Linxens commits to fostering diversity and unlocking the full potential of its workforce in engineering

Linxens, the world leader in the design and manufacture of security and identification solutions for the smartcard, eGovernment, connected health and the Internet of Things (IoT) markets, reaffirms its commitment to diversity and the role of women in electronics manufacturing.

Ethical principles

For several years now, Linxens has been committed to promoting diversity and professional equity within its teams, a dedication that is all the more strategically important as the company itself diversifies its activities towards new high-growth sectors such as IoT and healthcare. The company is convinced that diversity – whether in terms of skills, background, origin or gender – is a driver of performance and innovation and contributes to the richness and creativity of its people. The issue of gender parity remains important insofar as Linxens’ areas of activity have traditionally been considered male. Linxens is committed to creating an environment free of discrimination in the treatment of individuals.

In France, in particular, women engineers are still under-represented in engineering schools and in positions of responsibility. They often face specific obstacles. According to the Femmes Ingénieures association, 24% of engineers are women, i.e. 242,810 out of around 1 million working engineers. This non-parity seems inescapable, given that only 30% of engineering students are women.

A spotlight on three exceptional talents at Linxens with an impressive career path

 Helena Berg, Managing Director at Linxens Healthcare (Sweden)

Helena BERG is an accomplished and passionate leader, with a solid background in mechanical engineering and organizational consulting. After six years in the aviation industry, where she contributed to key projects for the Swedish Air Force, she moved to the healthcare industry. At Linxens Healthcare, she manages and oversees the company’s operations, while providing strategic direction to the Board of Directors. Her inspirational leadership and strategic vision make her a key figure in the industry.

 

 Lamia FERDJANI, Technical Project Leader at Linxens (France)

Lamia FERDJANI is an engineer with a degree in Physics and Engineering Sciences, and solid experience in various sectors such as aeronautics, manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. At Linxens, she coordinates the development of complex medical products, drawing on her technical expertise and teamwork skills. Her career path testifies to her ability to rise to technical challenges and adapt to a variety of working environments.

 

 Sévérine GOMONT, Production Manager at Linxens  (France)

Sévérine GOMONT is a recognized expert in chemical engineering and polymer chemistry, with over 20 years’ experience at Linxens. After holding various positions of responsibility in R&D and engineering, she is now Production Manager at the Mantes site (Yvelines). Her career path bears witness to her constant commitment to excellence and her ability to adapt to new challenges. Her mastery of production processes and her ability to unite her teams make her a key figure in the chemical industry.

We are convinced that diversity, in its broadest sense, is an essential driver of performance, innovation and competitiveness. We work every day to promote diversity and inclusion within our teams, creating role models and encouraging young women to take an interest in our technical professions from an early age. We are convinced that this choice will benefit both their own careers and the growth of this industry, so important in today’s interconnected world”, says Patrick Roux, Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer & Communications at Linxens.

Sources:

*<https://www.swe.org/about-swe/swe-fact-sheets/women-in-engineering-by-the-numbers>

** <https://www.engineering.com/story/women-in-stem-statistics-and-trends>

 

Dargan Forum 2024: Harnessing Technology, Empowering Communities

On 4th July, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers will converge at the Dargan Forum 2024 to explore the intersection of technology, empowerment and community building. Set in venues across picturesque Dún Laoghaire, an historic hotbed for innovation, the Dargan Forum 2024 intends to ignite conversations and inspire innovation, laying a path to digital, green future for Ireland’s communities.

Opening this year’s conference with expert insight into how technology can serve people and places is Bobby Healy, CEO of MANNA Drone Delivery, who will share his company’s inspiring vision for a net zero future for deliveries. Keynote speakers include Dara Calleary TDMinister of State for Digital TransformationAllan MulrooneyCEO of the Western Development CommissionDavid CurtinCEO of .ie; and Emma Jonesfounder and CEO of Enterprise Nation which recently announced a strategic partnership with the Dargan Forum.

Upon announcing this collaboration, Emma Jones of Enterprise Nation said:

“Digital adoption is not just about new jobs, a tech-enabled, thriving local small business community creates better jobs, better businesses and more innovation — all of which contribute to a healthy local economy. That’s why we’re delighted to be partnering with Dargan Institute’s forward-thinking plans to ensure Irish firms can get ahead in the global digital transformation race.”

David Curtin, CEO of key Dargan Forum 2024 sponsor .ie, shared:

“.ie has been a long-term champion of the transformative power of digital technology in our towns and communities. The Dargan Forum serves as a crucial platform for driving meaningful change by leveraging our collective experience to bridge the digital divide and elevate digital skills. Partnering with the Dargan Forum is vital because it prioritises people and places, ensuring that progress benefits everyone. Together, we are committed to uncovering the innovative ways in which digitalisation enriches lives, strengthens communities, and boosts enterprises.”

Eoin Costello, national director of the Dargan Institute and adviser on the government’s Enterprise Digital Advisory Forum (EDAF), said:

“In the 21st century powerful virtual technologies such as cloud computing, AI and quantum computing will shape our lives in ways that we can only imagine. The objective of the Dargan Forum is ensuring that these powerful technologies are put to the service of people and places, leaving no one behind.”

Other key event partners include Irish Rail, Connected Hubs, Søstrene Grene and Fáilte Ireland.  Bank of Ireland is also a long-term supporter of the work of the Dargan Institute through the Dargan Hub, Dún Laoghaire.

To secure your place at this exciting and innovative free event, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to the dialogue that will shape the future of Irish communities, visit the Dargan Forum website:

https://www.darganinstitute.ie/dargan-forum

ASUS Announces Fresh New Verdure Green Color for Zenfone 11 Ultra

ASUS today announced Verdure Green, a fresh new color option for its Zenfone 11 Ultra lineup that pays homage to the lush greenery of New York’s Central Park, an oasis of calm in a bustling city. This new shade offers the user a touch of serenity, wherever they go.

Building upon the Zenfone 11 Ultra’s legacy of innovation, the Verdure Green variant retains all the hallmark features that users have come to love. The Verdure Green variant maintains consistency in design, with both the upgraded aluminum-framed, glossy glass-covered triple-lens camera module and the back cover elegantly clad in the same captivating color. This harmonious design aesthetic ensures a visually striking device that stands out from the crowd. Additionally, the on-trend green colorway gives users an up-to-date fashion choice to suit modern style sensibilities.

Zenfone 11 Ultra provides more of everything, packing a more expansive screen, a faster processor, and a bigger battery into its meticulously-designed chassis.  The phone includes a raft of AI-powered features, including AI Noise Cancelation, AI Call Translator, AI Transcript, and AI Wallpaper, which make the user’s mobile lifestyle easier and more fulfilling[i]. ASUS continues to deliver cutting-edge technology wrapped in an ultra-elegant package.

The Zenfone 11 Ultra in Verdure Green delivers the perfect blend of style and technology, elevating users’ AI-powered mobile experience and making a statement with this fresh new addition to the Zenfone family.

“The Color plan pursues the essence of simplicity and nature, inspired by the colors and inspired by the Life, to pay tribute to the incomparable beauty of nature. Low-chroma color matching provides maximum product adaptability across a wide range of environments.” said Jess Wu, Industrial Design Senior Manager. “Drawing inspiration from the Earth’s natural elements, the phone’s back cover showcases a range of earth-inspired hues, including Eternal Black, Skyline Blue, Misty Gray, and Desert Sand. These colors not only add vibrancy and innovation to the phone’s design but also evoke a sense of tranquillity, stability, energy, and presence, reminiscent of the serenity found in nature’s elements.”

“In addition to all those features, we’ve embraced sustainability from the design phase, incorporating eco-friendly practices throughout. This includes a touch panel with 22% PIR recycled glass, a protective case made from 50% PCR recycled plastic, a 100% recycled aluminum frame, and fully sustainable packaging,” concluded Jess Wu. “Our packaging materials are FSC-certified, printed with non-toxic soy-based inks, and all phone and cable components are encased in paper. We are committed to making strides in sustainability, from the inside out.”

AVAILABILITY & PRICING

ASUS Zenfone 11 Ultra in Verdure Green will be available from 17th June 2024 in Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Czechia from https://www.asus.com/mobile-handhelds/phones/zenfone/zenfone-11-ultra/.

Edifier D32 tabletop speaker – Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified, AirPlay compatible and high-capacity built-in battery

Edifier International, the award-winning audio design house, has announced details of their new retro-inspired D32 Tabletop Wireless Speaker. Producing high quality audio playback, the D32 is precision manufactured to satisfy savvy audiophiles and design lovers alike.

Edifier have become known for marrying premium production quality with flawless audio experiences and the D32 is no exception. With a hand-made wooden housing, the speaker is acoustically treated to reduce excess resonance and distortion, whilst dual bass reflex ports enhance lows without overpowering mids and highs. Fitted with two 1″ silk dome tweeters and one 4″ long-throw mid-low driver, the speaker is capable of producing a frequency response of between 52Hz – 40kHz and has earned the prestigious Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certifications.

Elsewhere inside, the D32 includes dual Class-D audio amplifiers from Texas Instruments, capable of providing enhanced end-to-end high resolution audio processing. Importantly, this is done via a two-way active crossover, which separates the audio signal during processing to ensure it remains as pure as possible. Additionally, the D32 has in-built dynamic range control (DRC) that reduces the difference between the loudest and quietest aspects of an audio signal, overall producing a more balanced, detailed and consistent audio fidelity when listening between different genres.

Together, with support for SBC, AAC, LDAC, and ALAC (Apple AirPlay 2) codecs and an 11-hour battery life, the Edifier D32 TableTop Speaker places a premium on outstanding audio whilst maintaining, at its core, multi-use functionality. Featuring multiple input options, including Bluetooth V5.3, USB-C, Wi-Fi (Apple AirPlay) and AUX, the D32 weighs just 3.04Kg. Measuring 250mm x 162mm x 179mm, users can enjoy the D32 in a range of home and on-the-go settings, whether enjoying the latest podcast on the couch, singing to a favourite song in the bathroom or entertaining friends in the summer sun.

Quintessential to this multi-use functionality, Edifier place particular importance on the visual language of their products. The D32 sports a unique mid-century modern feel; built using the most advanced production techniques and materials, it combines the sleek and minimal lines of the Bauhaus design movement with subtle nods to timeless 1970s radio design. Delivering in both form and function, the warm and sophisticated appearance has a tactile-yet-luxe character, complete with a textured, braided grille, satisfying accordion-style keyboard buttons and smart metallic detailing. Available in both white and black walnut colour ways, the aesthetic versatility of the D32 truly sets it apart – making this an unrivalled choice for the decor-conscious consumer who values a balance between elegant award-winning design and industry-leading audio technology.

Together, Edifier has produced another defining product for the market. A perfect fit for modern life, the D32 achieves impeccable sound whilst maintaining a distinct and eye-catching presence. Finally, the D32 is compatible with the Edifier ConneX App, allowing users to sculpt their sound to taste, including a source switch, various playback controls, sound effects switch and EQ customization.

  • 60W (RMS) total output power with quality sound
  • Dual 1″ silk dome tweeters and one 4″ long-throw mid-low driver
  • Full digital signal processing, two-way active crossover, and DRC
  • Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certified
  • Works with Apple AirPlay2 via the 5GHz and 2.4GHz dual-band Wi-Fi connection
  • Bluetooth V5.3, USB, and AUX inputs
  • Supports SBC, AAC, LDAC, and ALAC (AirPlay mode only) codecs
  • 11 hours playtime by the built-in battery pack
  • Works with EDIFIER ConneX mobile app
  • Codecs – SBC, AAC, LDAC, and ALAC (AirPlay mode only)

Price & Availability:

Available for £189.99 from https://www.kbaudio.co.uk/products/edifier-d32-bluetooth-wifi-desktop-speaker

FinTech Depowise, platform handling €800bn in assets, enters the UK and Irish market

Depowise, the Estonian-founded oversight and process automation startup for financial services firms, is expanding into the United Kingdom and Ireland. The company aims to increase its current 5% market share tenfold in the domiciled funds market of Luxembourg, Ireland, and the UK, valued at more than €16.5 trillion. Over the next five years, Depowise plans to achieve a volume of assets on the platform of €8 trillion and become a market leader.

Leading this significant expansion is Leonid Belov, the newly appointed Managing Director for the UK and Ireland. Belov has a wealth of experience across front-to-back and cross-asset-class solutions, having worked in leading financial institutions such as BlackRock, State Street, MSCI, and Bloomberg.

“Having known Leo since our Bloomberg days, I have always admired his drive and insight. During one of our chats, I brought up my ambition to develop Depowise, and this resonated strongly with Leo, who thought we could disrupt the status quo and bring about meaningful change,” says Artur Reiter, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Depowise. “We are beyond delighted to welcome Leonid Belov to our team. His exceptional talent in growth engineering, coupled with his strategic approach, sales expertise, and extensive financial technology knowledge, will undoubtedly secure our success in these new markets.”

Mr Belov shares the excitement: “Depowise has incredible growth potential that I couldn’t resist being a part of. The dedication and achievements of the team in just three years – developing a market-leading end-to-end tool for the depositary market – are truly impressive.

Market starving for automation

The global asset servicing and management industries are in dire need of technological advancement. “Despite the significant pace of automation, a meaningful proportion of the industry still relies on manual processes for critical tasks. We see this as a big market opportunity for Depowise – our modern technology can unlock scale and achieve viable efficiency for our customers,” notes Belov.

In Queen Elisabeth II’s time, asset custody and oversight were managed primarily in Excel; in King Charles’s time, we aim to move it into Depowise, and by the time Prince William picks up the reigns, it will be largely driven by AI,” says Belov.

Depowise offers a comprehensive automation solution that streamlines compliance, oversight, safekeeping, reporting, and record-keeping tasks, significantly reducing manual efforts and inherent inefficiencies.

Unicorn-size market potential

Based on discussions with Depowise clients and prospects, we note that around a third of asset servicing and management companies in the UK and Ireland currently use multiple service providers to manage different parts of operations, around another third use in-house solutions, and nearly every organisation still heavily relies on Excel. The market size for automation in this sector is projected to grow to over €7bn by 2027, and with no complete, end-to-end competitors, Depowise aims to become the market leader within five years.

Our 2022 customer survey showed that Depowise increased efficiency for our customers by up to 82%. “You don’t have to spend your mornings searching for discrepancies because Depowise does the checks for you in the background,” Sven Peekmann, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Depowise, explains the efficiency phenomenon. “Now, when nearly 90% of daily work is done automatically, Depowise allows you to focus on the issues with the most significant business impact.”

Virgin Media further expands market reach adding 254,000 premises nationwide in deal with National Broadband Ireland (NBI)

Virgin Media has agreed a network deal with National Broadband Ireland (NBI) whereby Virgin Media will offer a full range of superfast broadband and digital TV services to over 254,000 currently enabled NBI premises throughout Ireland.

Virgin Media’s ongoing €200m network upgrade to full fibre is continuing to 2025 and will support speeds up to 10Gbps. Virgin Media has recently upgraded over 281,000 premises to fibre, offering speeds of 2Gbps across its own network. The Virgin Media network already provides broadband speeds of 1Gbps (gigabits per second) to 1 million premises across Ireland.

Virgin Media’s deal with NBI, along with other already announced wholesale network access developments, brings to 1.4 million the number of premises now able to access Virgin Media’s fastest ever broadband services nationwide.

Virgin Media Ireland CEO Tony Hanway said“With lightning-fast speeds of up to 2 Gig and 99.9% reliability, our full fibre broadband network is designed to revolutionise the way we connect and experience the digital world. This announcement today with NBI brings our ultrafast broadband and TV services to even more premises across Ireland, enabling homes, businesses, communities and regions nationwide to further prosper and grow.”

Peter Hendrick, CEO of National broadband Ireland (NBI) said, “We’re delighted that Virgin Media will join the growing number of retail service providers offering broadband packages on our network. There are now 70 retail service providers on our network, meaning there is huge choice for anyone connecting to high-speed fibre through NBI. Our rollout will ensure that every home, farm and business in Ireland has access to high-speed broadband with minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second available. We’ve now passed over 254,000 premises across the country and all of these have the same guarantee in terms of access, speed, and reliability.”

Creative Triumphs at EHA Awards 2024 with Double Accolades for Innovative Products

Creative proudly announces its recent triumph at the prestigious European Hardware Awards (EHA) 2024. Both Creative Aurvana Ace 2 and Creative Pebble X Plus have received top accolades, cementing the brand’s position as a frontrunner in the technology industry.

The EHA Awards are regarded as the pinnacle of achievement in the European tech landscape, uniting over 100 of Europe’s most respected technology journalists from prominent publications to recognize the year’s best hardware innovations. Celebrated for a decade of highlighting top technology hardware, the awards draw expertise from editors at leading tech publications across Europe, including Hardwareluxx (Germany), Geeknetic (Spain), KitGuru (UK), Cowcotland (France), PurePC (Poland), IO-Tech (The Nordics), Hardware Upgrade (Italy), Technology Insider (The Netherlands), and Lab 501 (Romania). Together, they ensure that the awards represent a comprehensive view of the best in the market.

The Creative Aurvana Ace 2 clinched the Best Earphones award, a testament to its superior sound quality and innovative design. Powered by xMEMS technology, the Aurvana Ace 2 unleashes the full potential of lifelike sound. It offers superior CD-quality clarity and precision, enhanced by Snapdragon Sound with Qualcomm aptX Lossless technology and Qualcomm Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation. These premium features are beautifully complemented by an aesthetically pleasing translucent compact charging case, perfectly blending performance and style.

In the Best Speakers category, the Creative Pebble X Plus stood out for its exceptional sound clarity, compact design, and powerful audio performance. Boasting an impressive RMS power of up to 30W and a peak power of up to 60W, both the 2.0 and 2.1 configurations promise a superior listening experience for music, movies, and gaming. In addition to its audio prowess, the Pebble X Plus features customizable RGB lighting, allowing users to create a pulsating light show to match any mood. With both wired and wireless modes, these speakers are an excellent choice for those seeking a premium desktop audio upgrade.

“We are thrilled and deeply honoured to receive these prestigious awards from the European Hardware Association,” said Song Siow Hui, CEO of Creative. “The recognition of the Creative Aurvana Ace 2 and Creative Pebble X Plus underscores our commitment to innovation, quality, and delivering outstanding products to our customers. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

For more information about their award-winning products, visit their website at Creative.com

See out latest Creative reviews

CRKD Engages Nitro Power in Time for Summer, Announcing the Shipping of NITRO DECK+ for Nintendo Switch & OLED Switch Consoles

CRKD, the premium collectible gaming brand behind the award-winning Nitro Deck and the recently launched NEO S™ collectible controllers, announced today that the highly anticipated NITRO DECK+, has begun shipping to gamers worldwide.
The award-winning Nitro Deck redefined gaming for Nintendo Switch users playing their console in handheld mode, enhancing their experience via stick drift free control and a raft of useful features. Announced via the IGN FanFest event in February, the handheld deck proudly returns for an encore with the all-new NITRO DECK+.
Featuring the same comfortable footprint as the original Nitro Deck, the NITRO DECK+ introduces several new innovations based on community feedback and designed to make Switch gaming better than ever.
Gamers will immediately note the improved ergonomics, made possible by shifting the placement of the right thumbstick to allow for more intuitive play via the symmetrical design. Gamers can now play their Switch on the TV without the need of an external dock! Featuring an integrated USB-C HDMI compatible output, users can switch between handheld and TV play without ever needing to remove their Switch console from their NITRO DECK+.
Even greater options for precise control feature on the NITRO DECK+ thanks to the new ‘Sidekick’ buttons located to the side of each thumbstick. Designed to work in conjunction with the new symmetrical thumbstick configuration, the Sidekick buttons are pre-programmed to replicate the B and A action button commands, ideal for super-fast feedback when gamers need it most. By replicating the most commonly used action buttons, the Sidekicks provide speedier reaction times, and when used in conjunction with the re-mappable back buttons that are pre-programmed to the action buttons (X, Y, A, B), users have a variety of ways to interact with the action buttons while keeping both thumbs resting comfortably on the sticks, leveling up your game by putting more power and versatility in the palms of your hands.
The new easy eject system makes removing your console from the NITRO DECK+ even easier with no need to touch the screen or add additional stress while removing.
An upgraded rumble system delivers more intense vibration which can be adjusted to suit the gamers’ preference, and Bluetooth® has also been added, which can be used as an alternative connection, allowing for simple pairing to CRKD CTRL, a feature within the CRKD Companion App for iOS™ and Android® that allows users to control the adjustable features of the Deck which include re-mapping buttons, adjusting trigger sensitivity, changing thumbstick dead zones, fine tuning rumble settings, firmware updates & more!
The NITRO DECK+ is also compatible with the True Collection System, another feature within the app that allows users to tap their smart device to their hardware revealing their product number and rarity rank as well as the ability to add their Deck to their unique collection. The app also features the CRKD Shop & CRKD TV, a hub for all things CRKD related.
The NITRO DECK+ adds all these new features without removing the standout innovations featured on the original design. The full list of features present on NITRO DECK+ include:
  • Ergonomically designed – all-new thumbstick placement
  • No Stick Drift – made possible via Hall-Effect sensors
  • USB-C to HDMI Compatibility for TV play – (play while docked)
  • Programmable Sidekick buttons – faster, more responsive control
  • Low latency response – (direct connection via USB-C)
  • Adjustable trigger sensitivity – tweak your triggers to suit your style
  • Swappable Stick Tops – better grip to suit your style
  • Re-mappable back buttons – keep your thumbs on the sticks
  • Gyro compatible – ideal for motion control games
  • Adjustable Vibration Feedback – to rumble or not rumble, the choice is yours
  • No Deadzone Mode – find the sweet spot in your chosen game
  • Pass-through charging feature – no need to stop play to charge
  • Use NITRO DECK+ as a wired controller on PC or Switch – perfect for TV play
  • Integrated Display Stand – stands AND delivers!
  • Turbo Function – (add turbo functionality to any action or trigger button)
  • Bluetooth connection – (to update firmware via app)
  • Easy Eject System – remove the Switch without touching the screen
  • Connects to the CRKD companion app – (True Collection System)
The NITRO DECK+ is shipping now to those who pre-ordered and is available to purchase for new customers in two colors: Clear Black and Clear White. Both designs retail for:
$69.99 / €79.99 / £69.99 without a USB-C to HDMI adapter, and $79.99 / €89.99 / £79.99 with an adapter. Purchase today at: https://go.crkd.gg/ndplus
For more information about NITRO DECK+ and all CRKD products, please visit: https://crkd.gg

First look – HONOR 200 Pro first look and walkthrough

We have been busy in Paris lately at the latest smartphone launch from HONOR and their all new 200 series and the event was something else and there was many new devices on offer that will certainly get any mobile interested. The HONOR 200 Pro is the flagship model coming in at a really good price too which is good for competition and the consumer.

We are now checking out the HONOR 200 Pro over the next few weeks and so far I am impressed at what is on offer here and i you like portrait this is a game change make no mistake about it. With a great build quality fabulous screen great battery and a portrait mode like no other this looks like it is going to be a good one.

We are very busy so will keep this one quick and you can check out more about the launch event in Paris here and see what was on show and in the interim if you have any questions feel free to comment on our social media and YouTube where we will gladly answer any questions.

Recognizing the most important tools in portrait photography are light and shadow, the HONOR 200 Series has been equipped with advanced hardware and meticulously co-engineered AI-powered software that recognizes even the most subtle nuances of lighting. The HONOR 200 Pro features a 50MP Portrait Main Camera with a Super Dynamic H9000 Sensor enabling users to capture compelling images with the perfect balance of light and shadow in even challenging lighting scenarios. With support for 4-in-1 pixel binning technology with a pixel size of 2.4μm, users can capture intricate details in their images even in low light scenarios. Additionally, the HONOR 200 Pro features a 50MP Portrait Telephoto Camera and a customized telephoto sensor from Sony. The HONOR 200 Pro also provides better light sensing capabilities, ensuring clear and true captures of distant objects with exceptional details.

Image and video samples

Read more and purchase here

HONOR 200 Pro walkthrough