HomeBot Ireland secures nationwide retail deal with Euronics

Irish smart home robotics start-up HomeBot Ireland has secured a retail partnership with Euronics Ireland, bringing its range of smart home cleaning robots and robot lawn mowers to more than 60 stores across Ireland for the first time.
The deal marks a major milestone for the West Cork-based company, founded by Clara Mulligan and husband Alan O’Neill, which has grown rapidly since launching its first product in 2024, having expanded its product range to include robot vacuum and mops, making everyday household tasks easier through smart, accessible technology. The partnership will cover the full range of HomeBot Ireland products, giving customers across the country the opportunity to see the technology in-store, ahead of the gardening season. The move is supported by locally based customer care and after-sales service in West Cork, including diagnostics and repairs, typically completed within 48 hours.
Stephen O’Loughlin, National Sales Manager at Euronics Ireland said:
“We’re delighted to partner with HomeBot Ireland, showcasing the strength of independent Irish retailers and our commitment to supporting Irish businesses. This collaboration combines Euronics’ extensive network with HomeBot Irelands’ innovative tech solutions, enhancing our offering to customers across Ireland. We’re excited to work together and drive growth for our Euronics retail stores.”
The new partnership coincides with the launch of Nozzie 4-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop. Designed to deliver a deeper clean with minimal effort, Nozzie combines powerful suction, intelligent navigation and a detachable base with a flexible cleaning nozzle, allowing users to easily reach areas such as stairs, sofas and corners.
Clara Mulligan, founder HomeBot Ireland said:
“The partnership with Euronics is a huge step in our brand’s growth in Ireland, which, until now, has mostly been through direct online sales and events. Being available in Euronics stores will allow more people across Ireland to see our products in person, and discover how smart home robots can make their everyday life easier, knowing that support, repairs and real help, from a real person, are available right here locally when they need it.”
HomeBot Ireland products are designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind, and have the Guaranteed Irish badge.
The company plans to continue expanding its product range over the next year with additional smart home robotics products currently in development. Customers also benefit from hassle-free support options, including DPD click-and-collect returns and servicing, accessible nationwide.
For more information visit www.homebotireland.ie

Maidesite T2 Pro Max adjustable desk review

The Maidesite T2 Pro Max adjustable desk is the ideal home or office kit you need in your life and I have been using such sit-stand desks for several years now having tested several brands.

My previous model the pro plus which I have some time now is like new today considering the battering it gets on a daily basis there is not even a scracth on it after the abuse it got.

The T2 Pro max is almost similar to it and this time I opted for the walnut desk top which seems even tougher than the last one and you can customize your size and needs which is great. You can buy the top or the frame seperate if you wish this is if yuo have one already and want to change out.

The desk itself is one of the most sturdy ones I have seen and tested with the top itself and the legs which are adjustable and telescopic and they make little noise when moving up or down.

In my set up I like to stand sometimes or sit this enables me to to do this with ease and with all the cables hidden away underneath they are not in the way and meaning nothing has to be moved no matter which height I set it at when in use.

There is a heavy capacity too here depending on your needs so again for most this will take anyhting like big printers etc like the one I have on this one and was also on the last model.

There is one big cut out hole for cabels and there is a control unit on top highers and lowers the desk with measurments and memory switches which can be placed any side with the holes pre drilled, the whole desk has pre drilled holes and fixtures making it simple to set up in a fast manner and should take you around 15 minutes max.

Overall for me this is an excellent adjustable desk and not too expensive either and having had one before I can vouch these stand the test of time and I have never had an issue.

Features

. In Motion: Smooth lifting and lowering without wobbling – your stack of papers stays put.
• At Rest: High load capacity with no swaying under full weight.
• Fully Raised: Rock-solid even at the highest position – perfect for working.

 

Perfect for heavy-duty workstations:

With a high load capacity of 160 kg, there’s plenty of room for large monitors, PCs, studio equipment, or demanding setups – ideal for professionals and power users.

Control everything – easily, quickly, intuitively:

With four memory positions, two charging ports, a child lock, and sit-stand reminders, you can adjust your workspace comfortably and precisely – all with just a tap of a finger.

Keep your desk tidy:

The included metal cable holder helps you neatly bundle and store cables under the desk – for a clean and professional workspace.

The frame’s extensive length adjustment range of 1000–1800 mm makes it highly versatile. It fits a wide variety of tabletop sizes and is suitable for many different work and home setups.

Over 10,000 Load Cycles:

Each desk frame undergoes rigorous quality and load testing. With more than 10,000 cycles, it ensures long-lasting, robust, and reliable performance in everyday use.

See our Maidesite T2 pro plus review

BUY

Video Review

One in Three Older Adults Feel Digitally Excluded

New European research conducted by the Vodafone Foundation among people aged 55+ in Ireland reveals that while daily device use is now widespread among older adults, many lack the confidence and support needed to fully engage in an increasingly digital world.
The survey, carried out in November 2025 across six European countries, was designed to inform the Vodafone Foundation’s Hi Digital programme and explore how older adults access and use digital devices, what barriers they face and how they seek support.
 The research shows that over 90% of respondents now use a digital device every day. However, 22% say they do not have anyone to turn to when they need help.
 Online safety is a major worry, with 72% of respondents concerned about being scammed or tricked online, significantly more than the global average of 55%, while one in four (25%) admit they do not know how to protect themselves, again higher than the global average of 18%.
 Despite high levels of concern, just 18% say they have experienced a bad online incident, on par with the European average, indicating that the fear may be greater than the reality.
 Feeling Left Behind in a Digital World
The findings also highlight the social implications of digital exclusion:
·         35% feel excluded in social situations when services are digital-only
·         51% stated that they don’t understand how certain apps or websites work
·         91% are open to learning digital skills
When it comes to areas where digital skills are most needed, respondents cited topics like Finance and Travel but said that Public Services were their top priority.

Supporting Older Adults and the Sandwich Generation 

This new research also highlights the important role played by the so-called Sandwich Generation; adults in their 40s to 60s who support older relatives with digital tools, communication and online security, while also caring for younger family members.

 With 46% of respondents preferring to learn from friends and family, intergenerational support remains a critical enabler of digital inclusion.

Closing the Confidence Gap in Ireland

Research conducted in 2022 by Deloitte for Vodafone Foundation found that only 19% of older adults in Ireland were digitally literate. Three years later, this latest study shows that while access has grown rapidly, confidence and skills may not have kept pace.

 To address this gap, Vodafone Foundation has developed the Hi Digital programme, a free, step-by-step online course designed to support those who need help developing digital skills, particularly aimed at individuals aged 65+ who may have rarely or never been online.
 To date, over 170,000 older adults have engaged with Hi Digital since its launch in 2021, through the online courses, in-person training, and drop-in sessions available in participating Vodafone stores on Friday mornings, from 10:00-13:00. The programme has now evolved into a free nationwide support programme, combining digital lessons, quick-tip videos, in-store guidance, and collaboration with community organisations delivering local digital inclusion initiatives to help older adults build confidence in everyday life.
 Participants can complete the online course independently or with support from family and volunteer tutors. The programme is also delivered in partnership with organisations, such as Friends of the Elderly, ALONE and Society of St Vincent de Paul, as well as through intergenerational initiatives like the Irish Girl Guides and Transition Year programmes in secondary schools nationwide.
 Recognising that access alone is not enough, Vodafone Foundation is also providing practical support to help older adults navigate essential online services. For instance, there is an instructional video demonstrating how to use the Transport for Ireland app, supporting older people to confidently integrate digital tools into their everyday lives.
 Since April 2025, the most popular Hi Digital module is the Introduction to the internet course, followed by Using My Smartphone, with Connecting with Others and Identifying Frauds and Scams close behind. Notably, RIP.ie is currently one of the most visited pages on the Hi Digital platform, reflecting the practical ways older adults are engaging online.
 Speaking about the findings, Liz Roche, Head of Vodafone Foundation in Ireland, said:
“This research shows that while older adults are using digital devices every day, many still lack confidence and feel vulnerable online. No one should feel excluded from essential services or social connections because they don’t feel digitally confident. Through the Hi Digital initiative, we have already supported over 170,000 and our ambition is to extend the reach and keep growing, empowering older people across Ireland with the skills and confidence they need to engage safely and independently in today’s digital world. We are also encouraging families and communities to play their part in supporting loved ones on their digital journey.”
 Drop-In Fridays
In 2023, the programme expanded to include in-person support through a nationwide Drop-In Friday’s initiative in Vodafone stores. Held every Friday from 10am to 1 pm, trained Hi Digital Ambassadors provide free, personalised support with phones and tablets.
Due to strong demand, the service has now expanded to 58 Vodafone stores nationwide. For those unable to attend in person, the free online course at hidigital.ie remains available 24/7.
 For more information go to hidigital.ie

Choosing the Right Containers and Closures for Cosmetics

Proper packaging is essential to maintain the quality, effectiveness, and safety of cosmetic products. Many items, including creams, serums, lotions, and oils, are sensitive to air, light, and temperature. Without suitable packaging, these products can degrade, lose texture, or even become contaminated. Selecting the right containers and closures ensures that cosmetics remain stable, safe, and easy to use.

Protecting Products with the Right Closures

A key component of cosmetic packaging is the type of closure used. Closures for cosmetic packaging provide airtight seals that prevent contamination and limit exposure to air and moisture. They help preserve the active ingredients, maintain consistency, and extend the shelf life of cosmetic products.

Different types of closures, such as screw caps, flip tops, or pump mechanisms, are designed to match specific product formulations. Using appropriate closures ensures that lotions, creams, and liquid products maintain their intended texture and performance.

Selecting the Ideal Bottle

The container itself plays a major role in protecting cosmetic formulations. A cosmetic bottle designed for stability and ease of use can improve both the product’s longevity and the customer’s experience. High-quality bottles are often made from glass or durable plastic to shield contents from light, heat, and accidental spillage.

Bottles with ergonomic designs make it easier to dispense the right amount of product without waste. They also support proper labeling and storage, allowing multiple products to be organized efficiently. The combination of a well-chosen bottle and an appropriate closure ensures that the cosmetic remains safe and effective throughout its use.

Best Practices for Longevity

To maximize the shelf life of cosmetic products, store them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Always ensure that closures are tightly secured to prevent exposure to air and moisture. Rotate older products first and periodically inspect for any changes in color, texture, or fragrance to maintain quality.

Canyon OnRiff 10 ANC Headset Review

The Canyon OnRiff 10 ANC Headset delivers a premium over‑ear audio experience that combines high-fidelity sound, active noise cancellation, and versatile connectivity. Designed for music, calls, gaming, and remote work, the OnRiffy 10 ANC offers comfort, extended playtime, and style, making it a standout choice for modern audio users.
Featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC), the headset ensures immersive sound while minimizing ambient distractions. Built-in microphones capture voice clearly for calls and conferencing, reducing background noise for professional communication.
The headphones are comfortbale to wear for long periods of time with the plush headpband and cups and protect you from the outside world whislt you bask in great audio.
There is several keys on one side giving you volume control skip and reverse tracks play and pause and access to your voice assistant there is also call managment and low latency mode for gaming the keys are tactile and work really well, The ANC key for me is where it is at though with a massive difference in the audio experience being very punchy with nice bass and loud, there is no app however but for me out of the box they pass the test.
Highs lows and mids all good all genres I tested and with gaming music and movies etc they sound excellent overall and I cant complain to be honest and calls also clear both ends for me.
These are a clean robust pair of cans that will suit anyone and not expensive and another good product from Canyon which is now building a great portfolio of goods where you could build yourself a nice Canyon eco system.
Key Features:
  • Hi‑Fi Sound & ANC: Over‑ear design with powerful drivers and advanced active noise cancellation for crisp, balanced audio.
  • Wireless & Wired Flexibility: Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity provides up to 25 hours of playtime, with the option of a wired 3.5 mm connection.
  • Dual Device Connectivity: Connect to two devices simultaneously for seamless multitasking across phone, laptop, and media.
  • Low‑Latency Gaming Mode: Optimized for gaming and multimedia with minimal audio delay.
  • Extended Comfort: Lightweight, adjustable headband and cushioned earcups for all-day wear.
The Canyon OnRiff 10 ANC Headset is ideal for users seeking premium audio, workplace convenience, and flexible connectivity in one accessory. Available in black, green, purple, and beige.

Wave of ‘Hi Mam / Hi Dad..” and bank impersonation scam texts in circulation

Bank of Ireland is advising customers to be vigilant amid a notable rise in impersonation scams, including fake family text and bogus bank alerts.  Impersonation scams are one of the most common tactics used by fraudsters, with criminals posing as trusted contact, to prompt quick action. These scams arrive by text or via messaging apps and are designed to look familiar, urgent and may even be personalised.

The current wave of scams involves fraudsters pretending to be a family member with a damaged or lost phone, asking for the recipient to pay for something urgently.

The message typically begins with a seemingly innocent message such as ‘Hi Mam / Hi Dad, this is my new number….’ followed by a request asking for help to pay for something. In some cases, the fraudster will ask for a payment to be made to a specific bank account or in other cases ask for a card number and then set it up on a digital wallet e.g. Apple Pay or Google Pay (and ask Mam for the code that the bank just sent).

Fraudsters are also sending texts that closely mimic legitimate Bank of Ireland fraud‑alert messages, particularly those asking customers to confirm whether they recognise a recent card transaction. These scam texts are designed to look authentic, using similar wording and formats to real security messages. While Bank of Ireland may contact customers to verify transactions, genuine staff will never ask you to share your full card details, one-time passcodes or to move your money to keep it safe.

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud at Bank of Ireland, said: “Smishing attempts tend to appear in waves, from motorway toll charges to government payment scams, but the goal remains the same – to get people to share their banking details or transfer money directly into the hands of fraudsters.

We have seen the “Hi Mam / Hi Dad…” texts before.  This is a case of fraudsters revisiting a tactic that has worked for them before, preying on a parents’ instinct to respond to a child in need. The sense of urgency in bank impersonation texts is designed to panic people into action to protect their money.

Although 70% of the Irish population are confident they can spot scams according to our latest research*, unfortunately people are still being caught out by these scams. 

Our advice is simple – always be on your guard, and pause.  Whether the message claims to be from your son, daughter, or your bank- always call back on a number that you already know. That one small step protects you and shuts down the scam instantly”.

Bank of Ireland’s guidance to help customers stay in control:

  • If you receive an unexpected message from a child or family member asking for help—do not reply and do not click any links.
  • Verify the sender by calling your family member on their usual number saved in your contacts.
  • TextChecker service – if you get a text that claims to be from Bank of Ireland but you are not sure if it’s genuine, here’s how to verify it:
    • Copy the text you wish to verify.digitPaste into a new message.
    • Add the word CHECK before the text. (In the same text)
    • Send to 50365.
  • If you receive a suspicious text, email a screenshot to 365Security@boi.com and then delete the message.
  • Bank of Ireland customers who believe they may have shared banking information should call the Bank of Ireland 24/7 Freephone line immediately.

Consumers Face Double Blow as Health Insurance Costs

Irish consumers are being warned to review their health insurance policies immediately, as a combination of premium increases and significant benefit reductions come into effect from 1st April across the market.

While policyholders are already familiar with regular price increases, further rate hikes are imminent, with providers including Irish Life Health, Laya Healthcare and Level Health implementing additional increases. This is according to health insurance expert and founder of Health Insurance Ireland, Dermot Goode.

Mr Goode warns that the latest round of changes extends beyond pricing. Substantial reductions in benefits, particularly affecting thousands of Laya Healthcare members, are also being introduced and may go unnoticed by many consumers.

From 1st April, Laya Healthcare will alter cover for major orthopaedic and ophthalmic procedures across approximately 30 plans. For example, the Prosper Advanced plan, which currently offers full cover for procedures such as hip, knee and shoulder replacements, will move to a 40% shortfall for these surgeries in private hospitals. With this plan costing €2,564 per adult, affected members renewing from April could face out-of-pocket costs of up to €6,000 for such procedures.

Other widely held corporate plans, including Prosper Care, Inspire Plus, Inspire, Simply Health Extra and Signify schemes, will also see co-payments for restricted procedures increase from 20% to 40%. While some consumers may manage a €3,000 shortfall, doubling this cost is likely to place significant financial strain on many households. Alternative options are also becoming less attractive. Plans such as Total Health Extra will retain full orthopaedic cover, but changes from April include a doubling of the private hospital excess to €300 per admission and a reduced outpatient claims cap of €500 per member.

Meanwhile, plans like Simply Connect and Simply Connect Plus, which have remained popular for their full orthopaedic cover and strong outpatient benefits, will see outpatient excess charges increase from €1 to €10 per claim, despite already rising premiums.

These developments are not isolated. Across the market, insurers including VHI Healthcare and Irish Life Health have already introduced caps on outpatient benefits, while Level Health has reduced benefits on its Plan D offering within months of launch.

Consumers are being advised to look beyond headline premium costs when reviewing their policies.

Dermot Goode, health insurance expert with healthinsuranceireland.ie, said:

“Consumers can no longer focus solely on the price of their premium. It is critical to examine the details of your policy to ensure benefits are not being reduced or removed. If changes are identified, members should engage directly with their insurer and consider a full review of their cover to ensure it still meets their needs”.

For those impacted, alternative plans may be available. Laya members on plans such as Prosper Advanced may need to consider options including Simply Connect, Simply Connect Plus, Control 150 Secure, Control 300 Create or Momentum to maintain full orthopaedic cover. The VHI Advanced Care range may also offer suitable alternatives.

Consumers renewing from 1st April who are moving from a 20% to 40% co-payment may wish to explore the Laya Connect Simplicity corporate scheme, which currently retains a 20% co-payment. However, this plan is also expected to change from 1st May, with the higher co-payment applying thereafter.

Mr Goode added,

“Consumers should remember that switching insurers is always an option, and you will receive full credit for your previous membership, so there is no break in cover. However, if you’re increasing your level of cover, you need to be mindful of the two-year upgrade rule, particularly where pre-existing conditions apply, as this could limit your benefits in the short term.

The key message is don’t auto-renew without reviewing your policy in detail or seeking expert advice. Paying higher premiums is difficult enough, but consumers should never accept paying more for reduced cover without exploring all available options”.

Fanta teams up with Xbox

It’s time to get in the game and come get your Fanta!  In celebration of the Xbox 25thAnniversary, Fanta is leveling up its delicious product line with a gamified collaboration that features iconic characters from legendary Xbox titles. For the first time ever, the collaboration brings together the irresistible taste of Fanta and the thrill of gaming with unforgettable challenges, delicious Fanta and epic rewards.
The special edition collection features character takeovers from some of the most iconic Xbox franchises including Call of Duty, Halo and Diablo IV and introduces a delicious new special edition flavour, Fanta Crimson Cherry. These iconic characters have taken over Fanta for one reason: fans everywhere “Wanta Fanta” – and now it’s your turn to take it back through exclusive challenges and digital activations.
 
“Fanta believes in delivering the Wanta Fanta? Come Get It challenge that fans are most passionate about, and this partnership with Xbox takes it to a whole new realm of delicious game play. We’re just getting started,” said Ibrahim Salim Khan, Vice President, Global Sparkling Flavors Category. “We imagine a world where the irresistible taste of Fanta is so delicious, it pulls players into a multiverse-sized adventure. We’re excited to unleash this partnership with Xbox by immersing fans in the worlds of their favourite games – teaming up with iconic characters and facing larger-than-life challenges to prove just how far they’ll go to get their Fanta back.”
Starting mid‑April, fans can get their hands on the special edition collection, but the experience doesn’t stop there. Launching on 30 April and running until 30 June, consumers can enter a national prize promotion by uploading a receipt for any Fanta product, giving them the chance to win Xbox controllers and ROG Xbox Ally. That’s not all. Players can also unlock exclusive in‑game rewards simply by scanning the QR code on‑pack or at point of sale and completing exciting mini challenges. With 1 million in‑game rewards up for grabs, there’s plenty to play for.
“This partnership with Fanta brings together two brands that thrive on creativity and self-expression,” said Marcos Waltenberg, GM Xbox Partnerships. “Together, we’re creating experiences that meet fans where they are and celebrate the joy of play – on screen and beyond.”
The Fanta and Xbox special edition collection will be available widely beginning 15th April at all key retailers in 330ml cans, 500ml pet & 1.75L bottles and multipack (4,6 & 12) cans. Fanta Crimson Cherry will be available in 500ml pet bottle, 1.75L pet bottle and 6x330ml multipack cans. For more information on the partnership and how to get in on the action, visit www.fanta.com and follow Fanta and Xbox.

CAVN Blood Pressure Monitor Review

CAVN Blood Pressure Monitor features an innovative barrel-type, no-wrap design that simplifies at-home measurement while delivering FDA-cleared accuracy. Designed with guided arm positioning and one-touch operation, it helps reduce common user errors and supports consistent, repeatable readings.

Combining clinical-level precision, intuitive 3-color visual indicators, dual-user memory tracking, and a rechargeable portable design, CAVN offers a smarter, more user-friendly approach to everyday blood pressure monitoring for modern households.

The innovative barrel-type structure eliminates traditional cuff wrapping—users simply slide their arm into place and press one button to begin measurement and you can see this in action in the video review below it is very comfortable to use compared to traditional methods in local clinics or hospitals after my testing and recently being for a full health check I do find the ones in your doctors or hospital uncomfortable.

The CAVN Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor is FDA-cleared for home blood pressure monitoring, CAVN delivers pressure accuracy within ±3 mmHg (per product specifications), supporting reliable daily tracking. 

There is a bright, easy-to-read LCD screen clearly displays systolic, diastolic, and pulse values—even in low-light environments. There is three large buttons up on top which allows you to set the monitor up and an emergency stop button on the side in red and works perfectly just in case. 

The intuitive green, yellow, and red backlight indicator provides a simple visual reference to help users interpret readings quickly again we go through this in the video review it literally takes minutes to set up and use.

Equipped with a built-in 2000mAh rechargeable battery and Type-C charging, the device eliminates the need for disposable batteries. Designed for cordless, ready-to-use convenience, it supports daily home monitoring without frequent recharging.

A single full charge supports up to 150 measurements, helping reduce battery replacement needs while providing reliable portability for use throughout the home.

Check the video review below for more

 

Features

  • Barrel-Type Design with One-Touch Operation: Slide your arm into the barrel-style upper arm blood pressure monitor, rest your elbow on the built-in elbow pressure switch to help lock in proper placement, and press a single button to start measuring. Perfect for seniors and anyone who finds cuff wrapping difficult, it eliminates the hassle of traditional cuffs and reduces placement guesswork—making at-home checks quick, comfortable, and easier to do correctly
  • Auto-Fit Wide Range: This upper arm blood pressure monitor uses a comfortable cylindrical barrel design to auto-fit arms 7.1″–16.5″, creating a secure, stable, even contact fit for different users. Unlike traditional wrap cuffs that can feel too tight/loose or pinch, it supports a more comfortable experience and consistent fit—ideal for shared family use across different arm sizes.
  • Accuracy You Can Trust: FDA-cleared for home blood pressure monitoring. Pressure accuracy: ±3 mmHg (per product specification) for consistent daily tracking. For best results, measure with proper posture and keep your arm supported at heart level.
  • Large LCD Display & 3-Color Backlight: This upper arm blood pressure monitor features a bright, easy-to-read LCD screen that clearly shows systolic/diastolic blood pressure and pulse—easy to view even in low light. The 3-color backlight provides a simple visual reference to help seniors and family members understand results faster at a glance.
  • 2 Users, 2×99 Memory: This blood pressure monitor stores up to 99 readings for each of 2 users, keeping family results separated so you don’t mix up measurements. Easily review history, compare changes over time, and spot daily blood pressure patterns—great for shared home use with clearer, more convenient tracking.

  • Rechargeable Type-C Battery: This upper arm blood pressure monitor includes a built-in 2000mAh rechargeable battery with Type-C charging, so you won’t constantly replace disposable batteries. It helps reduce battery waste and leakage concerns, while the cordless, ready-to-use design makes daily home monitoring easier for seniors and families.

 

 

BUY

Other health tech reviews

Video Review