Monzo plans to grow its Dublin-based team to 70 employees

Monzo, a leading digital bank, today announced its plans to grow its Irish team to 70, almost doubling the headcount by mid-2027. This builds on the bank’s continued investment in Ireland with the latest capital injection of €71m, bringing the total to €83.5 million over the past two years. The investment underpins the expansion of its Dublin-based European headquarters and the creation of new jobs across the business.

Monzo’s European expansion is led by Michael Carney, Monzo’s EU CEO, as the bank prepares to serve Irish customers and businesses. Carney is supported by an experienced leadership team that brings together deep expertise in banking and technology, including Nicola O’Brien (EU Chief Financial Officer), Sonia Flynn (EU Chief Operating Officer), and Elaine Deehan (Country Manager for Ireland).

The new roles will span operations, risk and compliance, technology and engineering, financial crime prevention and product development, reflecting the breadth of capabilities required to operate and scale a fully licensed digital bank within the EU.

The announcement follows Monzo becoming the first digital bank to secure a full European banking licence through the Central Bank of Ireland in December 2025, enabling the company to bring its fully regulated personal and business banking products to customers across the EU, starting right here in Ireland.

Supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, the expansion will support delivery of Monzo’s core digital banking offer for individuals and businesses, including everyday current accounts, children’s accounts payments, savings products and financial management tools designed to give its customers greater control and transparency in managing their finances.

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris TD, said: ‘Monzo’s decision to expand its team and establish its European headquarters in Dublin is testament to the country’s reputation as a hub for innovation and financial services. This significant investment not only brings new jobs and opportunities but also strengthens Ireland’s position within the European banking sector. I look forward to seeing Monzo contribute to our vibrant economy and deliver innovative banking solutions.’

“We’re excited to see our founding Dublin team grow, welcoming experts who bring together the best of banking and technology. Ireland’s deep and expanding talent pool offers the world-class expertise needed to support Monzo’s expansion ambitions across Europe,” said Michael Carney, EU CEO at Monzo. “As we take our mission to make money work for everyone in Europe, we’re proud to kick-start that journey in Ireland, with individuals and small businesses now able to join the waitlist.”

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said: “I very much welcome Monzo’s decision to locate its European Headquarters in Ireland. Monzo is the first digital bank to secure a full European banking licence through the Central Bank of Ireland.

This decision is a strong vote of confidence in Ireland as a location for International regulated financial services where companies can deliver products and services across the EU from Ireland. It also speaks to Ireland’s strong capabilities in international banking and digital technology. I would like to wish Monzo every success at its scales its team here in Ireland”

For details on Monzo in Ireland, visit www.monzo.com/ie

Bord Iascaigh Mhara invites applications for 2026 Aquatech Innovation Studio, AquaScale

Ireland has the potential to be a major hub for global aquaculture innovation and scale-up, with 76 Irish companies now generating an estimated €165 million in value and supporting more than 900 full-time jobs, according to Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency.

Announcing the opening of applications for the 2026 Aquatech Innovation Studio, AquaScale – which this year will focus on supporting established companies scale up – BIM’s Aquatech Business Manager, Damien Toner said it will build on the proven success of the BIM Aquatech Innovation Studio platform which has supported 66 start-ups and helped raise over €28 million in investment since 2018.

The intensive three-day programme will take place in Galway from 26–28 May 2026, with applications closing on 31 March 2026,

According to Damien Toner, AquaScale represents a strategic evolution, designed specifically for companies already active in the market. The programme is targeting applications from Aquatech enterprises preparing for their next phase of commercial growth.

He said, “Ireland’s Aquatech sector continues to demonstrate innovation and growing technical depth. With 76 companies now generating an estimated €165 million in value and supporting more than 900 full-time jobs, the sector is steadily strengthening its economic and scientific contribution both nationally and internationally.

“As global demand for sustainable aquaculture production accelerates – particularly in high-value sectors such as salmon and shrimp – Ireland is well positioned to supply advanced technologies and expertise to international markets. Through initiatives like AquaScale, BIM is focused on ensuring that ambitious Irish Aquatech companies have the strategic clarity and commercial capability required to compete and scale globally.”

Unlike early-stage accelerators, AquaScale is not a pitch competition. Instead, it is a focused, market-driven intervention aimed at strengthening strategic clarity, commercial positioning, and execution readiness for expansion.

The 2026 programme will once again be delivered in partnership with leading global aquaculture accelerator Hatch Blue.

The BIM Aquatech Innovation Studio has laid a strong foundation for aquaculture innovation in Ireland. “AquaScale signals that we are ready for the next level,” said Jessica Giannoumis, Hatch Blue’s Aquatech Community Manager for Ireland. “Designed for commercially active companies preparing to expand, the programme strengthens strategic focus, commercial positioning, and execution readiness. AquaScale supports Ireland’s most ambitious aquatech companies as they deepen market traction and scale more deliberately in international markets.”

AquaScale forms part of BIM’s Aquatech Development Programme and is supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (2021–2027).

Programme Objectives

AquaScale aims to:

  • Position Ireland as a launchpad for globally competitive aquaculture scale-ups.
  • Accelerate commercial traction and reduce risk for companies entering new markets.
  • Strengthen go-to-market, competitive positioning, and expansion strategies.

What Makes AquaScale Different

  • Market-first, not tech-first.
  • Strategic clarity and execution support — not a pitch programme.
  • Designed for companies already selling and preparing to scale.
  • Equity-free, no participation fee, with a limited cohort of 8–10 companies.

Who Should Apply?

AquaScale is designed for companies that:

  • Are already active in the market with customers, pilots, or revenue.
  • Are preparing for expansion or market refocus (not first market entry).
  • Need honest, peer-level strategic discussion and rigorous commercial pressure-testing.

By focusing on scale-stage challenges, AquaScale reflects BIM’s commitment to strengthening Ireland’s aquaculture innovation ecosystem — not only supporting new ventures, but ensuring high-potential companies are equipped to compete and grow internationally.

Applications are now open, with the deadline set for 31 March 2026.

For further information and application details, visit https://www.hatch.blue/programs/aquascale

Willis, Kayna and Belfry Partner to Simplify Insurance Access for Security Providers

Willis, a WTW business is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Belfry, a modern platform for physical security providers, to launch a digital insurance program tailored for Belfry customers. The program pairs Willis’ insurance expertise with Irish award-winning Kayna insurance technology to deliver data-led, streamlined insurance solutions.

Belfry, a US-based vertical SaaS platform, streamlines security management in an all-in-one software that manages scheduling, timekeeping, payroll, and billing for security companies;

Kayna, Willis’ embedded insurance infrastructure partner, enables the distribution of Willis’ security services insurance to Belfry customers by integrating a seamless insurance portal directly within the Belfry platform. The InsurTech will leverage real-time data to pre-fill forms and support quoting, saving users time and simplifying the procurement process;

Willis’ Affinity model pairs well with Belfry’s platform by delivering tailored insurance solutions that meet the specific needs of security providers.

Belfry’s innovative platform transforms the complex needs of security businesses into a single solution that improves back-office efficiency, enhances employee experiences, and supports exceptional customer service. Through the integration of Kayna technology, which enables Willis-brokered insurance distribution, the partnership strengthens Belfry’s model by leveraging Willis’ global insurance expertise to create a seamless way for security operators to access tailored coverage directly within the Belfry platform.

With insurance being one of the most significant pain points and expenses for security firms, this integration offers timely quotes to address coverage gaps, potential premium savings, and reduced audit risk through pay-as-you-go insurance. The solution removes friction from the insurance procurement process, allowing security operators to stay focused on their work with the confidence that their coverage is comprehensive, timely, and aligned with their operational needs.

“As part of our strategy to deliver tech-enabled insurance solutions, we’re excited to partner with Belfry to embed coverage seamlessly into the security operator journey,” said Paul Lubbers, Head of US Affinity at Willis. “Together, we aim to accelerate quoting and minimize premium audit risk, both of which are critical pain points and areas for improvements in the security industry. Together with Kayna, we are committed to support the success of Belfry customers by making it easier than ever to secure the right insurance coverage with minimal hassle so physical security operators can focus on their job with confidence.”

Jordan Wallach, Co-Founder & CEO of Belfry, commented, “At Belfry, we’re developing a truly all-in-one platform for security operators – one that brings every essential function together in a seamless, intuitive experience. Partnering with Willis and Kayna strengthens that vision by embedding expert resources directly into our platform, helping operators focus less on administrative complexity and more on delivering outstanding service.”

Paul Prendergast, Co-Founder & CEO of Kayna concluded, “Backed by decades of Willis experience and expertise in underwriting and claims management, Belfry is taking an industry lead on delivering data-driven insurance and market choice for their platform customers. This is a winning formula for a great partnership and one that I’m delighted to see powered by Kayna technology.”

EZVIZ EP3x Pro Video Doorbell And Chime Kit Review

The EZVIZ EP3x Pro Video Doorbell And Chime Kit which is battery powered and also comes with a solar panel for the doorbell is the perfect kit to have at your home at your front door, this can also be wired if you wish and with the back up of solar you are sure to not miss a thing.

The standout feature is the dual-lens system. The Main Camera is 2K resolution for a crisp view of visitors. The Bottom Camera 1080p downward-facing lens specifically for monitoring package deliveries. The app stitches these views together, so you don’t have to guess if a package was left behind a pillar or right at the threshold. Also these can be organised in the app to which set up or view you want ie you can see two camera in one screen like PIP (picture in picture)

The kit includes a rechargeable 5,200 mAh battery, but the real winner is the included solar panel weather and area/set up dependen even your door gets even a moderate amount of sunlight, you can theoretically go years without manually taking the doorbell down to charge it. It also supports hardwiring if you prefer a traditional setup which takes longer but not hard to do and if you are not comfortable get an electrician

The EP3x Pro uses on-device AI to distinguish between human shapes and packages. This is critical because it reduces “nuisance” notifications caused by swaying trees or passing cars. During testing, the package detection is surprisingly reliable, though human detection can occasionally be over-sensitive depending on your “Zone” settings.

Another win for me unlike many rivals, this unit comes with 32GB of eMMC storage built-in which means you do not need an SD card which is a rare thing to see these days, there is an anti tamper alarm built in like most doorbell cameras which again hadny as I have had one stolen before yet the culprit denied it when I found out who it was and approached them.

The “Pro” kit  includes the EZVIZ CH1 Chime. This isn’t just a speaker; it acts as a Wi-Fi booster for the doorbell. Since doorbells sit outside behind thick wood or brick, they often struggle with signal. Plugging the chime into an outlet near the door ensures a stable connection and allows you to hear the “Ding-Dong” inside without needing your phone nearby.

The Chime is loud and works well and can be heard anywhere in the house the speaker on the doorbell itself is also loud you can see all this in action in the video review down below, Overall this is a super addition to your home security and works well with an easy set and simple to use app full of features like speaking to people from the comfort of your couch or if you are away taking snapshots recording footage and you can also zoom in leave messages and most of all more cameras in one than your traditional video doorbell

The EZVIZ App

Features 

  • 【Useful Dual Lenses】EZVIZ video doorbell EP3x Pro stitches views together to help you see much more. Its 2K forward-facing lens captures approaching people and the environment wide and clear, while the 1080p downward-facing lens allows you to check the ground for packages, where other cameras usually can’t see.
  • 【Smart Human Motion & Package Detection】EZVIZ smart doorbell camera EP3x integrates human-shape algorithm with radar-based motion detection, so as to smartly distinguish people movements from other insignificant activities, and instantly notifies you even before people knock. It’s extra useful when a postman drops a package but you are not at home.
  • 【2K/3MP Clarity and Color Night Vision】See who’s at the door vividly in 2K video, even if you don’t have proper front-door lighting available and it’s totally dark outside. EZVIZ EP3x Pro uses a built-in LED to brighten up your hallway and render colorful night vision.
  • 【Green Solar Panel Power】The battery-powered EP3x Pro can stick itself to any front door where electricity wiring isn’t planned, and run on green power by using the included solar panel. What’s better? It preserves the option to go hardwired if you live in a cloudy region.
  • 【Free 32GB eMMC storage】You don’t need to pay for storage cards or subscription plans before the doorbell camera starts saving video clips. EZVIZ EP3x Pro video doorbell camera is embedded with 32 GB eMMC storage capacity — which means it can store up to 6 months of video history if it records 10 minutes of activities every day.

BUY

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CCPC warns consumers to avoid dangerous car seat head straps

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is warning consumers against the use of head straps in children’s car seats.

The product safety warning comes after extensive online market surveillance by the CCPC. Through these searches, the CCPC conducted a sweep of 100 product listings and attempted to obtain the required safety documentation for each product. All 100 listings were removed as the safety of the products could not be demonstrated.

The products in question were being sold across five online marketplaces; Amazon, Cdiscount, Joom, Shein and Wish. They may be for sale on other platforms or websites.

The head restraint accessory, which is sometimes described as a car seat head strap, a neck protection belt, head support hugger or a nap aid/sleep holder belt, claims to prevent a child’s head from falling forwards or sideways if they fall asleep.

However, an investigation by the CCPC’s product safety team established that these products are dangerous and could cause serious injuries to a child’s spine or neck during a collision or suffocation if the strap slips over the child’s nose and mouth, or strangulation if the strap moves down to their neck.

These products have already been recalled in Malta, Germany and Australia. While the number of products sold in Ireland is unknown, the CCPC is issuing a safety warning about the car seat head straps due to the serious risk they pose.

Grainne Griffin, CCPC Director of Communications said:

“Products like this prey on a parent’s basic instinct to protect their child. But instead of making a toddler safer, they put the child much more at risk. If the strap slips down over the child’s face or neck, there is a serious risk of suffocation or strangulation.

“CCPC sweeps have led to the removal of 100 product listings across various platforms. However, we’re asking the public to remain vigilant and contact us if they see car seat head straps like these being advertised, be it online or in physical stores.”

Dr Katharine Harkin, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, HSE Child Health Public Health said:

“Do not place straps across your child’s forehead in a car seat. They claim to prevent your child’s head from falling forwards or sideways if they fall asleep. There is no evidence that these products are safe to use.

“Car seats are designed to keep your child as safe as possible while travelling. The safest approach is always to use a properly fitted, appropriate car seat and do not use any additional products. The HSE’s mychild.ie has more advice for parents on keeping their child safe while driving and other areas of child safety.”

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) does not recommend the use of devices or accessories that are purchased separately from a child’s car seat.

Christine Hegarty, Road Safety and Education Manager at RSA said:

“Child car seats are highly regulated and vigorously tested and are designed to perform and react in a specific way in the event of a collision. Any device that changes that process is dangerous.”

Advice for consumers

  1. Do not use car seat head straps as they are extremely dangerous.
  2. Product add-ons or accessories for car seats should only be used when they have been tested and approved by the car seat manufacturer.
  3. Using any other accessories may change the performance of the car seat or introduce other hazards during normal use.

Smart D8 Opens Doors to Health and Wellbeing Innovators for Sixth Consecutive Year

Smart D8, Dublin’s first smart district dedicated to addressing community health and wellbeing needs and located in the heart of Dublin 8, has officially launched its sixth open call for pilot projects.

Since October 2020, the Smart D8 partnership has connected innovators with citizen expertise through enterprise, healthcare, academia, government and other areas of the public sector, collectively aiming to address health and wellbeing challenges identified by the local D8 community.

Now entering its sixth year, this year’s call focuses on innovative pilot projects across three key themes:

  • Nutrition
  • Social Connectedness
  • Workplace Wellbeing

Up to three pilot projects will each receive up to €10,000 in funding, but crucially will be supported to validate their innovation with real users. Those selected will have the opportunity to trial new and emerging innovations for illness prevention with a general population to measure and evaluate their population health impacts – demonstrating their potential to positively impact people’s lives locally, nationally and internationally.

Since its inception, Smart D8 has established strong community connections through outreach with residents, businesses, schools, local organisations and networks to understand health and wellbeing priority areas and needs. Engaging with service providers, innovators and entrepreneurs to trial and test new products, services and ideas, the partnership works to matchmake innovative content and technologies with community networks and demonstrate their impacts on population health to scale.

Operating through funded pilot calls and partnerships, the Smart D8 testbed supports access to local knowledge and expertise and facilitates the development of innovative approaches that can enhance health and wellbeing with and in the local community.

Through the combined effort of pilot projects, local workshop initiatives and established engagement with existing community networks, Smart D8 has reached over 21,500 citizens living and working in Dublin 8, over 45% of the 45,000-strong population.

Smart D8 is led by The Digital Hub, Dublin City Council, St James’s Hospital and Smart Dublin. They are joined by Tyndall National Institute, St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, Trinity College Dublin, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, National College of Art & Design, the Guinness Enterprise Centre, Health Innovation Hub Ireland and the HSE in this unique collaborative initiative.

Applications will close on Thursday, 26th March at 11pm. For more information on Smart D8 and to find out how to apply for the latest round of pilot projects, please visit https://smartd8.ie.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam, said:

“I am proud to see our city continue to lead with purpose, placing community wellbeing, innovation and sustainability at the centre of how we shape Dublin’s future. Smart D8 represents the very best of civic collaboration, bringing together innovators, researchers, public services and citizens to test ideas that improve everyday life. By grounding innovation in evidence and in lived experience, it is building a model for healthier communities that can be scaled across our capital and beyond. I strongly encourage innovators with bold, practical and evidence-led ideas to step forward and partner with us. Together, we can demonstrate how place-based collaboration delivers real change for Dublin 8 and sets a standard for cities everywhere.”

Speaking on the opening of pilot applications, Smart D8 Ecosystem Manager, Jack Lehane, said:

“As Smart D8 moves into its sixth year, we take great pride in the scale of engagement so far, and are especially motivated by the opportunities that lie ahead. In 2026, we will continue to build on this momentum by focusing on themes that have the greatest potential to identify and validate population health solutions, including nutrition, social connectedness and workplace wellbeing.

The partnership provides changemakers with a chance to connect their innovations with citizens in real-world community settings, and demonstrate their ability to scale to wider populations. We strongly encourage organisations from any sector that have population-scale innovations in these areas to apply, and look forward to seeing more projects deliver measurable impacts and outcomes across the Dublin 8 community and beyond in the year ahead.”

Ana Coughlan, Smart D8 Community Coordinator, added:

“At Smart D8, our mission is to improve community health and wellbeing through meaningful collaboration and innovation, while amplifying the efforts of those already committed to making a difference in people’s lives. We have built a strong network of community-centred initiatives that involve residents, workers and students to support healthier lifestyles, and this year’s themes are chosen based on this outreach. We will continue to expand our impact by welcoming pilot proposals that focus on innovative approaches to illness prevention, helping to create a stronger, healthier and more connected Dublin 8.”

Samsung Unveils All New Galaxy Buds4 Series

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today introduced its latest Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Buds4, redefining what premium earbuds can deliver in both superior Hi-Fi  audio and everyday wearability. Built to sound as good as they feel, the Galaxy Buds4 series pairs exceptional sound quality with a more refined, computationally designed fit, bringing Samsung’s most advanced audio and wearability innovations together in one seamless experience. For the first time, Galaxy Buds4 Pro features a wider woofer, combined with enhanced Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and an enhanced Adaptive Equaliser (EQ), to supply full-spectrum sound true to the original recording — while intelligently adapting to real-world conditions. Thoughtful design updates, intuitive hands-free controls, and deeper AI integration further underscore Samsung’s commitment to earbuds designed for how people listen, move, and live throughout the day.

“Most of us now use our earbuds for everything – the commute, the gym, back-to-back calls or blocking out noise while we work,” said Annika Bizon, Vice President of Product and Marketing for Mobile Experience at Samsung UK and Ireland. “The Galaxy Buds4 series are designed to be the one pair you don’t have to swap out. They combine Hi-Fi sound with a fit that’s comfortable enough for all-day wear and intelligent features that adapt to whatever you’re doing in that moment.”

Computational Design Optimised for Enhanced Stability and All-Day Comfort

With the Galaxy Buds4 series, Samsung establishes an iconic Buds blade design, a computational design achievement based on hundreds of millions of global ear data points and over 10,000 simulations. The Galaxy Buds4 series features an ultra-sleek, ergonomic fit with smaller, better-fitting earbud heads to deliver a more secure, comfortable experience during all-day wear. The new stabilised blade includes a premium metal finish and an engraved pinch control[4] area to help users easily locate and adjust settings. Additionally, the new transparent clamshell-type cradle makes storage and charging more intuitive and convenient — while also highlighting the refined blade design to deliver a stylish, high-quality listening experience on the go.

Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Buds4 offer distinct design architectures to meet different needs. Galaxy Buds4 Pro features a canal-fit design that combines ultimate sound with maximum functionality. The open-fit design of Galaxy Buds4 delivers a comfortable, user-friendly audio experience. Customers also have the option to choose from several distinct colourways, with Galaxy Buds4 Pro and Galaxy Buds4 available in White and Black with a refined matte finish — as well as a Samsung.com exclusive Pink Gold for Galaxy Buds4 Pro.

Superior Hi-Fi Sound with Innovative Hardware Updates

Galaxy Buds4 Pro introduces a new wider woofer, featuring a new design that makes efficient use of space. By maximising the vibration area and minimising the speaker’s edge, the wider woofer increases the effective speaker area by almost 20% compared to the previous generation without sacrificing wearability. Combined with the tweeter, these features deliver natural, immersive audio with clean bass and rich treble that supports 24-bit/96kHz audio— ultimately delivering high-fidelity sound true to the original recording. These hardware enhancements capture everything from the high, resonant sounds of violins to the deep, throaty pulses of double basses — details that were difficult to reproduce in earlier generations. The two-way speaker is strategically placed on the upper side of the metal finish to maximise Active Noise Cancellation functionality, while minimising feedback from wind and other external factors.

Maximised Audio Experiences with Enhanced Adaptive EQ and ANC

Galaxy Buds4 series offers software updates that build on powerful adaptive sound capabilities users have come to love in previous Galaxy Buds generations. Enhanced ANC can tune out everything from heavy transit sounds to everyday background noise, ensuring an immersive audio experience that adapts to changing environments. For example, when commuting on a bus, train or airplane, Galaxy Buds4’s enhanced Active Noise Cancellation reduces low-frequency engine and road noise while maintaining rich, balanced sound — allowing users to focus on music, podcasts or calls without distraction.

Enhanced Adaptive ANC/EQ allows for full media immersion, minimising noise leakage by analysing the wearing conditions and unique ear shape of each user. Alongside dynamic frequency adjustments, this feature applies optimal ANC algorithms in real time for peak noise-cancelling performance so users can enjoy fine-tuned sound experiences tailored to their individual needs.

When it’s time to make a phone call, Super Clear Call utilises super wideband call technology and machine learning models trained for noise reduction and voice enhancement to provide ultra-clear call quality and double the bandwidth of conventional Bluetooth calls. Whether users are cheering at a football game, dining in a bustling restaurant, or spending time with their children at the playground, their voice remains crisp and clear, ensuring they sound as if they were speaking face-to-face.

An Enriched Galaxy Ecosystem Experience

For Galaxy users, the Galaxy Buds4 series introduces integrations that enhance the Galaxy ecosystem experience. Users can initiate AI agents including Bixby, Google Gemini and Perplexity — with hands-free and voice controls, helping users stay engaged with their surroundings while maintaining control over their audio experience. Galaxy Buds4 Pro allows users to access AI features without reaching for their phones, making it easier to integrate AI into their everyday routines.

Galaxy ecosystem users can enjoy simple Galaxy Buds setup. Just by opening the cradle — without having to install the Galaxy Wearable app — Samsung users can easily connect their Galaxy Buds to their phone or tablet. Through the Galaxy Buds shortcut menu or in the Quick Panel, users can control and customise the volume or EQ for the optimal sound experience.

Galaxy Buds4 Pro also includes Head Gesture controls to manage calls and engage with Bixby, allowing users to perform subsequent actions hands-free. Along with voice commands, hands-free controls such as these allow users to navigate their day without distraction, ensuring their daily activities remain seamless and uninterrupted.

Availability

The Galaxy Buds4 series is available for pre-order from February 25th, with general availability starting March 11.

Galaxy Buds4 Pro is available for RRP €259 , with Galaxy Buds4 RRP €189. Customers who pre-order Samsung Galaxy S26 Series will receive 10% off the new Galaxy Buds4 Series from Samsung.com.

In the UK and Ireland, Samsung is also offering a new promotion which allows customers who purchase from selected retailers, to return their device within 100 days of purchase if they decide the device is not for them.

To learn more about the Galaxy Buds4 series, please visit: www.samsung.com/galaxy-buds4-series/.

See our earbuds reviews

Samsung Unveils Galaxy S26 Series. Ireland details

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the Galaxy S26 series, featuring our most intuitive, proactive and adaptive Galaxy AI experiences yet and designed to simplify the tasks people do on their phones every day. From managing plans and finding information to capturing and refining content, Galaxy S26 reduces the effort and number of steps required to get things done. As Samsung’s third-generation AI phones, Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra handle complex tasks in the background, allowing users to focus on results rather than how the technology works.

The Galaxy S26 series was engineered with Samsung’s most advanced capabilities working together as one: incredible performance, an industry leading camera system and Galaxy AI. This provides a strong foundation that gives Galaxy S26 users the confidence to depend on their phone throughout the day without compromising security or privacy.

Building on Samsung’s decades of innovation in display technology, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces the world’s first built-in Privacy Display for mobile phones to unlock a new class of display experiences and reinforce Samsung’s commitment to privacy at a pixel level. Galaxy S26 Ultra also delivers a customised chipset and upgraded thermal management that enable faster and more powerful AI — all wrapped up in the slimmest Ultra yet.

Together, these choices allow the Galaxy S26 series to deliver the most powerful Galaxy experience yet.

“The most powerful phones should also be the easiest to use,” said Annika Bizon, Vice President of Product and Marketing for Mobile Experience at Samsung UK and Ireland. “The Galaxy S26 Series featuring our most intuitive Galaxy AI ever is designed to reduce the mental load people carry daily, with hardware and AI working together so tasks are handled in the background while privacy stays protected at every level. When technology removes friction, you start experiencing what it enables: more time, less effort and the confidence that your life stays yours.”

Engineered for enhanced performance, the Galaxy S26 series is built on the most powerful hardware ever on a Galaxy S series, powered by a customised chipset. Across the line-up, the Galaxy S26 series is engineered for AI performance, power efficiency and thermal management, ensuring demanding tasks run smoothly and consistently, so users can rely on their device when it matters.

On Galaxy S26 Ultra, a customised mobile processor — Snapdragon® 8 Elite Gen 5 Mobile Platform for Galaxy — delivers enhanced performance with significant gains across CPU, GPU, and NPU to support faster, smoother experiences that keep up throughout the day.

A CPU performance increase of up to 19% means Galaxy S26 Ultra responds more quickly and handle complex workloads intelligently, even when multiple tasks are running at once. A 39% improvement in NPU performance powers always-on Galaxy AI features that run seamlessly, allowing users to move between tasks without lag or interruption. A 24% boost in GPU performance delivers richer visuals and more fluid gameplay.

To sustain this level of performance, Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces a redesigned Vapor Chamber with thermal interface material positioned along the sides of the processor, allowing heat to spread more efficiently across a larger surface area. This improves heat dissipation to keep the device cool and consistent, even during demanding activities such as gaming, multitasking and video capture. Galaxy S26 Ultra also brings Super-Fast Charging 3.0, minimising downtime by reaching up to 75% charge in just 30 minutes.

Embedded into the processor, Samsung’s proprietary technologies enhance visual performance. ProScaler improves image scaling so photos and videos appear rich and clear at a glance by sharpening text and fine detail while smoothing textures. Additionally, Samsung’s mobile Digital Natural Image engine (mDNIe) delivers more subtle and lifelike colours thanks to image processing with four times the precision compared to the previous generation.

Taken together, these advancements deliver dependable all-day performance, making every action feel effortless.

The Galaxy S26 series brings the same focus on intuitive interaction to creativity and productivity, delivered through the industry-leading Galaxy camera system. With an approach that integrates capturing stunning photos and videos, editing and sharing into a single, seamless experience, creativity feels more natural and accessible even without professional tools or technical knowledge.

On Galaxy S26 Ultra, wider camera apertures  allow more light to reach the sensor, delivering clearer photos with richer details in low-light conditions, even when zoomed in. Enhanced Nightography Video keeps footage clearer and more vibrant even in dim scenes, whether capturing concerts indoors or recording moments around a campfire after sunset. Video capture is further enhanced with upgraded Super Steady capabilities, which add a horizontal lock option for greater stability and to make consistent framing easier to achieve, even with bumpy trails or fast-paced activities.

Galaxy S26 Ultra is the first Galaxy device to support APV, a new professional-grade video codec designed to deliver efficient compression for high-quality production workflows. Optimised for advanced creators, it ensures visually lossless video quality that stays true even after repeated editing.

Improvements to the AI ISP now extend to the selfie camera, capturing more natural skin tones and finer detail in mixed lighting. Editing photos and videos is just as easy and straightforward, with AI-powered tools built into familiar workflows so users can make changes quickly and unlock their creativity without design expertise.

With the upgraded Photo Assist suite, users can simply describe what they want to change in their own words. Changing the scene from day to night is just a matter of asking. It can also add to images and restore missing parts of objects like a bite taken out of a cake. Personal details, such as a spill on clothing, can also be cleaned up with Galaxy AI’s new ability to change outfits in photos. Edits can now be made continuously, reviewed step by step, and easily adjusted or undone along the way, making the process feel fluid rather than final.

Creative Studio builds on this simplicity by bringing creation and customisation into one integrated space, making it easy to act on ideas when inspiration strikes. Starting from a sketch, photo or prompt, users can quickly turn ideas into polished visuals — from stickers and invitations to personalised wallpapers — and refine or share them without switching tools or interrupting creative flow.

The Galaxy S26 series also simplifies frequent visual tasks with AI-powered tools like the Document Scan, which removes distortions and distractions such as creases or fingers to deliver clean scans instantly. Multiple images can be organised automatically into a single PDF, making it easy to digitise receipts, forms or notes.

The Galaxy S26 series is designed to make frequently used experiences feel straightforward and user-friendly, with Galaxy AI reducing the steps between intent and action. It works proactively and seamlessly on the user’s behalf based on context, surfacing the right support at the right moment and automating tasks with minimal manual input. As the technology fades and handles tasks in the background, users can focus on the results.

With Now Nudge, timely and relevant suggestions help users stay in the flow without being distracted. If a friend asks for photos from a recent trip, Galaxy S26 automatically suggests photos from the Gallery, removing the need to search through albums or switch between apps. When receiving a message about a meeting, Galaxy S26 can recognise related Calendar entries and check for conflicts.

On the Galaxy S26 series, Now Brief has become proactive and personalised. It surfaces timely reminders for important events – from reservations to travel updates – based on personal context, helping users stay organised throughout the day.

Searching for information is also easier than ever. Circle to Search with Google on the Galaxy S26 series has been upgraded with enhanced multi-object recognition, so users can now explore more deeply on multiple parts of an image at once. If users spot a look they love, the feature also identifies everything from the jacket to the shoes, all in one search.

Galaxy S26 series features an upgraded Bixby as a conversational device agent, making it more intuitive and easier than ever to interact with Galaxy devices. Users can navigate their devices and adjust settings using natural language, without the need for exact terminology or commands.

Alongside Bixby, Galaxy S26 series integrates a choice of agents, including Gemini[19] and Perplexity[20]. Once set up, tasks can be completed with a single button press or voice prompt. Galaxy S26 can also handle multi-step tasks in the background, streamlining the process on the user’s behalf.

Together, these proactive, personalised and adaptive experiences lay the foundation for more agentic AI experiences — setting the stage for Galaxy devices to become trusted companions that understand and anticipate user needs.

As mobile experiences become more personalised thanks to AI, protecting user privacy becomes even more critical. Samsung builds protection into every layer of Galaxy S26, keeping personal data secure while giving users transparency and control over how their information is used.

Galaxy S26 Ultra introduces privacy at the pixel level with the mobile industry’s first built-in Privacy Display, a breakthrough in display technology that fundamentally changes how privacy can be protected on a phone. Designed for everyday situations like transit, cafés and shared environments, Privacy Display goes beyond anything previously available on mobile devices — hardware and software working as one to protect privacy without compromising the viewing experience.

By controlling how pixels disperse light, the display keeps content clear, bright and comfortable for the user in everyday use, while limiting what others can see. Unlike traditional stick-on privacy films, Galaxy’s integrated Privacy Display preserves full viewing quality from all directions when off, and limits visibility for others from side viewing angles when activated, even when switching between portrait and landscape orientation.

Users can customise when it turns on — such as when entering PINs, patterns and passwords or opening selected apps — and adjust privacy levels depending on the situation. Partial Screen Privacy intelligently limits visibility for notification pop-ups, while Maximum Privacy Protection further obscures side views for added discretion, all with minimal impact on power or usability.

The Galaxy S26 series also brings smarter software safeguards that work quietly in the background. AI-powered Call Screening identifies unknown callers and summarises intent, making it easier to safely manage calls. Privacy Alerts use machine learning to proactively notify users in real time when apps with device admin privileges unnecessarily attempt to access sensitive data, such as precise location, call logs or contacts. These alerts help users quickly understand when apps are seeking deeper access, so they can manage permissions with greater clarity and control.

Private Album, built directly into Gallery, lets users easily hide selected photos and videos without creating a separate folder or signing into a Samsung Account. To stay ahead of emerging threats, Galaxy S26 also extends Samsung’s innovation in post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to critical system processes, including software verification and firmware protection, strengthening device integrity for the future.

New updates to Knox Matrix further strengthen protection across connected Galaxy devices, adding PQC-enabled end-to-end encryption for more services such as eSIM transfers and clearer visibility into firmware update status across the ecosystem through Security Status of Your Devices.

These experiences are supported by Samsung Knox, the multi-layer security platform that protects Galaxy devices from the chip level up. For on-device Galaxy AI, Personal Data Engine (PDE) enables context-aware, personalised AI experiences. To keep this process safe, Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) encrypts each app’s data, while Knox Vault adds a physical layer of protection that isolates sensitive data inside its own secure hardware. Together with settings that let users choose how AI features operate, Galaxy S26 combines hardware and software to deliver a comprehensive, system-wide approach designed to keep personal data protected.

These updates build on Galaxy’s existing security and privacy portfolio which includes Auto Blocker, Theft Protection, Private Sharing, Secure Wi-Fi and more. These layers of protection are designed to give users greater transparency, choice and control through Samsung’s continued mobile security innovation in the age of AI. And with seven years of security updates, Galaxy S26 helps keep these layers resilient over time — supporting longer, more confident use well into the years ahead.

Galaxy S26’s ease of use continues even when the phone is out of reach. The new Galaxy Buds4 series is a natural companion to Galaxy S26, extending everyday experiences beyond the phone while delivering rich and immersive hi-fi sound. When Galaxy S26 is paired with Galaxy Buds4, interactions can continue naturally in moments when using hands isn’t practical. Users can activate AI agents with their voices, manage calls through simple Head Gestures on Buds4 Pro, and stay connected without breaking their flow. Customers who pre-order Samsung Galaxy S26 Series will receive 10% off the new Galaxy Buds4 Series[25] from Samsung.com or Samsung Experience Stores.

Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26+ and S26 will be available for pre-order from February 25 and will be available from March 11. The Galaxy S26 series features a unified design language across all models, with shared colour options including Cobalt Violet, White, Black and Sky Blue alongside the Samsung.com exclusive colours, Pink Gold and Silver Shadow.

Galaxy S26 starts from RRP €1019 (256GB), Galaxy S26+ from RRP €1289 (256GB) and Galaxy S26 Ultra from RRP €1499.

Samsung.com offers

  • Pre-order now and receive €210 off 1TB for Galaxy S26 Ultra
  • Pre-order now and double the storage to 512GB for the price of 256GB, worth €190 across Galaxy S26 series
  • Trade-in a selected smartphone and receive up to €600 off the Galaxy S26 Series

For additional offers, data plans and finance solutions, please visit samsung.com for more information.

 

See our S25 reviews

Nikon introduces the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens

Nikon introduces a new second-generation S-Line zoom, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens. With Nikon’s best AF system to date, redesigned S-Line optics, stronger image stabilisation, improved ergonomics, and a lighter build, this upgraded f/2.8 professional medium-telephoto zoom lens gives photographers and video shooters the edge in more situations than ever before.

Weighing in at a class-leading1 998 g,2 the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II offers a significant upgrade in terms of balance, agility, and stability. A full 362 g lighter than its predecessor, and 12 mm shorter, this new lens is more comfortable to handle when shooting handheld and video shooters using a Z camera on a gimbal will benefit from the balanced internal zoom, which keeps the centre of gravity consistent when changing focal lengths. The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II also boasts up to 6 stops3 of in-lens Vibration Reduction, which combines with the fast f/2.8 aperture to deliver every advantage in challenging conditions, and Synchro VR maximises stability at the centre and edges of the frame with compatible Z cameras.

Responsiveness gets a massive boost thanks to the speed and silence of the new AF system, which is equipped with Nikon’s Silky Swift voice coil motors: AF speed is up to 3.5x faster5 compared to the first generation of this lens, and 50% quieter, plus scan time at the telephoto end is reduced and focus tracking is more accurate when zooming. Precision has also improved significantly thanks to the all-new optical formula: with fewer elements used to greater effect, the streamlined optical design takes sharpness, bokeh, and anti-glare performance to new heights while also contributing to the overall reduction in lens weight.

Pro-grade weather sealing protects the lens, and ergonomic improvements include a removable tripod collar, an ARCA-SWISS tripod foot, and a de-clickable control ring.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager, Nikon Europe says: “We are excited to introduce another second-generation f/2.8 pro-grade zoom. With ergonomic improvements, a new optical design, a leap in AF performance, and a significant reduction in size and weight, you get a lens with class-leading features and capabilities to work with. It’s the kind of upgrade that can take your whole Z system to the next level of performance.”

Summary of key features: NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II

Lightest in class1: weighing in at just 998 g,2 this next-gen S-Line lens is a full 362 g lighter than its predecessor, and 12 mm shorter.

More speed, more stability: a fast f/2.8 aperture and 6 stops3 of in-lens Vibration Reduction, plus Synchro VR for maximum stabilisation at the centre and edges of the frame with compatible Z cameras.

Next-level AF: the sheer velocity of Nikon’s Silky Swift voice coil motors and the precision of the multi-focusing system gives responsiveness a massive boost while significantly reducing noise and vibrations.

Next-gen S-Line optics: for maximum image quality and a lighter lens. Includes dual-sided aspherical lens elements, Super ED and SR glass, and Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings.

Smoother bokeh: rounded 11-blade aperture and advanced optics produce softer bokeh that’s better defined and smoothly graded for a more natural sense of depth.

Shorter minimum focus distance: of 0.38 m at 70mm, and 0.8 m at 200mm. Maximum magnification is 0.25x at 70mm, and 0.3x at 200mm.

Agile for video: the internal zoom lets you change focal lengths without needing to rebalance your rig, and balance is maintained if using heavy external accessories. Focus breathing is minimised for more natural-looking transitions.

De-clickable control ring: click on for tactile feedback. Click off for smooth, silent, stepless operation.

Pro-grade sealing: to keep dust, dirt, and moisture at bay.

Removable tripod collar: included, along with a protective collar. A bayonet design allows secure attachment to the lens.

HB-119 lens hood with filter window: there’s no need to remove this hood if working with rotating filters. Handy if using variable ND filters for video.