can create detailed 4-level maps with this robot vacuum, planning efficient cleaning routes and intelligently identifying and avoiding over 120 types of objects.

The Dreame X40 Ultra Complete has an automated cleaning station, which includes an auto washboard cleaning system to reduce stains and remove any odours on the mop pads. 

Dreame L40 Ultra Complete (Was £999, now £899)

Dreame’s newest flagship robotic vacuum features the latest MopExtend™ RoboSwing Technology, which enables the L40 Ultra Complete to analyse complex living environments and determine when and where the mops can be used most effectively. This technology also detects edges and corners using a position-sensitive sensor that automatically expands the range of the mops by up to 4cm.

The L40 Ultra has an outstanding suction power of 11,000Pa, effectively removing animal hair, dust, and debris. Combined with the Anti-Tangle TriCut Brush, this performance enables faster and better cleaning results in fewer passes. The innovative dirt detection function, supported by an RGB AI camera, allows the L40 Ultra Complete to independently detect dirt on the floor and adjust its performance accordingly. 

The robot vacuum is equipped with a fully automated, multifunctional base station that manages routine tasks efficiently, providing a hands-free cleaning experience. After completing its work, the L40 Ultra returns to its station, where it independently cleans the mops with 65-degree water and blow-dries them with warm air for two hours to prevent unpleasant odours. The washboard also cleans itself to avoid stain residue, with its optimised design preventing water pollution and increasing cleaning efficiency. 

Dreame L20 Ultra Complete (Was £849, now £649) 

The L20 Ultra Complete is equipped with Dreame’s most advanced and powerful suction system with 7,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, as well as MopExtend™ Technology. Utilising a position sensitive detector to identify edges and corners, this technology automatically extends the mops to reach tight spaces around the home for deeper, closer cleaning. Intelligent algorithms also help the L20 Ultra Complete to navigate complex home environments to know when, where, and how it should best extend and retract its mops.

Dreame’s DuoScrub™ Mopping System deploys two high-speed rotary mops that scrub stubborn dirt and spills under pressure, preventing messes from lingering in your living space. It operates quietly with a liftable rubber brush and a fan motor that automatically closes.

The L20 Ultra Complete also features Pathfinder™ Smart Navigation, an AI-driven obstacle avoidance system and 3D structured light to learn about your home, identify 55 different types of obstacles, and plan how to clean more effectively. With a built-in LED, the robot vacuum can clean efficiently in dim spaces and dark rooms.

Dreame D10 Plus (Was £279, now £229) 

With the D10 Plus’ auto-empty function, you can enjoy 45 days of hands-free cleaning as the robot vacuum quietly empties its dustbin in just seconds to minimise disruption and maximise cleaning time. Dreame’s DualBoost technology provides efficient dust collection by blowing and suction via two air circulation paths to take in the dirt, remove odours and prevent clogging. 

The robot vacuum also boasts 4,000Pa suction power that can be automatically adjusted for different flooring types with a main brush roller design combined for deep, effective cleaning. With a 5,200mAh large-capacity battery, the D10 Plus can cover more space on a single charge for maximum coverage and convenience.

The D10 Plus can also accurately map your home in as little as 8 minutes, avoiding obstacles for effective, efficient cleaning. Using the LiDAR navigation and SLAM algorithm, it scans an 8-metre radius to create dynamic maps and intelligent route planning.

With more deals to come this Black Friday, please visit the Dreame UK website for more information: https://dreamestore.co.uk/products/ 

Free your inner DJ: Introducing the DDJ-FLX2

AlphaTheta, a world-class manufacturer of DJ equipment, announces the release of the DDJ-FLX2, an easy-to-use DJ controller that’s perfect for anyone thinking of starting to DJ.

Simply install one of several compatible DJ applications on your smartphone, tablet, or computer, connect it to the DDJ-FLX2, and you’ll be ready to seamlessly mix tracks and apply exciting effects with ease, just like professional DJs do. And don’t worry if you don’t have your own music files – you can start DJing using compatible streaming services, such as Apple Music via Algoriddim’s djay app. 

Whether you want to get a reputation for crowd-pleasing party sets, express yourself creatively through DJing, or just enjoy mixing with your friends, the DDJ-FLX2 is the perfect controller to help you turn your fantasy into reality.

The DDJ-FLX2 is available now for £159. For more information, head to alphatheta.com. See more news here

NSAI Launches Europe’s First Verified Global Navigation Satellite System Data Stream Service

The National Standards Authority of Ireland’s National Metrology Laboratory (NSAI NML) today announced the launch of Europe’s first ever verified GPS/GNSS Data Stream (VGDS) service, an extension to the National Timing Grid of Ireland (www.ntg.ie). This initiative developed in partnership with Timing Solutions, marks a significant step forward in ensuring secure and reliable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) data, vital for government organisations, public institutions and business sectors including communications, energy, and transportation, public services, financial services, and cloud data centers as a source of accurate time.
The VGDS service provides verified GNSS data in the form of Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM) packets via the internet, allowing users to verify their own GNSS data streams.
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), such as the US’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and the EU’s Galileo, are invaluable in our daily lives as they provide real-time navigation assistance for people and assets helping them find the most efficient routes, avoid traffic, and reach their destinations safely and quickly. In emergency situations, GNSS devices help locate individuals quickly, allowing first responders to reach them faster.
David Fleming, NSAI Technical Manager for Time & Frequency said,
“We are so excited to be launching in Ireland, Europe’s first ever Verified GNSS/GPS Data Stream service. As Ireland’s digital economy continues to grow and more services and public safety aspects are dependent on GNSS/GPS data, the importance of verifiable GNSS/GPS data in Ireland is paramount which made the establishment of this service a key priority for the NSAI NML.”
As Ireland’s national authority for measurement standards, NSAI NML is responsible for creating, maintaining and developing the national measurement standards for physical quantities (e.g. kilogram, second, meter, etc.) and making these standards available to Irish users. The VGDS service is being delivered by NSAI NML and led by specialist partner Timing Solutions, a NovaUCD and ESA BIC Ireland client company.
Dr. Zdenek Chaloupka, Founder, Timing Solutions said:
“The Timing Solutions team is delighted to be taking the lead in establishing Ireland as one of the leading countries around the world with respect to the provision of safe GNSS/GPS data and signals thereby improving the resiliency of the Critical Infrastructure sectors.”
GNSS systems like GPS have become an essential part of everyday life, from driver navigation and optimising farming operations to coordinating emergency services. However, their widespread use has also exposed vulnerabilities that can be exploited for criminal activities, including signal jamming and spoofing—both of which can disrupt crucial services and threaten public safety.
By offering a verified stream of GNSS data, the VGDS service mitigates these risks, ensuring that users in Ireland and beyond can trust the accuracy and reliability of their location and timing data. This service is particularly critical for Critical Infrastructure sectors, which depend on GNSS for accurate timekeeping, communications, and operational efficiency.
Dr. Chaloupka from Timing Solutions is presenting this new initiative at the International Time and Sync Forum (ITSF 2024), the world’s largest timing and sync event, gathering in Seville in November 2024. Access to the VGDS service can be requested by emailing NSAI NML at gnssdatatrial@nsai.ie or Timing Solutions at vgds@timingsolutions.ie.