The Creative ZEN AIR DOT are the companies most affordable earbuds to date and come in a very small package overall and I have been testing these little guys out some time now and we are about to discuss what they have and what they do not have, when it comes to earbuds these days the cost to performance ratio is getting better and these come in at just 30 euro..
So do you get value for your 30 euro or are they fit for the bin? Well at this price there is obviously going to be things omitted from these earbuds but its down to the audio experience for most people these days and some like to have a certain level of functionality and for the price these will keep those people happy.
Remember now the price. So what is missing. No app access, no wireless charging, no auto play/pause, no option to each side when one is charging bar the left side, though to be fair this is common even on high end earbuds but just pointing this out and there is no volume control and the battery life is on the low side up to 24 hr hours depending on how you like your volume levels but again remember the price..
Creative ZEN AIR DOT true wireless – techbuzzireland
What do they have then. Call controls skip and reverse tracks, voice assistant access and reset options are all present which is enough and we have got large drivers for small earbuds and dual mics so is that enough for your 30 euro?
They are small earbuds so sleep and fit well in the ears and look good, the case is tiny and fits in any pocket and overall in general one of the smallest cases this year so far and earbuds with a tiny stem that sport touch controls that worked really well for me on my testing. For calls these are surprisingly good for what you pay here with ENC built in and calls can be controlled easily on them too.
How they sound though given they have custom tuned 13.mm neodymium drivers is what is important and having no app access at this time they are quite loud and super punchy, we have no EQ to deal with unless you have a third party app on your phone which most are utter rubbish but this is a pair of earbuds that just get the job done out of the box and no fiddling around with and give a pretty decent audio experience, they are not bassy not flat not sound tinny or distort on maxed out volumes and in general will keep most people who are not fussy happy and for the price what more do you really want.
Video games have come a long way since the days of arcades and early home consoles. Alongside the advancements in graphics, gameplay mechanics, and storytelling, there has been a parallel evolution in how we pay for and access these virtual adventures.
From the simple act of dropping a coin into an arcade machine to the complex world of microtransactions and subscription services, the payment systems in video gaming have undergone a fascinating transformation.
The Arcade Era: Insert Coin to Play
The arcade era, which began in the late 1970s and peaked in the 1980s and early 1990s, was the genesis of video game payment systems. In arcades, players would insert coins (usually quarters) into a slot on the game cabinet to play. This pay-per-play model was straightforward and immediate, allowing players to enjoy games in short bursts. The challenge was to master the game’s mechanics within a limited time frame, often leading to fierce competition among players.
This model encouraged game developers to create titles that were easy to pick up and play but difficult to master. The quicker a player lost, the more coins they would need to insert to continue playing, providing a steady stream of revenue for arcade owners.
Pay by phone bill deposits
In the ever-evolving landscape of video game payment systems, one of the most significant and convenient developments in recent years has been the introduction of phone bill casino deposits. This innovation has revolutionised how we pay for gaming and expanded the realm of online gambling and mobile gaming. Phone bill deposits, also known as “pay by phone” or “mobile billing” options, provide a seamless and user-friendly way for players to fund their gaming accounts.
As tech keeps improving, phone bill deposits are becoming smarter and more convenient and mobile casino sites like JeffBet now offer easy phone billing payment options offering a number phone billing payment solutions. With the integration of biometric authentication, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, mobile payments are becoming even more secure and convenient.
The Digital Age: Downloadable Content and Microtransactions
The digital age brought significant changes to payment systems in video gaming. Instead of purchasing physical copies of games, players began downloading them directly to their consoles or PCs. This shift paved the way for the introduction of downloadable content (DLC) and microtransactions, making it easier than ever to pay for games.
DLC allowed developers to extend the lifespan of their games by offering additional content, such as new levels, characters, and items, for a separate fee. Microtransactions, on the other hand, allowed players to make small in-game purchases, often for cosmetic items or power-ups. These microtransactions proved highly profitable for developers, as they encouraged players to spend small amounts of money frequently.
While some players appreciated the ability to customise their characters and enhance their gameplay experience, others felt that microtransactions created a pay-to-win environment where those who spent more money had a significant advantage.
The Battle Royale Phenomenon
The battle royale genre, popularised by games like “Fortnite” and “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds,” introduced a unique approach to payment systems. These games are typically free to play, with revenue generated by selling in-game items and battle passes. Battle passes offer a tiered system of rewards that players can unlock by playing the game or purchasing the pass.
This model encourages players to invest time and money into the game to unlock exclusive cosmetics and rewards. It has been incredibly successful, with some battle royale games generating billions of dollars in revenue.
The Subscription Renaissance
In recent years, subscriptions have made a resurgence in the gaming industry. Services like Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Now, and Apple Arcade offer players access to a library of games for a monthly fee. These services provide a cost-effective way for players to enjoy a wide variety of games without purchasing each title individually.
Additionally, cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce NOW are exploring subscription-based models that allow players to stream games directly to their devices, eliminating the need for high-end gaming hardware.
The Future of Payment Systems in Gaming
As technology advances, gaming payment systems are likely to evolve further. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) gaming experiences may introduce new monetisation methods. Blockchain and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) could also play a role in the future of in-game item ownership and trading.
One thing is clear: the landscape of video game payment systems will continue to adapt to the preferences of players and the possibilities of technology. While debates about the ethics of microtransactions and the value of subscription services persist, the fundamental goal remains the same — to provide engaging and immersive gaming experiences to players worldwide, however, they choose to pay for them.
Conclusion
In the end, the evolution of payment systems in video gaming reflects the broader changes in technology and consumer preferences. From the days of inserting coins into arcade machines to the current era of subscription services and microtransactions, the gaming industry has continuously innovated to ensure both profitability and player satisfaction.
As we look ahead, it will be fascinating to see how emerging technologies shape the future of video game monetisation and what new experiences await gamers in the years to come.
When we talk about horse racing history, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Most horse racing enthusiasts would say England, which is somewhat correct. But horse racing quickly traveled to Ireland, and now we have a country where horse racing is well embedded into their history and tradition.
Horse racing is a huge sector in Ireland. Just browsing through the winners of the most popular races in history, we can see a huge dominance of Irish horses. Even by checking the 2023 Breeders’ Cup odds by TwinSpires, you can see the horse Mostahdaf might be among the contenders.
Now that we know that horse racing is huge in Ireland, let’s dive into the much deeper water and see how horse racing affects their economy by creating jobs, and generating revenue through breeding racing and tourism.
The Impact of the Horse Racing Sector on the Irish Economy
Let’s get one thing straight from the start. The impact of the horse racing sector on a country’s economy cannot be big right?
Wrong.
Ireland is a country where horse racing is well embedded in its roots and traditions. On top of that, the Ireland horse racing industry expanded internationally thanks to breeding and opening doors for tourism.
Research conducted by Deloitte, suggests that the horse racing industry delivered €2.5bn to the Irish economy in 2022, and created more than 30,000 jobs.
But what does this sector cover?
Well, all horse racing activities. From breeding to training and racing and even ancillary activities that can bring a lot of money.
Even though horse racing is huge in Ireland, this number suggests that the industry is still growing. According to this research, the horse racing industry in Ireland has grown by 34% since 2016 in terms of money, and we have 1,500 horse-related jobs more.
If we take the breeding sector alone, we can see that it generates close to $1 billion annually. Everyone wants to have an Irish champion running in their horse bloodlines, right?
But, these are not the only horse racing sectors generating money for their economy.
Betting
Now, let’s talk turkey—money, that is. Betting is at the heart of horse racing economics. The Irish have a penchant for placing bets, and it’s a symbiotic relationship.
Punters wager their hopes and dreams, and the industry thrives on the adrenaline-fueled excitement. Whether it’s a cheeky bet at the local pub or a high-stakes wager at the racecourse, money flows like a river.
The betting sector in Ireland is also huge. On-course betting is quite popular and tracks like Leopardstown and Gowran are leading with revenue generated from betting. There is no actual data on the impact of betting on the Irish economy, but we can safely assume that this sector alone generates billions of dollars each year.
Employment and Tourism
Let’s talk about employment, shall we? The Irish horse racing sector is a bustling hub of job opportunities. From stable hands who know the quirks of every horse to trainers with an eagle eye for talent, and not forgetting the unsung heroes in the administrative trenches—thousands earn their daily bread thanks to this vibrant industry. It’s like a job fair but with hay and oats.
Horse racing isn’t just for the locals; it’s a global magnet for tourists. International visitors descend upon Irish racecourses like the Curragh and Punchestown, turning race days into vibrant celebrations of sport and culture. It’s not just about winning bets; it’s about creating unforgettable memories in the heart of Ireland.
Global Ambassadors of the Sport
Last but not least, the power of the horse racing industry in Ireland is boosted by all the Irish trainers, jockeys, and horses that travel to international horse racing events and they bring all their prize purses at home.
Their success amplifies Irish racing reputation and attracts many partnerships from all around the world which also can have a huge impact on the country’s economy.
Irish digital services company TEKenable is creating 20 new jobs with the establishment of a Data Analytics & AI Practice.
The establishment of TEKenable’s Data Analytics & AI Practice is a key investment area for the company and a critical pillar of its growth strategy. The Data Analytics & AI Practice will help TEKenable create more personalised experiences for its customers.
The Data Analytics & AI Practice will provide analytics services and solutions to help organisations grow and differentiate themselves against competition. TEKenable’s Data Analytics & AI experts will identify use cases that can deliver against a company’s business priorities and create analytics solutions with the right talent and technologies to suit their needs allowing that data’s destiny be leveraged to lift performance, resilience and growth for years to come.
“We have developed TEKenable’s Data Analytics & AI services to help businesses leverage the very latest technology to boost revenues, deliver operational efficiency and improve security,” explains Nick Connors, Group CEO, TEKenable. “By implementing Data Analytics & AI services into the business model means companies can help reduce costs by identifying more efficient ways of doing business.”
TEKenable recently achieved Microsoft Azure Advanced Specialisation in Migrate Enterprise Apps to Microsoft Azure and has two solution designations – Digital & App Innovation and Data & AI. Migrate Enterprise Applications to Microsoft Azure specialization allows partners with an active Solutions Partner for Data & AI (Azure) or Digital & App Innovation (Azure) designation to further differentiate their organizations, demonstrate their capabilities, and build stronger connections with customers. The recognition both validates TEKenable’s technical prowess and depth of experience in digital transformation initiatives using Azure and strengthens the company’s longstanding partnership with Microsoft.
“TEKenable’s App Modernisation on Azure Advanced Specialisation is no easy feat, and it underscores our ability to provide clients with unique value, insight, and innovation in some of today’s most advanced technologies,” adds Peter Rose, Group CTO, TEKenable. “Obtaining this Advanced Specialisation with Microsoft is a meaningful milestone for our partnership and showcases our commitment to the growth and success of our people and our practice.”
The Data Analytics & AI Practice will be headed by a Data Analytics & AI industry expert with a long track record of handling the interests of clients, stakeholders, regulators and partners. The new positions include Cloud Engineering, AI Engineering, Data and Analytics and Consulting and will be fulfilled in 2024.
Drones are rapidly gaining in popularity because they are some of the most exciting tech that you can find in the video world today. They have the ability to capture aerial footage as well as perform tasks that were impossible or expensive to do. People use drones for a variety of reasons, and it’s not just something to be used for business either. Drones can be used for videography and photography, which is making the online visual world blow up. If people are able to use drones for videography, then they can sell their marketing skills on social media and they can become influencers, which is a growing popularity and growing trend.
With all of these advancements in technology, drones have also become much more accessible to those who are just regular folks looking to start a new hobby. With models such as the Mini 4 on display, hobbyists and enthusiasts who enjoy flying and exploring the world from another angle are really starting to gain some exciting options. But what else can drones be used for?Here are the top ways that we believe drones can be used.
Aerial photography and videography. You might have seen wedding planners, real estate agents and even amateurs using drones for aerial photography and videography. It’s one of the most common uses, and for those who are looking at land planning, a drone is actually one of the easiest ways to do it. With the help of a drone, you’re able to capture hugely sweeping landscapes and dramatic cityscapes, which is so helpful in photography. If you want to get close to wildlife but you’re a bit nervous about being eaten, then you’ll find that a drone is there to help. If you are trying to capture some challenging footage in a dangerous environment, then a drone is able to go where you can’t, and that becomes a valuable tool for an emergency responder or a journalist.
In agriculture. Did you know that drones are currently revolutionizing the agriculture industry? With the help that they give to farmers, drones are imperative in optimizing crop production, increasing yields and reducing farming costs. Drones are able to help farmers to gather data on their crops and make better informed decisions when it comes to using their land. One of the biggest ways that drones are used in agriculture is through aerial imaging as we already mentioned. With aerial imaging, high resolution cameras are flown over fields and they can identify the health of the crops as well as detect early signs of disease. It’s also so helpful for monitoring animals and crop growth during the growing season. In addition to this, drones are also being used with spraying pesticides and fertilizers. Some of the bigger drones are able to carry heavy loads to do this.
Inspections and maintenance. In the real estate and building industries, drones are increasingly being used for infrastructural inspections. This is a cost effective and more efficient way to ensure that bridges, buildings and power lines are being built effectively and safely. Bridge inspections are important for companies and councils, and the Department of Transportation in Minnesota, for example, has been using drones since 2015. The high resolution cameras that the drones are equipped with are able to capture detailed images of any issues that need to be maintained.
In security. Did you know that drones are transforming the field of surveillance with an aerial perspective that was once unattainable and too expensive? Drones are able to continue to capture high quality footage and gather the data necessary to ensure that enforcement and military get the intelligence they need.drones are able to reach inaccessible areas and these inaccessible areas could never be previously reached by the traditional methods on foot.
For deliveries. Drones have been road tested with Uber and Deliveroo, and they’ve become increasingly popular for a wide range of delivery services. Companies such as Google and Amazon are testing drone delivery services for smaller packages that are easier to navigate. Delivery drones are not particularly big, and they are unmanned, which means that they can be programmed to fly to specific locations to drop off small packages. They are equipped with the right GPS and cameras which ensure that they can be located and returned.
Research. Another exciting way that drones can be used is in research, because science needs more help and more monitoring. Drones have the ability to offer scientists a unique look into data from remote locations. This means that gathering data on environmental conditions and wildlife has become easier. This is especially important for wildlife research, where populations in dense areas are being closely watched to see how they behave. Researchers can add cameras to drones that allow them to capture high quality images that would be previously impossible to maintain.
Monitoring environmental conditions With the help of drones, researchers can collect data on temperature and wind speed, as well as other environmental factors, by attaching special sensors to those drones. This data then can be used to accurately study climate changes and weather patterns, and it can also tell us what pollution is doing to our planet. Alongside this, drones are being used to study geological features such as glaciers and volcanoes, so that we understand how it helps and hurts our environment. Drones can be used to measure the temperature of volcanic lava, or study how glaciers are melting and at which speed.
In journalism. Drones are completely transforming the journalism world because the way that journalists report news is changing. With drones, there is a unique perspective that was once unavailable to journalists. And whether you’re looking at live journalism happening in the moment or you’re looking at journalism that pinpoints something happening where everybody needs to know what’s going on, the high quality footage that can be captured by drones is something that has made them an invaluable tool for news organizations.
In real estate, real estate agents are using drones to capture footage and images of properties so that they can make their sales. With the right footage and videography, houses become more desirable and real estate agents are seen as being ahead of the trends with the correct software. The real estate industry is in tatters right now because real estate agents are not getting a great name and people are struggling to find rentals with amped up adverts that include video footage. With the help of drones, real estate agents are better positioned to sell and to let their properties. Homeowners can also use drones to capture imagery and video that will show the property at its best.
Of course, these industries are not the only ones where drones are able to show off a little, the possibilities do not end there because the technology is advancing and drones are changing. Even as they are released to the public, more are being created. Drones have the ability to revolutionize industries across the board as well as unlocking new opportunities that include. Expertly designed software businesses can streamline their operations and general folk on the street are able to amp up their hobbies.The customized technology solutions ensure that the transformation of using drones from video cameras are going to be huge. Drones are a gamechanger and if you are looking to buy yours, don’t forget to do your research so that you get the very best!
Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL) has joined forces with the University of Limerick’s Digital Cancer Research Centre to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) platform and digital twin technology to power predictive and diagnostic research in oncology.
The technology can help clinicians provide more effective cancer care for those with B-cell lymphoma from speeding diagnosis to providing enhanced treatment and improving long-term outcomes for patients in Ireland and worldwide.
Dell created an AI platform for the University that delivers high performance computing power to accelerate oncology and precision medicine research. The platform sits within the Digital Cancer Centre’s multicloud ecosystem. It is powered by Dell’s latest storage arrays and Dell PowerEdge servers optimised for AI to produce cancer patient digital twins for better diagnostics.
With the new AI platform, researchers can:
Rapidly accelerate biomarker testing for cancer,
Gain a better understanding of how to treat patients with B-cell lymphoma, and
Develop personalised therapies based on a person’s tumour characteristics.
By using emerging technologies, researchers at the Digital Pathology Unit at the University of Limerick’s Digital Cancer Research Centre can also better understand the pathogenesis of these malignancies and develop novel therapeutic approaches.
The researchers are particularly interested in the possibility that collagen within the tumour ‘microenvironment’ can cause the cancerous cells to spread around the body and to the central nervous system. Having already identified novel ways to block collagen, the research could lead to new treatments to cure patients before the tumour spreads.
Professor of Molecular Pathology at University of Limerick and Director of the Digital Pathology Unit at the Digital Cancer Research Centre Paul Murray said: “Through our partnership with the Dell Technologies team, we will be able to advance our knowledge of how cells go wrong during cancer development and find new ways to diagnose and treat cancer patients. This is the beginning of a very exciting research project for the team here at the University of Limerick’s Digital Cancer Research Centre, and we’re looking forward to accelerating this project with the digital support and insights from the team at Dell Technologies.”
Catherine Doyle, Managing Director of Dell Technologies, Ireland, said: “The new AI-driven platform developed by Dell Technologies will ultimately help researchers and healthcare professionals deliver precision treatments for patients with B-cell lymphoma by understanding how it develops. Through the creation of these digital twins, the University of Limerick and Dell are taking clinical research to a new level. Together, we are harnessing the power of data through new technologies to benefit patients and healthcare professionals globally.”
In today’s dynamic world of transportation and logistics, where speed, efficiency, and precision are paramount, the evolution of technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of fleet management. From its early beginnings with basic GPS tracking, telematics has undergone a remarkable transformation, giving rise to advanced fleet management solutions that are revolutionizing the way businesses manage their vehicle operations.
In this article, we delve into the journey of telematics evolution, exploring how it has evolved from GPS to the cutting-edge technology of today, spotlighting the Geotab GO as a prime example of this remarkable evolution.
The Evolution of Telematics: From GPS to Advanced Fleet Tech
The early days of fleet management were marked by the introduction of GPS technology, which provided businesses with the ability to track their vehicles’ locations in real time. While this innovation was revolutionary at the time, it was just the tip of the iceberg. As technology continued to advance, telematics evolved beyond simple location tracking to encompass a comprehensive suite of features aimed at optimizing fleet operations.
Introducing the Geotab GO9: A Glimpse into the Future of Fleet Management
Leading the charge in this evolution is the Geotab GO9, a next-generation fleet tracking device that epitomizes the advancements telematics has achieved. Geotab, a pioneer in fleet management technology, has set a new standard with the GO9 – a device that not only builds upon its predecessors’ capabilities but also redefines the landscape of fleet management with its innovative features.
Boby Multani, one of Geotab’s Product Owners, provides insights into the Geotab GO9’s revolutionary features and its significance in the realm of fleet management. Multani highlights that while the GO9 maintains a similar physical appearance to its predecessor, the GO8, it has been completely redesigned internally to offer enhanced performance and functionality.
Breaking Down the Geotab GO9’s Innovations
The Geotab GO9 introduces a powerful 32-bit processor, making it the most robust telematics device produced by Geotab to date. This advancement translates to four times more memory and five times more RAM than its predecessor. This boost in performance not only ensures smoother operation but also allows the device to support a wider array of functions, contributing to its longevity and versatility.
A notable enhancement in the GO9 is its Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) module, which provides increasingly accurate location data. With the GO9, businesses gain access to real-time vehicle location, trip history, and comprehensive vehicle and driving trends data through the MyGeotab platform.
Unveiling Key Differentiators: The Gyroscope and Extended Compatibility
The GO9 sets itself apart with the incorporation of a gyroscope. Geotab’s innovative algorithms, combined with the device’s accelerometer, already offer exceptional harsh-event data and collision reconstruction capabilities. The addition of a gyroscope elevates the device’s capabilities by providing a real-time sense of the vehicle’s orientation.
The gyroscope enriches the data with additional granularity, improving the accuracy of vehicle movement tracking – especially on winding or bumpy roads. This enhanced data is invaluable for collision reconstruction, enabling a more detailed, second-by-second breakdown of events.
Despite these groundbreaking advancements, the GO9 retains the same dimensions and shape as its predecessor, simplifying installations and ensuring a seamless transition for fleet managers.
Embracing Electric Vehicles and Future-Ready Capabilities
As the automotive industry shifts towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a transformative force in the transportation sector. Recognizing this pivotal change, Geotab’s GO9 not only offers cutting-edge features for traditional vehicles but also caters to the growing demand for EVs within fleet operations.
One of the challenges in integrating EVs into fleets is the need for specialized data and insights that go beyond those required for conventional vehicles. The GO9 is equipped with the ability to support EVs, ensuring that businesses are well-prepared to seamlessly transition to electric vehicles or hybrid models when the time is right.
Key Aspects of the GO9’s EV Support:
Battery Health Monitoring: EVs are powered by complex battery systems that require careful monitoring to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The GO9’s compatibility with EVs includes the ability to track and analyze crucial battery health metrics, providing fleet managers with real-time data on battery status, temperature, and overall health. This proactive approach helps prevent potential issues and maximize the efficiency of EVs.
Charging Infrastructure Integration: The transition to EVs necessitates access to reliable and efficient charging infrastructure. The GO9 supports integration with charging stations, enabling fleet managers to monitor charging activities, track energy consumption, and plan routes that incorporate charging stops. This feature is essential for optimizing the operational efficiency of EVs and ensuring that they are always ready for service.
Range Optimization: Range anxiety – the fear of running out of battery power – is a common concern for EV users. The GO9 addresses this challenge by providing accurate range estimates based on factors such as battery state of charge, driving behavior, and external conditions. Fleet managers can use this information to plan routes that maximize efficiency while minimizing the risk of running out of power during journeys.
Adaptive Telematics: EVs introduce unique driving behaviors and energy consumption patterns that differ from those of traditional vehicles. The GO9’s advanced algorithms are capable of adapting to these differences, offering specialized insights into EV performance. This adaptability ensures that fleet managers receive accurate data tailored to the specific requirements of electric vehicles.
Preparing for the Future: Flexibility and Innovation
Geotab’s decision to incorporate EV support into the GO9 is a strategic move that aligns with the shifting landscape of transportation. Even if a fleet is not fully electric at the moment, the GO9’s EV capabilities future-proof the fleet’s technology infrastructure. This flexibility allows businesses to evolve their fleet operations in response to market trends, regulatory changes, and the growing emphasis on sustainability.
Moreover, the GO9’s support for EVs reflects Geotab’s commitment to innovation and adaptability. By integrating cutting-edge features that cater to the needs of electric vehicles, Geotab showcases its dedication to providing solutions that address the evolving demands of the fleet management industry.
The Road Ahead: Evolution, Adaptation, and Progress
Telematics will continue to advance as technology pushes its boundaries and improves. Geotab’s GO9 represents a milestone in this journey, showcasing the power of innovation and adaptation in the fleet management sector. With its advanced capabilities, compatibility with existing and future vehicle models, and commitment to sustainability, the GO9 is a testament to the potential of telematics to transform fleet operations on a global scale.
In a world where businesses demand ever-higher levels of efficiency and sustainability, the Geotab GO9 vehicle tracking device is leading the way into the future of fleet management. To explore its features and learn more about how the GO9 can revolutionize your fleet operations, visit geotab.com and experience the next phase of telematics evolution firsthand.
European shared mobility leader Bolt, in partnership with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, has officially launched its shared electric bike service across parts of the area today. The occasion was marked by an event attended by Bolt and the council at White Rock beach. The service arrives just in time for European Mobility Week which starts on September 16 and aptly ends with Car-Free Day on September 22.
Though the council area already benefits from an abundance of different transport modes that crucially aren’t the private car, the service from Bolt offers residents and visitors something brand new in a multitude of ways.
To start, it has an affordable €0.18 per minute charge and no unlock fee. Market research often says that the price point of a transport mode determines its utilisation. Since Bolt and DLR CoCo have the common goal of shifting private car use to public and shared transport, especially ahead of Car-Free Day, this is crucial.
Another quality important to consumers, and a differentiator of Bolt’s service, is ease of use. Notably, Bolt’s bicycles have pedal assisted motors. This means they can be used in different ways to push bicycles. For example, riders of Bolt’s e-bikes can scale DLR’s notorious hills or put kilometres behind them (aided by the region’s fantastic cycling infrastructure) without breaking a sweat. This means they can be a genuine alternative to the private car, and connect coastal towns (such as Dalkey, Killiney, Shankill) and Cherrywood with Bray. Additionally, the service provides an important link with Dart and bus services which helps people commute in a sustainable way. The value this can bring can be seen in the almost 3250 people that have cycled more than 38,000 kilometres since the service launched in nearby Bray in late June.
It is not, however, only users of the service that are getting something new. Bolt is a firm believer that transport needs to work for everyone, including pedestrians. Consequently, the firm has a suite of features and smart technologies which ensure the service is used responsibly.
For those with no or little experience of bicycles with pedal assisted motors, there is ‘Beginner Mode’. This limits the top speed of the bicycle to 15 km/h. Once ‘Beginner Mode’ is turned off, the bicycles have a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
The GPS technology packed into the bikes brings a wealth of benefits. For example, in collaboration with the council, Bolt has implemented go-slow zones (where speed is limited to 15 km/h), as well as no-go zones (where the bikes aren’t allowed to be ridden whatsoever).
GPS also brings benefits even when the bikes aren’t being used. Bikes will be stationed in designated mandatory parking locations on public realm and private property (as agreed with the landowners). This means riders will be shown where they can park their bike through the app and physical signage. Not only does this mean the bikes won’t take up space reserved for private bicycles at popular bike racks, Bolt can also see if a parking location is at risk of being overwhelmed and take action. This could be in the form of the local operations team shifting an appropriate amount of bikes to another location, temporarily disallowing bikes being parked in a specific location or discounting trips from a location to ensure the bikes get moved.
The roll-out of the bikes in these areas is a pilot programme and is subject to amendment, pending feedback from all corners of the community. Feedback of all kinds is welcome and can be shared in-app or by emailing Ireland@bolt.eu.
Though the service will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the company will be employing an in-app cognitive reaction test 11pm-5am. This means prospective riders have to prove they are in a fit state to ride a bicycle through their reaction time.
Another way in which the Estonian company offers a unique proposition is the taxi service that can be ordered within the very same app. This means a wide variety of mobility needs can be met within the Bolt app alone. For example, citizens can ride a bicycle to a public transport hub or destination in DLR at the start of the night, and then get home safely by taxi after public transport services have stopped for the night.
Bolt will further support users taking the right mode of transport at the right time and discourage the usage of its bike service whilst under the influence of alcohol by offering a discount for its taxi service to those who fail its cognitive reaction test*. The company will offer this discount during launch week whilst everyone gets familiar with the new service.
Bolt Operations Manager for Rentals in Ireland and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown resident, John Buckley, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that our electric bikes will be available to residents and visitors to the southern parts of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. We offer something completely different – an electric bike service that can get you up that hill, and a taxi service that can get you home safe at night, all in one app. And what fantastic timing, just on the eve of European Mobility Week which encourages everyone who can give up their private car to do so, a cause which is central to our company mission. Providing people with more convenient options make that prospect more likely for many.”
The HAYLOU X1 2023 are the latest earbuds on offer from the brand and are a clean simple o but familiar looking pair of earbuds with a gloss finish but with a nice metal case that is like a pebble and easy to fit into any pocket. Branding is kept to a minimum here with just the brand marking on the case which has an LED light around the charging port which is really nice looking and of course USB-C.
These earbuds have most of the features expected, Sound overall here is decent though, nice crisp and clear with an EQ to change things up you can also change the controls and we are down with some features like auto play and pause and voice assistant which is not really a huge gripe with me, however with the functions on the App you are limited to two controls per side however all the other features are present but you can of course set these up to what suits your needs best as everyone is different when it comes to situations like this.
The App
As you can see there is less of a feature set here compared to their latest headphones which are quite remarkable for their price and the same applies here when it comes to the sound given we have less to play with, volume is decently loud we have a latency mode, no lag latency in general noted and also decent highs lows and mids with a nice bass to them, the pop EQ is very bright but the bass and rock EQs are good and my personal choice here to my own taste.
Overall a decent pair of earbuds with responsive touch controls and in general work well, they are comfortable and discreet enough and look well and their charging case is pretty cool too.
