Simplifying IT for the AI and Multicloud Era

AI is rapidly reshaping the business landscape, making digital transformation not just a priority but a necessity for Irish organisations. Yet as companies look to harness its potential, they often find themselves navigating increasingly complex IT environments — a challenge that can feel overwhelming for businesses of all sizes. Brian O’ Toole, Consumption and Software Sales Leader at Dell Technologies tells us more

Whether it’s navigating cloud migration or staying secure and scaling AI projects or even just managing day-to-day IT workloads with limited resources, there’s one thing we keep hearing from businesses and organisations alike is that ‘we need to simplify’.

At Dell Technologies, we’ve seen these challenges firsthand — and that’s why we’re helping organisations embrace technology as-a-Service. Adopting this approach can help simplify operations, modernise IT infrastructure, and give businesses the agility they need to innovate at speed in the AI era.

 A Fresh Approach to IT Management

Today, IT teams face a perfect storm of priorities from business leaders responding to external challenges. These priorities pressure IT leaders to do more with less as they get operations teams to innovate while addressing expanding regulatory frameworks around data.

All these pressures and potentially competing priorities increase the risk of IT decision sprawl that could solve problems in one area while adding complexity in others.

To help IT and business leaders navigate this environment and shift IT costs from capital expenditure (CapEx) to operational expenditure (OpEx), Dell APEX Cloud Platforms provide integrated infrastructure management that reduces multicloud complexity while strengthening security and governance. APEX is a portfolio of fully integrated, turnkey systems that integrate Dell infrastructure, software and cloud operating stacks to deliver consistent multicloud operations. By extending cloud operating models to on-premises and edge environments, Dell APEX Cloud Platforms bridge the cloud divide by delivering consistent cloud operations everywhere.

With Dell APEX Cloud Platforms, you can:

  • Minimize multicloud costs and complexity in the cloud ecosystem of your choice.
  • Increase application value by accelerating productivity with familiar experiences that enable you to develop anywhere and deploy everywhere.

Improve security and governance by enforcing consistent cloud ecosystem management from cloud to edge and enhancing control with layered security. The shift to an As-a-Service approach gives businesses control without the chaos. Whether a scaling startup or an established large business planning to advance their Multicloud solutions or leverage AI-driven applications, they can get access to latest technology such as storage, servers, devices and cloud services – on demand with only the cost for what they use.

Enabling organisations to innovate in an AI and Multicloud era

For organisations, the shift to an as-a-service model is not just about simplifying IT systems, it’s about ensuring they can unlock innovation and growth. Businesses can pay for what they use which aligns technology investment to actual value and usage. This approach is especially critical for costly infrastructure such as GPUs, servers, and storage which all require substantial investment. By spreading costs over time, organisations in Ireland can forge a cost-effective pathway to leveraging cutting-edge AI capabilities without being locked into long-term technology commitments.

In Ireland, we’re seeing a growing appetite for more agile, scalable IT models, especially among businesses embracing AI, hybrid work, and Multicloud strategies. As the debate between public and private clouds are fading, Multicloud ecosystems are the future, and Dell APEX is leading the charge. With partnerships spanning hyper scalers like Microsoft, Red Hat, VMware, and Google Cloud, Dell APEX delivers simplified IT management across environments.

Dell APEX innovations also cater to businesses deploying AI-driven solutions, offering validated designs with Red Hat OpenShift AI and Microsoft Azure AI. With flexible pay-per-use models, organisations can leverage these capabilities without the unpredictability associated with public cloud costs.

Unlocking the potential of technology into the future

For Irish business who are looking to learn more and delve deeper into Multicloud innovation and how they can transform their IT operations, the upcoming event ‘The Sky’s the Limit: Elevate your Multi Cloud Strategy’ on 29th April at the Guinness Storehouse offering a unique experience of insights into Dell APEX Cloud Platforms, hands-on demos, and discussions on overcoming IT challenges like complexity and security.

Attendees will also hear firsthand how companies in Ireland have embraced an as-a-service approach which has transformed and simplified their IT operations and ensured they are best placed to innovate in the AI era. Register for free here.

As the pace of technological change accelerates, Irish businesses must remain agile to stay competitive. The shift to an as-a-service model is not just a strategic decision—it’s an enabler of transformation. By embracing an as-a-Service approach, organisations can seamlessly scale their operations, reduce overheads, and focus on what truly matters: driving innovation in the AI era.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TechLabs, Ireland’s only tech, electronics and lifestyle consumer expo is coming to Dublin’s RDS

From the creators of GamerFest, Ireland’s biggest gaming and esports festival, comes TechLabs, the country’s only expo showcasing the latest advancements in consumer tech, electronics and lifestyle.  Taking place in Dublin’s RDS on Saturday, 18th October, TechLabs is set to be Ireland’s answer to Las Vegas’ CES.

Featuring leading global tech brands showcasing the latest in consumer electronics and smart technology, TechLabs is set to welcome over 10,000 tech-savvy visitors to the state-of-the-art exhibition highlighting the industry’s most cutting edge innovations.

Focusing on five key pillars, TechLabs is a free to attend event that connects consumers with the latest, most enhanced digital tech from around the world:

Urban Mobility – Discover next-generation urban mobility solutions including high performance cars and motorbikes, EVs, drones, e-scooters and e-bikes

Health and Fitness – Join the revolution of personalised health with the latest in wearable health trackers, smart fitness equipment and healthcare solutions

Audiovisual – Your gateway to entertainment with smart TVs, projectors, sound systems, headsets, home cinema, photography and action cameras

Connectivity – Get hands on with the latest smartphones, tablets, smart glasses and ultra-fast 5G connectivity that keeps everything – and everyone – connected

Computers and Gaming – Check out the very latest in PCs, high performance laptops, gaming consoles and immersive VR experiences

The event also sees the launch of the Innovation Stage, where visitors to TechLabs can experience live product demos, exclusive product launches, and expert reviews of innovative devices. It’s the go-to platform for discovering what’s new, what’s next, and what’s redefining the world of smart technology.

With 81% of Irish households embracing smart technology (according to a survey by European retailer Reichelt Elektronik), TechLabs is the perfect opportunity for tech lovers to engage with forward-thinking brands. Whether you’re a seasoned gadget fanatic or just curious about the latest in smart living, the event has something for everyone. Techlabs also comes just in time for those looking to trial products ahead of Black Friday sales and the Christmas shopping season.

TechLabs is created by the organisers of GamerFest, Ireland’s leading games convention which has welcomed over 35,000 gamers to the RDS, and the NEXUS Games Conference, a leading games industry conference bringing together global decision makers and industry leaders.

CEO of TechLabs, Stuart Dempsey, says: “We’re hugely excited to announce TechLabs, a groundbreaking, immersive new expo designed for everyone who lives and breathes technology. From next-generation smart TVs and cutting-edge wearable fitness devices to the latest in urban mobility, TechLabs will showcase the latest tech innovations ahead of the Black Friday and Christmas period.”

 

www.techlabsexpo.ie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Strategy Statement 2025-2027
2025 Work Programme

instax mini 41 instant camera review

The instax mini 41 instant camera from FUJIFILM is their latest offering and a fun camera to use for those who like instant cameras and instant shots and this is no different than their other products on the market in this respect.

The snaps on this model are smaller than others is so keep this in mind they are not the larger based photo prints from other models we have tested before.

The camera is smaller than others however hence the smaller photos it prints but still has that nostalgic experience and the mini 41 camera is a joy to us it is simple to use and anyone can use it be it a pro or beginner.

To turn the camera on all you need to do is turn the ring on the lens and you have two focal lengths to play with 30-50cm and has much improved viewing window but be careful not to get your finger in some shots as I did on testing.

The build quality of the camera is also excellent here and has all the right rough edges in the right places making it easy to hold in both portrait and landscape mode and not as cumbersome as one would think some have asked what it was but I think they are more interested in the lens as is always with these that twist open on these cameras.

 

There is a flash on the camera however this cant be turned off which I found odd but it is what it is they put it there as is for a reason I guess and handy for night shots and low light situations when using the camera.

The images produced are as expected pretty good in most cases some came out over saturated or had a greyish hue to them but mostly good this time around I had no prints that came out white which has happened in past models.  Photos again take about 90 seconds to process but let them sit a bit longer and watch them. This is a basic point and shoot camera which requires no skills no settings to play around with all day like other cameras and is fun to use it is not for everyone however as always with these cameras they are a joy to use and just simple and who does not like that.

 

 

Key mini 41 features include:

Automatic Exposure functionality

The Automatic Exposure function automatically senses the level of ambient light when the shutter button is pressed, optimizing the shutter speed and flash output according to the scene. It allows users to produce high-quality photo prints on-the-spot in a variety of interior or exterior environments.

Close-up Mode with Parallax Correction

The mini 41’s close-up mode features Parallax Correction, which helps center close-up images (including selfies) by adjusting the position of the ‘focus’ mark to the lower left of the frame.

Updated, easily portable design

Building off the classic design elements of its predecessor, the textured, tactile body of mini 41 provides secure, ergonomic grip, and the subtle metallic-like finish and orange color accents add unique design elements to the camera body.

The instax mini 41 joins a fun and versatile lineup of instax instant cameras and smartphone printers. Fujifilm’s instax mini 41 instant camera will be available at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of €110.00 (inc, VAT).  It will be expected to be available for purchase from 17th April 2025 at FUJIFILM retailers nationwide.

For more product information, visit https://www.instax.ie/cameras/mini-41/

See our FUJIFIM reviews 

Unboxing and first look

Cryptocurrency Meets UX: Designing for Speed, Security, and Trust

In just over a decade, cryptocurrency has transformed from a niche concept discussed mostly among tech enthusiasts into a powerful force reshaping how we think about money, value, and ownership. While the blockchain technology behind digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum has progressed in leaps and bounds, user experience (UX) hasn’t always kept pace.

For years, the crypto world was dominated by highly technical platforms that were difficult for the average person to navigate. Setting up a wallet felt like completing a puzzle, and the terminology often read like a foreign language. As crypto moves into the mainstream across the UK, Ireland, and beyond, the industry is waking up to a simple truth: technology is only helpful if people can use it.

The UX Gap in Crypto

Early crypto platforms weren’t designed with the everyday user in mind. They were built by developers for developers. The focus was on making the system work, not making it easy to use. This resulted in clunky interfaces, confusing processes, and a whole lot of user frustration. Wallets demanded users write down secret keys and phrases with little explanation. 

Exchanges offered limited guidance and a steep learning curve. Even experienced internet users often felt lost. For many, the experience was so intimidating that they gave up before completing a transaction. Worse yet, those who persevere sometimes lose access to funds due to simple mistakes. This lack of user-friendly design didn’t just create inconvenience, it eroded trust.

Evolving Expectations

Today’s digital users are used to seamless online experiences. Convenience is king, whether it’s sending money through apps like Revolut, booking a hotel on Airbnb, or ordering coffee via a mobile app. This expectation is increasingly being carried over into the world of cryptocurrency. As a result, there’s a growing demand for platforms that are just as easy to navigate as mainstream apps. 

Forward-thinking businesses are responding by investing heavily in cryptocurrency website development to build blockchain platforms that are not only powerful under the bonnet but also intuitive on the surface. From sophisticated mobile wallets to user-friendly exchanges, the focus shifts from “just making it work” to “making it work effectively.” What is certain is that the crypto space is undergoing a design renaissance, and for a good reason.

Speed: The Need for Instant Gratification

We live in an on-demand culture. Users expect things to happen now, whether it’s next-day delivery, instant streaming, or real-time payments. When it comes to money, especially digital currencies, speed is crucial. We lose trust if a platform takes too long to load or a transaction confirmation lags.

That’s why today’s crypto UX places such a strong emphasis on speed. On the technical side, solutions like Layer 2 scaling and the Lightning Network help reduce latency and network congestion. On the design side, progress indicators, real-time status updates, and responsive layouts reassure users that everything is running smoothly.

This emphasis on speed isn’t unique to cryptocurrency. In the gaming industry, for instance, advancements like cloud gaming and 5G connectivity have significantly reduced latency, allowing for seamless, real-time interactions. These technologies enable players to engage in complex, fast-paced games without high-end hardware, highlighting how critical speed has become across digital platforms. 

A few seconds might not seem like much, but every moment counts in the high-stakes world of digital finance. When users don’t get immediate feedback, they panic and often abandon the process entirely.

Security: Making Safety Effortless

Cryptocurrency and security go hand in hand. Blockchain’s decentralised nature is one of its biggest strengths, but it also puts more responsibility in the user’s hands. That’s where great UX can make a huge difference. The challenge is creating a safe experience without it feeling like a chore. For example, two-factor authentication (2FA) is essential, but constantly entering codes can become frustrating.

Instead, platforms turn to biometric logins, device recognition, and secure QR code scanning to balance safety and convenience. Clear, jargon-free messaging also goes a long way. Explaining why a security step is necessary or guiding users through wallet backups and recovery phrases in plain English helps reduce confusion and builds confidence. Ultimately, good UX means assisting users to make safe choices without slowing them down.

Trust: The Foundation of Adoption

Trust is at the heart of every successful platform, crypto or otherwise, and trust doesn’t come from whitepapers or blockchain specs. It comes from how a product feels to use. Does the interface look polished? Are the instructions clear? Do users feel informed and in control? These elements might seem small, but they make a massive difference in how users perceive a platform.

Visual cues like padlock icons, verified badges, and clear transaction statuses help users feel secure. Onboarding tutorials, FAQs, and in-app support build confidence. Consistency across devices, updates, and interactions helps users know what to expect.

Platforms have already built reputations on solid, trust-first design. Platforms that cut corners on UX or offer inconsistent, buggy experiences often struggle to retain users, even if their technology is sound. Trust is emotional. And in crypto, it’s everything.

Designing for Humans, Not Just Technology

Today’s shift in the crypto industry mirrors trends across the broader tech sector. As digital products become more advanced, human-centred design becomes more critical. Gone are the days when users would tolerate clunky systems just because they were new or exciting. Today’s users are savvier, busier, and more aware. They expect platforms that work and don’t require a computer science degree to operate. So, for crypto to move into the mainstream, it must meet people where they are. That means speaking their language, easing their fears, and making the entire experience simple and smooth, from sign-up to transaction.

In the end, cryptocurrency isn’t just about finance—it’s about freedom, ownership, and possibility. But those ideals can’t reach their full potential unless our tools are fast, secure, and easy to understand. That’s where UX comes in. It’s the bridge between transformative technology and real-world adoption. It turns a confusing system into a trusted one and transforms a first-time visitor into a loyal user. The message is clear for developers, startups, and established crypto businesses alike: design matters. No matter how powerful your platform is, if people can’t use it confidently, they won’t use it.

In the end, the future of cryptocurrency belongs to those who design with people in mind.

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

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

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

A Spacious & Hygienic Litter Box for Large Breeds

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

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

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

Odor Control & Sustainable Waste Management

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

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

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

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

Smart Features for Effortless Monitoring & Control

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

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

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

Safe & Quiet Operation for a Stress-Free Experience

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

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

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

 

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

Compatibility with Most Clumping Litters

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

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

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

Pricing & Availability

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

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

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

Order HERE

Other pet tech reviews

 

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

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

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

Planar Magnetic Drivers

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

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

Premium Quality Sound

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

Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation

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

Crystal Clear Calls


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

magnetic
Additional Features

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

Price & Availability:

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

See our Edifier reviews

Vonmählen confirms straps free from ‘forever chemicals’

Premium tech accessories company, Vonmählen, has announced details of the toxin-free material used in its range of silicone based watch straps.

With growing awareness around the potential impact PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) is having on the environment and people’s health, Vonmählen has reassured its channel partners and customers that their silicone-based range of smart watch straps are 100% free of toxic substances.

In place of fluoroelastomers (FKM) that rely on PFAS-based additives, the Classic and Wave smart watch bands incorporate between 35-42%* recycled silicone.

This material is skin-friendly, toxic free, and offers a durable alternative for consumers. The silicone based straps have also been independently tested by TÜV Rheinland.

With growing interest in the materials and chemicals used in products today, we were keen to reassure our customers that our silicone based watch straps are free of any harmful substances. 

Neil Meredith, Commercial Director, Vonmählen

Vonmählen’s wider watch strap range incorporates a number of recycled materials including silicone, nylon and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene).

Vonmählen straps are available from John Lewis and Select, Ireland.

Breakdown

See our strap reviews 

Emirates named as the world’s first Autism Certified Airline

As part of Autism Awareness month, several milestones have been achieved on Emirates’ journey to make travel more accessible for all. One year after Emirates’ first successful ‘travel rehearsal’, the programme is now being rolled out across 17 cities – allowing children with autism to practice the journey through the airport in order to prepare for real flights. Emirates has also achieved its designation as the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, with more than 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff now trained to support customers with autism. For the month of April, Emirates highlighted autism awareness to millions of passengers globally, showcasing a selection of movies, podcasts and TV shows about neurodiversity on its inflight entertainment system, ice.

Adel al Redha, Deputy President and COO, Emirates, said:

“Emirates has been driving and facilitating good progress in accessible travel, and it is part of our operational strategy. We continue to work on this mission to make travel more inclusive. At the beginning of 2024, we were recognised as a Certified Autism Center™. We have upskilled our teams and I am pleased to say that we are now the world’s first autism-certified airline, with 30, 000 frontline staff and cabin crew trained to support our customers with autism. Now we are also rolling out our Travel Rehearsal programme in cities across the globe, to break barriers and make travel accessible for everyone. This is part of our social and professional responsibility.”

Emirates’ Travel Rehearsals activated across 17 cities

Globally, Emirates has started rolling out its travel rehearsal programme to 17 cities including Barcelona, Brisbane, Budapest, Cebu, Christchurch, Dubai, Durban, Luanda, Madrid, Manila, Mauritius, Manchester, Montreal, Nice, Oslo, Paris and Toronto, with more destinations committing to the programme every month.

The Travel Rehearsal concept first began in 2023, as a community collaboration between Emirates, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Airports, the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, and several schools and centres for autism in Dubai, whose feedback was invaluable to the process.

The local schools and centres for autism including Safe Center for Autism, The New England Center for Children’s® (NECC®) Clinic, Rashid Center for People of Determination and Dubai Autism Centre were invited to Dubai International (DXB) to experience a simulation of an airport journey. The children and their teachers and carers got to practice checking in, dropping baggage, going through immigration and security, experiencing the hustle and bustle of Duty Free and familiarising themselves with the airport, boarding passes, and the many individuals encountered along the way.

Now on an international level, parents, therapists and teachers involved in the travel rehearsals have reported to Emirates that the experience has been invaluable in helping their child to have a safe and successful flight, by offering the comfort of preparation and familiarity, as well as trained staff to support.

Emirates is introducing the travel rehearsal initiative in many cities on its network, with partnering airports, authorities, local centers, and foundations. Currently, this is not a bookable service and is available on an invitation basis in collaboration with accredited centers.

Emirates is the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™

Emirates has achieved its goal of becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™, by completing the training of 30,000 cabin crew and ground staff to understand and support customers with autism. The new training on autism and sensory awareness equips Emirates’ frontline staff with the understanding and skills to address needs of autistic and sensory sensitive travellers, along with their families. It aims to educate Emirates’ teams on the spectrum of autism, misconceptions and challenges faced, the myriad ways to assist customers dependent on their individual needs, and potential stimulus and triggers that staff should be aware of.

The inaugural designation will be awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a leading organization in autism and neurodiversity training and certification. Emirates worked collaboratively with IBCCES for more than a year, to create the training after detailed reviews and a comprehensive audit. Using a data-driven approach, Emirates and IBCCES created a new blueprint for serving passengers with accessibility requirements, encompassing the entire journey – from ground services to in-flight services.

Emirates’ highlights Autism Awareness globally on ice

Throughout April, Emirates highlighted autism awareness to millions of global passengers on its award-winning inflight entertainment system, ice. The content included movies like Temple Grandin, Ezra and The Flight of Bryan, as well as podcasts about Dubai’s autism-friendly mission, documentaries like Copa 71, BBC docuseries Inside Our Autistic Minds, and Carl the Collector – a cartoon about a racoon character with autism.

The Year of Community – Dubai entities work together for Accessible Travel

For many people with autism, air travel is a challenging experience or something to be avoided completely, due to the high level of sensory stimuli that can be involved. A survey on AutismTravel.com revealed that 78% of families are hesitant to travel or visit new locations, and that 94% of respondents would take more vacations if they had access to places where staff are autism-trained and certified. Through global training and international initiatives, Emirates’ mission to make travel more inclusive and accessible for all also supports Dubai’s ambition to become the most accessible destination in the world.

Continuing to drive the accessible travel agenda forward, Emirates works in close collaboration with all its partners, which includes Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) to Dubai Airports, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, working together to achieve important goals in inclusive and accessible travel.

Emirates’ Accessible Travel Information