Ireland’s oldest surfing retailer, Lahinch Surf Shop wins bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign with Google

Google, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO), has today announced Lahinch Surf Shop as the overall winner of this year’s You’re the Business competition. Situated on the picturesque prom in Lahinch Co Clare, the family-founded business was selected for its innovative use of digital tools to grow and evolve its operations. As the top winner, Lahinch Surf Shop will receive a truly unique prize: a custom AI-powered advertising campaign developed by Google AI in collaboration with a team of AI experts.

In addition to the overall winner, 23 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across Ireland, spanning a range of industries from print studios and food producers to bespoke cabinet makers have been awarded an exclusive, money-can’t-buy prize as part of the You’re the Business campaign. Those selected will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a one-year Google Workspace Business subscription with access to AI-powered tools like Gemini Advanced and NotebookLM and a one-to-one consultation from Google experts on how to get the best out of Google Workspace. Winners will also receive a You’re the Business trophy and digital assets and are invited to attend a dedicated Winners event in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

Speaking about the competition Eileesh Buckley, co-owner of Lahinch Surf Shop in Clare said:

“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised as part of the You’re the Business campaign. At Lahinch Surf Shop, we’ve always believed in leveraging the power of digital tools to connect with our customers in meaningful ways. Being selected for this bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign is an exciting step forward, and we’re really looking forward to working with Google’s team to take our digital presence to the next level.”

Cera Ward, Managing Director, Large Customer Solutions, Google Ireland said:

“SMEs comprise 90% of all enterprises in Ireland. Businesses like Lahinch Surf Shop and all those we are celebrating today are an integral part of the economy generating employment and providing services across the country. Through You’re the Business we want to help founders leverage a range of digital tools, including AI, to help them reach their growth potential. We’ve been proud to partner with Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices in the delivery of the programme and I want to congratulate all the winners announced today.”

Delivered by Google in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Office, You’re the Business is an online platform offering digital training and tools to businesses in Ireland free of charge. Now in its third year, the initiative has taken on a new AI-focus with the online platform offering new training modules where users can explore AI tools and learn how AI can help them prepare for the future.

The competition element rewards businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey. Entrants were asked to submit a written entry telling their story around how they’ve utilised or enhanced digital skills in order to help their business grow or succeed online.

Kieran Comerford, Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, said;

“The role of digital in the evolution and growth of any SME has never been so keenly felt than over the past number of years.  Giving them access to Google’s in-depth expertise through the You’re the Business programme is a fantastic step to help these companies maximise their online presence.  This programme along with the suite of online supports through the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Ireland to help businesses digitise, is helping give them a competitive advantage both here and internationally.  Congratulations to all the winners today and we look forward to continuing to support them as they grow over the coming years.”

For further information on the winners and the You’re The Business initiative, please visit: g.co/yourethebusiness

Winning SMEs:

Biometric Authentication in Online Casinos

Biometric authentication is transforming the industry by enhancing security and simplifying the player experience. Using unique traits like fingerprints or facial recognition, it verifies identities with ease. Discover how biometrics brings benefits, tackles challenges, and shapes the future of online casinos, alongside trends like no KYC casinos that prioritize minimal verification for faster access.

What Is Biometric Authentication?

Biometric authentication verifies a user’s identity through distinct physical or behavioral features. Unlike passwords or PINs, biometrics are nearly impossible to copy. Common methods include:

 

  • Fingerprint scanning: Involves analyzing the unique patterns of ridges on a person’s fingers.
  • Facial recognition: Using advanced algorithms to map facial features.
  • Voice recognition: Detecting unique vocal patterns.
  • Iris scanning: Analyzing detailed iris patterns.

 

In online casinos, biometrics make logging in and handling transactions easier, either replacing or improving traditional ways of verifying identity.

Why Biometrics in Online Casinos?

Biometric authentication is important because it offers security, works efficiently, and builds trust. These features explain why more people and businesses are starting to use it.

Enhanced Security

Casinos manage sensitive data, from payment details to personal information. Biometrics reduce unauthorized access risks, as biological traits are far harder to forge than passwords. A stolen password can be guessed, but replicating a fingerprint or iris is a difficult challenge.

Seamless User Experience

Players prioritize convenience. Biometrics eliminate the hassle of remembering passwords or completing lengthy verifications. A quick scan allows instant account access, boosting engagement and satisfaction.

Fraud Prevention

Identity fraud, such as account takeovers, plagues the gambling sector. Biometric systems ensure only the rightful user can log in or authorize transactions, significantly reducing fraud risks.

Privacy-Friendly Verification

Players increasingly prefer privacy-focused platforms that don’t demand much personal information. Casinos that offer no KYC are a clear example, allowing participation without detailed identity checks. These platforms can be further strengthened by integrating biometrics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, which offer secure verification methods without requiring detailed personal documents.

Challenges of Biometric Adoption

Despite its potential, biometric authentication faces obstacles that casinos must address:

Privacy Risks

Biometric data is highly personal, and players may fear breaches or misuse. Casinos need strong encryption and clear data policies to gain user confidence.

Device Compatibility

Not all devices support biometric technology. Older hardware may lack the necessary sensors, potentially alienating some users. Environmental factors, like dim lighting, can also hinder performance.

Regulatory Hurdles

Casinos must closely follow strict regional laws, such as GDPR and CCPA. It’s crucial for biometric systems in these establishments to adhere to these legal frameworks. This compliance is necessary to avoid any possible fines or negative impacts on their reputation.

Implementation Costs

Integrating biometrics requires a large financial commitment due to the need for specialized equipment, sophisticated software, and comprehensive training for staff. These high costs can create significant hurdles for smaller businesses, especially those operating in highly competitive environments where managing high costs is particularly difficult.

The Future of Biometrics in Online Casinos

Biometric technology is progressing and expected to tackle current challenges, which could lead to more widespread use. Major trends consist of:

 

  • Multi-Factor Biometrics: Combining different methods like fingerprints and face scans can make security much stronger and more precise. It’s like using a double lock on your door, adding extra safety and assurance.
  • AI Enhancements: Artificial intelligence boosts how biometric systems work. These systems become faster and more accurate. Imagine having a reliable system that efficiently identifies unusual patterns and maintains optimal performance.
  • Behavioral Biometrics: New and exciting methods like keystroke and walking pattern analysis are emerging. These can keep checking your identity seamlessly as you play games, making sure you stay secure without interruption.
  • Privacy-Centric Solutions: As platforms increasingly focus on privacy, biometrics might soon become the standard method for secure and straightforward access. This approach allows users to safely access necessary resources with minimal effort. It respects privacy needs while providing strong protection for all systems involved.

Conclusion

Biometric authentication is reshaping the online casino landscape by introducing a highly secure and straightforward way to verify user identities, thereby significantly reducing fraud risks. While there are concerns, such as privacy issues and associated costs, the substantial advantages in building trust and enhancing process efficiency are notable. As the online casino sector advances, biometrics are anticipated to become a critical component, especially on platforms where privacy and efficiency are paramount. By integrating biometric technology, casinos can keep a competitive edge in an ever-evolving, technology-driven industry.

BandRain Alpine Loop Strap Pixel Watch 3 45mm Review

The BandRain Alpine Loop Strap Pixel Watch 3 45mm is a  nice addition to have in your strap collection and loop straps have been a favourite on my Apple Watches over the years however I do like other ones and this is purely a matter of choice and everyone has their own choice of straps.

Materials is another matter for breathability and this one for me has always been the best type of strap for comfort security with the g-hook clasp and looks, Now I have had some outlandish looking straps I could only wear for certain periods of time but these always win on the wrist for me check out the video below for more.

Features

 

  • Enhanced Metal Lugs: Our braided band for Pixel Watch features the latest design with plastic connectors and internal stainless steel lugs to ensure a precise and secure lock on the Google Watch interface and eliminating rattling during vibrations.
  • Built for Comfort: The sport wristband for Google Watch 2/1 is made from high-performance breathable two-layers nylon for a comfortable and lightweight feel and will make you forget you’re even wearing it.
  • One Size Fits Most: The corrosion-resistant metal G-hook slides easily into the loops for secure fit and easily adjust to your ideal size according to your wrist. Fits wrist sizes of 5.9″-9.0″ (150mm-230mm).

BUY 

Other Strap Reviews

Video Review

Meet the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today has revealed the full specifications of the Galaxy S25 Edge, a category-defining slim smartphone joining the Galaxy S series. Crafted with style and strength in mind, Galaxy S25 Edge strikes a new balance of premium, pro-level performance in a resilient titanium body only 5.8mm thick. S25 Edge delivers on the S series legacy, integrating an iconic Galaxy AI-enabled camera and unleashing a new realm of creativity in an effortlessly portable device.

“Galaxy S25 Edge redefines smartphone design, with no compromise on performance. It’s our slimmest S Series device yet, created with style and strength in mind. Featuring an iconic Galaxy AI-enabled camera, it opens up a world of creativity in a light, elegant form factor for customers wanting stylish design and the best features Galaxy has to offer,” said Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product and Marketing, Samsung UK & Ireland.

Exceptionally Sleek and Strong Design

With a thin 5.8mm chassis, Galaxy S25 Edge is a remarkable feat of engineering that reimagines nearly every element of smartphone design for an even more compact and convenient experience. Its refined frame bridges form and function at just 163 grams, taking slim smartphones to the next level while staying true to the Galaxy S series’ unified design.

Alongside its streamlined silhouette comes exceptional resilience. The optimally curved edges and sturdy titanium frame offer enduring protection for everyday use. The latest Corning® Gorilla® Glass Ceramic 2, a new glass ceramic offering that delivers engineered resilience, is used for the front display to yield both vibrancy and strength on Galaxy S25 Edge.

Dynamic Creativity with a Pocketable 200MP Camera

The slim and light design of Galaxy S25 Edge makes it easier than ever for users to capture memorable moments and express their creativity anytime, anywhere. The 200MP wide lens upholds the Galaxy S series’ iconic camera experience while taking Nightography to a new level. Thanks to its ultra-high resolution, users get sharper photos while maintaining clearer shots with large pixel size —capturing images with over 44% improved brightness in low-light environments. The 12MP ultra-wide sensor features autofocus, which powers crisp, detailed macro photography for even more creative flexibility.

Galaxy S25 Edge benefits from the same ProVisual Engine that was optimised for Galaxy S25 with pro-grade enhancements, like ensuring sharp details for clothes or plants and natural, true-to-life skin tone in portraits. Galaxy AI-powered editing features, including fan-favorites like Audio Eraser and Drawing Assist are all brought over from the Galaxy S25 series, pairing advanced creative and editing tools with a never-before-seen slim form factor.

Peak Performance Expertly Configured in Ultra-Slim Housing

Galaxy S25 Edge is built to deliver premium performance, starting with the Snapdragon 8 ® Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy, the same processor available in all Galaxy S25 series devices globally. Customised by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., the chipset powers Galaxy S25 Edge’s on-device AI processing capabilities and offers reliably fast performance all day. Galaxy S25 Edge also keeps its cool under sustained use thanks to a reconfigured vapor chamber that is now thinner, yet broader for steady heat dissipation.

Matching the Galaxy S series’ renowned performance standards, Galaxy S25 Edge features advanced, efficient AI image processing with ProScaler which delivers a 43% improvement in display image scaling quality, while incorporating Samsung’s customised mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe).

A Trusted Companion with Galaxy AI

Integrating Galaxy AI at nearly every touchpoint, Galaxy S25 Edge offers our most natural and context-aware mobile AI experiences yet. Users get personalised, multimodal AI capabilities with peace of mind that their personal data is always safe.

Mirroring the broader Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S25 Edge integrates AI agents that work seamlessly across multiple apps, helping as a true AI companion to get things done more easily. Galaxy AI also gets better at integrating with daily routines. Now Brief and Now Bar include third-party app integrations for greater convenience and helpful reminders during everyday commuting, dining and more.

Thanks to Galaxy’s deep integration with Google, Galaxy S25 Edge brings Gemini’s latest advancements to more users. For example, with Gemini Live’s new camera and screen sharing abilities, users can show Gemini Live what they see on their screen or in the world around them while simultaneously interacting with it in a live conversation.

Experiences powered by Galaxy AI on Galaxy S25 Edge aren’t just convenient—they’re designed with privacy at the core. On-device AI processing ensures data is kept secure by Samsung Knox Vault, continuing Samsung’s unwavering commitment to ensure hyper-personalised mobile experiences never sacrifice privacy.

Rooted in craftsmanship and driven by performance, Galaxy S25 Edge delivers pro-level photography, personalised AI experiences, and more. It goes beyond a slim form factor to challenge expectations for what a smartphone can be.

Availability

The Galaxy S25 Edge will be available for pre-order from today (13th May) and widely available in operators, retailers and on samsung.com/ie from 30th May.

Galaxy S25 Edge will be available in a captivating range of colours, including Titanium Silver, Titanium Jetblack and Titanium Icyblue.

Customers who pre-order Galaxy S25 Edge from selected retailers can double their storage for the same price.

Pricing

Galaxy S25 Edge RRP

  • 256 GB – €1269
  • 512GB – €1389

See our Samsung Reviews 

Essential tech features for sports betting

Technology is transforming every industry, including gambling. Today, we’ll explore the key trends that are changing the way people bet.

Security tech that protects your funds and identity

Placing bets should never compromise your privacy or financial security. Modern devices and sportsbooks often use biometric logins, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, to keep your account locked down. For an added layer of protection, many bettors choose a virtual private network (VPN) to mask their location. If you want to avoid regional restrictions or keep your activity private, a VPN can be a smart tool.

Blockchain and smart contracts can also ensure safer transactions. With platforms that rely on transparent record-keeping, you can see exactly when and how your deposits and withdrawals occur. In a crypto environment, the ledger is often public, and that can help build trust and cut down on shady practices. If you value provably fair betting, look for the best new betting sites that clearly list their security protocols, ensuring your activity stays away from prying eyes. Playing on these websites ensures fairness in every aspect of the game.

Performance-ready devices: Speed, battery, and multitasking

When you’re placing live bets in the middle of a fast-paced game, response time is crucial. If your device lags or your battery fades, you could miss key moments. A modern processor helps you move instantly between betting apps and live match streams. You’ll also want enough RAM to handle multiple tasks at once. This makes it easier to keep multiple screens open, like odds trackers and sports news, without crashing.

Long battery life is more than a convenience. Often, live-action bets don’t wait. If your device dies in the middle of a wager, you might lose your shot at favorable odds. Investing in a phone or tablet with solid battery performance can make the difference between locking in a winning bet and missing out entirely.

Fast and stable connections for real-time odds

Even the best device won’t help if your internet connection can’t keep up. Slow Wi-Fi or spotty mobile data can make odds appear too late, and that delay might cost you money. In many cases, in-play wagers are all about timing. You need to see the lines update in real time so you can react accordingly.

Strong Wi-Fi or a 5G cellular plan often provides the speed you need to stay in sync with sportsbooks. A stable connection is just as important as speed, you don’t want your link to drop mid-bet. If you’re serious about sports betting, prioritize reliable network access to ensure you never miss a beat on rapidly changing odds.

Betting platforms that enhance your edge

Not all sportsbooks are the same, and technology can make a world of difference. Modern platforms, especially those operating with fewer restrictions, like certain non-Gamstop sites, often provide advanced tools. They might feature in-depth analytics, unique markets, or better betting limits that let you pursue the strategies you prefer.

Crypto-based sportsbooks are also growing in popularity. Some use blockchain technology to streamline deposits and withdrawals, and they may let you bet with fewer geographical limitations. You might find that they offer more competitive odds or specialized markets. By comparing different platforms, you can pick a solution that complements your style of play. Technology in these betting environments usually focuses on user control, analytics, and fast transactions, which can give you a clear edge.

Real-time data and AI: Your new betting assistant

These days, data feeds arrive in moments, providing constant updates on team lineups, player stats, and in-game events. AI-driven software can analyze these streams instantly to spot trends or vulnerabilities in the odds. Rather than doing manual research for hours, you can rely on tools that scour the news, measure betting patterns, and sound alerts when they detect value bets.

Even casual bettors can benefit from real-time stats. You might see a team’s form dip within minutes of a key player limping off. If you have an AI or a stats tracker, you can react faster than a bettor who waits for the news to hit social media. When margins are tight, being first to update or cash out is a real advantage. These tools don’t guarantee success, but they enhance your ability to make timely, more informed decisions.

 

 

Aleph expands partnership with Spotify to manage Global Advertising Sales in over 80 markets including Ireland

Aleph, a global network of digital experts innovating at the intersection of media and payments, and Spotify, the world’s most popular audio streaming subscription service, today announced an expanded partnership that makes Aleph Spotify’s advertising sales partner in 80+ markets including Ireland, providing access to 20.000+ advertisers.

Spotify Advertising has been modernizing its ad tech, strengthening its partnerships and deepening its human expertise to make it easier for advertisers to buy, create, measure, and get clear results on Spotify’s ad platform. Spotify’s efforts reflect a significant step forward in automated buying and creative innovation for the ad platform and the broader digital audio industry. Most notably, Spotify is continuing to innovate its self-serve platform, Spotify Ads Manager, with more advanced targeting capabilities, new 1P & 3P measurement solutions, and new outcome-based objectives to help advertisers of all sizes create, optimize, and measure their Spotify campaigns, including Spotify Pixel, Custom Audiences, key third-party partnerships and a new App Installs objective.

Aleph has been a trusted partner to Spotify since 2013, when the initial partnership started with four countries. The newly signed partnership brings Aleph’s comprehensive suite of services – including local media sales, payment solutions, creative support, and performance-driven automation – to effectively monetize Spotify’s advertising inventory and connect the brand with advertisers, streamlining and scaling Spotify’s ad solutions to 80+ markets including Ireland.

Aleph’s teams will have access to Spotify’s Ads Manager to guide advertisers and agencies to leverage the platform’s full potential of advertising formats and targeting capabilities to ensure they can reach listeners during key moments, such as workout sessions, focused work periods and commuting to provide advertisers and brands with unique opportunities to connect with their target audience when they’re highly engaged and help reach their marketing goals.

 Key benefits for advertisers working with Spotify Ads Manager through Aleph include: 

  • Access to Spotify’s ad formats: Advertisers will be able to utilise Spotify’s unique audio and video ad formats to craft engaging campaigns. Spotify recently introduced new ad formats available on Ads Manager, including Canvas and Opt-in Video. These new formats reimagine what ads on Spotify can be and how advertisers can engage with people through sight and sound.
  • Objective-based buying: The Ads Manager will allow advertisers to choose goals like reach, impressions, clicks, or video views for highly targeted campaigns. Spotify recently announced new outcome-based objectives to help advertisers of all sizes create, optimize, and measure their Spotify campaigns, including a new App Installs objective and a new Website Traffic Objective.
  • Lower costs: Flexible daily or lifetime budgets make Spotify advertising more accessible and cost-effective for partners thanks to Aleph’s campaign management.

“We are thrilled to partner with Spotify in 80+ markets,” said Enda Finan, Country Manager for Ireland at Aleph. “Our shared commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional value for advertisers makes this a natural partnership.”

“As we continue to grow our ads business, I’m excited to share that we’ve partnered with Aleph in order to streamline our operations, offer better solutions to advertisers and scale our business more efficiently. With the launch of our more automated solutions and Aleph’s exceptional global network and deep local expertise, we’re now able to offer advertisers around the world new tools and resources that will help them reach their campaign goals.” said Sam Bevan, Global Head of Emerging & Scaled at Spotify.

 

Mothers are leading the way in their children’s use of technology

A new report shows how the growing OurKidsCode network of creative coding workshops and clubs for families is enabling parents in communities across Ireland to be more proactive in their children’s use of technology, with mothers comprising 72% of the parents involved.

The OurKidsCode project, based in the School of Computer Science and Statistics in Trinity College Dublin, has built an infrastructure and partnership network with county councils across Ireland, including for leveraging Ireland’s rural grid of broadband connection point community centres, and Microsoft Dream Space, as well as with the National Parents Council.

This network of relationships is successfully enabling OurKidsCode to deliver facilitator-led workshops and a ‘Start a Club’ programme that supports the establishment of parent-led creative coding clubs for families with primary-level children.

The OurKidsCode programme builds parents’ confidence and skills in technology alongside their children at informal, hands-on creative coding workshops. These take place outside of school hours in libraries, primary schools and rural broadband connection point community centres.

Creative coding is the playful use of computer programming to make art, stories, or interactive projects, combining coding, crafting and making. OurKidsCode workshops are appealing to parents who are looking for ways to increase their children’s active creation rather than passive consumption of technology.

OurKidsCode has collaborated with Microsoft Dream Space since 2022 to support young people, families and educators in rural communities through inclusive STEM opportunities. Core to this collaboration are the opportunities given to rural clubs to come together to enter The Dream Space Showcase, a national STEM event that celebrates innovation and creativity found within rural clubs, schools and communities.

OurKidsCode has established fiscal and operational partnerships with county councils across Ireland and has worked closely with an increasing number of county council broadband officers since 2021. In 2024, OurKidsCode began to expand its work with county councils to include partnerships with county libraries.

Facilitated by county councils and through its broadband officers, OurKidsCode offers workshops and provides support to clubs at broadband connection points across the country, which are publicly accessible sites in rural and remote areas that have been provided with a high-speed broadband connection.

Funded by Research Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development, OurKidsCode has reached 5,240 parents and children in 111 predominantly rural locations across Ireland. The report shows females (mothers and girls) comprised 55 per cent of participants, with males (fathers and boys) making up 43 per cent, busting the gender stereotype that females are not as interested in computing as males.

OurKidsCode is committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths). By partnering with DEIS schools, local development agencies and NGOs, it strives to make workshops that are accessible to all families.

Speaking at the recent launch of OurKidsCode’s Impact Report, OurKidsCode project lead and assistant professor in the School of Computer Science and Statistics at TCD, Dr. Nina Bresnihan, said: “OurKidsCode is committed to increasing opportunities for parental involvement in children’s computing education and contributing to greater diversity, inclusivity and equal access, with a particular focus on rural communities where access to such initiatives is often limited. Getting parents involved in their children’s coding education can have powerful outcomes.

Research in our new report shows how this boosts knowledge and confidence. It also sustains families engaging together in computing activities and promotes computing as a subject choice and future careers in STEAM-related fields. Furthermore, it challenges stereotypes by promoting female participation in computing based on mothers’ interest in their children’s early education. We see mothers who take part in our workshops acting as powerful role models for their daughters, demonstrating that STEAM is a viable and rewarding path.”

Parent and club leader of the OurKidsCode club Rossmore Scratchers, Co Tipperary, Rona Toft, said: “There’s something really special about learning side-by-side with your kids and other local families in a safe, welcoming space. From starting with the OurKidsCode taster programme to running the now award-winning Rossmore Scratchers, in Rossmore, Tipperary, the friendships and fun we’ve found along the way have been the absolute highlight. I watched my kids take a project from a blank screen to something they built themselves ─ figuring out the bugs, problem-solving, and seeing it through. I’ve never been prouder; it’s amazing to see their confidence grow.”

The full OurKidsCode 2021-2024 Impact Report is available to download at www.ourkidscode.ie/impact.

Find out more at www.ourkidscode.ie.

HighPoint Launches the PCIe Gen5 x16 M.2 Storage & Acceleration Solution

In the rapidly evolving landscape of data-driven applications, the demand for high-performance, compact storage and acceleration solutions has never been greater. As industrial and edge computing platforms, along with AI and machine learning applications, continue to push the boundaries of technology, they require storage solutions that can keep pace with their demanding workloads. Addressing this critical need, HighPoint has unveiled the Rocket 1604A 4x M.2 PCIe Gen5 x16 Switch AIC, the industry’s most compact M.2 storage and acceleration solution.

Revolutionizing Compact Computing with Advanced Technology

The Rocket 1604A is a compact half-length NVMe Switch AIC that leverages a revolutionary PCIe Gen5 Switch Architecture. This cutting-edge technology, combined with four independent M.2 ports, enables the Rocket 1604A to directly host up to 32TB of storage or four M.2 accelerators. This makes it an ideal solution for high-demand AI, machine learning, and data-acquisition applications hosted by compact industrial and edge computing environments.

Key Features

Unmatched Performance: The Rocket 1604A is engineered to deliver 64GB/s of throughput and 12 million IOPs, making it one of the fastest M.2 storage solutions available. This level of performance is crucial for applications that require rapid data processing and storage.

Versatile Connectivity: With four independent M.2 ports, the Rocket 1604A offers the flexibility to host up to 32TB of storage or connect four M.2 accelerators via a single PCIe slot. This versatility allows users to tailor the solution to their specific needs, whether they require massive storage capacity or high-speed data processing.

Compact and Efficient Design: The Rocket 1604A’s compact design ensures that it can be easily integrated into small form-factor PCs, desktop workstations, and compact rackmount chassis. Its small footprint makes it an ideal choice for IT environments that require a powerful, small-footprint high-density storage expansion and M.2 acceleration solution.

Broad Compatibility: The Rocket 1604A is compatible with both AMD/Intel x86 and ARM platforms, ensuring seamless integration into a wide range of systems. This compatibility is further enhanced by its embedded driver support with all major operating systems, including Linux and Windows, streamlining deployment and service workflows.

Plug-and-Play Installation: The simple plug-and-play installation process, coupled with embedded driver support, makes it easy for customers to integrate Cutting-edge Gen5 storage media and M.2 Accelerators into high-performance computing environments. This eliminates the need for complex configurations and allows for quick and efficient deployment.

Advanced Cooling and Reliability

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, the Rocket 1604A features an advanced cooling system that employs a full-length aluminum heatsink and low-decibel cooling to efficiently dissipate heat generated by the Switch chipset and hosted M.2 media to prevent thermal throttling, enabling the solution operates at peak performance even under heavy loads.Additionally, the server-grade design  ensures high reliability and durability, making it suitable for 24/7 operation in demanding environments.

In Summary

The Rocket 1604A 4x M.2 PCIe Gen5 x16 Switch AIC from HighPoint is a game-changer for compact computing environments that require high-performance storage and M.2 acceleration. By delivering unparalleled speed,versatility and enterprise grade reliability, this solution empowers industries such as AI, machine learning, and industrial computing to achieve new levels of efficiency and productivity. With its compact design, cutting-edge technology, and robust performance, the Rocket 1604A is set to redefine the standards for M.2 storage and acceleration solutions, making it an ideal choice for IT professionals and organizations seeking a powerful, reliable, and versatile storage and acceleration solution.

Learn More

Rocket 1604A – PCIe Gen5 x16 to 4x M.2 NVMe Switch AIC

https://www.highpoint-tech.com/rocket-1604a-individual-page/

Coimisiún na Meán awards the Central Bank of Ireland with first Trusted Flagger Status in Ireland

Coimisiún na Meán, has announced the decision to grant Trusted Flagger status to the Central Bank of Ireland. Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), Coimisiún na Meán as the Digital Services Coordinator in Ireland has the power to award Trusted Flagger status to entities established in Ireland who meet certain conditions.

Trusted Flaggers are empowered to identify, detect and notify illegal content within their area of expertise to online platforms. Providers of online platforms are then legally obliged to ensure that notices of the presence of illegal content, reported by Trusted Flaggers are given priority and decided upon without undue delay.

Speaking about the announcement, Digital Services Commissioner, John Evans said: “Coimisiún na Meán is committed to ensuring a media landscape that consumers can trust, and where they are protected from exploitation and fraud. We recognise that financial scams and fraud are a concern to the Irish public, and we welcome the Central Bank of Ireland’s expertise in this area. By granting the Central Bank of Ireland Trusted Flagger Status, we are legally obliging online platforms to ensure that any illegal online content reported by the Central Bank of Ireland, such as financial scams and fraud are prioritised by the platform and dealt with in a timely manner.”

“The Trusted Flagger status is a new statutory mechanism that offers empowerment for organisations by placing obligations on the platforms to give priority to Trusted Flagger notifications. Entities awarded Trusted Flagger status are recognised as such across the EU. Trusted Flaggers will also feed into Coimisiún na Meán’s identification of trends and issues via annual reports which will be instrumental in establishing an informed, evidence-based approach to our platform supervisory activities.”

Meanwhile, Gabriel Makhlouf, Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, said: “The Central Bank of Ireland is delighted to be the first organisation in the country to be granted Trusted Flagger Status by Coimisiún na Meán. This accreditation marks another milestone in the Bank’s commitment to protecting consumers and strengthens our efforts to disrupt the activities of unauthorised providers of regulated financial services. We look forward to continuing our work to strengthen the framework of consumer protection in Ireland through this new status.”

Under Article 22 of the DSA, Trusted Flagger status can be granted to entities who meet the following conditions:

• It has particular expertise and competence for the purposes of detecting, identifying and notifying illegal content;

• It is independent from any provider of online platforms;

• It carries out its activities for the purposes of submitting notices diligently, accurately and objectively.

The Central Bank of Ireland have been granted the Trusted Flagger status for three years, from 2 April 2025 to 2 April 2028. Their designated area of expertise is financial scams and fraud, including the provision and/or offer of financial services without authorisation. Upon the expiry of the accreditation period the Trusted Flagger status is reassessed and, where appropriate, re-granted.

Further information on the role of Trusted Flaggers and the obligations of online platforms in respect of notices issued by Trusted Flaggers can be found on our dedicated Trusted Flaggers page on the website.