Research in conjunction with Revolut, the global financial app with more than 45 million customers worldwide, and over 2.8 million in Ireland, has found that more than a third (36%) of consumers in Ireland would put off saving to buy a house in favour of medium to short-term satisfaction.
Asked what big spending projects they would consider putting off in favour of instant gratification, consumers across Ireland also claimed that both their own wedding (17%) and having children (14%) could also fall by the wayside in favour of more immediate satisfaction.
The survey, conducted by market research company Dynata, asked a random sample of 1,000 consumers across Ireland, with the findings representative of people from every county.
These revelations come as 11% of Irish savers also pointed to low interest rates as the main challenge facing them when trying to put aside money. Meanwhile, just short of one in five Irish consumers (19%) claim inflation is stifling their savings.
12% of respondents believe they will never be able to consistently save enough to fund these kinds of big life projects, and therefore prefer to enjoy medium to short-term satisfaction.
Revolut launched its Instant Access Savings accounts in Ireland at the end of May, offering customers competitive interest rates across all its different plans, with interest paid out daily.
Maurice Murphy, General Manager at Revolut Bank UAB – Ireland Branch, said: “Every bank’s mission should be to give its customers the opportunity to build their own financial wealth. With Revolut, consumers all across Ireland can get a good return on their deposits to ensure that they don’t need to miss out on or put off those big life moments such as buying a home, having children, or getting married. Revolut savers on all of our plans benefit from really competitive interest paid out to them daily, as well as immediate access to their money.”
Revolut Bank UAB (Irish Branch) was recently recognised by financial comparison site Bonkers.ie as ‘Ireland’s Best Consumer Business’ and ‘provider of the Best Current Account’, while the company ranked 9th as part of the Ireland RepTrak® 2024 study earlier this year.
The Edifier W260NC ANC Hi-Res audio earbuds have been in my ears some time now and it is time to tell you all about them with a super clean look and fit these have all the features expected and come with a cool finish on the case and earbuds.
As above the case is where we will start with that has a super finish to it and looks really well and above par in my opinion to the standard of cases we see today and it offers some grip too with the textured finish.
The earbuds are a standard affair and look familiar however these also have some of that textured finish that matches the case which is a nice touch they do look well and sit well in the ears and be sure to get the right tips for you for the optimum sound experience.
These are best used with Android devices and have all the features that you would expect from Edifier and that include Hi-Res audio and LDAC.
You have several noise cancelling controls which are High,Low Wind reduction and Ambient sound or just off making these perfect for indoors and outdoors and the ANC is good on these and so is the wind reduction on calls after testing it is Ireland we are not short of wind or bad weather.
The audio is great and of course expected from Edifier highs lows and mids all good no lag latency or tinny sound and several EQs to picks from such as Pop, Rockm Classical and Classic and even more if you choose to go the LDAC route you have different frequencies/ sampling rates and so on. On these earbuds you get a 10 mm woofer and a 6 mm tweeter in each earbud which pack a punch overall with good volume and clarity.
All your controls are present as expected and you can decide how they operate you can see more of that in the video below.
Overall again Edifier have delivered a feature packed pair of earbuds that look well and affordable and if you are in the market for something new you should put them on your list.
The App
[Powerful Bass, Hi-Res Sound] Featuring LDAC codec and Hi-Res Audio wireless certification, the W260NC earbuds enhance sound reproduction and minimize signal degradation during wireless transmission, preserving sound quality.
[-45dB Deep Hybrid ANC] W260NC earbuds offer a noise reduction of 45 dB and also feature wind noise reduction and ambient sound modes, allowing you to select different music modes based on the environment.
[Dual-Dynamic Drivers] With a 10 mm woofer and a 6 mm tweeter in each earbud, they deliver the highest level of sound resolution, offering a wider frequency response and enhancing both the clarity of the vocal performance and dynamic bass.
Edifier W260NC – techbuzzireland
[Superior Call Quality] Equipped with 6 mics and an AI algorithm, they ensure clear communication, no matter where you are. Your voice will be transmitted with clarity and strength.
[Multipoint Connection & Bluetooth 5.3] Enjoy a stable connection with Bluetooth 5.3, which supports multipoint connection to facilitate the seamless switching between your laptop and your phone.
[Stylish Design] The leather texture and metal plating provide a grip and texture that is different from most glossy charging cases. Additionally, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit. It comes with three pairs of earplugs to help you select the perfect fit.
Big Red Cloud, the Dublin headquartered online accounting software business and UK’s GoCardless, the bank payment company, have expanded their relationship. Through Big Red Cloud’s integration of GoCardless’ payment capabilities into its platform, its customers can now, for the first time, use Direct Debit to automatically collect and reconcile recurring payments from their own clients directly.
In addition to helping accountants and SMEs reduce late payments and bad debt, the integration project will also free up time so they can focus on client-facing activities.
In a further initiative, before the end of 2024, Big Red Cloud will also add GoCardless’ open banking-powered payment feature, Instant Bank Pay. This will provide accountants an alternative for instant, one-off payments without the high fees associated with traditional card transactions.
Marc O’Dwyer, CEO at Big Red Cloud said: “We are really pleased to be expanding our relationship with GoCardless. As a customer already using GoCardless for our own business, it was a natural step for us to look at how we might bring these benefits to our customers.
“Our goal is to simplify financial management for accountants, and a large part of that is making sure they have access to the latest payment technology. By partnering with innovators such as GoCardless, we are able to deliver – and we know first-hand how it revolutionises the payment experience for the better.”
Jolawn Victor, Chief Growth Officer at GoCardless, said: “We believe accountants should be successful because of the valuable advice and services they provide to clients. Building on our relationship with Big Red Cloud enables us to bring faster, cheaper and more secure payments to our joint merchants and their customers, freeing up time for accountants who can take payments off their list and get back to serving their clients.”
The partnership strengthens GoCardless’ position in the accounting sector, building on existing integrations with a number of major players in the space.
Big Red Cloud is based in Dun Laoghaire in South Dublin and has 75,000 online customers for its accounting software products.
Success in file management with Mac often relies on proper tool selection, and the Archive Utility is among the most helpful. It’s a built-in utility within macOS that makes file compression and extraction easier; it assists all those who have to deal with big files, frequently downloading them or organizing documents. Let’s dive into the benefits and best practices for using Archive Utility Mac for file management.
What Is Archive Utility and Why It Matters on Mac
This utility is a compression tool, thus shrinking the size of the file in its size, which, in turn, enables users to save space and keep things in order. Large project folders, for instance, could be shrunk instantly into much smaller and control-sized files with Archive Utility by saving space but making these files easier to store and share.
On the extraction side, things couldn’t be easier with Archive Utility. You can think of an incoming ZIP full of documents or media files. You would not have to use any third-party software; you’d open it right there and then with Archive Utility, which saves you from searching headaches for compatible software to decompress or compress the data. It’s handy, dependable, and perfectly cut to macOS cloth.
Key File Formats Supported by Archive Utility
Examples include cross-platform formats such as ZIP and TAR, allowing you to share files between Mac, Windows and Linux systems easily. You’ll also find the utility supports GZ and CPGZ file types, both of which have several uses in development and data compression. These formats are especially convenient for those who work with large volumes of data and plan to use some kind of data compression to save space.
In case some file types require more specialized handling, for example, if a user wants to unrar file on Mac, lightweight third-party options can easily be installed to complement the functionality of Archive Utility. For all three, ZIP, TAR, and GZ, this utility offers an all-in-one solution that reduces reliance on third-party software and simplifies workflows.
How Archive Utility Enhances File Management on Mac
Saving Storage Space through Compression
This tool helps to enable better storage options in that compressed files occupy a smaller space. In this, you can keep your documents, photos of particular moments, or even work projects in order without the thought of clutter. It is not only a matter of saving space but also of creating a systematic way of storing backups or collections.
This is also helpful for file backup; since the files are smaller when compressed, they are easier to store for longer periods or to transfer onto external drives. For example, should one have been working on design projects over the past year, compressing them using Archive Utility will allow everything to be kept in one archive, occupying less space and keeping it neat for easy access at any moment it is needed.
Efficient Ways to Organize and Share the Files
The other major advantage of Archive Utility is how easy it makes file organization and sharing. Compressing a batch of files, for instance, is one of those ways in which Archive Utility packages them together into one neat archive, thereby reducing the clutter of one file after another. For professionals who have to manage several project files, or for personal users who are arranging family photos, that would save them quite a lot of time.
This is very useful in the case of email attachments or uploading to cloud storage, where the file size limit provides a barrier. Compressing files ensures that even large attachments can meet the size limit, so you don’t have to go back and forth trying to send an overly large file.
Password Encryption of Files
Besides file organization, Archive Utility can also provide the option of setting a password on compressed files- a rather basic but effective way of protecting information. Suppose you are sharing financial documents or personal data; using a password on the archive adds a layer of security that keeps access to the file limited to only authorized users. This is especially useful in creating file backups onto shared storage or even sending archival files with sensitive information.
Advanced Tips to Use Archive Utility on Mac More Effectively
Customizing Archive Utility Settings for Better Control
This utility also allows the setting of default save locations for extracted files, which might be of extreme use since it saves users from a lot of hassle regarding file organization. This means that instead of having to manually move files to their proper locations after extraction, you can simply set Archive Utility to save files to one single folder automatically so that everything remains in order without extra steps.
Automate File Compress and Extracting Work
You could use Automator to configure how Archive Utility handles routines and makes the application perform repetitive tasks without your intervention. Say, for instance, that at the end of every month, you compress some project files; you could create a workflow for that, and instead, you’d invest more time in other productive activities.
An Automator can also help with batch processing, such as pressing or extracting many files all at once. It helps handle big projects and simplify your work by ensuring that you will be able to handle bulk files with no delays. By integrating Archive Utility into Automator, users will be able to establish efficient, hands-free file management routines that ensure maximum productivity.
Conclusion
For the typical Mac user, Archive Utility is far more than what might be referred to as simply a utility. With its support for ZIP, CPIO, and TAR formats, it’s, in fact, an everyday tool that creates order, effectiveness, and safety in digital life.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology has transformed the telecommunications landscape, offering businesses and individuals an affordable, flexible, and reliable alternative to traditional phone systems. With the rapid advancements in internet infrastructure, VoIP is quickly emerging as the preferred method for voice communication. Here’s why VoIP is set to lead the future of telecommunications and become the go-to choice for modern communication needs.
Cost Efficiency and Affordability
One of the primary advantages of VoIP is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional phone services, particularly for businesses with international operations, can incur significant expenses in both installation and call rates. VoIP, on the other hand, uses internet connectivity to transmit calls, resulting in dramatically reduced costs. By eliminating the need for dedicated phone lines, VoIP allows users to make local and international calls at a fraction of the price of conventional phone services. Additionally, there’s no need to maintain separate voice and data networks, which reduces infrastructure costs and simplifies management for companies.
For businesses, this affordability can make a considerable impact on the bottom line. Many of the top VoIP systems offer tiered pricing plans, so businesses only pay for the features they need. This flexibility allows companies of all sizes to implement VoIP technology without overextending their budget, making VoIP a practical choice for startups, SMEs, and large corporations alike.
Enhanced Accessibility and Flexibility
VoIP has the unique ability to work anywhere with a reliable internet connection, giving users unparalleled flexibility in how and where they communicate. Whether a team member is in the office, working from home, or traveling, VoIP systems ensure they remain connected. This accessibility is crucial in today’s world, where remote work and flexible office arrangements are becoming increasingly common. VoIP systems also support a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops, enabling users to make and receive calls from virtually anywhere.
The ability to unify communications across multiple devices makes VoIP an essential tool for businesses seeking to stay agile and responsive. Employees can use one number across various devices, ensuring seamless communication regardless of location. This flexibility not only improves productivity but also enhances customer experience, as clients and customers can reach team members quickly and easily. For businesses, the adaptability of VoIP technology translates to better communication and collaboration across the board.
Advanced Features and Integration
VoIP systems offer a host of advanced features that go beyond the capabilities of traditional telephony. Many VoIP solutions come with functionalities like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, video conferencing, and instant messaging. These features enable businesses to manage communication efficiently, create personalized client interactions, and enhance team collaboration. VoIP systems can also be integrated with other business tools, such as CRM software, allowing for a seamless flow of information and streamlining workflows.
These integrated features are especially beneficial for customer service teams, as they can access client records, track call histories, and resolve issues in real time without switching between systems. Additionally, VoIP systems’ ability to support video calls and conferencing means businesses can host virtual meetings and communicate visually, eliminating the need for third-party conferencing platforms. This functionality enables VoIP to act as a comprehensive communication solution, consolidating various tools into a single platform and making it easier for teams to stay connected and productive.
Scalability and Customization
As businesses grow, their communication needs evolve. Traditional phone systems often require costly hardware upgrades and time-consuming installations to accommodate additional lines. VoIP, however, is highly scalable, allowing companies to add or remove lines and features as needed. Businesses can adjust their VoIP system to meet seasonal demands or expansion needs without the hassle of installing new physical infrastructure. This scalability is invaluable for businesses that are expanding or that experience fluctuating communication demands.
VoIP systems also offer high levels of customization, enabling companies to tailor their communication setup to suit their specific needs. Whether it’s adding call-routing options, creating a virtual receptionist, or setting up automated responses, businesses can configure their VoIP system to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. This ability to scale and customize ensures that VoIP can grow with a business, making it a forward-thinking investment.
Businesses like to utilize AI-powered ringless voicemail technology to automate customer outreach, ensuring messages are delivered efficiently without disrupting recipients’ daily routines.
Improved Sound Quality and Reliability
In its early days, VoIP was often criticized for inconsistent sound quality. However, with improvements in internet speeds and better codecs, VoIP now offers sound quality that rivals, and often surpasses, traditional phone lines. Many VoIP systems use HD voice technology, which provides crystal-clear audio quality and reduces background noise, ensuring a professional call experience. VoIP also allows for multiple data packets to be sent simultaneously, so if one part of the transmission is lost, the conversation remains intact.
Reliability has also improved with the advent of advanced VoIP infrastructure. Most modern VoIP systems are equipped with failover mechanisms, which automatically reroute calls to a designated backup line or voicemail in case of an internet outage. This ensures uninterrupted communication and business continuity, making VoIP a dependable choice for companies that rely heavily on consistent and reliable communication.
With its cost efficiency, flexibility, and advanced features, VoIP is rapidly establishing itself as the future of telecommunications. Its scalability, customization options, and integration capabilities make it an essential tool for modern businesses seeking to enhance communication and productivity. As technology continues to evolve, VoIP will remain at the forefront of telecommunications, offering solutions that adapt to the ever-changing needs of businesses and individuals alike.
The QCY Crossky C30 Ear Clip Earphones are a new shaped earbud to the market and some might be a bit puzzled on how they work but after testing to my surprise these are pretty cool and do not fall off despite how they sit in your ear and look.
These are a well built product and look premium it has to be said and overall the sound is dam good despite not going all the way into your ears and akin to bone conduction styled earbuds.
The touch controls work really well with all the features expected present and you can see more in the video review and screenshots below.
The QCY App is a decent app as I have said before and so is the brand and after testing several products over the years they are impressive and these are no different when it comes to sound. For those who like to take calls they were also equally impressive and quite clear on both ends on the few calls taken.
Highs lows and mids all good good bass and volume no tinny sound maxed out and no lag latency and you also get spatial sound thrown in here now which is a good feature to see and with all the EQ settings to explore you can set the right sound for you as everyone ears differ and overall if you want something new to try and a new style with good sound I would certainly put them on my to buy list this year.
The QCY App
1
2
3
4
5
6
Features
[Innovative C-Shape]: Stay aware of your surroundings without sealing your ear canal, delivering all-day comfort with barely-there feel.
•[Crystal Clear Calls]: Noise-reduction microphones ensure your voice is heard clearly, every time.
•[Advanced Directional Audio]: Accurate sound transmission with auto-adjusting beams for a private, immersive experience.
•[10.8mm Dual-Magnet Driver]: Provides balanced, high-quality sound with crisp vocals.
•[Extended Listening]: Up to 36 hours of continuous playback for long-lasting enjoyment.
In another groundbreaking move to make tech education more accessible, Northcoders – the leading tech training provider – has launched a new part-time, 20-week JavaScript bootcamp that can be paid for in interest free monthly payments. The course has been specifically designed for individuals balancing work or personal commitments who aspire to enter the tech industry without quitting their jobs.
Priced affordably – €500 deposit and then €179.16 for 24 months – theremote course will start on Monday 24th February 2025. Students will follow an industry-leading curriculum and with a flexible schedule allowing them to learn from anywhere, studying around their work, family, and personal lives. Tuition can be spread across 24 months in interest-free instalments, making it one of the most affordable paths into tech.
Based on Northcoders’ award-winning program, the bootcamp covers everything from JavaScript fundamentals to advanced front and back-end development, preparing graduates for immediate employment in tech.
In weeks one and two, the curriculum will focus on Core Skills. Topics will include Distributed Version Control, Visualising Function Executions and Debugging. For the next seven weeks, JavaScript Fundamentals will take centre stage; followed by Back End (weeks 11 to 15) and then Front End (weeks 16 to 20).
Each block will include one to one mentoring sessions, live lectures, live seminars, self-study periods and study groups. Careers support is also given to part-time students, including career support documents that Northcoders supplies to its full-time students, as well as access to its jobs board which includes roles at hiring partners right across the UK.
David Bartlett – Tech Lead at Northcoders – said: “We are really excited to be launching this new part-time bootcamp and payment plan. We believe it is a big step forward in opening up tech careers to even more people. We understand funding is an issue for many, so our aim is to break down those barriers and equip aspiring developers with the skills needed to launch successful coding careers.
SSE has acquired the project development rights for a 120MW/240MWh grid-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) project in County Offaly from UK-based renewable energy company Low Carbon which, if approved for final delivery, could be constructed and operational by the end of decade.
The purchase marks another step forward for SSE Renewables, the renewable energy business of FTSE-listed SSE plc, as it continues to grow its battery storage development portfolio on the island of Ireland.
Under the deal SSE Renewables has acquired the consented Thornsberry BESS project from Grid Systems Services Limited, a developer of grid-scale battery storage projects in Ireland owned by Low Carbon.
Thornsberry is on a secured greenfield site in the townlands of Derrynagall and Ballydaly near Tullamore with planning consent for a grid-scale BESS. It has a grid connection offer to connect 120MW of import/export capacity to Ireland’s national grid via an adjacent existing 110kV substation.
The proposed battery system would be capable of storing up to 240MWh of energy for flexible dispatch at times of peak demand. When called upon, Thornsberry would be capable of providing back-up energy to the equivalent of over 115,000 Irish homes for up to two hours at a time*, while also delivering essential balancing services to Ireland’s energy system.
Subject to a final investment decision by SSE Renewables, the project could enter construction and be operational by the end of the decade. The project would be expected to provide a boost to the supply chain and job creation in County Offaly and the wider Midlands during delivery. It would also support the delivery of local authority essential services in Offaly through the payment of development contributions and commercial rates.
The addition of the Thornsberry project grows the company’s secured battery pipeline in Ireland to 300MW, as part of a wider 1.8GW pipeline across the Ireland and the UK.
Heather Donald, Director of Onshore Wind, Solar and Battery – UK and Ireland, SSE Renewables, said: “Acquiring the consented Thornsberry project in County Offaly is another great step forward in our plans to grow SSE Renewables’ battery storage development portfolio in Ireland. The addition of this grid-scale project can make an important contribution to the delivery of SSE’s fully funded five-year Net Zero Acceleration Programme, while also advancing the diversity of the technologies in our portfolio.
“The Midlands has a long and proud tradition of supporting Ireland’s energy security. With the development of new onshore wind, solar and battery projects such as Thornsberry, the region can continue to play a significant role in delivering homegrown energy for Irish consumers while decarbonising the country’s power system. In doing so, we can help ensure vital energy projects can deliver positive social and economic benefits to County Offaly and the wider Midlands.”
Low Carbon, who began developing the project in 2018, were one of the first movers to develop, build and operate battery storage and solar in the Irish renewables market having provided approximately 20% of the country’s operational storage capacity.
Located near Tullamore in County Offaly, the Thornsberry project is on a secured greenfield site with planning consent for an installed capacity of 120 MW and a grid connection offer to connect to the Irish national grid via an existing 110kV substation. Once built, the project could power more than 115,000 homes for up to two hours at times of peak demand, underlining the key role battery storage is playing in unlocking the path to net zero.
It follows Low Carbon’s recent announcement on a 6 GW Dutch battery storage portfolio, underscoring their market leading position of developing battery storage assets which are essential for advancing global decarbonisation efforts and grid stability as demand for electricity grows.
Founder and Chief Executive of Low Carbon, Roy Bedlow, said:
“We are delighted to collaborate with SSE on this project, which underscores Low Carbon’s leading position in the Irish storage market. Furthermore, this announcement demonstrates our expertise of delivering high-quality investable assets to the market, meanwhile playing an important role in supporting our future growth as we aim to build 20 GW of new renewable energy.
Enterprise Ireland (EI) has approved over €55 million in funding to support the decarbonisation of Irish businesses. Approved under the Environmental Aid scheme and EI’s Green Transition Fund, the funding has benefited more than 400 Irish companies since June 2022, reducing CO2 emissions by an estimated 130,000 tonnes. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment also allocated a further €300 million in June this year under the Environmental Aid scheme to support EI’s broader commitment to advancing sustainable growth among Irish companies.
These figures were announced as more than 500 industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts attend Enterprise Ireland’s inaugural Sustainable Enterprise Summit, which is taking place today, 5 November, in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre in Dublin 8.
Ireland’s commitment to reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and a 51% reduction by 2030, requires decisive action within the enterprise sector, with a 35% reduction in on-site industrial emissions required by 2030.
EI client companies that qualify as large industrial emitters (those regulated by the EU Emissions Trading System – “EU ETS”) have already made significant reductions, with support from this funding. Since 2021, these companies have reduced emissions by 13%, which indicates good progress towards the 2030 target.
The inaugural Sustainable Enterprise Summit marks a significant step forward in supporting Irish businesses to meet national climate targets and transition to a sustainable future. The summit will spotlight how Irish companies can integrate sustainability into their core strategies, thereby enhancing competitiveness while addressing the global demand for greener, climate-resilient products and services.
Jenny Melia, Executive Director of Enterprise Ireland, said:“With over €55 million in funding approved to date, we are enabling businesses of all sizes to reduce their carbon footprint, harness cost savings, and position themselves at the forefront of the low-carbon economy. We’ve made significant strides in helping companies adopt more sustainable practices, but as we look toward our ambitious 2030 and 2050 targets, we recognise there is more to do. Enterprise Ireland will continue to strengthen its support for businesses on this journey over the coming years, enabling companies to turn sustainability from a challenge into a competitive advantage.”
Minister of Trade Promotion, Digital & Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD highlighted his Department’s ongoing commitment to supporting businesses on their decarbonisation journey: “Decarbonisation is no longer optional; it’s essential for resilience in today’s competitive landscape. By supporting businesses in their transition, we’re ensuring that Irish companies not only meet climate targets but also thrive in a decarbonising world.”
The Sustainable Enterprise Summit will highlight success stories from Irish companies who have leveraged sustainability as a growth opportunity and will offer practical insights and support mechanisms to aid businesses in their journey toward a sustainable, competitive future.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from industry leaders as well as a several Irish companies, ranging from start-ups to SMEs and multinationals, with contributions from leading Irish companies including Diageo, Dairygold, Techrete, Aerogen, Watershed, Portwest, Version1, and Carbery.
