Verizon Communications Inc. (Verizon), one of the world’s leading providers of enterprise and consumer communications and technology services has announced the establishment of a Global Centre of Excellence in Limerick, Ireland.
This initiative will create hundreds of jobs over the next two years with and has full support of the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.
Active in Ireland since 2006, Verizon currently employs 1,000 highly skilled professionals in Dublin.
Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment Simon Coveney said: “We should never take for granted an announcement like this one. One of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services has chosen Limerick for their new Global Centre of Excellence. More than 400 jobs will be generated from this announcement. This is a significant commitment and endorsement of Ireland, and in particular, the skilled workforce in Limerick. I want to thank Verizon for their continued investment in Ireland.”
Verizon has retained 10,000m2 of the new 1BQ riverside development, which is designed to achieve LEED GOLD standard, and a Wiredscore Platinum certification. Developers Kirkland Investments anticipate 1BQ will be ready to welcome Verizon in Q1 next year.
“This Centre of Excellence will bring together key functions in a creative, collaborative environment that leverages global talent and maximizes our shared services model to best deliver for our businesses globally,” said Craig Silliman, President, Verizon Global Services. “As we continue to leverage our global footprint to best serve our customers, grouping these functions in a world-class centre will improve effectiveness and efficiency to deliver best-in-class results for our customers, employees, and partners.”
As part of this centre’s creation, Verizon has launched a dedicated staffing program to recruit and retain top talent in the industry. Potential employment opportunities at Verizon can be found at: Find a Job | Verizon Careers
CEO of IDA Ireland Michael Lohan said: “Verizon’s decision to expand its presence here demonstrates its confidence in Ireland. The selection of Limerick City for this Centre of Excellence and the creation of roles across multiple strategic global functions, including, Strategy & Transformation, Finops and Network Engineering & Cyber will position the Mid West and Ireland well for future investment in the sector. I’d like to wish Verizon every success with this expansion and assure the leadership team of IDA Ireland’s continued support.”
The CASEKOO Xmas Magic Stand Cloud Cush case for iPhone 15 Pro is a limited edition case now on offer and is an ideal case for yourself or as a gift this Christmas which is kinda cool if you are into the Christmassy stuff, this would be an ideal gift also for Kris Kindle in the office and more.
This case is different in some ways to their previous cases but still has the Air cushioning on it which is excellent and I have dropped my phone many times and these cases saved me and expensive bill, you also get 3D printed technology featuring side-embedded holiday motifs and visible air cushions. Our 360° High Resilience Air Cushion provides all-around impact absorption through gas compression, ensuring military-grade protection against drops. We have done drop tests in the video review below so check those out.
The case will come in a snowman or santa offering so it is up to you to decide which one you want, not only the company claims that your case will never yellow and is engineered with advanced materials, the Cloud Cush Version resists yellowing, ensuring it stays crystal clear over time. The Christmas edition combines lasting durability with timeless design, maintaining its pristine look for longer without material wear affecting the festive aesthetics.
The buttons on the case again are perfect with great travel and tactile and work with no issues at all, all the ports are available as expected and there is a lip around the front of the case as well as the rear on the camera hump protecting the device be it face down aor back down. There is also a border on the front matching the festive theme which adds more protection on the front.
You can also use the case in both horizontal and portrait mode with the super strong magnetic MagSafe compatible CloudCush and MagicStand letting you have it at any angle you like when in portrait mode, wireless charging works with no issue either so overall this a really nice case to get hold of while you can.
Check the video review below for a more detailed look. If you have not seen their previous cases we reviewed you can check them out here.
CASEKOO iPhone Air Bumper Shockproof Rubbery Grip Phone Case with Built-in Magnetic Kickstand and MagSafe Compatible – Cloud Cush Christmas Series Magic Stand Limited Version
【World’s First Air-filled Case】Three years ago, we were inspired by the air cushion technology used in running shoes and came up with the idea of filling phone cases with air. After countless experiments, we successfully created the Cloud Cush series -CASEKOO designed for iPhone 15 Pro case with a tough air frame. It’s soft to the touch and extremely cushioned, providing your iPhone with strong protection just like installing a 360° car-airbag.
【Cloud Cush & Magic Stand – Peak Encounter】The Cloud Cush-Magic Stand series is the perfect combination of style and practicality. It provides powerful protection and invisible magnetic stand multi-functional use of the iPhone. Imagine a life where you are no longer afraid of dropping your iPhone, where you can easily and stably connect all your Magsafe accessories, and where you can open the stand at any time to free your hands! The Cloud Cush-Magic Stand was born for this purpose.
【Magnetic Magic】CASEKOO designed for iPhone 15 Pro case is compatible with all MagSafe accessories and third-party Qi-certified wireless chargers. It provides a built-in 48pcs magnets ring structure, explicitly arranged with CASEKOO’s HalBach array-tech, allowing for 2X STRONGER magnetism than the Official’s.HalBach ensures almost 0% POWER LOSS during wireless charging,making charging FASTER YET SAFER.It shortens overall charging time and further improves your wireless charging experience.
【Hands-Free, Hassle-Free】CASEKOO compatible with iPhone 15 Pro phone case incorporates an innovative invisible stand design with an exclusive appearance patented. Constructed with the LIGHTWEIGHT YET DURABLE aerospace aluminum alloy, the circular kickstand brings the portability of the phone case to a new level. In addition, it can be placed in portrait or landscape mode stably. You can adjust it between 40°~120° as your wish. Enjoy every watching moment.
【Redefining Military-Grade Drop Protection】Based on 5000+ extreme drop resistance tests, CASEKOO designed for iPhone 15 Pro cases’ DURABILITY AND STURDINESS surpass most general phone cases. Furthermore,the shockproof tough air-filled bumper and hard PC back plate increase its durability and protect your phone against everyday drops and bumps. A 2.5 mm offset border over the camera opening prevents the lens from being scratched; a 1.5 mm bezel over the screen keeps the screen from damage.
Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) is helping customers achieve faster AI and generative AI (GenAI) performance with new enterprise data storage advancements and validation with the NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD AI infrastructure.
“Storage performance is a critical factor for successful AI and generative AI outcomes,” said Arthur Lewis, president, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell Technologies. “Customers are relying on us to continually push the boundaries of storage innovation, including removing data access bottlenecks that limit the throughput and scalability of compute-intensive applications. We are addressing these needs by delivering fast, efficient and secure access to data and turning it into a proverbial goldmine of AI and GenAI possibilities.”
Addressing the need for high performance and efficiency for AI storage
New advancements from Dell PowerScale, the world’s most flexible,1 secure2 and efficient3 scale-out file storage system, address increasing customer demands for higher AI and GenAI performance.
Now, with PowerScale OneFS software enhancements, companies can prepare, train, fine-tune and inference AI models more quickly. With new PowerScale all-flash storage systems, based on latest generation Dell PowerEdge servers, customers will see up to a 2X performance increase for streamingreads and writes. 4
“We make an engineering change every 17 minutes, a speed unachievable without a powerful IT infrastructure that underpins all of our processes,” said Dan Keyworth, director of business technology, McLaren Racing. “Thanks to Dell PowerScale, we’re equipped to leverage cutting-edge AI applications, combining high-performance storage with computing capabilities to create a winning formula for success.”
PowerScale will offer a new smart scale-out capability to improve single compute node performance for enhanced GPU utilization, leading to faster storage throughput for AI training, checkpointing and inferencing.
“Dell continues to design its file and object storage solutions with the customer in mind, allowing them to modernize their infrastructure with an AI-ready foundation to support the most intensive workloads, such as generative AI,” said Scott Sinclair, practice director, Enterprise Strategy Group. “With PowerScale’s latest performance advances, customers can improve AI model training and fine-tuning to make better business decisions based on their data wherever it resides with increased speed and accuracy.”
Dell PowerScale undergoes validation for NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD
Through Dell’s collaboration with NVIDIA, customers will be able to take advantage of a validated combination of NVIDIA DGX systems, Dell PowerScale storage and NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand and Spectrum Ethernet networking to achieve faster and more efficient AI storage. Dell’s solution is expected to be the first ethernet storage solution validated on NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD.
With Dell PowerScale becoming validated for NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD, NVIDIA’s turnkey data center AI infrastructure solution, customers will be able to confidently accelerate their AI and GenAI initiatives with Dell’s industry-leading network-attached storage.NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD includes the NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform to provide a full-stack, secure and stable AI supercomputing solution.
Bringing AI to data wherever it resides
With nearly 87% of companies embracing multicloud strategies,6 Dell is giving customers the freedom to process data wherever it makes the most sense for them – on premises, at the edge or in public clouds.
Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure, the latest addition to the Dell APEX Storage for Public Cloud portfolio, delivers enterprise-class file performance and management capabilities in Microsoft Azure. Customers will be able to easily meet the needs of performance-intensive AI and machine learning applications like Azure OpenAI Service and Azure AI Vision.
Dell APEX File Storage in AWS and Azure allows customers to take advantage of cloud-native AI and GenAI workflows on data in public clouds or on premises with improved data access and movement. For example, through Dell’s expanding Databricks collaboration, customers can choose from a variety of large language models (LLMs) and use libraries from Databricks MosaicML to retrain a foundational model with their proprietary data stored in Dell APEX File Storage, offering flexibility across multicloud environments.
The Databricks collaboration builds on Dell’s data management ecosystem partnerships to help customers accelerate AI and analytics efforts. Additionally, with Dell’s planned open, modern data lakehouse, customers can extract insights from data wherever it resides with the integration of Starburst’s analytics software with Dell PowerEdge servers and Dell PowerScale, Dell ECS and Dell ObjectScale file and object storage systems.
Availability
The Dell PowerScale OneFS software enhancements will be globally available this month.
Next-generation all-flash Dell PowerScale systems and new smart scale-out feature will be globally available in the first half of 2024.
Dell PowerScale is being validated with NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD, with expected completion in the first quarter of 2024.
Dell APEX for File Storage for Microsoft Azurewill be globally available in the first half of 2024.
Dell APEX for File Storage integration with Databricks and MosaicML is available in AWS today and in Microsoft Azure in the first half of 2024.
The Dell open, modern data lakehouse solution will be globally available in the first half of 2024.
How businesses of all sizes can slash costs with 360° asset tracking solutions
In any business, large or small, assets form the operational backbone. This includes everything from IT devices and office furniture to work tools, vehicles, and heavy machinery. Moreover, when considering digital components such as software licences, contracts, and staff qualifications, and their interplay with physical resources, the importance of comprehensive 360° tracking becomes apparent. This is the objective of Timly, a leading Zurich-based provider of cloud-based tracking solutions and their 360° digital inventory app, aimed at empowering companies to seamlessly connect these elements.
What is asset tracking?
Asset tracking is an essential aspect of business management, extending beyond the mere cataloguing of a company’s assets. It’s about optimising the use of resources, prolonging their life cycle, and maximising the return on investment (ROI). Tracking business inventory involves maintaining a thorough overview of all relevant details, including the purchase date of each item, its usage, location, performance, and condition. It’s also crucial to document the history of maintenance, along with any reported faults, repairs, and upcoming dates – such as inspections, servicing, and assigning the asset to a particular team member, office, or project. Needless to say, thisrepresents a far more layered and holistic approach than simply recording what resources a company possesses.
Why spreadsheets have had their day in inventory management
Traditionally, many companies, especially small businesses, have turned to familiar tools like Excel or Google Sheets to keep track of their business resources. Yet, while spreadsheets may suffice for recording a small number of assets, the reality is that asset management is a complex and multifaceted task that requires a more comprehensive approach.
This is particularly true for mapping items to specific users, offices, maintenance records, suppliers, and other important data points. Attempting to manage this manually can easily become overwhelming, verging on unmanageable. The primary challenge for businesses really lies in finding a user-friendly asset tracking solution that is easy to implement, while at the same time ensuring the system is powerful enough to manage the value of each asset throughout its lifecycle, minimising any associated costs and risks.
The hidden costs and risks
Why is this important? Because ineffective asset tracking can not only significantly impact a company’s operational efficiency but also result in direct costs and risks that could otherwise be avoided.
Imagine vital equipment going missing when most needed, or employees using tools and machinery they’re not trained or certified to handle. Envision the chaos of malfunctioning equipment, with muddled fault reporting and repair histories. All this can result in perfectly preventable downtime and even workplace accidents and non-compliance with relevant regulations, such as health and safety.
Therefore, the hidden costs of poorly managed assets extend beyond the direct expenses of replacing or repairing equipment – there are substantial risks that can lead to significant financial losses, legal liabilities, and reputational damage.
From cloud to QR
The good news is that in most cases, asset tracking does not require any special hardware or complex systems for implementation. True, IoT GPS tracking devices are advisable for moving and large vehicles and machinery. Yet for everyday business resources, such as IT equipment, work tools, and office furniture, simple QR code technology more than does the job. This involves attaching a small barcode label to an asset and using a smartphone camera to scan these labels. This can be performed to check in and check out an item, i.e., assign it to a member of staff or an office, or to create or update an asset’s record. For example, if a piece of equipment has a fault or damage, authorised users can record this directly in the asset tracking app, documenting it with photos and other proof.
The transformative benefits of effective asset tracking
The obvious benefits of digital asset management include significant reductions in downtime due to malfunctioning equipment, time saved by always knowing who was last assigned an asset, and the consolidation of asset data in one place. This ability to connect the dots between an item and its users, as well as past and future key dates, allows for more informed operational and strategic decision-making.
Essential features to look for in asset software
For any business considering digital asset tracking solutions, they should look for a system that is customisable and flexible so it can be adapted to their specific business needs. Intuitive design and ease of use are also key, especially if employees are to be given access for recording and managing assets. Furthermore, a cloud solution offers many advantages, not least that it works across all devices in the same way and does not require the user to download the latest version, offering higher data security. Finally, it’s also crucial to choose a solution that comes with robust support and onboarding, so that your business gets the most out of it and can integrate it seamlessly with your existing systems and processes.
Enhancing decision-making and strategic planning
In conclusion, implementing an advanced asset tracking system is not merely an operational upgrade – it represents a strategic move towards future-proofing a business. By analysing asset usage and performance data, businesses can make informed decisions about procurement, resource allocation, maintenance, and long-term asset management strategies. Comprehensive asset tracking solutions have the advantage of being deployable across the business. This allows for efficiencies and ultimately presents a more resource-friendly solution, both in terms of licensing fees and staff training on how to use the asset tracking tool. An important aspect to consider is the overall cost-effectiveness of the solution and its impact on long-term ROI.
In today’s digital age, social media isn’t just for sharing cute cat videos and stalking your high school crush. It’s a legit money-making machine. With billions of people scrolling through their feeds every day, the potential for cashing in on social media is massive. So, let’s dive into the top ways you can turn your online presence into a sweet cash cow.
The Social Media Revolution
Let’s face it: social media has changed the game. It’s no longer just a way to chat with friends and share your dinner pics. Now, you can connect with a global audience in a snap.
The rise of influencers and content creators has opened up a whole world of opportunities for those looking to make some serious moolah. This includes OnlyFans best sex models, fitness coaches, entrepreneurs, adult performers, and many more. But before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to make that dough, let’s understand how social media rules the world.
The Era of Influencers
Influencer marketing is blowing up. Big brands are teaming up with social media stars to peddle their stuff to a target audience. These influencers have built a fan base by creating cool content and becoming experts in their niches. As an influencer, you can work with brands and cash in through sponsored posts, product endorsements, and affiliate marketing.
Top Social Media Platforms for Making Money
While there are tons of social media platforms out there, some are better suited for making money. Let’s break down the top ones and how you can cash in on them.
Instagram Money Moves
Instagram is all about the visuals and influencer culture. If you’re good at snapping pics or creating eye-catching content, you can make money in different ways. You can do sponsored posts, partner up with brands, and even dive into affiliate marketing.
YouTube Cash Flow
If you’re into making videos, YouTube is where it’s at. Create top-notch content and pull in a loyal subscriber base. You can earn money through YouTube’s Partner Program or score brand deals for sponsored content. You can even sell your own merch to your viewers.
Twitter (X) Earnings
Twitter (X) may be limited by character count, but it has unique money-making potential. Twitter influencers make bank through sponsored tweets, where they promote stuff to their followers. You can also sell your own digital products, like e-books or online courses, directly to your audience.
Strategies for Raking in the Bucks
So, you’ve got your online presence set up, and you know which platforms you’re targeting. Now, let’s talk strategy to fill up your wallet.
Affiliate Marketing on Social Media
Affiliate marketing is where it’s at. You promote products or services through your social media channels using special affiliate links. For every sale made through your link, you get a cut. Just make sure the stuff you’re promoting vibes with your audience, and only push things you genuinely believe in.
Sponsored Posts and Partnerships
As your online influence grows, brands will start sliding into your DMs for sponsored posts and partnerships. Sponsored posts are when you create content that hypes a specific product or brand and get paid for it. Partnerships are longer-term deals where you become a brand ambassador, promoting their goods on the regular.
Selling Your Stuff Directly
If you’ve got a special skill or knowledge, you can use your social media presence to sell your own products or services. Whether it’s an e-book, online courses, coaching, or physical merch, your loyal followers could be your next customers. Set up sweet sales funnels and run social media ads to reach a broader audience.
Navigating the Social Media Money Maze
Making money on social media sounds rad, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. You’ve gotta know the pitfalls and how to dodge ’em to make that money dream come true.
Dealing with Platform Changes
Social media platforms are always tweaking their policies, and that can mess with your money game. Stay in the loop about any changes and be ready to adjust your strategy. Diversify your money-making tricks so that you’re not putting all your eggs in one platform’s basket.
Keeping it Real While Making Money
As you start pulling in cash from your social media channels, remember to stay true to yourself. Your audience can spot fake stuff from a mile away. Be honest about sponsored content and only promote stuff you truly believe in. Your credibility and trustworthiness are your golden tickets to long-term success.
Summing Up: Understand the Game – Play it Right!
In a nutshell, social media is a goldmine waiting to be dug up. Understand the game and use different platforms effectively, and you can turn your online presence into a real money-spinner.
Whether it’s sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or selling your own goods and services, the key is to build a solid brand, engage with your audience, and roll with the punches. So, go out there, make some killer content, and start turning your social media hustle into a money-making party!
The GlobaLink Christmas Window Lights are an affordable option to dress up your home this Christmas and simple to use and simple to install you can be set up in less that five minutes and have your window or wherever you might place them looking nice in no time.
These are again battery operated requiring three AA batteries which are not included so get your batteries in early folks as every year there does be a rush to get them, there is sticky pads to stick to your window or wall and you can create your own design no matter where placed in the home or even outside as they are IP65 rated.
Overall these are a nice addition to your home and effective and as always this time of year we have many homes competing with each other and in fact has already started but watch what else is coming soon with some more real tech decorations for the home.
Features
Stunning Star Lights】GlobaLink Christmas window lights – the perfect addition to your festive decorations! Overall length is 2.2M, the light wire is 1.2M and extension wire is 1M. There are 5 strands of different lengths of string lights with stars（30CM spacing）and a total of 96 LED beads. These sparkling star fairy lights are perfect for adding a warm and fantastic glow to your windows, curtains, or even your Christmas tree, creating a strong festive atmosphere.
🌟【Battery Operated & Timer】– The fairy star window lights is powered by 3*AA batteries(Battery not included in the package), which guarantees better flexibility and convenience, so you don’t worry about whether there will be a proper socket to match the plugs. The LED star christmas lights also has a timer function: it can be set to turn on for 6 hours and turn off for 18 hours. Such a user-friendly function to facilitate your life.
🌟【8 Modes and Colour Changing】– Choose from 8 different modes, switching easily between warm white and coloured lights to suit any occasion or mood. The 8 lighting modes include Warm white-constant, Warm white-flashing, Warm white fade, Coloured-constant, Coloured-flashing, Coloured-fade, Two colour toggle flashing and fade.
🌟【IP65 Waterproof & Safety】– With its IP65 waterproof rating and high-quality materials, you can enjoy these star curtain lights year-round, both indoors and outdoors! The lamp beads of our low-voltage fairy Christmas star window light produce almost no heat when working, means they’re always safe for children and animals to be around all season.
🌟【Easy to Install】– We have designed small hooks on each of the 5 strands of string lights and the battery box, and come with 6 sticky hooks. These can help you install and remove the LED star Lights and avoid damage caused by entanglement.
Final’s previous ANC headphone release was the UX3000, which gained multiple awards and global recognition for its minimal design and impressive audio quality. Now with the UX2000, Final has harnessed its award-winning expertise and applied this to its new ANC wireless headphones for under £100.
The UX2000 is more than just a new addition to the UX series; it represents Final’s commitment to combining state-of-the-art technology with unparalleled audio performance. Whether for gaming, music, or calls, the UX2000 is engineered to deliver an unmatched auditory experience, setting new standards in the wireless headphone market.
Available in Cream or Black, the Final UX2000 will be available to buy on the 8th December for £99/$119/€109 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.
All new design and set of features
The Final UX2000 inherits the legacy of the UX3000 while introducing its own unique design and features. Developed for everyday use, the UX2000 is lightweight and robust with a premium matte finish that is resistant to fingerprints and smudges for a clean and professional look. The advanced hybrid noise cancelling technology removes a significant amount of background and ambient noise for an immersive and distraction free listening experience.
Designed for all-day comfort and usability, the UX2000 has a multi-fit housing structure with multiple points of adjustment for getting that perfect fit. The soft earpads and headband padding provide support that reduces fatigue and with up to 45 hours of audio playback, users can be confident in experiencing a full day of constant use in comfort. Additionally, Final has included an ENC Mic system that eliminates ambient noise, ensuring clear voice communication during calls and gaming sessions.
Newly developed low-latency mode for gamers
New for the UX2000 is its low-latency gaming mode, making it an ideal companion for gamers who demand synchronized, high-quality audio. Developed by Final, this mode also benefits users while watching movies, music videos or their favourite online content – perfectly syncing lip movements with voice and action scenes with its sound effects for highly engaging viewing.
Key Features
Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation: Equipped with a sophisticated system that effectively cancels external noises for a serene listening experience.
Gaming Mode with Low-Latency: Specially designed for gamers, providing synchronized audio with on-screen action for an immersive gaming experience.
Up to 45 Hours of music Playback: Offers substantial playback time, ideal for long commutes, work sessions, or gaming marathons.
Multi-Fit Housing Structure: Adjustable in multiple directions for a perfect fit, ensuring comfort even during extended use.
Fingerprint-Proof Matte Finish: The body of the device features a matte finish, making it resistant to fingerprints and oil, and ensuring that it doesn’t easily show dirt.
Foldable Design for Compact Storage: The headphones can be folded into a compact form making them convenient to carry.
Specifications
Colour: Cream/Black
Communication Format: Bluetooth 5.3
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Codecs Supported: SBC, AAC
Profiles Supported: HFP, A2DP, AVRCP
Continuous Music Playback: ANC ON:45 hours. ANC OFF:60 hours
With the release of the ZE8000 flagship true wireless earphones earlier this year, Final developed an earphone like no other. Its unique design, immersive soundstage and clear focus on sound quality offered a new true wireless experience.
With the ZE8000 MK2, Final has made significant improvements for an all-new user experience. Including new ‘Shield Fin’ eartips for improved comfort and increased passive sound isolation, enhanced signal-to-noise ratio for greater detail retrieval and improved ‘8K Sound’, the ability to deactivate ANC and other noise control settings, and a maximum volume increase of 5dB.
In the ZE8000 MK2, Final has further developed the technology and software capabilities with their new flagship and it will be available to buy from the 8th December for £289/$399.99/€329.99 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.
Immersed like never before
Development of the ZE8000 MK2 has enabled the evolution of Final’s ‘8K Sound’ feature. Improving the signal-to-noise ratio through hardware and software interventions provides a clearer perception of ‘8K Sound’, extracting more detail and musical nuance from recordings.
“As a concise and concrete example to convey this evolution, we consider the ZE8000 MK2 as earphones that immerse you in the orchestra.” – Final.
The ZE8000 MK2 hardware and software improvements have provided fertile ground for a more efficient integration of ‘8K Sound’, ensuring a more faithful reproduction of recorded instruments and their unique timbre. This ability to faithfully and vividly reproduce the balance of recorded instruments extends to all music genres, elevating the listening experience by significantly increasing the amount of information in the sound.
Compared to the initial model, the ZE8000 MK2 achieves a 32% improvement in sound isolation with ANC active. This is achieved by a combination of internal structure enhancements, newly designed ‘Shield Fin’ earpieces, and a refinement of the algorithm for active noise cancellation.
Utilising an FIR filter for frequency and time domain corrections, combined with a unique integration of multiple digital signal processing techniques enables the achievement of high-definition and distortion-free ‘8K Sound’ In the ZE8000 MK2. Compared to the initial model, the digital signal processing has been refined, allowing for a clearer perception of ‘8K Sound’ even in finer details.
Improved comfort and fit = improved sound quality
With the ZE8000 MK2, Final has included newly designed ‘shield fin’ eartips. These tips come in a wide range of sizes and offer an increase in passive isolation as well as a more comfortable and secure fit. This increase in isolation benefits the sound quality due to a reduction in ambient noise and improved seal provided by the ‘shield fin’ technology and silicone material used.
The eartips come in five different sizes (SS/S/M/L/LL) to ensure the optimal fit and comfortable listen for all ear shapes and sizes.
New features and updated ‘Final Connect’ app
After listening to feedback from the first release, Final has included the ability to deactivate ANC and all other noise control settings. This provides users with an unfiltered experience of the Final ZE8000 MK2 and ‘8K Sound’
The maximum volume has also been improved upon with a 5dB increase, as well as an overall redesign of Final’s ‘Volume Step Optimization’ feature within the ‘Final Connect’ app for finer volume adjustments.
Users can check the individual volume levels of their ZE8000 MK2 via the ‘Final Connect’ app as well as a number of other features and settings for an improved experience:
· Switch between the 4 modes of noise cancellation/ambient sound intake.
· Easily adjust sound quality like a professional engineer with the “Pro Equalizer” settings.
· Fine-tune volume adjustments to your optimal level with the “Volume Step Optimization” settings.
· Switch between voice guidance languages (Japanese/English).
· Toggle to “8K SOUND+ Mode.”
· Switch to touch operation disabled mode.
· Configure/switch Multi-Point settings.
The ZE8000 MK2 supports Qualcomm’s latest audio platform, Snapdragon Sound™. With aptX Adaptive (24bit/96kHz), users can enjoy high-resolution audio with high quality and low latency.
By strategically placing two high-performance microphones at a distance, the ZE8000 MK2 enables beamforming towards the mouth. This feature ensures clear voice transmission, eliminating ambient noise even during outdoor calls.
IT.ie, the Irish-owned IT services company, today reveals the “12 Scams of Christmas”, outlining the digital ruses consumers are most likely to fall for this festive season.
As consumers prepare for the festive season, it can be an opportunity for cybercriminals to take advantage of increased online activity to gain access to sensitive data. Last year, An Garda Síochána issued a warning to consumers, stating that online fraud was on the rise at Christmas time.
To help them to keep their personal information safe, IT.ie is encouraging consumers to “channel their inner Scrooge” by fiercely protecting their data and hard-earned money from criminals. This year, the message is clear: be a Scrooge with your private and financial data – or it might become a gift for criminals.
The 12 Scams of Christmas that consumers need to look out for are:
Sophisticated phishing emails
These emails are crafted with advanced techniques such as artificial intelligence, making them look almost identical to those from reputable brands. They often lure victims with fake alerts or offers, leading to sites that steal personal information. IT.ie advises everyone to verify the email’s authenticity and avoid clicking on links or attachments from unknown sources. If in doubt, don’t click.
Social media ad scams
Scammers use social media platforms to post ads for exclusive or hard-to-find items at very low prices. These ads often lead to fake websites where your payment information can be stolen. Always research the seller and look for reviews on independent platforms before making a purchase.
Bogus websites and URL spoofing
Cybercriminals create fake websites that mimic legitimate online retailers, often using URLs that contain subtle misspellings or alterations that can easily go unnoticed. These websites can lure unsuspecting victims by offering high-demand goods at unbelievably low prices. Shoppers should always double check the URL for the correct spelling of the website’s domain name and ensure that it starts with “HTTPS”. A lock symbol should be visible before the URL.
Untraceable payment methods
Scammers prefer payment methods that are difficult to trace and offer no fraud protection, such as cryptocurrencies, wire transfers, or gift cards. These methods make it almost impossible to recover lost funds. IT.ie recommends to always use secure and traceable payment methods such as credit and debit cards, or reputable money transfer services.
Mobile app frauds
Fraudulent mobile apps, often disguised as legitimate shopping apps, can steal personal information or infect your device with malware. These apps might appear in official app stores but often have few downloads and negative reviews. Always verify the app’s legitimacy and read reviews before downloading.
Delivery notification scams
These scams involve sending fake delivery notifications via email or text, which link to phishing websites designed to steal personal information. They often imply a sense of urgency, claiming a package is waiting. These scams are particularly successful at this time of year when people are expecting multiple deliveries. IT.ie recommends that shoppers always use the official tracking tools provided by the retailer and never click on links in unrelated email or text notifications.
Charity donation frauds
Scammers set up fake charities, particularly during the holiday season when people are more likely to make donations. They often solicit donations through persuasive emails or social media campaigns. Always research the charity using official charity regulator websites before donating.
Gift card grifts
Gift card scams involve selling discounted gift cards that are either fake or have been previously used. These offers are often found on unofficial websites or through social media ads. Always purchase gift cards directly from official retailers or authorised sellers.
Travel scams
With holiday travel in high demand, scammers can offer unrealistically cheap travel deals through fake websites or phishing emails. These scams may involve fake airline tickets, hotel bookings, or holiday packages. Holiday-goers should always book travel through reputable agents or directly with airlines and hotels.
Fake product reviews
Scammers will often post positive product reviews on substandard or non-existent products. These reviews create a false sense of trust and quality, making shoppers think that the product is legitimate. Shoppers should use well-known review platforms and be sceptical of overly-positive reviews for unknown brands or products.
E-card scams
E-card scams involve sending electronic greeting cards that contain malware or links to phishing sites. These e-cards may appear to be from known contacts, but are instead from scammers. Open e-cards only if you are expecting them and you can verify the sender’s identity.
Job offer scams
During the holiday season, fake job offers for seasonal positions are common. These scams often ask for personal information upfront or require payment for training or background checks. Legitimate employers will never ask for payment as part of the hiring process.
Eamon Gallagher, founder and MD, IT.ie, said: “This Christmas, we are telling everyone to emulate Scrooge’s cautious nature by guarding their personal and financial data against online fraud.
It is essential to approach holiday shopping and online interactions with a heightened sense of awareness. Take a moment to assess the legitimacy of an offer, whether it’s an amazing deal on a gift, a charity appeal, or a sudden job opportunity.
“Scammers prey on the urgency and emotion of the season, often creating scenarios that require immediate action or payment. It is important that everyone educates themselves and their loved ones about these scams as a crucial step in safeguarding their personal and financial information. Sharing this knowledge with friends and family, especially those who may be more vulnerable, can help to ensure scammers don’t get any early Christmas presents this year. Shop safe, shop secure and shop smart this Christmas!”
