Tag: #AI

Ireland’s IT managers prepare for increased AI and cloud investment in 2025

A new survey from Red Hat shows the planned increase in investment for two key areas next year: cloud and AI. Polling 300 IT managers in Ireland from large businesses, the research sheds light on their strategic priorities and main challenges in adopting transformative technologies.

Cloud and AI investment on the rise

93% of IT managers surveyed say their organisation plans to increase investment in cloud technology by 2025, with a majority of them (43%) planning growth by 5-20%; 38% planning growth by 21-50%, while 10% plan an increase of 51% or more. 

While organisations hope to leverage cloud strategy for growth, it may also help them combat tightening purse strings. In fact, the top priority for cloud strategy for the next 18 months is cost optimisation, cited by 71% of respondents. Other priorities include cloud-native application development and DevOps (67%); security, compliance and sovereignty regulatory requirements (67%); and moving to hybrid / multi cloud, reducing dependence on a single provider (67%). 

Investment in AI is set to increase over the next year for 95% of organisations, according to respondents, with a majority (42%) planning an increase in the range of 5-20% and 33% planning a 21-50% increase, while 19% plan an increase of 51% or more. 

When it comes to selecting solutions for predictive and generative AI, all IT managers surveyed see benefits in adopting enterprise open source. They see the top advantage being enhanced agility in hybrid cloud environments (31%), followed by improved ecosystem collaboration and integration (30%).

Cloud innovation is a focus, yet siloed teams slow adoption

To prime their organisation for development amidst a competitive landscape, over a third (37%) of IT managers in Ireland are planning for a strong focus on innovation and new technologies in 2025. Meanwhile roughly a third (31%) will take a balanced approach, focusing equally on new technologies and enhancements to existing systems. 18% are focused on essential services only.

Regarding challenges when adopting cloud, 96% of respondents said they face siloed teams, with half (51%) saying this is a frequent issue. The most common impacts this has on cloud strategy are increased costs, limited control and visibility over cloud resources, operational inefficiencies and difficulty in implementing new technologies. 

Addressing AI readiness and challenges 

When asked about their ability to take advantage of the growing AI opportunity, 42% of IT managers surveyed state that their organisation has scalable, flexible and accessible IT platforms to support AI use and feel well positioned to benefit from them. This compares to 23% that have the necessary platforms but lack the right skills sets to fully harness AI’s potential. Meanwhile 34% still need new platforms.

As enterprises increasingly explore generative AI to solve existing problems or seize new opportunities, the survey looked to identify factors that determine trust in an enterprise model for generative AI. Multiple factors were shown to be important, in the 80-85% range, including: transparent, modifiable models with explainable sources; cost-effectiveness; domain-specific models (as opposed to generic LLMs); and compliance with data privacy and security standards. 

While organisations are keen to invest in AI for growth, there are some obstacles preventing CTOs or equivalent decision makers from advancing generative AI initiatives. The top listed challenges were integration with existing systems (30%); concerns about data privacy and security (27%); high costs of implementation and maintenance (23%) and sustainability concerns (23%).


Ireland’s tech talent pipeline

Respondents highlighted skills gaps in key areas like AI and cloud. However, there was less strength of agreement compared to respondents in other countries in another recent Red Hat survey, which could suggest that respondents in Ireland see greater progress in filling the tech talent pipeline. 

The top named skills gap from respondents in Ireland was not in technology itself, but in strategic thinking and ability to tackle business-level issues, cited by 44%. This compares to the top skills gap in the UK which was AI, cited by a majority of 88% respondents in the aforementioned survey. The next three top listed skills gap among respondents in Ireland were found to be cybersecurity (42%), AI (41%) and cloud computing (39%). 

Robbie Byrne, Country manager, Ireland at Red Hat, describes the balancing-act faced by IT leaders today. 

“The survey results reflect the challenging dynamics we are seeing with our customers: a keen focus on innovation as they look to drive their digital transformation to the next level, while also needing to optimise costs,” he commented. “Contemporary technologies such as automation, AI and cloud-native applications can bring efficiencies, but there are also headwinds such as internal silos, skills gaps and in some cases a lack of access to the right IT platforms.” 

Byrne described how Red Hat is supporting enterprises with their modernisation efforts: “we believe that having greater choice, flexibility and independence at a platform level is going to be crucial for businesses looking to harness AI’s potential and navigate unknown disruption ahead. We see enterprise open source playing a more important role than ever as organisations seek agility in a hybrid world.” 

1 in 2 Employees Report Improvements in Ethical Behaviour in Their Workplace

Almost one in every two employees (46pc) in Ireland continues to hold a positive view of improved workplace ethics since the COVID-19 pandemic, matching levels from 2021 and above the global average of 45pc. Among these, men (49pc) and young people (53pc) are more likely to report favourable ethical experiences within their organisations.

The seventh triennial Ethics at Work: 2024 International Survey of Employees was carried out by the Institute of IBE in conjunction with the Compliance Institute in Ireland and polled 12,000 employees in 16 countries over four continents. A total of 750 of those surveyed were in Ireland. In exploring current and future factors shaping employees’ perceptions of workplace ethics, it found that women are more likely to perceive a decline in ethical behaviour within their organisations since the pandemic, with one in ten (9pc) expressing this concern.

Michael Kavanagh, CEO of the Compliance Institute commented on the findings,

“Almost one in every two employees in Ireland believe ethical behaviour in their organisation has improved in the post-Covid period.

Less than one in ten workers (8pc) feel that ethical behaviour has worsened – and, while in an ideal world this figure would be nil, such a small percentage must still be regarded as positive overall.

The findings do pose some questions as to why some groups are more likely than others to have experienced a decline in ethical behaviour – namely 9pc of female employees and 11pc of workers in the younger age the 18 – 34 category”.

The Compliance Institute Ethics at Work survey explored and identified the top three concerns for the future: the unethical use of AI—such as discrimination or privacy breaches—AI replacing human jobs, and increased workplace surveillance and monitoring.

Top Employee Concerns: Results:
Misuse of AI for unethical behaviour 47%
AI replacing humans in the workplace 45%
Increased surveillance and monitoring in the workplace 42%

Respondents were also asked to rate their level of concern on the following workplace issues:

Compliance Institute highlights include:

  • The least concerning issue for employees is the reduction of interpersonal interactions due to the rise of hybrid working (36pc).
  • Between 30pc and 40pc of employees are not worried about any of these potential issues.
  • More men (47pc) than women (38pc) express concerns about heightened surveillance and monitoring of staff.
  • Among those worried about the misuse of AI for unethical purposes, one-quarter (24pc) report being ‘extremely concerned’ about its potential for malevolent behaviour, such as discrimination and privacy violations.

Mr Kavanagh continued,

“The rise of AI brings opportunities and challenges, and it’s clear that employees are acutely aware of its potential for misuse. With half of employees expressing concerns about AI being used unethically – such as privacy breaches or discrimination—there is a clear need for organisations to establish and implement robust ethical guidelines and governance around AI technologies. This is essential not only for protecting employee rights but also for making sure that technological advancements reflect the values and expectations of the workforce.

Another top concern among employees is the fear of AI replacing their jobs. This anxiety is understandable, as it is likely that AI will automate certain tasks and change job roles in many sectors—leading to uncertainty about job security for some workers. Employers can tackle these concerns by investing in upskilling and retraining programs that help staff adapt to new technologies and feel confident in their roles.

Above all, the findings show that open communication is crucial. Organisations should engage employees in discussions about the future of work and actively listen to their concerns. When employees feel heard, it builds trust and transparency in the workplace. Additionally, companies might consider setting up ethics committees or advisory boards that include employee representatives. This approach brings diverse perspectives into the decision-making process and shows a commitment to ethical practices. Ultimately, it’s about creating a future where technology enhances the employee experience instead of undermining it”.

Dell Technologies unveils major PowerScale updates to accelerate AI workflows

Today Dell Technologies announced significant updates to its PowerScale unstructured data storage platform, tailored to enhance AI-ready performance. As AI becomes the backbone of data-driven enterprises, PowerScale’s advancements aim to eliminate barriers, optimise costs, and enable businesses to extract actionable insights from their data at speed.

The updated PowerScale introduces cutting-edge 200Gb faster networking Ethernet and InfiniBand connectivity delivering a remarkable 220% boost in streaming write performance and a 99% increase in streaming read speeds compared to last year’s performance, along with higher storage density with new 61TB SSD drives, 24TB HDDs, and enhanced searchability through the new MetadataIQ capabilities.

These advancements are crucial as AI has become essential for businesses in Ireland, which aims to thrive in a data-driven economy. PowerScale’s updates help eliminate data limitations, optimise AI workflows, and support large-scale AI implementations like Generative AI applications. These improvements empower businesses to turn data into actionable insights and drive innovation.

Some of the key benefits of the updates include AI pipeline optimisation with ultra-fast connectivity, ensuring smooth data flow and enhanced GPU performance for quicker data processing and decision-making. The higher storage density leads to cost savings by reducing data centre expenses and improving data accessibility through MetadataIQ, which enables faster access to valuable information. This allows businesses to handle massive datasets efficiently while simultaneously reducing costs.

The increased density means organisations can achieve up to a 50% reduction in data centre footprints, resulting in significant savings on energy and colocation expenses. This innovation also supports the growing demands of Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), such as NVIDIA’s DGX SuperPOD, making high-performance AI implementations more accessible.

Speaking about the new updates Saif Aly Product Marketing Manager for Unstructured Data Solutions at Dell Technologies said: “AI is no longer a distant vision for the future—it’s the backbone of businesses seeking to compete in today’s data-driven economy. At Dell Technologies, we understand that AI’s game-changing potential hinges on not just cutting-edge algorithms but also the infrastructure that supports and powers them.”

The latest PowerScale enhancements solidify Dell Technologies’ commitment to supporting Irish businesses as they scale their AI initiatives. From accelerating performance to simplifying data management, these updates are designed to help organisations focus on outcomes rather than infrastructure.

To learn more about the latest updates to PowerScale and how it can benefit your business, visit their website.

Majority of Irish businesses have either adopted or plan to integrate a clear AI strategy

Ireland’s Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) sector continues to drive growth and employment, but without funding it risks dependence on foreign technology and diminishing competitiveness, according to the Ireland’s Innovation Index Pulse Survey, which surveyed over 500 Irish companies.

IRDG and KPMG conducted Ireland’s Innovation Index pulse survey in October and November and this pulse survey aimed to capture the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities faced by companies in Ireland active in Research Development and Innovation.

The research found that nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of businesses plan to increase RDI spending in response to challenges like AI and talent shortages, with the recent R&D tax credit rate increase to 30 percent continuing to drive growth. However, this is down 12 percent from 78 percent in comparison to a similar question that was asked in the main Ireland’s Innovation Index 2024 survey in May 2024. This may be a sign of decreasing confidence in Ireland’s RDI environment.

At the same time, it found that over 6 in 10 cited a lack of funding as the primary barrier to increasing innovation, while 43 percent of businesses identify time constraints and one third (34 percent) said difficultly recruiting talent as significant challenges.

The administrative burden related to the R&D Tax Credit claims and grant applications remain an issue with 80 percent of respondents reporting that the administrative burden has remained the same, and 14 percent reporting that it has worsened, while only 6 percent saw an improvement over the past six months.

R&D of green and sustainable technologies

Over half (51 percent) are currently involved in the R&D of green and sustainable technologies.  Many of those companies (95 percent) already involved in the R&D of green and sustainable technologies plan to further invest in the coming year. Only 2 percent of companies which are not currently investing in developing these technologies plan to do so in the future.

Adoption of AI

Some 39 percent of organisations claim to have adopted or are currently adopting AI with a clear strategy, nearly one third (32 percent) plan to integrate AI within the next 6-12 months, and 3 in 10 have little or no AI strategy and no current plans to adopt AI.

Ken Hardy, Head of KPMG’s RDI Incentives Practice noted: “Investment in RDI is critical for long-term economic growth and job creation across the country. Notably, 65 percent of businesses plan to increase RDI spending, driven by many factors including recent increase in the rate of the R&D tax credit to 30 percent. Issues such as the high cost of innovation have led to concerns about decreasing confidence in the RDI environment. We need to continue to improve the attractiveness of investing in RDI to maintain Ireland’s competitive position.“

Dermot Casey, CEO of IRDG, remarked: “Ireland is at a critical juncture. Business is eager to embrace AI and green technologies, but high costs and funding gaps are holding us back. Innovation is the lifeblood of our economy and the key to tackling global challenges like climate change. We need immediate action to break down these barriers. It’s time to radically improve Ireland’s RDI environment and claim our position as a global innovation leader.”

The world’s first gaming e-scooter, the EKRUZER #1

EKRUZER, the pioneering brand in personal electric mobility, has officially launched  the EKRUZER #1, priced at $13,000 (USD), making it the world’s first-ever state-of-the-art augmented reality (AR) gaming platform to be integrated with an e-scooter. This groundbreaking innovation redefines the gaming industry, combining cutting edge multiplayer technology, advanced mobility, and entertainment in one unique product.

Anticipation is already building, as EKRUZER has confirmed that the waiting list for the first 250 limited edition EKRUZER #1 officially opened on December 12, 2024. The first 250 build slots will go to buyers of exclusive numbered EKRUZER baseball caps – priced at $100 (USD) and available via its website www.ekruzer.com.

Game of the future competition

To celebrate the launch, EKRUZER is inviting creativity and innovation from the global gaming community. The “Game the Future” competition challenges participants on the waiting list to pitch their best game concept for the EKRUZER #1 platform. The winner will not only see their concept come to life, but also receive an EKRUZER #1 to play it on.

Cutting-edge features

The EKRUZER #1 boasts cutting-edge features, including its revolutionary hubless design, premium-grade finishes, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 5G connectivity with a seamlessly integrated AR gaming experience that allows riders to explore their environment in new and exciting ways in both single and multiplayer scenarios. Combining class-leading battery technology, AI functionality and design flair, the EKRUZER #1 offers an unmatched performance for riders looking for the ultimate technology showcase, design and AR gameplay.

“We’re thrilled to introduce a product that pushes the boundaries of what an eScooter can be,” said Squad Leader, CEO of EKRUZER. “The EKRUZER #1 isn’t just a lightweight EV, it’s a revolution in gaming and mobility, and now, a platform for creativity. This marks a bold step into a new era of mobility and interactive entertainment.

He continued, “When Sony released the original Playstation they redefined the gaming industry by bringing gaming into the living room, and EKRUZER will write the next chapter by taking gaming out of the house and into the parks”.

Priced at $13,000 (USD), the EKRUZER #1 mobile gaming platform represents a significant investment in the next generation entertainment technology. Competitive financing options will also be available via Ausloans – the largest privately-owned finance brokerage and aggregation business in Australia – offering multi-year payment plans.

Be part of the future of mobility and gaming. Secure your build slot by purchasing an EKRUZER baseball cap and showcase your creative genius in the game design competition.

Cybersecurity experts show biggest scam threats for 2025

Smarter, faster, and more sophisticated scams are coming. Thanks to AI, scammers are more efficient than ever, stealing money at record rates. Every day AI tools such as ChatGPT and OpenAI are used as scam arsenal, leading to around 13 million people in the UK to lose around £1.4bn each year.

Global scam protection leader F-Secure stays one way step ahead of cyber criminals, defending people from scams before they happen. F-Secure’s team of cybersecurity experts share the new threats the country will face in 2025:

New regulations for banks, telcos and social media companies who fail to prevent scams

Calvin Gan, Senior Manager, Scam Protection Strategy, says: “Right now lawmakers around the world are targeting telecom providers, banks, and social media companies, saying they should be held responsible when their customers fall victim to fraud. Australian lawmakers are pushing through a bill that will fine companies up to $50 million for failing to protect their customers from scams, and here, in a world first, UK bank refunds for fraud became mandatory after the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) reduced the maximum compensation from a previous proposal of £415,000 to £85,000, covering more than 99% of claims.

“Passing new laws that empower businesses to beef up protection against scams is a welcomed move. Scam fighting is not a top-down only effort but involves everyone from governments to organisations and even individuals. Just like we’ve seen with GDPR in Europe forcing companies to take data privacy more seriously, new legislation like this would create an extra protection mechanism for consumers.

“Still, there’s no 100% guaranteed way to prevent scams from happening in the first place. People need to take precautions daily, especially on scam-prone channels like social media and messaging apps.

Cheap, easy AI tools will be deployed in sophisticated cyber attacks

Laura Kankaala, Head of Threat Intelligence: “Using AI tools for malicious purposes (like generating malicious and manipulative content) has already been evident throughout this past year. As we head into 2025, we are bound to see more sophisticated attacks that leverage everyday AI tools – like ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, or basically any AI tool that is cheap and easy to access online. The reality is that cyber criminals are abusing this readily available technology to fine-tune their scams and consumers must be better informed, whether that’s from their bank, mobile phone or another service provider, or by the cybersecurity industry to help educate consumers. We all play a part.“

“While AI companies do put restrictions on malicious usage, most of them are not very successful at it. They need to be doing more to stop the use of their platforms for nefarious purposes – it cannot only be left up to legislation to enforce boundaries for what kind of content can be generated. Bottom line, the companies developing these tools should also be held up to a higher moral standard.”

Multi-stage scams will become more prevalent 

Joel Latto, Threat Advisor, says: “Cybercriminals have long relied on social engineering, and multi-stage scams represent some of their most deceptive tactics. These schemes often involve direct interaction with victims, enhancing their believability. For instance, a scammer might call a victim claiming they’ve applied for a loan. When the victim denies it, they are “transferred” to a supposed bank representative—another scammer, probably sat next to them—who proceeds to seek sensitive banking details. Malware further elevates these schemes, rerouting legitimate customer service calls to fraudsters or tricking victims into contacting fake numbers embedded in phishing emails.

“Such scams are effective because victims believe they are speaking with genuine, helpful representatives, which makes them more susceptible under pressure. This is something we’ve seen dramatised through TV series’ such as Cold Call, which has recently rocketed up the charts on Netflix following its release five years ago. Perhaps more popular now because scams are much more commonplace, and viewers are much more likely to relate.

“Until now, the scalability of these scams was limited by the human capacity of fraudsters, who could only handle a limited number of interactions in specific languages and time zones. AI is changing this equation. With the rise of sophisticated conversational AI chatbots, scammers can now mimic real human interactions at scale, conducting conversations 24/7 across multiple languages. Coupled with realistic deepfake audio, these new call-based scams blur the line between human and machine interaction, making them far more dangerous than traditional robocalls.

“To counter these evolving threats, defenses must adapt, and mobile phone service providers must act. Blocking call-forwarding malware, detecting suspicious numbers, and developing sophisticated audio analysis tools to spot deepfakes are essential. Equally critical is educating users about the signs of scams and potential red flags. Defensive strategies must evolve as fast as attackers’ capabilities, leveraging AI-driven solutions and strong collaboration between cybersecurity experts, telecom providers, and regulatory bodies.”

High-yield, high-risk: the rise of Bitcoin investment scams on a new playing field

Sarogini Muniyandi, Senior Manager, Scam Protection Engineering, says: “Decentralised Finance (DeFi) is a new blockchain-based financial service that’s been gaining traction and acceptance over the last year. DeFi refers to financial services provided by an algorithm on a blockchain, without a financial services company. It is an alternative approach that largely operates outside the traditional centralized financial infrastructure.

“As DeFi becomes mainstream, scammers will take advantage of anyone interested in Bitcoin investment and other digital assets, especially those that are unfamiliar with the risks of blockchain-based finance. By 2025, DeFi is expected to attract even more users seeking alternatives to traditional finance. The DeFi market provides loans, interest-bearing accounts, and high-yield investments that promise substantial returns, which can entice investors of all experience levels. With the rising popularity of DeFi, the total value locked (TVL) in these projects is projected to grow, making it a prime target for fraudsters who can steal funds on a larger scale.

“DeFi platforms operate on decentralised blockchain networks, allowing users to participate without traditional identification or regulatory oversight. This open environment enables scammers to steal victims’ funds and vanish into thin air, all while remaining anonymous. By manipulating the smart contract and tools used to automate DeFi functions, the risks of stealing investor funds are at stake. Some DeFi platforms offer investors with unsustainable, extremely high-yield rates for farming Bitcoin derivatives, only for investors to later discover they can’t withdraw their Bitcoin or that the platform has disappeared with their funds.

‘While DeFi offers financial freedom and potential profits, its open, unregulated, and anonymous nature also creates a ripe environment for scams – something every Bitcoin investor needs to be aware of in 2025.”

How Does AI Contribute To The Creation Of Immersive Gaming Experience

Gaming has moved from that tiny pixelated screen to more immersive virtual landscapes. Artificial intelligence has been an important factor in the role of game development over the years. AI makes games be as real as they are and responds to their players in the most natural manners when placed in the most pleasant screens.

Okay, let’s go a little deeper into how AI contributes to developing the captivating environment of the game.

AI in Modern Gaming

AI is the foundation of current gaming and is behind numerous features that make games exciting. It comprises the creation of the other intelligent actors as well as the attempts to make the quality of the gameplay as close to personally individual as possible. Game development and playing have, in turn, changed.

This technology is not only coding better characters; it is developing whole ecosystems where the game is molded according to the player’s behavior, and hence, it is not monotonous and is highly personalized.

Realistic Non-Playable Characters (NPCs)

Immersive gaming changes how NPCs act in games, making them react to the players in intelligent and realistic manners for more natural interactions.

Action games are examples where NPCs use AI to change tactics to counter the player’s moves, making encounters challenging and fun. Tactile and immersive enough to put players into the environment and make you forget that it is a game.

Challenging Exercises In A Video Game

This is possibly one of the biggest strengths of AI in gaming when designers consider the capability of AI to create variable games .Games can now change their difficulty, elements of the plot, and the nature of the tasks in response to the player’s actions within the game.

For instance, AI can determine how you are doing and make adjustments to the game’s difficulty that do not make it dull or difficult for a player. It is this balance that is important in maintaining a player’s focus and spreading out their duration of play.

Villus, Vibrant Visuals, and Environments

AI also helps in artistically setting game scenes and designing great scenes in games. AI if applied in the procedural generation of level design, the ability to create vast and diverse locations is not limited by human intervention.

These environments are highly detailed, different, and vast, thus giving the players the feeling that they belong to the real world. Lighting, weather, and sound effects can also be controlled and modified dynamically, all thanks to the advanced AI incorporation.

AI in Gaming Portals

AI goes way beyond the game itself; AI is integrated into the game platforms to personalize recommendations for improving usability and to smoothen down any in-game transaction mechanism.

When you explore a variety of online games, platforms often use AI to recommend a selection based on individual preferences. This makes discovering new games and bonuses seamless, which means the user experience will be enhanced.

AI in Multiplayer Games

Multivideo games are another niche for AI. Starting with the management of matchmaking systems and simulating realistic AI teammates or opponents, it brings on a seamless and interactive fun experience.

Anti-cheating mechanisms are also amplified using algorithms provided by AI, thereby guaranteeing each player a clean experience on this turf.

Conclusion

AI has made gaming as real as possible by improving gameplay, developing real characters, and creating constructive environments. This evolution has taken today’s games not only as entertainment forms but as a total sensory immersion. 

 

TOZO NC9 ANC Earbuds Review

The TOZO NC9 ANC Earbuds are one of their latest on the market and now come with some new AI features since AI is the buzzword but it actually works quite well be it via text or speaking whilst having them in your ears.

The build quality it great and kept simple as always with TOZO and the fit nicely in the ears and with the right tips they will not fall out or budge.

These earbuds require taps to get the commands out and work really well and the earbud controls can be changed to suit your requirements.

There is no wireless charging here or auto play and pause so if these are things you require you may check out others from the brand but this is no huge deal with the audio quality you get here which is the most important factor for most.

The controls work really here and TOZO have been consistent here too we go through this in the video review below.

With the audio in mind yet again it is excellent and up there with more expensive brands out there at a fraction of the cost and there is a huge suite of EQ modes built in plus a community there to pick from and get suggestions, you have several noise cancelling modes here to which is also great including wind reduction mode and leisure mode all these can be changed by a tap too.

The sound is excellent and you will not be disappointed either feeling central and immersive when you turn the volume up and with the level of EQ settings you are in control, highs lows and mids are great excellent bass and no distortion or lag latency noted in my usual test run I was impressed yet again considering the cost factor here.

There is a latency mode built in for the gamers and works well when it comes to the audio so for the gamers you are covered here too.

You now also have AI built into the App whereby you can either type or ask a question which is handy this worked on most occasions and can only see it improve over time.

 

TOZO APP now with AI

 

  • Active Noise Cancellation】Hybrid 3-layer Active Noise Cancellation. 1. Outward-facing microphone detects external sounds and counter with equal anti-noise to first cancel noise. 2. Inward-facing microphone listens inside the ear canal to pick up internal sounds and produce anti-noise again to cancel the left noise. 3. Ear caps prevent 90% of noise going to the ear canal.
  • 【Transparent Mode】You can hear what you want to hear, which lets outside sound in so you can hear and interact with the world around you. You can clearly hear the announcement of the airline or subway and what is happening around you without taking off the headphones.
  • 【Built-in Dual Noise Cancelling Microphone】Double microphone noise reduction system suppresses environmental noise. A dedicated internal and two external microphones pick up your voice and isolate it from outside noise.
  • 【One-step Pairing】Pick up the two headsets from the charging case, and they will be paired automatically. Then simply enable Bluetooth connection on your mobile phone to pair the device with your earbuds.
  • 【Charge on the Go】TOZO NC9 wireless earbuds can last for over 13 hours of playtime from a single charge and 27 extra hours in the compact charging case. The Active Noise Cancellation mode can last for over 7 hours of playtime. Providing a convenient charging way with no strings attached.

BUY

Other TOZO reviews

Video review

More than half of organisations in Ireland now using AI

New research from KPMG reveals the extent to which artificial intelligence (AI) is being deployed in Irish organisations’ finance operations – with compelling levels of ROI and a wide range of benefits including better data and decisions, lower costs, and greater ability to predict trends. Over half of organisations in Ireland (54 percent) are now using AI across their finance function, lower than 71 percent seen globally. Meanwhile, over two-thirds (66 percent) are implementing some level of workflow automation in financial reporting. The report, titled “AI in finance”, covers 2,900 organisations across 23 countries and includes 100 responses from Ireland.

Commenting on the research findings, Keith Stafford, IT Audit Partner at KPMG in Ireland, said, “Our research confirms AI is continuing to have a profound effect on how companies operate, including their systems, processes, controls, and governance over all areas of the finance function, and this is set to accelerate in the next few years. AI will transform not only the technical aspects of financial operations but also fundamentally reshape strategic decision-making and risk management practices. The increasing adoption of AI reflects its critical role in driving efficiency, accuracy, and predictive capabilities, which are essential for staying competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

The integration of AI in financial services is not just a trend but a transformative shift. Our research highlights the significant strides companies are making in AI adoption, as well as the challenges they face. It is essential for organisations to invest in talent development and establish robust guidelines to harness the full potential of AI responsibly.”

AI Adoption Trends

The research indicates that AI adoption is most prevalent in Treasury Management, followed closely by Financial Planning, Accounting, Tax, and Operations and Risk Management. This trend underscores the growing adaptation of AI to streamline and enhance financial processes. The research also finds two-thirds (66 percent) of companies have implemented some level of automation in their financial reporting workflows. Additionally, 25 percent of respondents plan to adopt automation in the near future. This shift towards automation reflects the industry’s commitment to improving efficiency and accuracy in financial reporting.

The top benefits of AI identified in the research include:

  • Enabling better data-driven decisions (38 percent)
  • Lowering operational costs (37 percent)
  • Enhancing the ability to predict trends (36 percent)

ROI of AI Initiatives and Investment

Almost half (49 percent) of those surveyed reported that the return on investment (ROI) of their AI initiatives is meeting or exceeding expectations, compared to 65 percent globally. This highlights the tangible benefits that AI brings to the financial services sector, encouraging further investment and innovation. AI is also now reported to account for nearly 15 percent of the IT budget for businesses, with projections indicating that this figure is set to double within the next three years.

Challenges and Guidelines

Despite the promising trends, the research highlights limited AI skills and talent as the biggest barrier to AI adoption. Companies are facing challenges in finding and retaining skilled professionals who can effectively implement and manage AI technologies. Nearly half (45 percent) of the surveyed companies have established AI control guidelines to ensure the responsible use of AI. These guidelines are crucial in maintaining ethical standards and mitigating risks associated with AI deployment.

Finally, the study also reveals that companies are increasingly looking to auditors in particular to provide more communication and insights about AI. This demand for transparency and guidance emphasises the need for auditors to stay informed and proactive in their approach to AI-related matters.