How CRM has transformed the pipeline in the roofing industry

A Roofing CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system is a powerful tool that can significantly enhance the way roofing businesses interact with their customers, streamline operations, and ultimately boost customer retention. In a highly competitive industry like roofing, maintaining strong relationships with customers is essential to not only secure new business but also to ensure repeat business and referrals. A Roofing CRM can play a pivotal role in transforming customer relationships and driving long-term success for roofing contractors.

1. Centralized Customer Data and Information

One of the most transformative features of a Roofing CRM is its ability to centralize customer data in one accessible location. Traditionally, roofing businesses often rely on disjointed systems such as spreadsheets, paper records, or multiple digital tools that make it difficult to retrieve important customer information. This fragmentation can lead to errors, missed opportunities, and communication breakdowns.

A Roofing CRM brings everything together in a single, organized platform. It stores all customer interactions, job history, quotes, contracts, and communication notes, making it easy for roofing contractors and their teams to access relevant information at any time. This centralization allows for a more personalized approach to customer service, as contractors can refer to past jobs, track customer preferences, and tailor their interactions to meet specific needs.

2. Enhanced Communication with Customers

Communication is at the heart of any strong customer relationship. In roofing, where projects can be complex and span over days or weeks, consistent and clear communication is vital. A CRM ensures that communication is streamlined and organized. By tracking all conversations and interactions, roofing contractors can ensure they’re following up on inquiries, addressing concerns promptly, and sending timely updates.

For example, automated reminders can be set up to notify contractors when to follow up with a lead or when a customer’s roof maintenance is due. Furthermore, communication can be personalized to the customer’s specific needs, whether it’s sending a quote, confirming an appointment, or providing updates on the progress of a roofing job. The CRM can also facilitate multiple channels of communication, including email, text, and phone, which makes it easy for customers to reach out and receive timely responses.

This improved communication results in a more professional customer experience. Clients feel valued when they are consistently kept in the loop and when their questions or concerns are addressed promptly. This fosters trust, making customers more likely to return for future roofing needs and recommend the company to others.

3. Efficient Lead Management and Conversion

A Roofing CRM is essential in managing leads effectively, from initial inquiry to conversion. In the roofing business, generating leads is crucial, but it’s just as important to manage those leads properly to ensure that opportunities aren’t lost. The CRM allows roofing companies to track each lead’s journey through the sales pipeline and assign tasks to the appropriate team members to ensure timely follow-up.

When a lead shows interest in a roofing service, the CRM can automatically categorize them based on various factors such as location, service needs, or budget. This segmentation allows roofing contractors to prioritize leads based on their likelihood to convert. Additionally, the CRM can provide insights into lead sources, helping businesses identify which marketing strategies are most effective in generating high-quality leads.

This streamlined lead management process ensures that no lead is forgotten or neglected, ultimately improving conversion rates and generating more revenue. Customers will appreciate the efficiency and responsiveness of a roofing company that manages their needs proactively and effectively.

4. Improved Customer Retention through Service History Tracking

A CRM’s ability to track the service history of each customer is invaluable for long-term retention. Roofing companies often rely on repeat business and referrals, which makes it essential to maintain strong relationships with past customers. By keeping a comprehensive record of past projects, including the type of service, materials used, dates of installation, and any follow-up work, roofing contractors can ensure that customers receive the best possible care over time.

For instance, if a customer’s roof was installed several years ago, the CRM can flag this information and automatically remind the contractor when it’s time for a routine inspection or maintenance check. By proactively offering these services, roofing companies can build trust and establish themselves as reliable, customer-focused businesses that care about their clients’ long-term needs.

The CRM can also assist in sending personalized follow-up emails or reminders, such as seasonal maintenance suggestions or updates about new roofing technologies. These touchpoints keep the business top-of-mind and foster ongoing engagement, which can help secure long-term customer loyalty.

5. Personalized Marketing and Customer Engagement

Another significant advantage of a Roofing CRM is its ability to segment customers and target them with personalized marketing campaigns. By analyzing the data stored in the CRM, roofing companies can gain insights into their customers’ preferences, behaviors, and needs. This information can be used to create targeted marketing strategies that resonate with each individual customer.

For example, if a customer previously had a roof inspection done, the company can send an email offering a discount on a follow-up inspection or a complementary roof cleaning service. By personalizing these communications, roofing contractors can provide more value to their customers and keep them engaged with the brand.

Moreover, the CRM can track customer interactions with marketing materials, allowing roofing companies to assess the effectiveness of their campaigns. This ensures that marketing resources are being used efficiently and that customers are receiving the most relevant information.

6. Task Automation and Workflow Optimization

Roofing companies often face busy schedules, with many moving parts and people involved in each project. A CRM can automate repetitive tasks, such as sending appointment reminders, following up with clients after a consultation, or creating invoices once a job is completed. This saves time for the roofing company and ensures that important actions aren’t overlooked.

Automation of routine tasks frees up staff to focus on high-value activities, such as building relationships, troubleshooting issues, and completing jobs on time. By streamlining operations, roofing companies can improve efficiency, reduce errors, and ultimately offer a better customer experience. This level of service can increase customer satisfaction and make clients more likely to return for future roofing needs.

7. Analytics and Reporting for Continuous Improvement

Lastly, a Roofing CRM provides powerful analytics and reporting tools that can help businesses track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to customer satisfaction, sales, and overall business growth. By examining trends, such as the types of services most requested or the effectiveness of follow-up strategies, roofing contractors can continuously refine their approach to customer relationship management.

These insights also allow businesses to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions. For instance, if a company notices that a particular sales rep has a higher conversion rate, they can analyze their approach and train other team members to replicate the success. By leveraging the data captured in the CRM, roofing companies can adapt to customer preferences, improve their offerings, and ultimately strengthen customer loyalty.

Conclusion

A Roofing CRM can completely transform how roofing companies manage their customer relationships. By centralizing customer data, improving communication, automating tasks, and providing valuable insights, a CRM helps roofing businesses deliver exceptional service that leads to higher customer satisfaction, repeat business, and long-term retention. In an industry where competition is fierce and customer loyalty is vital, a CRM is not just a tool—it’s a game-changer. With the right CRM system in place, roofing contractors can build stronger, more meaningful relationships with their clients and position themselves for sustained growth and success.

 

Tech Upgrades to Improve Travel Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is a traveler’s best companion. Whether it’s for a business trip or a leisurely vacation, the right tech tools can transform a cumbersome journey into a seamless adventure. From smarter storage solutions to advanced navigation tools, tech upgrades are making travel more efficient than ever. 

This article delves into key innovations that can optimize your travel experience.

Maximizing Digital Storage Space

Modern travel involves carrying multiple digital devices, each requiring ample storage for files, photos, and videos. For many, laptops with SSDs (Solid State Drives) by Lexar are an essential part of their travel kit, offering faster speeds and better reliability than traditional hard drives. 

Storage needs vary depending on usage, and travelers should consider options that align with their demands. Portable SSDs and cloud storage subscriptions can be game-changers, as portable drives provide quick access to backups while cloud storage enables syncing across devices, ensuring that important files are always within reach.

When choosing between storage capacities, understanding the difference between 256GB and 512GB SSDs is crucial. A 256GB SSD may suffice for light travelers who rely on cloud storage or primarily use their devices for web browsing and basic tasks. However, frequent travelers often find 512GB SSDs more suitable, as they provide additional room for offline files, high-resolution media, and resource-heavy applications. 

The right choice depends on individual needs and whether you want to avoid frequent data management on the go.

Smarter Navigation Systems

Efficient navigation is vital to staying on schedule and reducing travel stress. Modern GPS systems and mapping apps have become indispensable tools, offering real-time traffic updates, route optimization, and offline capabilities for areas with limited connectivity. Devices like advanced GPS trackers or smartphones equipped with satellite navigation systems can help travelers avoid delays and find alternative routes.

For international travel, apps that integrate with translation tools or currency converters enhance usability. Some apps also highlight nearby points of interest, such as rest stops or scenic views, ensuring you make the most of your journey. Investing in navigation tech not only saves time but also reduces the frustration of getting lost in unfamiliar locations.

Enhanced Connectivity On the Go

Staying connected during travel is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots are a practical solution for travelers who need uninterrupted internet access. These devices are compact and allow multiple gadgets to connect simultaneously, making them ideal for families or groups. Additionally, choosing a global SIM card can eliminate the hassle of finding local network providers at each destination.

For frequent flyers, noise-canceling headphones or earbuds with Bluetooth connectivity enhance productivity and comfort. These devices can block ambient noise during flights or train rides, creating a conducive environment for work or relaxation. Some advanced models also offer voice-assistant integration, enabling hands-free operation while commuting.

Travel-Friendly Power Solutions

Managing power for devices during trips is often overlooked until the moment you run out of battery. Power banks, particularly those with fast-charging capabilities and multiple ports, are invaluable for keeping devices charged on the go. Solar-powered chargers are another eco-friendly alternative for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a reliable energy source in remote locations.

Universal travel adapters with USB-C compatibility ensure that your devices remain functional no matter where you are in the world. These compact tools are versatile and eliminate the need to carry multiple adapters, further streamlining your packing process. For those with an extended itinerary, portable power stations can power larger devices, such as laptops, for longer durations.

Simplified Packing with Smart Luggage

Smart luggage is transforming the way we pack and transport our belongings. With innovative features such as integrated GPS trackers, USB charging ports, and weight sensors, these modern bags enhance organization and boost efficiency for travelers.

Some models also include compartments specifically designed for gadgets, ensuring that they are both secure and easily accessible.

For travelers who prioritize minimalism, packing cubes or compression bags can maximize suitcase space and reduce clutter. Pairing these with a lightweight carry-on ensures mobility without compromising on essentials. Smart luggage not only enhances convenience but also minimizes the risk of misplaced belongings, giving travelers peace of mind.

 

Streamlined Check-Ins and Security

Airports are often a bottleneck in the travel experience, but technology is helping to speed up processes like check-ins and security screenings. Mobile boarding passes, biometric scanners, and automated kiosks have made it easier to navigate airports efficiently. Pre-enrollment in programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can significantly reduce wait times, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their journey.

For frequent travelers, digital wallets that store travel documents and vaccination records simplify the process further. With these tools, accessing your itinerary or showing proof of identification becomes effortless, reducing stress and saving time.

Entertainment on the Move

Long travel hours can be monotonous, but portable entertainment solutions make them enjoyable. Tablets or e-readers are excellent for consuming books, movies, or games without carrying bulky items. Many streaming platforms now allow users to download content for offline viewing, perfect for flights or areas without internet access.

Additionally, portable gaming consoles or foldable keyboards for tablets can keep you entertained and productive simultaneously. Compact projectors are a newer innovation, enabling travelers to create a cinematic experience in hotel rooms or while camping. These entertainment upgrades ensure that downtime during travel is engaging and memorable.

Staying Safe with Travel Tech

Safety remains a top priority for all travelers, and tech advancements have provided numerous tools to enhance security. Personal GPS trackers allow loved ones to monitor your location in real time, offering peace of mind during solo trips. Anti-theft backpacks with hidden zippers and RFID-blocking compartments protect valuables from pickpockets and digital theft.

Smart locks for luggage, controlled via smartphone apps, ensure that your belongings remain secure. Some locks also feature GPS tracking, so you can locate your luggage in case it gets misplaced. Investing in safety-focused travel tech is an excellent way to minimize risks and enjoy your trip worry-free.

The Future of Travel Efficiency

As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways we travel. Emerging trends like artificial intelligence in trip planning, virtual reality for immersive pre-travel experiences, and autonomous vehicles promise to redefine the industry. These innovations aim to make every aspect of travel more efficient, from booking to arriving at your destination.

Travelers who embrace these advancements will not only save time but also enhance the overall quality of their experiences. Whether through smarter storage, better connectivity, or enhanced safety, tech upgrades ensure that modern journeys are as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

All in all, adopting the right tech upgrades can dramatically improve travel efficiency and make every trip a pleasure rather than a chore. By carefully selecting tools that cater to your specific needs, you can transform even the most challenging journeys into smooth and productive adventures. With a world of technology at your fingertips, there’s no limit to how far—or how efficiently—you can travel.

Boom Ignites Huddle Room ‘Explosion’ With Dedicated Meeting Room In A Box Conference Kit

Conferencing manufacturer Boom Collaboration, has launched a dedicated ‘meeting room in a box’ video kit specifically for huddle rooms and smaller locations.

The all-in-one solution features a high performance camera, speakerphone and one cable connection hub – designed to simplify installations and inspire further demand for Bring Your Own Meeting deployments.

It’s part of a new range of complete solutions, demonstrating the Texas-based company’s ethos of delivering better meetings, simply, for any device across any platform in any room.

Optimise

The BYOM Small Room Kit can be found at boom.co and features the MEZZO 4K wide angle camera and GIRO Pro professional wireless audio speaker with a 360° omnidirectional microphone. It also includes the ZYGO plug-and-play hub for simple and quick connections.

“In recent years there’s been an explosion in huddle room deployments and our new kit is ideally suited to these type of smaller more versatile locations,” explained Co-Founder Holli Hulett.

“The video conferencing market offers two distinct ways forward, with dedicated in-room systems or Bring Your Own Meeting alternatives. Our new range of meeting room in a box kits simplify the process of choosing the right equipment for the right rooms, to optimise the overall user experience and take away any installation headaches, whichever route is taken.”

She emphasised: “The flexibility and lower cost of BYOM solutions – where users bring their laptops or mobile devices to connect to a room’s AV system – has seen a significant rise, as hybrid and flexible work models became more common. In many ways huddle rooms represent the market hot-spot.”

Co-Founder Fredrik Hörnkvist agrees. “The use of individual devices is now firmly taking over with plug-and-play simplicity, lower costs and a platform agnostic approach some of the main driving forces.”

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

See our boom collaboration reviews

KraftGeek – FlexyMount Phone/Tablet Holder Review

The KraftGeek – FlexyMount Phone/Tablet Holder is a neaty attachment that you can have at your disposal for the bigger devices out there if you happen to use them, I just use mobile phones but there is creators out there that use bigger devices and this will serve them well as it has many uses other than those who vlog etc.

This could be an ideal attachment for the kitchen area for example whereby you could have your iPad attached to this and your tripod top watch cooking menus and so on and also other use cases would be doing musical lessons again the same idea to have your music scripts at hand and easier to access at home or on the go.

Overall this is a simple addition to your collection if you are a vlogger/blogger and more and not confined to one use and can be used in practical manners at home in your studio office and much more.

 

  • Wide Compatibility: Supports smartphones and tablets from 4.7” to 13” (3.54-8.46” width), including iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab, iPhone 15 Pro, and more.
  •  Adjustable Fit: Securely holds devices with an expand button and soft pads, fitting both phones and tablets for versatile tripod mounting.
  •  Flexible Angles: Offers 180° adjustment and 360° rotation, ideal for recording, streaming, or digital sheet music viewing.
  •  Accessory Integration: Features a built-in cold shoe mount for adding lights, mics, or monitors, enhancing your video quality.
  •  Versatile Mounting: Easily attaches to tripods, selfie sticks, music stands, and more with a standard 1/4” screw connect

BUY

Other KraftGeek Reviews 

Video Review

Google-led initiative to support Irish businesses returns

Google is today calling for entries to the third annual You’re the Business Competition. Delivered in partnership with Enterprise Ireland (EI) and the Local Enterprise Offices (LEO) , You’re the Business is an online platform offering digital training and tools to businesses in Ireland free of charge. The competition element will reward businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to digital at different stages of their journey with those selected set to receive a Google digital support package, one-to-one mentoring and the chance to win a bespoke, AI-powered advertising campaign.

The competition is open to businesses across Ireland. Entrants must submit a written entry no longer than 200 words telling their story around how they’ve utilised or enhanced digital skills in order to help their business grow or succeed online.

The judging panel, comprising representatives from Google, EI, and the LEO’s with You’re the Business alumni and past winner Sarah Timony of ADAPTAFASHION will assess the entries based on their response to the prompt ‘Tell us why you’re the business’. A PDF must be uploaded to the competition submission box on the You’re the Business website by 21 March 2025.

This year’s initiative takes on a new AI-focus. The You’re the Business online platform has access to new training modules where users can explore AI tools and learn how AI can help them prepare for the future. Selected businesses will receive a digital support package from Google which includes a one-year Google Workspace Business Standard 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 will be invited to attend a dedicated Winners event in Google’s EMEA HQ in Dublin.

New this year, the company or founder that has demonstrated the most creative or effective use of digital skills to grow or enhance their business will receive a one-of-a-kind prize; a bespoke AI-powered advertising campaign, created by Google AI with a team of experts in partnership with the winner.

Cera Ward, Managing Director at Google Ireland  said:

“We are so excited to launch the third-annual You’re the Business competition and look forward to learning more about these companies, their challenges, and digital ambitions. We know that AI has the power to revolutionise the way we do business which is why we have made it a key focus of this year’s initiative. Google wants to support these companies as they take the next steps on their AI journey.”

 

Carol Gibbons, Divisional Manager. Entrepreneurship, Regions & Local Enterprise at Enterprise Ireland:

“Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices are committed to empowering Irish businesses to succeed online. Our collaboration with Google on initiatives like this competition is a key part of that commitment. We are thrilled to partner with Google on this exciting opportunity and look forward to discovering the innovative ways businesses are approaching their digital growth. We’re here to support them every step of the way on their digital journey.”

John Magee, Chair of the Local Enterprise Office Network said:

“We are committed to helping Irish businesses thrive in a digital world, and this initiative, delivered in partnership with Google, is just one of the many ways we continue to support our clients on their digital journey.”

Speaking at the launch announcement, past winner and judge for the 2025 competition Sarah Timony [pictured], CEO and Founder, ADAPTAFASHION:

“Participating in the You’re the Business competition was a fantastic experience. The programme provided me with invaluable support and resources that directly contributed to the growth and success of ADAPTAFASHION. I’m so grateful for the opportunity and would encourage fellow founders to participate in this year’s initiative to see how far digital can bring you on your growth journey.”

Entries are open now with further information on the You’re the Business competition available at: g.co/yourethebusiness

Irish software research centre Lero to open doors for women to esports competitions

Research to determine if women have cognitive advantages that could help them become stars in the male-dominated esport sector, where players compete for more than €500 million in prize money annually, has been launched by Lero, Ireland’s Research Centre for Software, and University of Limerick.

Lero researchers at the bespoke Esports Science Research Lab—the first of its kind in Europe—have teamed up with Logitech, a designer of software-enabled hardware solutions. This collaboration aims to leverage Logitech’s expertise in hardware design and Lero’s research capabilities to establish elite women gamers’ cognitive and gaming abilities.

 Director of the Esport Science Research Lab and Co-Principal Investigator on the project, Professor Mark Campbell, said gaming is now a multi-billion-euro industry with professional gamers, coaches, and competitions viewed by audiences that compare in size with well-established major sporting events like the Superbowl, the golf majors, Wimbledon, and the Six Nations.

“Even though esports don’t require as much physical effort as traditional sports, there is a dichotomy whereby men feature much more prominently than women at the highest levels of play. Yet most of the video gaming and esports research to date predominantly tests male participants, which means we know little to nothing about elite women gamers’ cognitive and gaming performance.”

Dr Adam Toth, Principal Investigator on the project, added: “This project will continue to grow the capabilities and expertise within the Lero Esports Science Research Lab, utilising bespoke experimental techniques, expert investigators, and high-level processing and analysis tools to identify the attributes of elite women gamers and how we can enhance women’s performance and experience in gaming.”

Dr Toth said the goal of this project is to extend collaborative work between Lero and Logitech in esports and break new ground by investigating the cognitive and gaming performance of elite women gamers.

“We will do this by using bespoke hardware and software to capture behavioural, physiological and performance data during professional and amateur gamers’ training and play sessions to highlight any significant cognitive differences between male and female gamers. This data primarily will come from the differing instrumentation of games/gaming devices, and processing and analysis techniques will be employed to assess the cognitive and in-game similarities and differences of elite women gamers compared to their male counterparts,” he added.

The two-year project at the University of Limerick, which will cost close to €120,000, builds on a successful eight-year collaboration between UL and Logitech and will enhance the capabilities and status of the Esports Science Research Lab at the University of Limerick.

DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme Offers €38,000, Mentorship

The DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme, designed to cultivate the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs in the rapidly evolving health and wellbeing sectors, is now accepting applications for the second year of its ground-breaking innovation programme. Only 12 exceptional individuals from diverse backgrounds will be selected. Those who are passionate about innovation and delivering real impact are encouraged to apply.

Hosted and managed by Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) in partnership with core partners RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin City University, Trinity College Dublin and Tyndall National Institute, this transformative 10-month full-time postgraduate programme, commences in September 2025.

Programme Highlights:

  • €38,000 Scholarship: participants will receive €38,000 tax-free to participate in the programme
  • Expert Mentorship: participants will get invaluable guidance from experienced clinical, industry, investment and technology professionals
  • Comprehensive Training: hands-on training in needs-led innovation, design thinking and entrepreneurship will be provided
  • Direct Access to Healthcare Environments: participants will spend up to 8 weeks in a healthcare environment identifying real healthcare problems to address
  • Exploration of Commercial Opportunities: participants will be supported in developing and validating viable business propositions.

The current participants come from varied backgrounds and include a GP, nurse, physiotherapist, digital health designer, medical device designer, financial manager, digital transformation manager, and solicitor.

Carl Power, DigiBio Healthtech Innovation Programme Director, said:

“By providing aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs with the training, resources and support they need to succeed, this programme will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare with impactful solutions.

We are looking for 12 quality candidates, with five or more years of professional experience, who are looking to get into a start-up or perhaps a career change as an innovation leader. It’s a very hands-on programme where you also get direct access to healthcare environments. At its core, the programme is about learning and applying a specific approach to finding a problem worth solving and building a commercial case to bring it to market.”

DigiBio is supported under the Innovators’ Initiative Programme co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027.

Applications are open until 2nd May. You can apply here – https://www.digibio.ie/apply#apply-now .

Viltrox Reveals Innovative New Lenses at CP+ 2025 Japan

Viltrox, known for its advanced, compact autofocus lenses and camera accessories, is expected to be significant presence at the Camera & Photo Imaging Show 2025 (CP+ 2025), Japan’s premier photography and imaging trade show. In a series of highly-anticipated product launches, Viltrox aims to redefine the lens market and expand possibilities for photographers at all levels.

CP+ 2025 is Asia’s premier photography trade show, showcasing the latest camera technology and innovations. The event is held at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan from February 27 to March 2, 2025. Visit Viltrox at Hall D, Booth 49 to experience cutting-edge products, join insightful seminars, and network with industry professionals.

“This is the perfect venue to showcase our commitment to innovation and dedication to providing the tools photographers need to capture stunning images,” said Viltrox CEO, Daniel Dai (戴锦辉). “We welcome attendees to visit our booth, and experience the future of photography.”

Taking photography into a new era
Viltrox is set to debut several new standout unreleased products at the exhibition, including the AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE, AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE, AF 50mm F2.0 Air lenses, and Viltrox AF 135mm F1.8 LAB Z.

Viltrox will also introduce two new products at the upcoming CP+ show, with the Viltrox camera battery charging case debuting on February 27th, followed by the launch of the Viltrox AF 25mm F1.7 Air lens on February 28th.

These innovative lenses, making their exclusive debut at CP+ 2025, are expected to be available for purchase soon. These products set new standards in their respective focal length classes, with the potential to become the go-to lenses for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Expert insights and advice
In a keynote speech, renowned award-winning Japanese photographer and videographer, Haseo, will offer inspiration and advice for photographers, and insights into Viltrox lens advantages. This exclusive presentation can be attended on March 1 from 2:30pm to 3pm, at Hall D Booth No. 49.

The AF 35mm F1.2 LAB FE, the second lens in Viltrox’s acclaimed LAB series, is revolutionizing the 35mm category. This exceptional lens delivers stunning image quality, boasts precise autofocus, and features a wide aperture for superior low-light performance, making it a standout choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

“We are empowering photographers with the tools they need to express their own unique perspectives,” said Viltrox’s Dai. “Our new lenses and innovative accessories inspire creators to extend creative boundaries and capture stunning images.”

Lenses and accessories that empower creativity
The new AF 85mm F1.4 Pro FE redefines portrait photography with its sharp details and creamy bokeh. Meanwhile Viltrox’s AF 50mm F2 Air FE combines lightweight, compact design with a versatile focal length, making it ideal for street photography and everyday photography.

As well as these exceptional lenses, Viltrox will also unveil a brand-new camera battery charging box and several other exciting innovations, such as the Viltrox DC A1 monitor, and Viltrox DC L2/L3 monitor.

“These new products embody Viltrox’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of photographers, from hobbyists to professionals,” said Kahn Wang, Viltrox marketing director. “At CP+ 2025, we will not only introduce groundbreaking lenses but also a range of creative accessories designed to elevate the entire photography experience. We will soon announce the official release dates.”

Find out more
For more information about these new Viltrox products, visit https://geni.us/prfebcp and drop in at the Viltrox booth (CP+ 2025 Hall D, Booth 49), at Pacifico Yokohama, Japan from February 27 to March 2, 2025.

 

Event details: https://www.cpplus.jp/?hl=en

BBC Studios to make podcasts available to international audiences

Fans of BBC podcasts outside of the UK now have an all-new listening experience on BBC.com and the BBC app. The newly launched audio section of BBC.com and app is curated with international audiences in mind, making the BBC’s vast portfolio of current and archived podcasts, including hits like Global News Podcast, World of Secrets, and Infinite Monkey Cage, plus BBC Radio 4 and World Service radio stations, easier to find.

For the first time, audiences globally can enjoy a fully integrated experience on BBC.com and the app where the BBC’s award-winning audio content sits alongside our renowned journalism and storytelling. Through this new user experience, listeners can explore deeper context and analysis on select topics, gaining a richer understanding of the issues that matter most—all without leaving the platform.

As part of this launch, the BBC will also be making BBC Sounds available exclusively to UK audiences and ending access to the service for international users beginning Spring 2025. UK users who go on holiday (outside the UK) for a short period of time will still be able to use the BBC Sounds app abroad.

This new audio experience is the latest in a series of enhancements that we have been making to BBC.com and the BBC app. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a single, one-stop destination for the best of BBC journalism and storytelling.

BBC Studios is responsible for the monetization of digital news and factual products including BBC.com, the BBC app, BBC Select and BBC Podcast Premium, whose profits help continue to fund the BBC’s world-renowned journalism and reporting.

Header imager credit BBC