Microsoft launches Community Fund for South Dublin organisations

Microsoft is unveiling a new fund to support individuals, community groups, schools and non-profits that want to deliver impactful community projects in South Dublin.

The Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin, managed by non-profit ChangeX, is dedicated to helping support thriving and sustainable communities near the company’s data centre campus in Clondalkin – funding projects related to environmental sustainability and digital skills.

As part of this year’s €100,000 fund, communities will be able to choose from a portfolio of exciting, proven ideas that have already had a positive impact in other communities around the world including a citizen science monitoring scheme to protect water sources, a programme to support the development of school gardens and local biodiversity, and a project aiming to tackle plastic pollution through turning waste into valuable materials.

Applications for funding are open to individuals, groups, schools and non-profits across the South Dublin County Council area. Funding of up to €4,500 per project is available, with a simple step-by-step application process in place to support groups to secure funding. Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with all applicants required to complete a 30-day challenge to unlock funding, which includes establishing a clear project action plan.

The launch of the Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin builds on the support Microsoft has already provided to local communities. Sixty community projects, focusing on the development of digital skills and empowering local sustainability, have benefitted more than 16,000 community members since 2021 alone. Moreover, since 2008, Microsoft has invested more than €4 million in initiatives that support thriving, sustainable communities in the vicinity of its data centre operations in Clondalkin.

Commenting on the launch of the fund, Lavinia Morris, General Manager of Microsoft data centre operations for EMEA, said: “Last year, Microsoft unveiled our Data Centre Community Pledge, highlighting our commitment to local economies and communities where we operate. As we build and operate a global network of advanced data centres, we recognise the crucial role communities play in this ecosystem. The latest Microsoft Community Fund for South Dublin, announced today, will help deliver on the key pillars of this pledge, advancing community prosperity and well-being, while contributing to a sustainable future, and operating responsibly as a good neighbour.

“Over the past 17 years, Microsoft has invested more than €4m in empowering communities close to our data centre operations in Dublin, helping to enhance people’s digital skills, fostering sustainability and advancing community prosperity and well-being. As part of this investment, Microsoft has directly benefited more than 16,000 local people in communities in South and West Dublin and supported the local organisations that help them thrive. We look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact we can make in creating vibrant and sustainable communities through the roll out of the latest South Dublin community fund.”

Commenting on the initiative, Sandy Hazel, who received support by way of the Fund in 2021 and started an Open Orchard project, said: “We wanted to grow more food but buying fruit trees is expensive. When we heard about the funding provided by Microsoft, we realised it was perfect because it allowed us to get the idea off the ground. The idea behind adding fruit trees and berries to our community garden was to give local children the chance to pick their own fruit and have that experience, which is hard to access when growing up in an urban environment. Spending the funding in local nurseries also helped to support small businesses in the area and give back to the local community.”

Niamh McKenna, co-founder and head of impact at ChangeX, said: “Our partnership with Microsoft has already empowered tens of thousands of local changemakers around the world, and we’re excited to continue that work in Dublin this year.”

To find out more and apply, visit this link: https://bit.ly/3VMcLkr

Tech-Enhanced Digital Marketing for the Modern Business: 4 Essential Tips

In today’s competitive landscape, entrepreneurs must adapt to the rapid evolution of technology and digital marketing strategies. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional advertising methods. As the online marketplace expands, a comprehensive digital marketing plan becomes essential for reaching your target audience effectively. Tech-enhanced digital marketing combines creativity and analytics, allowing businesses to engage consumers on multiple fronts. By leveraging recent technological advancements, companies can optimize their marketing campaigns, personalize customer interactions, and strengthen their brand presence. This article offers four essential tips for companies seeking to enhance their digital marketing techniques with cutting-edge technology.

Create a Personalized Experience

Personalization has become a cornerstone of digital marketing. Consumers no longer want a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they expect brands to understand their preferences and tailor interactions accordingly. To achieve this, businesses can utilize data analytics tools that help segment audiences based on behavior, demographics, and interests. By tapping into this information, marketers can create targeted campaigns that speak directly to distinct consumer groups. To take advantage of this trend effectively, consider getting the help of A forward thinking digital agency that’s always growing, as they can guide you in choosing the right tools for your needs. Personalized experiences enhance user experience and drive engagement and conversion rates.

Embrace Automation to Enhance Efficiency

Automation tools are invaluable for modern digital marketing efforts. Marketing automation streamlines processes, allowing businesses to focus more on creativity than repetitive tasks. From emails to social media posting, automation can save time and improve accuracy. Additionally, these tools provide insight into customer interactions and sales performance, enabling data-driven decision-making. Chatbots often enhance customer service by responding instantly to inquiries and ensuring consumers feel valued. Automation permits businesses to maintain consistent communication with their audience while optimizing resources.

Leverage Analytics for Continuous Improvement

Analytical tools equip businesses with the insights needed to refine their marketing strategies continually. Understanding consumer behavior through data enables companies to assess what works and what doesn’t. By monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), brands can identify areas for improvement, adjust their tactics accordingly. A/B testing helps evaluate different approaches, allowing marketers to determine which variations resonate best with their audience. Continuous monitoring and adjustment based on analytical data can drive long-term success, ensuring that marketing strategies evolve with consumer preferences. Embracing data analytics fosters a culture of improvement where every campaign becomes an opportunity for growth.

Invest in Interactive Content

Interactive content is a practical way to engage consumers. Unlike traditional marketing methods, it invites audience participation, fostering a deeper connection between businesses and consumers. Quizzes, polls, and interactive infographics capture attention and encourage sharing, increasing brand visibility. Furthermore, this content provides valuable consumer behavior, preferences, and motivation data. By understanding audience engagement, businesses can craft future content strategies that align with consumer interests. Investing in interactive content enhances user experience and cultivates brand loyalty by keeping consumers coming back for more. As more brands recognize its impact, interactive content will likely become a staple in tech-enhanced digital marketing strategies.

Incorporating technology into your digital marketing approach is not just an option; staying relevant in today’s market is necessary. Businesses can significantly enhance their marketing strategies by creating personalized experiences, embracing automation, leveraging analytics, and investing in interactive content. These methods improve engagement and bolster conversion rates, ultimately leading to tremendous success. By staying updated, your business can ensure it meets the evolving needs of consumers, setting itself apart from the competition.

NIRA Dynamics secures continued partnership with Trafikverket for high-frequency road monitoring

NIRA Dynamics has announced that their Road Health solution will continue to be a key part of Trafikverket’s Connected Road Surface Monitoring, extending our successful collaboration in high-frequency asset management across Sweden’s road network.

After several years of evaluation, Trafikverket has awarded NIRA Dynamics a full continuation of services, recognizing our best-in-class capabilities, recognizing our best-in-class capabilities for detection of pavement damage such as potholes, winter damages due to freeze-thaw and frost damages.

This extension solidifies our role as the prime partner in modernizing Sweden’s road monitoring for both summer and winter conditions.

“We are thrilled to continue to work with Trafikverket in their mission to enhance road maintenance through high-frequency data collection. This partnership has already delivered significant improvements, and we look forward to driving even greater efficiency in road management,” says Johan Petersson, Product Manager at NIRA Dynamics.

Advancing road maintenance with connected vehicle data NIRA Dynamics’ Road Health utilizes real-time data from connected vehicles to provide unparalleled insights into road conditions. By capturing and analyzing data at high frequency, we enable road authorities to: Detect sudden road damages before they escalate into costly repairs.

Identify winter-related wear and freeze-thaw damage that impact road construction longevity.

Optimize maintenance planning with data-driven decision-making. Prevent major structural damage to the road and reduce the need for extensive resurfacing.
“The project has been a very instructive innovation journey for all parties. One of the success factors in the project was the way to prevent the gap between the development phase and the deployment phase, the “valley of death”, namely including development, evaluation and implementation in the same innovation procurement.

Beside a reliable technical solution, this approach requires suppliers with skills for cooperation, responsiveness and flexibility to adapt their solutions to the needs of the stakeholders” says Hawzheen Karim, Coproject Manager and innovation leader at InfraSweden.

New capabilities for the next phase
As part of this continuation, lane marking detection is now being introduced. This nationwide scanning feature will initially serve as a cost-effective screening tool, helping Trafikverket keep track of road markings and improve asset management.

A solution for road authorities worldwide
While this project focuses on Sweden, the benefits of high-frequency road monitoring extend far beyond national borders. NIRA Dynamics works with road authorities globally to transform road maintenance through smart, scalable, and efficient solutions.

More on the project: https://infrasweden.nu/uppkopplade-fordon-ska-hjalpa-till-att-forbattra-vagunderhallet/

Vodafone makes first space video call

Vodafone has successfully made the world’s first space video call using normal 4G/5G smartphones and satellites that will allow multiple users in areas of no mobile coverage to make and receive video calls, access the Internet and use online messaging services. It is the only satellite technology of its kind built to offer a full mobile broadband experience and paves the way for universal digital connectivity and the closure of mobile coverage gaps.

Unlike today’s satellite-based services, users do not need a special dish, terminal or expensive satellite phone to benefit from full mobile broadband connectivity. The service they will receive mirrors the experience of existing 4G and 5G mobile networks, enabling them to use everyday smartphones to switch between space and ground-based networks automatically.

Astronaut Tim Peake and Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group Chief Executive, marked this significant milestone at Vodafone’s new space-to-land gateway, which receives and channels all the signals sent from a user’s smartphone via the BlueBird satellites of Vodafone’s partner, AST SpaceMobile. Vodafone engineer Rowan Chesmer put it to the test when he made the historic space-based video call to Margherita from a remote mountainous location in mid-Wales – where there has never been mobile broadband before. Rowan, who joined Vodafone’s graduate scheme in 2017, is now developing cutting-edge satellite technologies that will improve global connectivity.

Margherita Della Valle said: “Vodafone’s job is to get everyone connected, no matter where they are. Our advanced European 5G network will now be complemented with cutting-edge satellite technology. We are bringing customers the best network and connecting people who have never had access to mobile communications before. This will help to close the digital divide, supporting people from all corners of Europe to keep in touch with family and friends, or work, as well as ensuring reliable rural connectivity in an emergency.”

Operating from low Earth orbit, it is the only satellite service in the world today that offers mobile broadband directly to multiple 4G or 5G smartphones by working seamlessly as an extension of Vodafone’s leading land-based networks. Satellite is a complementary, bolt-on technology providing valuable coverage where no feasible mobile or fixed alternative exists at present. Together, the satellite service and terrestrial network will give Europe a communications infrastructure for use in any location, including mountains, or out at sea, at any time, as well as boosting overall resilience.

Google Pixel Watch 3 45mm Review

The Google Pixel Watch 3 has been one of several devices on my Wrists I have been checking out the last while and having skipped the 2nd iteration this version has improved vastly and well worth the upgrade if you are still on the first one.

Now coming in two sizes 41mm and 45mm it is a bonus to see the bigger version which suits me better and many others from what I hear and this could have been done with the second model but it is what it is and welcome. On the build quality it is excellent and pretty much the same as before with that pebble shaped look and feel and overall it is a simple clean look.

On the 45mm one tested you will instantly note the bigger screen estate and for me this is vital all my watches are on the larger size having moved on from smaller faced watches this is even with traditional watches as I like to have both. What this means is more screen estate just like a bigger phone with smaller bezels also meaning there is more room for more things and more importantly for some a bigger battery.

If you are a Google home owner you appreciate this watch even more now as it its upgraded so you can answer your doorbell and get your notifications and do more on your wrist just as you would on the your Pixel device which for me is excellent.

Customization is also excellent here with an array of watch faces and right down to your notifications which again is important for me and many others out there as I do be on the go sometimes and being able to respond directly from the watch with a bigger screen is excellent and again with phone calls they are clear and for me an important factor, this watch was also test with other watches over the Christmas and they had not got all the features the Pixel Watch 3 has but again coming in under a 100 euros.

Fitbit is on board as we know and will run you an monthly subscription however I feel this is for more die hard fitness people but not for me, with all the features on the Pixel Watch 3 alone there is more than enough for my daily tracking needs, Bedtime mode also has improved but as you know I never wear a watch to bed EVER. Though I must try it sometime (been saying this years)

For the fitness which this watch aims at more so there is plenty on board to give you all the data you need and more including AI which can help you on your goals with suggestions and much more and again AI is the new hype now and of course Google are good at this so why not add it to their watch.

For me the Pixel Watch 3 has really impressed and is a huge update to version one and having more stamina but this will depend on the user and what they have synced to the watch and if someone like me that has lots going on I almost get two days out of it which is a huge improvement.

Overall the Pixel Watch 3 has upped its game and now on par or better in some instances on what is on offer and with the bigger display and simple UI it is one to put on your list if you are looking out for a new smartwatch or want to upgrade and better again move away from those tiny fitness trackers you need a magnifying glass to look at.

The App

 

Features

  • The Google Pixel Watch 3 is designed for performance, with advanced fitness from Fitbit; the 45mm screen is twice as bright and 40% larger than before, making it easier to see your stats and info
  • Maximize your performance with advanced running features; build custom run workouts and get real-time guidance and advanced form tracking
  • Enhance your run routine with Fitbit Premium; Google AI uses your goals, past runs, and readiness to power personalized run recommendations
  • Know what your body is ready for each day with readiness; it uses sleep, resting heart rate, and heart rate variability to show if you’re ready to take on a workout or prioritize recovery
  • Cardio load measures how hard your heart works so you can see how hard you’ve pushed; compare trends to see if you’re under- or over-training

BUY

See our other Google Pixel reviews 

Video Review

Power Capital Renewable Energy, in partnership with AIB, Bank of Ireland and Societe Generale, has successfully completed a project finance round to develop approximately 300MW of solar farms across Ireland

Power Capital Renewable Energy, in partnership with AIB, Bank of Ireland and Societe Generale, has successfully completed a project finance round to develop approximately 300MW of solar farms across Ireland.

This agreement secures facilities of nearly €220M to support the development of seven projects ranging in size from 6.5MW to 153MW.

The combined production of this portfolio will generate enough electricity to power over 70,000 homes per year.

All projects were awarded a tariff under the Department of Environment, Climate & Communication’s second Renewable Energy Support Scheme (RESS 2) in 2022.

Projects have commenced construction and are set to be completed and operational in 2026, contributing significantly to the government’s goal of generating 80% of Ireland’s energy from renewable sources by 2030.

As part of the RESS 2 scheme, local communities will benefit from a contribution of €2 per MWh throughout the duration of the program.

Power Capital already has 230MW of fully operational projects since 2024 and continues to expand its portfolio, with an additional 400MW secured under the RESS 3 and RESS 4 schemes.

Power Capital: Justin Brown CEO says: “We have dedicated nearly 12 months to this transaction, encompassing seven solar projects across multiple counties and collaborating with various construction and finance teams to achieve a successful outcome. This is an outstanding achievement for Power Capital, our team and everyone involved. We are very excited to build on this success and advance our RESS 3 & 4 portfolio later this year.”

 AIB: Jim Arigho Director, Climate Capital says: “The rollout of utility scale solar energy generation is a vital component in Ireland meeting its Climate Action targets and complements wind energy generation.  This financing is a milestone on that journey and AIB is delighted to work with the Power Capital team again in helping Ireland make the transition to a more sustainable future.”

 Bank of Ireland: Michael Lauhoff, Head of Specialist Banking, Corporate & Commercial commented:  “Bank of Ireland is delighted to support Power Capital in reaching this important milestone. The debt package will finance the delivery of a scaled and diversified portfolio of solar assets which will directly contribute to decarbonising Irish energy. As a long-term financier of Irish renewables, the provision of capital to the sustainable energy market is a key strategic ambition for Bank of Ireland and we are proud to be part of these exciting projects.”

 Societe Generale said: “Societe Generale is delighted to support the development of Power Capital, one of the leading Irish renewables developers, and have worked alongside Power Capital, AIB, and Band of Ireland since the start to bring the financing to a successful close. The portfolio of solar farms could contribute towards Ireland’s 2030 renewable generation targets and the development of renewable assets in the country.”

International Cybersecurity Expert to Explore the Disruptive Danger of Disinformation in the Age of AI at Public Lecture

Trinity College Dublin and the ADAPT Research Ireland Centre today announced an upcoming visit of internationally renowned expert in cybersecurity, Professor David J. Hickton of the University of Pennsylvania, in March. Professor Hickton will deliver a public lecture titled: “The Disruptive Danger of Disinformation in the Age of AI” on Wednesday 5th March at 5pm in the Swift Theatre in Trinity College Dublin’s Arts Building.  The event is free and open to the public.  Registration here: https://forms.gle/rSNvsQaJXaccQpd66

Professor Hickton, a former U.S. Attorney and Founding Director of the University of Pittsburgh Institute for Cyber Law, Policy, and Security, will deliver this lecture as part of his March visit to Trinity College Dublin. During his time in Dublin, he will also engage with faculty, researchers, and students along with policymakers and other stakeholders through workshops, guest lectures, and roundtable discussions. During his visit, Professor Hickton will also assume the role of Adjunct Professor in the School of Computer Science and Statistics at Trinity College Dublin.

This timely public lecture will examine the pervasive influence of disinformation in an era defined by rapid technological advances and the rise of generative AI. Professor Hickton will explore the historical roots of disinformation, its role in undermining trust in institutions and science, and the urgent need for global cooperation to address these challenges. The lecture will also discuss potential pathways to address this growing crisis, balancing free speech with the urgent need for regulation.

Professor Hickton’s visit builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last year between Trinity and the University of Pittsburgh, establishing a partnership to drive innovation in AI safety and governance. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to addressing the complex challenges of the digital age,” said Professor John Kelleher, Director of ADAPT. “We are honoured to welcome Professor Hickton to Dublin and look forward to the rich insights and contributions he will bring.”

To learn more about Professor David Hickton and his work, please visit: https://www.cyber.pitt.edu/people/david-j-hickton-jd

Maxcom FW66 Iron R – BijouWatch Men’s Jewellery Smartwatch Review

The Maxcom FW66 Iron R – BijouWatch Men’s Jewellery Smartwatch is one the latest watches out on my wrists for the past few weeks and for the money it looks good and does the job for those who want more than basics.

The advanced health features offer constant heart rate, blood oxygen and blood pressure monitoring, sleep analysis and sports tracking that has over 70 modes for recording workouts and monitoring progress over time, thanks to an intuitive app. Fast charging and a generous battery yields 14 days of life from one charge.

See the app features below and there is much more for the sporting enthusiast here for plenty of sports and check out the video review below and the unboxing is here

The watch is well built and has one pusher and one dial it is not like a digital crown though which is no big deal the watch stands out nicely and comes with two straps so this is a good thing not only that there is a link removing tool in the box which I have never seen with a smartwatch and I have reviewed countless smartwatches now so with that very nice and weighty metal strap in the box you do not need to rush out to a jewelers to get that fixed to your size you can do it there and then at home.

This is a basic smartwatch equipped with a 1.43-inch Amoled screen and is plenty bright, however it offers more than most basic offerings out there with the ability to take calls on the watch you can see a demo of the speaker below in the full video review.

You can control music gather data on your health goals, set goals send business cards and control push notifications, however you are limited here on what apps you can use and hopefully more is added one good thing however is when my doorbell rings I can get the calls on the watch an answer given the app is not in the list so for me that was an added bonus.

There is plenty of faces to pick from built into the app which is nice and you can add your own there is something for everyone here when it comes to customizing the watch albeit it basic there is plenty there and take your time to look a the gallery we show you all this in the video review.

Notifications are quick but basic with a line of text and you cant respond you can dial numbers from the watch which is handy and again most importantly take calls and they are clear the speaker is loud.

Overall this is a simple to use smartwatch with all the basics and less convoluted when it comes to menus setting it up and is great for those into their fitness regimes and not only that it looks good too.

The App

 

Features 

  • BUSINESS AND COMFORT: An elegant and innovative Jewellery Smartwatch, from BijouWatch series designed for demanding Men. Its timeless design and two different premium straps included make it perfect for both business meetings and intense workouts
  • AMOLED SCREEN: Equipped with a 1.43-inch Amoled screen Iron R offers vivid colors and image depth. The polished 2.5D glass set in a slim robust zinc alloy frame gives the watch an elegant, timeless look. With the Always-on Display option, you know the time without activating the screen
  • PREMIUM QUALITY: The brushed steel highlights the watch’s unique character. The set includes a stainless steel bracelet and a premium quality silicone magnetic strap. A tool is included to make shortening the bracelet easier
  • MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS: Iron R combines elegance with functionality. It offers over 70 sport modes to monitor steps, calories, distance, and heart rate. All data is saved in a dedicated app FitCloudPro, helping to achieve your fitness goals without sacrificing style
  • ALL IN ONE: With Iron R, you can receive calls and read messages and social media notifications without reaching for your phone. Customize your watch face to match your style. Choose from many available designs or upload your own image

BUY 

Other smartwatch reviews 

Video Review

Halosphere VR Review: Unlocking the World’s Hidden and Disappearing Treasures

In an era where travel is constrained by time, finances, or physical limitations, Halosphere VR offers a revolutionary way to explore the world. Fully integrated with Apple Vision Pro, this virtual reality platform brings history, culture, and nature to life through immersive 8K 3D video in 360° and 180° formats.

Halosphere VR isn’t just another travel app—it’s a tool for preservation, showcasing iconic and endangered locations in the highest quality. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, history buff, or someone unable to travel physically, Halosphere makes virtual travel a reality.

What is Halosphere VR?

Halosphere VR is a virtual reality platform that takes users on journeys to breathtaking destinations—all from the comfort of home. With 8K 3D video resolution, optimized for Apple Vision Pro, Halosphere offers sharp visuals for an immersive experience.

Featuring over 100+ locations across seven continents, Halosphere VR celebrates cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and ecosystems at risk of disappearing. Learn more at Halosphere.ca.

Key Features of Halosphere

  1. Exclusive Apple Vision Pro Integration

Halosphere VR uses Apple Vision Pro capabilities to deliver smooth 360° and 180° experiences. Every detail—from vibrant landscapes to cultural relics—comes alive in 8K 3D resolution with Spatial Audio.

  1. 8K 3D Video Content

Halosphere VR sets a new standard for virtual travel. Whether marveling at Iceland’s northern lights or diving into Indonesia’s reefs, Halosphere ensures unmatched quality.

  1. Virtual Access to Endangered Locations

Many destinations are at risk due to climate change or urbanization. Halosphere preserves these treasures in stunning detail.

  1. Inclusivity and Accessibility

With features like subtitles and an intuitive interface, Halosphere is ideal for hearing-impaired users and individuals with mobility challenges.

  1. Interactive Learning Tools

Explore destinations with in-app information powered by Wikipedia, complemented by quizzes for an engaging educational experience.

  1. Offline Access

Download locations and enjoy offline—perfect for travel or remote settings.

Why Halosphere VR is a Must-Have

  • For Travel Enthusiasts

Halosphere VR provides access to over 100+ locations across all seven continents, including Greece’s ancient ruins, Iceland’s natural beauty, and the Maldives’ coral reefs. This Halosphere VR review highlights how the app redefines exploration by combining cutting-edge technology with stunning destinations. For those seeking immersive adventures, Halosphere VR travel offers the perfect solution.

  • For Environmental Advocates

Halosphere promotes sustainable tourism, reducing the need for physical travel while protecting fragile ecosystems.

  • For Those with Limited Mobility

Halosphere VR is a lifeline for individuals unable to travel physically, offering the world’s beauty in an accessible format.

How to Get Started

Halosphere VR is available now on the App Store. Visit Halosphere.ca to explore more and join the growing community of virtual travelers.

Final Thoughts

Halosphere VR isn’t just an app—it’s a movement to preserve, educate, and inspire. With immersive 8K 3D video, Apple Vision Pro integration, and destinations spanning every continent, Halosphere sets a new benchmark for virtual travel experiences. As the ultimate Halosphere virtual reality platform, it ensures the wonders of the world remain within reach for everyone.

Download Halosphere VR today at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/halosphere-virtual-travel-app/id6478453596 and explore the world like never before.