Tag: Android

2025 Irish Smartphone Usage Stats

Not so long ago, mobile phones were used only for communication. However, as these devices advanced, they started replacing everything from cameras to gaming consoles. Today, they’re an integral part of everyday life in Ireland. This is best highlighted in the most recent Irish smartphone usage stats. In this article, we look at the most important figures and what they mean long term.

More People are Gaming on Mobile

Remember the famous Nokia Snake game? While still considered a classic, the games available on smartphones are significantly better. From mini-games for passing time to full-fledged titles that have their console versions, mobile gaming has evolved into a serious segment of the gaming industry. Even online casinos are available on mobile, allowing you to play poker or spin slots with just a few taps, all that in fully optimized apps. With mobile gaming on the rise, it’s no wonder 55% of adults in Ireland now play games on mobile. This means that smartphones are now the most dominant platform in the country, with only between 37% and 40% playing on consoles.

5.05 Million People in Ireland Own a Smartphone

Today, it’s practically impossible to go about your day without a smartphone in your pocket. Whether you want to make a phone call, look up an address, or buy something, you can do it all from this little device. And people in Ireland are doing exactly this, with 5.05 million people in the country owning a smartphone. With the tech constantly evolving, it’s natural to expect this figure to go up even more in the coming years. According to projections, the number of smartphone users in Ireland will reach 5.22 million by 2029.

Smartphones Are the First Thing People See in the Morning

While it’s not surprising that almost everyone in Ireland now owns a smartphone, you may be left stunned by the fact that for 74%, it’s the first thing they see in the morning. These devices have already started to replace traditional alarm clocks, but their use continues even after the alarm goes on. They’re responding to messages, scrolling through social media, or reading the news. Not only this, but people in Ireland also use their smartphones right before going to bed. In fact, 54% say they stay awake longer than planned because they’re on their phones.

Android Users Dominate Ireland

The Android vs. iOS debate is always ongoing, and in Ireland, Android is clearly in the lead. Apple’s iPhone has a strong following, especially among younger generations, but Android dominates the overall market. According to the numbers from 2025, Android holds over 60% of the smartphone market in Ireland. iPhone holds over 38% while only about 0.25% goes to other, older operating systems. Android has a wide range of devices at different price points, making it more accessible, which is the main reason behind its popularity.

Samsung is the Most Popular Brand in Ireland

As mentioned above, Android has the edge over iOS in Ireland. But what about brands? According to the most recent numbers, Samsung is the leader. Out of the surveyed individuals, 42% said they own a Samsung phone, while 38% said they own an Apple phone. The number of Samsung users went up by 4% between 2023 and 2024, proving that the brand is constantly attracting new customers. With the Edge version of Samsung S25 having just arrived, this number may increase even more in the coming months. AI is one of the hottest tech trends at the moment, and the new version of the popular Samsung phone integrates it at almost every touchpoint.

FC Mobile Partners with MLS and Apple TV to bring live MLS matches to FC Mobile

Electronic Arts Inc. and Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile players will be able to watch four select matches of the 2025 MLS regular season through the in-game FCM TV portal, made possible by a live simulcast of MLS Season Pass on Apple TV*. This marks a milestone moment in the continued partnership between EA SPORTS FC, MLS, and MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, and a first for EA SPORTS in bringing live sports matches to fans worldwide*.

The excitement kicks off this Saturday, May 10, with a MLS Cup 2024 presented by Audi final rematch between reigning champions LA Galaxy and the New York Red Bulls broadcast live to EA SPORTS FC Mobile players at 7:30PM ET. Additionally, EA SPORTS FC Mobile players can access the Football Centre, a central hub for up-to-date content based on global football events, to play each matchup in-game and complete a featured Showdown Player Exchange before watching the action live.

“By being able to watch select live MLS Season Pass matches within EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re continuing a commitment to our players to bring them closer to the game they love, by investing in innovation and growing experiences offered through our platform,” said Lawrence Koh, VP, EA SPORTS FC Mobile. “Alongside our partners at MLS and Apple TV, we share a dedication to a fan-first future of football, and we look forward to the reaction from fans worldwide as we continue to build on this moment for the future of EA SPORTS FC Mobile.”

Later this month, on May 17, the second match to be broadcast live on FCM TV will feature Atlanta United FC taking on the Philadelphia Union at 4:30PM ET. The final two MLS Season Pass matches to be streamed within EA SPORTS FC Mobile will be held in September, with matchups to be announced at a later date.

By tuning into FCM TV to watch these live broadcasts of MLS matchups, EA SPORTS FC Mobile players will be rewarded with in-game currency. For those who can’t get enough football action, players will also get a free 1-month trial of MLS Season Pass, with more details on how to access and redeem here.

“This collaboration with EA SPORTS and Apple TV underscores MLS’s commitment to pushing boundaries, innovation and fan-first experiences,” said Camilo Durana, Executive VP at Major League Soccer. “By bringing select live MLS Season Pass matches to EA SPORTS FC Mobile, we’re reaching new and digitally native audiences around the world and continuing to broaden the way we’re building relationships with fans. It’s easier than ever to experience the excitement of MLS, our Clubs, our world-class players and our vibrant supporters.”

For more news and information on EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile, stay tuned to the official website and social channels across Instagram, X, and YouTube. Download the game on the App Store and Google Play Store to play Anywhere For the Club.

QDOS SnapStand Qi2 upgraded 3-in-1 charger review

The QDOS SnapStand Qi2 upgraded 3-in-1 charger is their latest iteration of their popular charging stand we reviewed last year.

Like last years model it offers you to charge up to three devices at once which is excellent for those who carry such products as this is ideal for travel your bedside locker or even office or home desk and it is a robust product made from 62% recycled zinc alloy.

This time around the top half rotates 360 degrees making it more accessible and not fixed the underside has rubber feet which holds it in place and makes it secure on any surface and ideal for media consumption and even using your phone as a second screen for emails and social media etc.

There is an LED light up front which gives power status and charge status and this is collapsible which again makes it idea for travelling.

It is Qi2 compatible now and works with both Android and iOS products and if you have MagSafe even better with 15W wireless charging.

Overall like last years model this is a must have for convenience, simplicity and less cables to carry about check the video below for more.

Features

  • Powered by Qi2 Technology – precise magnetic alignment and reduced energy waste for iPhone or Android

  • Fast charging – delivering up to 15W fast wireless charging for Qi2 smartphones and MagSafe-enabled iPhones

  • Effortless Convenience – speedily charge your iPhone/Smartphone (15w), smartwatch (2.5w), and earbuds (5w)—all at once

  • Eco-Friendly Design – crafted from 62% recycled zinc alloy that suits any decor

  • Perfect Versatility – a 360° rotating base for optimal viewing for video calls or media streaming.

  • Collapsible design – the perfect charging travel companion

Other QDOS reviews 

Buy

Video review

Chipolo launches new item tracker the Chipolo POP – Review

Introducing a new product line to its family of tracking tags, Chipolo — the award-winning Bluetooth item tracker company — brings a splash of playfulness into the market with the brand new: Chipolo POP. We have been testing this out over the last few days in a nice bright Green variant and it works well with lots of new features on board and do check the video below for a full tour of how to set it up and how it works.

Vibrant, colourful and now universal, the Chipolo POP works with Apple’s Find My network or Google’s Find My Device to help busy bees find their lost keys and misplaced bags no matter the device. As a cherry on top, Chipolo POP has extra features available – like being able to call one’s phone – in the free Chipolo companion app.

Chipolo, known for its trademark of bright colours, brings its signature hues back into the Chipolo family with Chipolo POP all while extending the product’s Bluetooth range, improving its water and dust resistance, and incorporating more recycled materials into its design.

“The Chipolo POP is the embodiment of our customers’ favourite Chipolo attributes. Countless users expressed their desire for vibrant colours while others missed having access to certain features within the Chipolo app. POP therefore merges the best of our past – bringing colours, compatibility and our most popular features into a product everyone can love.” said Domen Barovic, Co-founder and CDO at Chipolo.

Available worldwide on their webpage and via Amazon, the Chipolo POP is set at £30/$29/€35 with the below features:

  • A fresh look with colourful design options: Curated with its notorious keyhole for valuables, the new product brings a pop of colour into one’s life with the hues: blue, black, green, red, white and yellow.

  • Worldwide range and compatibility: The Chipolo POP works with either Apple’s Find My network or Google’s Find My Device  – which means you can find your missing item almost anywhere in the world. To use your Chipolo POP on an Android™ device, your device must be running Android 9 or later with Google Play Services installed. To use it on an Apple device, the latest version of iOS, iPadOS or macOS is recommended.

  • User safety built-in: Chipolo POP benefits from Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device built-in safety and protection features, including unknown tracker alerts – notifications that let you know if an unfamiliar tracker is moving with you that work across both Android and iOS devices.

  • Loud sound: Easily locate your items with a loud ring that is 120db high.

  • Extra features available via the free companion Chipolo app:

    • Call Your Phone: Be able to ring your phone with your Chipolo POP – even if it’s on silent!

    • Out-of-range alerts (Android only): Get a friendly notification when you leave something behind.

    • Ringtone: Change your Chipolo POP’s ringtone with a different selection of tunes.

    • Selfie Remote: Use the Chipolo as a wireless shutter to take the perfect photo.

  • Eco-friendly product materials: All products are EU-made from approximately 50% recycled materials.

  • Paper packaging: A new look for packaging, designed with sustainability in mind the new packaging comes slimmer with a matte finish – and made from paper only

  • Bluetooth range: Now up to 300ft / 90m

  • Long, replaceable battery life: Lasts up to 1 year with the easy and sustainable option to replace the battery.

Chipolo POP App

“The tracking tag market has continued to grow over the years. In fact, the market has experienced a year-on-year growth of 7.76% in the last 4 years. It highlights the people’s demand for more convenience and peace of mind. The POP further answers this desire from the market – delivering a product that gives consumers what they want while reflecting Chipolo’s core values and mission to help people live their lives to the fullest.” said Primož Zelenšek, Co-founder and CEO at Chipolo.

The Chipolo POP will be available for purchase starting on April 14th on the official Chipolo website and on Amazon, and from May, it will be available in T-Mobile stores.

Amazon UK & US links:

BUY

See our Chipolo reviews

Video Review

What to Do if Your Phone Is Stolen: 7 Essential Recovery Tips

With the rising cost of phones, comes the rising cases of theft. Like minded  Tech Expert Joe Davies shares tips on how to recover yours if lost.
In the age of expensive smartphones, the rising trend of phone thefts, and the ever-present risk of losing your device, it’s essential to be prepared. Phones now contain much more than just contact lists and photos.
They now also hold sensitive information and act as our connection to the digital world. With TikTok trending hacks and expert advice, we break down how you can improve your chances of finding your stolen phone.
The TikTok Hack: Can It Help You Find Your Stolen Phone?
Recently, a TikTok video went viral, showing a hack for tracking a stolen phone. By using the “Find My” feature from Apple or Google, it demonstrated how you could locate your device if it’s turned on and connected to the internet. This hack, while useful in theory, is not always reliable, particularly if the thief has turned off the phone or disabled location services.
“The viral TikTok hack is a good starting point, but it’s not a complete solution. If your phone is off or disconnected from the internet, you’re left with limited options. Always ensure that the necessary tracking services are enabled before any potential loss.”
That said, while the hack can be part of the solution, here are some other effective strategies to help you recover your stolen device.
7 Tips to Find Your Stolen Phone
  1. Use Find My iPhone (Apple Devices) or Find My Device (Android)
Apple and Android devices come with pre-installed features designed to track your phone. If you have “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” enabled, these tools can pinpoint your phone’s last known location. Additionally, they offer the ability to lock your device or erase sensitive data remotely.
“One of the most reliable ways to track a stolen phone is through the manufacturer’s built-in features. Just make sure they’re enabled beforehand, or you’ll miss out on these helpful tools.”
  1. Contact Your Service Provider
If location tracking doesn’t lead to your phone, reach out to your mobile network provider. They may be able to track your device’s IMEI number (a unique identifier for your phone) and lock it remotely to prevent further use.
  1. Remote Lock Your Phone
Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android, remote locking can prevent thieves from accessing your personal data. “Find My iPhone” and “Find My Device” both offer the option to lock your phone remotely, offering some peace of mind in case the phone can’t be recovered right away.
  1. Report the Theft to Local Authorities
While you may not be able to track your phone in real-time, it’s important to file a police report. This not only helps with the recovery process but is necessary for insurance claims. Some local law enforcement agencies have the means to trace stolen phones based on their IMEI numbers.
  1. Check Lost-and-Found Services
Many airports, malls, and other public places have lost-and-found services. If you’ve lost your phone while out and about, make sure to check with them in case someone turned it in.
  1. Use Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps like Lookout or Prey offer additional tracking options and remote control of your phone, such as taking photos of the thief, locking your phone, or erasing your data.
“Third-party apps can be a good backup option, but you need to install them in advance. These apps may not be as effective as the built-in features, but they offer extra layers of security.”
  1. Protect Your Phone with a Case and Screen Protector
While this doesn’t help you track a stolen phone, using a protective case makes your phone less appealing to thieves. A bulky or uniquely designed case can act as a deterrent.
While recovering a stolen phone is not always guaranteed, taking these steps can increase your chances. However, the most effective way to protect yourself is to ensure your phone is equipped with the necessary security settings before any incident occurs. Enable location tracking, use strong passwords, and stay vigilant when in public spaces.
“The best way to prevent a phone from being stolen is to be proactive. Prevention is always better than trying to recover something once it’s gone.”
With these tips and expert advice, you’ll be better prepared to find your phone if it’s stolen or lost. But, ultimately, safeguarding your device starts with taking simple steps to protect it from theft.

First Look – Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G

The Redmi Note is a recently released device now on sale in Ireland in multiple stores and online and we have just got this in to check out over the next few weeks and look forward to seeing how it fairs out in the market.

With a good spec sheet this device promises to offer great features at a decent price and of course AI is one of the themes here as is with most smartphone makers now which has become jarring for some but each manufacturers take is different and you also get Google Gemini on board which most Android users are now more custom too.

With Redmi Note 14 Series, Xiaomi delivers a remarkable blend of powerful  performance, stunning photography, and robust durability, all designed to meet the  needs of modern life. From the high-resolution camera systems with advanced AI tools,  to the rugged dust and water-resistant design, powerful performance and long-lasting  battery, Redmi Note 14 Series sets a new standard in its category by bringing premium  features to a wider audience, offering exceptional value in every aspect.

We will be testing this out over the coming weeks so if there is any questions as always ask us on social or our YouTube

 

Features

Camera 200MP main camera
Chipset MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra
Carrier Unlocked for All Carriers
OS Xiaomi HyperOS based on Android
Cellular technology 5G
Storage & RAM 8GB + 256GB
Connectivity technologies Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC
Screen size 6.67 Inches
Battery 5110mAh (typ)
Charging 45W turbo charging

Buy 

Unboxing and first look

Vodafone crowned Best Mobile Internet and 5G Provider in Ireland

<a href=”https://n.vodafone.ie/en.html”>Vodafone Ireland</a> has been awarded Best Mobile Internet Performance 2024, for a third year in a row, and Best 5G Provider in Ireland for 2024 at this year’s nPerf Awards. This recognition follows Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network transitioning customers to a faster, more efficient 4G and 5G network in 2024.

Short for network performance, nPerf is a trusted partner for both fixed and mobile operators, providing comprehensive network testing solutions and analysis. The results for 2024 were based on thousand of actual tests performed by users in real conditions using the nPerf application available on Android and iOS. nPerf points are calculated across five factors – Download (DL) Speed, Upload (UP) Speed, Latency (delay), Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming.

Vodafone Ireland maintained its leading position in Ireland’s mobile market, achieving the highest score of 108,153 nPoints, demonstrating its promise of a premium network making every connection count for its customers. The operator excelled in multiple categories and was the best-performing provider across four – Upload Speed, Latency, Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming – showcasing reliable performance in the 5G sector.

2024 saw Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network. This upgrade to a more sustainable, efficient and reliable 4G and 5G network offers all Vodafone Ireland customers an enhanced experience with improved connection across the country. Vodafone’s 5G is now available across Ireland with 78% population coverage.

Over the past three years, Vodafone has invested over €300 million into its network nationwide, with plans to invest an additional half a billion euros over the next four years. This investment will further enhance call and text reliability, provide superfast 4G and 5G services, and expand high-definition voice coverage for Vodafone customers.

Accepting the award, <b>Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland</b>, commented:

<i>“Every day, we strive to offer our customers the best, most reliable mobile network experience and this award is a testament to our teams across Ireland who work to deliver on this promise day in and day out.</i>

<i>“This award recognises our ability to respond to the ever-evolving needs of our customers, who increased their data usage by 20% last year alone and still experienced the same premium service they have come to expect from Vodafone.”</i>

<i>“We remain focused on supporting businesses across Ireland, with 60% of Irish businesses entrusting their mobile business accounts to Vodafone. We understand the critical role that robust and reliable connectivity plays in today’s fast-paced business environment, and we are dedicated to maintaining our position as the leading provider of mobile internet services. We look forward to bringing even more cutting-edge solutions to our customers, enhancing their digital experiences and supporting their connectivity, growth and success.” </i>

Recognising <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=vodafone”>Vodafone’s</a&gt; continued success in 2024,<b> Sébastien de Rosbo, Managing Director nPerf</b>, stated, “The year 2024 has seen Vodafone continue its strong performance in the Irish mobile market, particularly in the 5G space, despite a slight decrease in overall testing volume.”

HSE launches HSE Health App

The Department of Health and HSE have just launched the first version of the HSE Health App. It is one of the first initiatives delivered as part of Digital for Care, Ireland’s health and social care digital framework. Anyone aged 16 and over can download the app for free from Google Play or the App Store. However first phase functionality will be most useful for expectant mothers. 

This first phase functionality allows people to carry a digital list of self-declared medications and see a list of medicines received through the Drugs Payment Scheme or Medical Card Scheme. It allows them to store their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), medical card, Long-term Illness card (LTI), Drugs Payment Scheme card (DPS) and GP Visit card. It provides access to flu and COVID-19 vaccination records and allows the user to easily find information about HSE services, such as EDs and Injury Units. It further allows those involved to view maternity service appointments (for expectant mothers).

According to HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster, there has been “much progress made in modernising the data capabilities and digital technologies of our health service in recent years. The launch of the first version of the new HSE Health App represents the next step forward in our digital transformation journey, as we seek to harness the power of data and innovation to help improve access to care for patients and enhance efficiencies across services.

“Through utilisation and ongoing development of digital tools, such as the new HSE Health App, we see a future where our patients and the people who care for them are empowered and better informed about their care. I will continue to ensure that we prioritise providing increased access for patients to their data allowing them to interact with our health services to improve their experiences.”

Damien McCallion, HSE Chief Technology and Transformation Officer added that “anyone who wishes to, can use the first version of the HSE Health App. This is just the beginning – the app is an evolving programme of work, with new services and features planned each year, including expanding the appointment functionality for all public hospital appointments. This is a challenging undertaking but a key priority to deliver for everyone under our care.The app is one aspect of the digitisation of the health service and a major priority as we face new challenges and ensure we can provide the health service the country needs and deserves.” 

The app development team has consulted with a number of organisations representing disabled people and worked with a Patient Advisory Group to understand the needs of a wide range of individuals. This has ensured their needs are heard and they are involved in the design process. The app has also been tested with users who rely on assistive technology, and audited to ensure it reaches HSE and European standards for accessibility. Work is ongoing with users of the app to identify and implement improvements so new features and functionality can be added.

Future app features will be guided by ongoing research and engagement with patients, staff, and the public. For now, the HSE Health App is available in English and Irish – other languages are being explored for future versions. 

A verified MyGovID is needed to access personal health information. If the user does not have a verified MyGovID, they will still be able to use the app to find information about health conditions and HSE services.

For more information see hse.ie/health-app   

Almost half of people in Ireland use their smartphones during meals

Almost half of people in Ireland (47%) use their smartphones during meals and 70% say they spend too much time on their devices, a new Deloitte survey has found.

The survey of 1,000 people in Ireland was carried out as part of Deloitte’s Digital Consumer Trends report.

It shows that three-quarters of adults (74%) tend to use their mobile phones as soon as they wake up while 54% say they tend to stay awake later than planned because of their devices. Over one third (34%) check their phone at least 50 times a day and 15% do so more than 100 times.

Young people are also more likely to stay up later than planned due to phone use with 73% of those aged between 18-24 and 60% of those aged 25-34 years admitting it delays their bedtime. More women (74%) than men (66%) say they spend too much time on their smartphones while adults aged 18 to 44 express the most concern.

Nearly everyone in Ireland, 95%, now owns a smartphone, and almost half of those surveyed (47%) use their smartphone or smartwatch to pay for goods and services in-store through digital wallets, up from 36% in 2023.

The use of wearable devices (55%) has declined from 67% in 2023 while the ownership or use of games consoles is down from 40% to 37%, most likely due to the lack of new console releases in 2024. Just 7% of people own or have access to a VR headset.

42% of those surveyed own a Samsung, the most popular mobile phone brand, up from 38% in 2023, while 38% own an Apple phone.

Android is the most popular phone type in every age group with the exception of 18-24 where 64% own Apple handsets and 35% own Android. Almost three-quarters of those aged 65-75 (74%), 69% of those aged 45-54 and 66% of those aged 35-44 use Android phones.

The survey found the average respondent has access to 2.3 subscription services. 74% have access to a video streaming service and Netflix is the lead service by a significant margin despite a drop in penetration from 65% of respondents in 2021 to 59%.

Just 26% now say they share a video streaming service with someone from outside their household, down from 37% in 2023. This comes amid a clampdown on password sharing by Netflix, which introduced new rules and now effectively only allow users to regularly stream from one main location.

Younger subscribers are more likely to share accounts with people outside their households with 39% of those aged 18-24 doing so and 44% of those aged 25-34.

27% of those surveyed cancelled a video streaming subscription in the last 12 months. Unsurprisingly cost was the main reason for doing so jumping from 24% to 31%, followed by lack of usage at 29%, down 4 percentage points on 2023.

Fake news on the rise

 71% of respondents to the survey said they’d been exposed to online information designed to deliberately mislead. A total of 53% said they had more regularly found material online that was subsequently proven to be fake. This is up from 46% in 2023.

Television remains the most popular choice for news consumption in Ireland with more than half the population (57%) preferring it for updates. This trend is particularly strong among older demographics with 83% of those aged 65-75 choosing TV over other mediums.

The most popular method of staying up to date for the 18-24 (67%) and 25-34 (57%) age group is social media, which is cited by just 24% of the 55-64 and 11% of 65-75 age groups.

Overall, 40% say they like to get their news from radio, 39% use news websites or apps, and 38% use social media. Only 14% cite print as a preferred source.

Interestingly, more than half (58%) of 18–34-year-olds have made a purchase through social media in the last year. 22% of 18–24-year-olds and 29% of 25-34 year olds have bought something through a brand advert or a sponsored post.

John Kehoe, partner, Audit & Assurance, Deloitte Ireland said: “Our digital consumer trends survey shows that smartphones have become the most essential device, surpassing laptops (81%) and tablets (61%) in accessibility and consistent use across all ages. They are replacing physical wallets and remain the preferred tool for banking, shopping, browsing and gaming. However, recent innovations have been incremental rather than groundbreaking. Generative AI could change this by making smartphones more personalised and intuitive. Despite their benefits, concerns about excessive use persist – 47% use phones during meals, and many delay sleep to stay online. As smartphones shape daily life, it’s important to balance convenience with mindful usage.”

Commenting on the rise of fake news revealed in the report, Lorraine Griffin, partner and Chair of Deloitte Ireland, Tax & Legal, said:

“Our research highlights the increasing exposure to misinformation, particularly online. As news consumption shifts towards social media, and almost three in four respondents in our survey encountering intentionally misleading content, the need for media literacy and critical thinking has never been greater. Education remains key in empowering individuals to navigate digital spaces responsibly, ensuring access to information is accompanied with the skills to assess its accuracy.”