Dreame Technology, a pioneer of innovative household appliances, has announced the launch of its Black Friday sale, with the company offering unmissable deals between the 21st November and 2nd December.
Customers can enjoy savings of up to £350 on a number of Dreame’s flagship products, including:
The X40 Ultra Complete offers exceptional cleaning efficiency in even the tightest spaces around the home. With Dreame’s MopExtend™ RoboSwing Technology and extendable side brush, the robot vacuum can remove dirt from under low furniture and in hard-to-reach corners, as deep as 4cm. It also has 12,000Pa Vormax™ Suction, swiftly lifting debris with fewer passes on hard floors and carpets.
Additionally, you can create detailed 4-level maps with the X40 Ultra Complete, planning efficient cleaning routes and intelligently identifying and avoiding over 120 types of objects. The robot vacuum also has an automated cleaning station, which includes an auto washboard cleaning system to reduce stains and remove any odours on the mop pads.
Dreame’s newest flagship robotic vacuum features the latest MopExtend™ RoboSwing Technology, which enables the L40 Ultra Complete to analyse complex living environments and determine when and where the mops can be used most effectively. This technology also detects edges and corners using a position-sensitive sensor that automatically expands the range of the mops by up to 4cm.
The L40 Ultra has an outstanding suction power of 11,000Pa, which combined with the Anti-Tangle TriCut Brush, enables faster and better cleaning results in fewer passes. The innovative dirt detection function, supported by an RGB AI camera, also allows the robot vacuum to independently detect dirt on the floor and adjust its performance accordingly. In addition, the L40 Ultra Complete is equipped with a fully automated, multifunctional base station that manages routine tasks efficiently, providing a hands-free cleaning experience.
The L10 Ultra Gen 2 is equipped with Dreame’s most advanced and powerful suction system with 10,000Pa suction, as well as MopExtend™ Technology. Utilising a position sensitive detector to identify edges and corners, this technology automatically extends the mops to reach tight spaces around the home for deeper, closer cleaning. A 32-level water level setting also allows the robot vacuum to adapt to every cleaning requirement.
The L10s Ultra Gen 2 uses Smart Pathfinder™ and 3DAdapt™ technologies with advanced 3D map interaction for intelligent route planning and precise obstacle avoidance. Furniture information can be integrated during mapping using Dreame’s AR scanning for a more accurate 3D map and navigation.
With up to 180° Lie-Flat Reach, liquid separation motor, and smart cleaning solution distribution, the H14 Pro offers an enhanced cleaning experience. It has an impressive running time of 40 minutes, thanks to its improved battery capacity and generous 880ml water tank, which allows large living spaces of up to 300m² to be cleaned without interruptions.
The H14 Pro is equipped with a dual edge cleaning function meaning the brush head penetrates deep into corners and along the baseboard, combating dirt and deposits. This design can be used to clean the edges of the walls and corners to give hard floors a spectacular shine. It also utilises 60°C hot water to remove stubborn liquids in as little as five minutes. The dual-rotating brush prevents hair tangles and keeps the brush cover clean, which after washing, uses 60°C hot air to dry the brush, minimising the chance of odours and bacteria.
Creative Technology has announced massive discounts as part of its Black Friday deals for 2024. From innovative earbuds and headphones to amazing soundbars, customers can buy their favourite gadgets this Black Friday at a discounted price.
Here’s the list of the best deals in the UK for Black Friday 2024 available for customers from 8th November to 2nd December 2024:
The Creative Aurvana Ace 2 integrates a remarkable two-driver system that combines the prowess of xMEMS technology and custom-tuned 10 mm dynamic drivers. The duo is capable of delivering a wide range of natural sounds with remarkable precision, spanning from crisp highs to rich bass and dynamic treble.
The Outlier Go boasts an open-ear design that keeps users aware of their surroundings, making it ideal for outdoor activities like jogging and cycling. The adjustable fit with soft silicone ear hooks ensures comfort during long music sessions.
From intense gaming sessions to watching blockbuster movies, or even just relaxing to music, enjoy an immersive experience with the Sound Blaster Katana SE right from the comfort of your own home!
The Creative Zen Hybrid SXFI takes the audio experience to another level with its custom-tuned 40mm Neodymium drivers. These drivers provide precise highs and deep lows, creating an elevated audio experience. Users can enjoy up to 70 hours of playtime (with ANC off), allowing for long listening sessions without interruptions.
A step-up from your built-in desktop or laptop speakers, the compact Sound Blaster GS3 offers an immersive soundstage with pronounced bass that belies its size. Your audio experience will also come alive with SuperWide™ technology-engineered for the ultimate movie and gaming experience.
Original Price – £49.99
Black Friday Price – £39.99 + Free Shipping
The international student design competition, which has now supported more than 400 problem-solving inventions from young engineers and scientists worldwide, received nearly 2,000 entries this year.
Speaking of the 2024 winners, James Dyson said: “We started the James Dyson Award nearly 20 years ago to encourage students at university to solve problems. And we’ve had thousands and thousands of entries since. It’s wonderfully encouraging to see how many students have solutions to severe global problems. Instead of sitting back and talking about it, they’re doing something about it – and that’s what the James Dyson Award encourages. We’ve got two brilliant winners this year which we’re thrilled to support, and I hope the Award will give them a springboard to future success.”
James Dyson surprised Olivia, Shane and Danial with the exciting news during an online video call.
Medical Winner – Athena, by Olivia Humphreys from Ireland.
The problem
Some 65-99% of patients going through chemotherapy will be affected by chemo-induced hair loss. Current hair-loss prevention techniques commonly use scalp cooling, a method which involves applying ice cold temperatures to the scalp before, during, and after chemotherapy, which can be very painful for patients. It mitigates hair loss by shrinking blood vessels and limiting blood flow to the scalp. After chemotherapy, cooling can also help hair grow back faster and stronger.
However, the availability of scalp cooling is limited due to its high costs. This year’s Medical Winner is from Ireland where the Minister for Health estimated the total cost of installing a scalp cooling machine at €216,000, with additional costs needed for staffing as the treatment requires additional help to operate the equipment.
Ensuring the equipment fits the patient properly and the extended time it means someone needs to be in hospital for are additional hurdles. There are cheaper, manual cooling alternatives available, yet these are less powerful, and they don’t provide long-lasting effects.
Not all hospitals offer scalp cooling for patients too. In fact, in Ireland, scalp cooling is only available in eight out of the country’s 86 hospitals.
The solution
Olivia Humphreys, a 24-year-old product design and technology graduate, invented Athena to tackle these issues after witnessing the impact of chemotherapy-induced hair loss when her mother was diagnosed with cancer in 2019. Having spent time with her mother during treatment, Olivia was inspired to reimagine hair-loss prevention technology.
Athena is a portable, thermoelectric hair-loss prevention device that uses scalp cooling. It’s more cost effective and timesaving than current hospital models, without compromising on the quality of treatment. For those exploring advanced hair wellness solutions and scalp care.
Current scalp cooling products use refrigeration technology requiring constant plugged in power. The patient must arrive at hospital 30 minutes early and stay for 90 minutes after infusion for pre and post scalp cooling. Battery powered Athena, weighing around 3kg, consists of a carry case and a cooling headpiece, that fits to different head shapes, and enables people to spend less time in hospital on a chemotherapy infusion day. It works by using low-cost thermoelectric semiconductors called Peltiers, and these cool a tank of water, which circulates the cold water around the head with the smartly designed headpiece.
With Athena, patients can start and end the scalp-cooling process themselves from wherever they wish, such as the comfort of their own home. At full power, it can run for 3.5 hours, allowing the patient to commute to and from the hospital while cooling, and move around during infusion, such as for bathroom visits. Athena aims to give control back to patients during a time when they usually have little of it.
Athena is patient-centric and so Olivia also chose bright colours for the device’s materials as a change from conventional, clinical colours found in hospitals. Taking its name from the powerful Greek Goddess of wisdom and battle strategy, for Humphreys, Athena is a symbol of resilience, which is a quality often seen in those living with an illness as serious as cancer and going through the necessary treatments.
The estimated cost for Athena would be around €1,000, according to Olivia, which is significantly less than industry machines which start at around €20,000. Athena has the potential to make hair-loss prevention more accessible and affordable for both patients and healthcare providers – Olivia’s ideal scenario would involve partnering with hospitals and charities to offer Athena through a rental or loan scheme.
To take Athena to the next level, extensive research and development is required, and the James Dyson Award prize money will kickstart this. Long term, Olivia is exploring novel technologies for future hair loss prevention methods beyond scalp cooling.
James Dyson, Founder of Dyson, said: “I haven’t had cancer, but members of my family have had cancer and hair loss is a particularly depressing and debilitating part of chemotherapy treatment. You can freeze your scalp which you have to do in special facilities, but these aren’t always available, are costly and it’s very painful. This year’s Medical Winner, Olivia Humphreys, has tackled this problem by designing Athena, for portable scalp cooling. You can wear it while you travel, you can wear it in the car to and from hospital, you can use it at home – it’s a low-cost alternative available to everybody, with the potential to make a real difference.”
Speaking about the development of Athena, Olivia Humphreys said: “I decided to build a working prototype to test the capabilities of the Peltier semiconductors. Using a Peltier computer cooling fan system, a diaphragm pump, my mum’s old suitcase, and my dad’s plane battery, I was able to create a strong proof of concept to gather valuable feedback to develop the concept. Following this, I focused on the product’s form, creating cardboard and foam models and determining functionality aspects and touchpoints to ensure the best user experience. Ultimately, I arrived at my final model, Athena, which was crafted using SolidWorks 3D CAD modelling.”
On winning the James Dyson Award, Olivia said: “I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, ambition, and commitment that went into creating Athena. The recognition from the James Dyson Award validates not just my efforts, but also the stories and insights shared by people who’ve experienced cancer treatment. My mum inspired this journey, and it’s incredibly emotional and rewarding to have my project reach this level. The Award has motivated me to recognise my potential, and it opens up exciting opportunities for me as a young designer and innovator.”
Professor Mark Beresford, Consultant Oncologist at the Royal United Hospital Bath, said: “Hair loss is one of the most outward and distressing side effects of chemotherapy. Current scalp cooling techniques can reduce the risk or extent of hair loss, but need to be attached in the chemotherapy unit for a period of time before and after the chemotherapy infusion, committing patients to a long day in hospital. This new mobile version will allow patients more freedom, reclaiming some of their day, and also free-up valuable chemotherapy chair time for other patients to receive treatment.”
Liz Yeates, CEO of the Marie Keating Foundation, said:“I want to congratulate Olivia for creating the mobile scalp cooling device and being awarded this year’s global winner of the James Dyson Award. Any invention that can help prevent hair loss for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy would be so positively received. When I went through cancer, there was no option for me to use a scalp cooling device, and losing your hair can be one of the most devastating impacts for most people. This device offers new hope, and it could make a real difference for those facing chemotherapy in the future. Any use of scalp cooling should always be under the guidance and direction of the patient’s oncology or cancer care team.”
Sustainability Winner – airXeed Radiosonde, by Shane Kyi Hla Win and Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful from Singapore.
The problem
Every day, weather stations worldwide launch devices via weather balloons that gather critical atmospheric data for accurate weather forecasting. These small devices, called radiosondes, measure air pressure, temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction and transmit this data back to ground stations, helping meteorologists track weather patterns and forecast conditions. However, current devices are single-use and contribute to tonnes of plastic and e-waste globally.
After reaching high altitudes, the balloon carrying the device bursts, and the sensor descends rapidly, often crashing in remote and costly-to-retrieve locations, without collecting further atmospheric data as it falls.
There are 1,300 weather stations around the world, and it’s predicted they release at least two single-use radiosondes per day. So, over a year, almost one million radiosondes are released, costing $190million and estimated to cause 48 tonnes of e-waste.
These devices are crucial to the rapidly growing weather forecasting industry, valued at over $2.25 billion in 2023 and projected to reach approximately $5.23 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by the rising demand for precise weather forecasting across sectors like agriculture, energy, transportation, and aviation. Extreme weather events have increased the demand for better forecasting systems too.
The solution
This year’s global Sustainability Winner aims to make weather forecasting more eco-friendly. AirXeed Radiosonde is a reusable device tackling the amount of e-waste created by single-use radiosondes on the market. It also aims to increase the amount of atmospheric data these devices collect, improving quality of forecasting.
Young engineers Shane Kyi Hla Win and Danial Sufiyan Bin Shaiful, from the Singapore University of Technology and Design, drew inspiration from nature to create airXeed Radiosonde. Their focus was to improve the descent and end-of-life of a radiosonde to make them reusable, reducing e-waste and minimising pollution in remote areas.
The team used the autorotation of maple seeds in their solution. A maple seed’s asymmetrical shape creates lift and drag, allowing it to spin like a helicopter as it falls. Shane and Danial applied this principle to their radiosonde design, enabling it to spiral during descent. This not only slows the device, preventing damage upon impact with the ground, but also increases the likelihood of it landing in an accessible location, making retrieval and reuse easier. The team used machine learning to optimise this design for the best flight performance. AirXeed’s controlled descent allows it to collect and transmit more atmospheric data to weather stations, as traditional radiosondes cannot do this.
To avoid collision with aircraft, and very windy conditions that could deviate the descent, Shane and Danial’s device stops auto rotating when passing through aircraft cruise altitude. It enters a dive mode to increase its speed. The team have also added an onboard controller to manage the device’s stability and flight path to land without impact near the closest collection zone for reuse.
This controller is enhanced by machine learning to estimate wind speed and direction onboard, as well as select the best landing location. Collection zones would be established based on weather patterns and local government collaboration. Equipped with GPS and flight navigation, the radiosonde would select the optimal collection zone from multiple options at each weather station, ensuring a smooth return based on weather and flight trajectory.
Shane and Danial prioritised sustainability in their material choice, using balsa wood and foam for the lightweight wing and cowling. Modular components allow for easy replacement and recycling of worn parts, catering to industry needs.
After winning the James Dyson Award, Shane and Danial hope to collaborate with more weather stations and weather sensor manufacturers for real-world trials to gather data and feedback to improve their invention, to ultimately bring airXeed Radiosonde to market.
James Dyson, Founder of Dyson, said: “Weather balloons that collect atmospheric information fall back to Earth and pollute the environment with electronic waste. Shane and Danial, our Sustainability Winners, have found a way of returning these devices to Earth highly intelligently to where the operators want them to land. AirXeed Radiosonde uses the maple seed principle, helicoptering down gently but also plummeting in areas where there are likely to be planes. This is a reusable weather detector, saving environmental waste and saving money. I think it’s a very clever idea.”
On winning the James Dyson Award, Shane said: “Winning the James Dyson Award global sustainability prize is a huge step forward for us. It shows that our design has potential and gives us a platform to showcase how airXeed Radiosonde can positively improve the weather industry – hearing it from James Dyson himself makes it even more special. It’s incredibly motivating to see such a prominent figure in innovation take the time to encourage young inventors like us, developing solutions that are sustainable and address critical global challenges”.
On what’s next for the team, Danial said: “With the Award’s recognition, we hope to connect with experts in the weather industry, secure partnerships and attract funding to further test and develop our design. It’s a huge boost in our journey towards turning airXeed Radiosonde into a fully realised solution that can reduce electronic waste and make weather monitoring smarter
Heidi Davis, CEO of Perihas been awarded the Enterprise Ireland High-Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Founder of the Year for 2024. The company uses AI enabled technology to personalise the management of menopausal symptoms. The Peri, a wearable device helps users regularly update how they are affected by their symptoms and provides insights to guide women toward a personalised management plan.
The Founder of the Year Awards acknowledges and celebrates the commitment that entrepreneurs and start-ups have made to build world class companies of the future. There were nine finalists for the 2024 Award, all of whom were voted for by their peers and have taken part in Enterprise Ireland’s High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Founders Forum over the last year.
Barry McCann, Nua Surgical, Mark Kirwan, Positive Carbon and Alison Liddy, Relevium Medical were also acknowledged for their companies’ achievements to date and voted as runners-up on the night. Other finalists include: Darren O’Reilly, Whole Supp; Criona Turley, Capella; Aidan Finn, Binarii Labs; Raj Lyons Chohan, Affinity EV2 and Mike McGrath, Kwayga.
Now in its sixth year the HPSUFounders Forum, continues to grow with over 450 founders having participated to date from a variety of sectors including digital technologies, medical devices, fintech, food, engineering and construction.
The Founder of the Year 2024 was decided by a judging panel which included representatives from Enterprise Ireland, VentureWave Capital, Endeavour Ireland and Credit Logic.
Mark Barrett, Group CEO of APC and VLE Therapeutics, which specialises in the research, digitalisation and manufacture of medicines also joined the event to share his perspective on leadership and scaling a global business.
On receiving the award Heidi Davis, winner of the HPSU Founder of the Year Award for 2024 said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this award, particularly as the nominees are selected by Founder peers. Enterprise Ireland has been with us all along on our start-up journey and we look forward to working them as we launch the peri to market in 2025. Our ultimate aim is to grow the business globally, bringing the peri to the women of the world, allowing them to live healthier and more productive lives.”
Addressing the Awards ceremony, Michael Carey, Chairman, Enterprise Ireland said: “The Founder of the Year Awards promotes Ireland’s ecosystem of entrepreneurs who have displayed the potential and commitment to building their businesses and set their sights on global markets. We are delighted to build on the success of the Awards which is now in its sixth year, and the Founders Forum which acknowledges and celebrates high-performance, innovative Irish start-ups. I wish to congratulate Heidi on winning this year’s Award and also pay tribute to the other finalists, all of whom were shortlisted by their peers, which is a real testament to their potential and future success.”
A new record attendance for National Women’s Enterprise Day was set at events that took place across the country today (October17th). Over 2,200 female entrepreneurs and women in business attended the 14 Local Enterprise Office led events nationwide, the most that has attended the day since it’s inception in 2006.
It was also revealed that so far this year 64% of those who availed of training this year by the Local Enterprise Offices were women and that 61% of the participants in the Local Enterprise Offices Start Your Own Business programme in 2024 have been female.
Breege Cosgrave, Co-Chair of National Women’s Enterprise Day 2024, said; “It is fantastic to see a record turnout for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day. Since Covid we have seen how important these events can be for helping female entrepreneurs and women in business to grow their networks and see there is support out there within their community to help get them started and to grow their businesses.
We have 14 fantastic events across the country covering everything from getting started and funding through to digitalization and sustainability. There’s something for everyone and some amazing businesses and female entrepreneurs telling their stories of how they got started and overcame challenges. National Women’s Enterprise Day is vital for showcasing the very best of our female entrepreneurs and showing those who hope to take that leap in the future that the support is there.”
This was the 18th year of National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED) and the theme of this year’s event was, “Making it happen”. The event aims to encourage businesswomen to take that next step whether that be to act on an idea, grow their business or take steps to change or innovate in their business. The event also highlights the supports available to early stage small businesses from funding and grants to mentoring and training.
Some of those that took part this year included Aimee Connolly, founder and CEO of Sculpted by Aimee, Anne Heraty founder of CPL Resources, Oonagh O’Hagan of Meaghers Pharmacy, broadcaster and entrepreneur, Norah Casey, Martina Fitzgerald of Scale Ireland, entrepreneur Chupi Sweetman and broadcaster and podcaster Sile Seoige. They were joined at the events across the country by a host of female led small businesses and start-ups are telling their story of how they began and made it happen with their ideas.
The Local Enterprise Offices also run a number of initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country. These include Local Enterprise Week, the National Enterprise Awards, the Student Enterprise Programme, Local Enterprise Village at the Ploughing Championships and Local Enterprise Showcase. The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.
Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices are the essential resource for any entrepreneur looking to start a business or any small business that is looking for support or advice to help them grow. Since their inception eight years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 75,000 jobs across the country. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses.
Digital payments have become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we transact. As technology continues to advance, so too does the landscape of digital payments. These trends are driven by factors such as increased smartphone adoption, growing consumer demand for convenience, and advancements in payment technologies.
In this article, we explore what digital payment trends are and highlight seven digital payment trends of 2024.
What Are Digital Payment Trends?
In the past decade, the financial landscape has undergone dramatic changes, and nowhere is this more evident than in the digital payments sector.
The rise of e-commerce, the global shift toward mobile-first solutions, and the advent of cutting-edge technologies have all transformed how consumers and businesses conduct financial transactions.
Digital payment trends reflect the innovative processes and technologies that drive these changes, shaping the way money is moved, managed, and stored.
Some impacts of digital payment trends have included:
Financial inclusion through providing financial access to populations that have historically been underserved by traditional banking systems.
Acting as new revenue streams for businesses by integrating financial services into their platforms. Whether it’s through subscription models, integrated marketplaces, or fintech partnerships, companies are capitalizing on the convenience of in-app payments.
Increased security and fraud prevention since these technologies are helping to reduce fraud, protect consumer data, and ensure that financial transactions are safe and reliable.
Increased competition for traditional financial systems which is pushing banks to rethink their role in the financial ecosystem, forcing them to innovate or risk becoming obsolete.
Top Digital Payment Trends of the Year
2024 has seen a further rise in digital payment, especially the uptake of tools and applications that make payment easier for individuals and businesses.
Here are the top 7 digital payment trends of 2024.
Blockchain Payments
Blockchain technology is transforming the digital payments landscape in 2024, offering enhanced security, transparency, and efficiency. Its decentralized nature eliminates intermediaries, allowing peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions without the need for banks or payment processors. Each transaction is recorded on an immutable ledger, reducing the risk of fraud and ensuring data integrity.
Cross-border payments are a key area where blockchain shines. Traditional international transfers are slow and costly, but blockchain enables instant, low-cost payments by bypassing intermediaries using solutions such as stablecoins—digital assets pegged to stable currencies like the US dollar, which can be easily stored and transferred using a DeFi wallet.
Contactless Payments
Contactless payments, which allow users to simply tap their card, phone, or wearable device to a terminal, have become increasingly popular due to their speed and ease of use. In 2024, they continue to revolutionize the way we pay for goods and services.
Some contactless payment technologies include NFC-enabled cards and smartphones that enable secure communication with a payment terminal, allowing users to complete transactions in seconds.
Another notable contactless payment trend in 2024 is the rise of wearable payment devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and rings. These devices offer an even more convenient and hands-free way to pay, particularly appealing to tech-savvy consumers who seek quick, seamless transactions on the go.
Biometric Authentication
With security concerns growing in tandem with the rise of digital payments, biometric authentication has emerged as a game-changing technology in the payment space.
By using unique physical attributes like fingerprints, facial recognition, or even iris scans, biometric authentication offers a highly secure method for verifying identities and authorizing payments.
In 2024, many smartphones and digital wallets already incorporate biometric authentication features, with fingerprint and facial recognition being the most common. Consumers can now unlock their wallets, authorize payments, and verify transactions through a simple scan, offering both security and convenience.
QR Code Payments
QR codes have been around for years, but their use in digital payments has exploded, particularly in markets like Asia. In 2024, QR code payments have become a global trend, enabling quick, simple, and secure transactions.
To make a QR code payment, a merchant generates a unique code that encodes payment details. The consumer scans the QR code with their mobile device, which redirects them to a secure payment platform. This process is both convenient and adaptable, working for in-store purchases, e-commerce transactions, and even peer-to-peer payments.
QR code payments have seen rapid adoption in countries like China and India, where smartphone penetration is high but banking infrastructure may be less developed.
Platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay have led the charge in China, with millions of users adopting QR codes for everything from small retail purchases to larger business transactions.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence is transforming the payments industry, enhancing everything from fraud detection to personalized payment experiences. AI is a critical player in optimizing and securing digital payment systems in 2024.
AI-powered algorithms are revolutionizing fraud detection by analyzing transaction patterns in real-time to detect anomalies. This proactive approach helps prevent fraudulent activity before it occurs, safeguarding both consumers and businesses. Machine learning models become more effective with each transaction, learning from data to improve their ability to spot suspicious activity.
AI is also being used to offer more personalized payment experiences. For example, AI can analyze a user’s spending habits and offer tailored recommendations, such as which card to use for rewards or when to make purchases to maximize savings. By understanding user behavior, AI enhances convenience and creates a more seamless payment journey.
Lastly, AI-driven automation is streamlining back-end operations for financial institutions and businesses alike. Processes such as payment reconciliation, customer service, and transaction processing are being optimized through AI, reducing costs and improving service delivery.
Open Banking
Open banking is a trend that has been gaining momentum in recent years by granting third-party providers access to consumer banking data through application programming interfaces (APIs).
Open banking allows consumers to authorize third-party applications to access their financial information, such as transaction history and account details. This empowers consumers to use financial apps that provide budgeting tools, personalized payment services, or investment advice tailored to their needs. The control over how data is shared leads to better financial management.
This digital payment trend has also paved the way for more direct payment methods. Instead of relying on intermediaries like card networks, open banking enables consumers to make payments directly from their bank accounts. This reduces transaction fees and offers a more seamless payment experience for both consumers and businesses. By opening up access to consumer data, banks and fintech companies can collaborate to create more innovative financial products and services.
Embedded Payments
Embedded payments represent one of the most transformative shifts in the payments landscape.
By embedding payment functionality directly into apps, websites, and platforms, businesses are creating frictionless experiences where payments occur almost invisibly.
Embedded payments allow users to complete transactions without being redirected to a third-party payment gateway. Instead, payments are processed seamlessly within the platform. For example, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft enable users to pay for their rides without ever leaving the app, with payment happening automatically in the background. By removing steps in the payment process, businesses can lower cart abandonment rates and increase customer satisfaction.
Wrapping Up
Digital payments are evolving at an unprecedented rate, and the trends of 2024 reflect the fast-paced innovation in this space.
From the widespread adoption of digital wallets and contactless payments to the security enhancements provided by biometric authentication, these trends are reshaping the way consumers and businesses handle transactions.
As we move forward, digital payments will only become more integrated into our everyday lives, leading us toward a truly cashless and frictionless financial future.
Enterprise Ireland today launched the High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) Founder of Year Award 2024. The overall winner will be announced at an awards ceremony which will take place on Thursday, 17 October 2024 at the Gibson Hotel, Dublin 1.
This year 67 High Potential Start-ups are eligible for the award which will be whittled down to nine finalists. Pictured from among the eligible companies are Heidi Davis, co-founder of Peri and Darren O’Reilly, co-founder of Whole Supp. On the 17th October, a peer nominated group of the nine companies will present to the judging panel, who will decide the final winner.
The Founder of the Year award forms an important element of the Enterprise Ireland HPSU Founders Forum. Now in its ninth year the HPSU Founders Forum, which is delivered in partnership with Select Strategies continues to grow with over 450 founders having participated to date from a variety of sectors including digital technologies, medical devices, fintech, food, engineering and construction. The objective of the Forum is to provide a platform for founders to help founders succeed internationally and scale faster.
Leo Clancy, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, “The Founder of the Year Awards promotes Ireland’s ecosystem of entrepreneurs who have displayed the potential and commitment to building their businesses and realising their global ambition. We are delighted to build on the success of the Awards which is now in its sixth year, and the Founders Forum which acknowledges and celebrates high-performance, innovative Irish start-ups. I wish all the nominees the best of luck in the run-up to the awards night in October.”
Ireland is set to become the epicentre of astronomical wonder and scientific innovation once again as Space Week Ireland returns from 4th-10th October 2024. This year’s festival is set to be even more out of this world, with Astronaut Steve Swanson joining the celebrations on a nationwide road trip, bringing the cosmos to communities across the country.
Space Week Ireland is part of the global annual celebration of space, designed to promote space science, technology, and exploration. Coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory the festival aims to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts, foster collaboration within the aerospace community, and showcase Ireland’s growing footprint in the global space industry
Space Week Ireland 2024 promises an exhilarating blend of education, exploration, and entertainment with events throughout the country for all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer, a curious student, or simply someone who marvels at the night sky, this year’s program has something extraordinary in store.
Ireland ranks second per capita for hosting Space Week events globally, with Irish space enthusiasts showing unparalleled interest. Rob O’ Sullivan, National Outreach Coordinator for Space Week Ireland explained, “There’s something in Irish culture that draws us to the stars. With a rich history of contributing to space science—including having the world’s largest telescope for 70 years—it’s no surprise we embrace Space Week so enthusiastically.”
“Today, Irish scientists continue to contribute to cutting edge research at organisations such as the European Space Agency and European Southern Observatory, while Irish companies such as Réaltra Space Systems Engineering and Enbio are taking advantage of the incredible opportunities presented by the growing global space industry.
The Space Week Ireland 2024 Roadtrip
Astronaut Steve Swanson will join the MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory team on a road trip, as they explore the wonders of the cosmos and the Emerald Isle. The road trip kicks off at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory on October 4th and continues to Cork, Galway, Offaly, and Dublin. You can follow the journey virtually on the Blackrock Castle Observatory YouTube channel—subscribe in advance to receive livestream notifications from each location.
Stop 1: MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory (Cork)
The road trip begins with a bang at MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory.
Stop 2: Cork School of Music
This family-friendly event features an interview and Q&A with Astronaut Steve Swanson, followed by interactive space and science booths. (Register for this free event.)
Stop 3: Galway Atlantaquaria
The team will explore how ocean life on Earth can inform our understanding of life beyond, particularly as NASA’s Europa Clipper mission prepares to investigate the potential for life to exist on Jupiter’s icy moon, Europa.
Stop 4: Birr Castle, County Offaly
Home to the historic “Leviathan” telescope, once the largest in the world, this stop delves into Ireland’s rich history in astronomy, with Space Week ambassador Seanie Morris.
Stop 5: Explorium, Dublin
The road trip concludes at Explorium, where Swanson and the team will join Dr. Niamh Shaw to explore the intersection of space and climate change in the “Cool It” exhibition.
MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory will host the #NovaHunter competition on Instagram as part of Space Week 2024. The winner will receive a family pass to Blackrock Castle Observatory and a prize pack filled with Space Week goodies. The goal of the contest is to encourage people to look to the skies and hopefully get to experience a once in a lifetime event, a visible Nova, the sudden appearance of a bright “new” star!
No fancy equipment is required—just your phone! To enter, capture an image of the Corona Borealis constellation between October 1st and 15th, and upload it to Instagram with the hashtag #NovaHunt. Tag @blackrockcastleobservatory, and don’t forget to include your location and who you’re sharing the experience with.
There’s still plenty of time to participate in Space Week! If you, your school, astronomy club, or community group would like to host your own event, you can easily register it on the Space Week Ireland website. Whether your event is large or small, public or private, Space Week Ireland will help promote it if you sign up early.
To find out more information or to submit your own Space Week Ireland event visit the official Space Week Ireland website atwww.spaceweek.ie
A single good idea will launch entrepreneurs from Ireland to the global stage as Red Bull Basement returns for 2024. Red Bull is giving the next generation of innovators the chance to conceive, develop and launch their outstanding business ideas with applications for this global competition now open.
Each team that applies will be able to create their own business plan with the help of AI technology. Ten of the best teams will then be invited to present their ideas at the Red Bull Basement National Finals, which take place in Dublin in November.
The team who impresses the judges will then represent Ireland at Red Bull Basement World Finals in Tokyo, Japan in December. The grand prize for the global winner? An all-expenses paid trip to Silicon Valley and Los Angeles in 2025, where they will receive hands-on experience, mentorship and opportunities to connect with top industry leaders in a three-week long accelerator programme. Applications for Red Bull Basement are now open until October 31st 2024.
As colleges and universities return across Ireland, students with entrepreneurial flair and desire to make an impact are encouraged to bring their brightest ideas to the table. Who’s to know where it might lead?
In 2021, Ireland’s representatives Clara Fergus and Harsh Chandra used the skills and knowledge acquired at the Red Bull Basement World Finals in Istanbul to further develop their business idea, CareersXP, a career guidance solution for students. Basement winners in 2020, Joanna Power and Paramveer Bhachu, have progressed their innovative water-saving washing machine idea into a developing business and claimed numerous innovation awards on the back of it, appearing on the TedxTalk series in 2022.
To apply for the 2024 edition, visit https://www.redbull.com/ie-en/events/red-bull-basement-ireland where the easy-to-use AI tool will help to create and submit a one-page business plan as their application. Regardless of your educational background or professional field, you are welcome to submit an idea with the potential for significant impact. Entrants must be aged 18 and above at the time of application and currently residing in Ireland.
The best entries will be chosen to take part in the Red Bull Basement Irish National Final in Dublin in November, where a panel of hand-picked judges from across the Irish tech and business spheres will select the best idea to represent Ireland. The successful team will then have one month to further grow their ideas and start-up business plan with the help of mentors and industry experts before heading to Tokyo for the World Finals.
Timeline, Red Bull Basement 2024
Monday September 16th – Thursday October 31st:
One or two-member teams of students and innovators can visit the Red Bull Basement website to submit applications.
Wednesday November 13th:
Red Bull Basement Irish National Final, where judges select one team to represent Ireland at the Global Final in Tokyo, Japan.
Monday December 2nd – Thursday December 5th:
National teams from over 40 countries will come together in the immersive World Final in Tokyo, where they will attend workshops, dedicated AI educational sessions, and the chance to network with international entrepreneurs and business leaders.
