Tag: #Christmas2020

Twelve South accessories for this Christmas’s hottest gadgets. #TwelveSouth #Apple #Tech

Smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles… Gadgets are now among the most sought after gifts on Christmas wish lists for adults and children alike. Recent research found parents will apparently spend €1000 on tech gifts this year with the PS5 and Nintendo Switch being the most wanted gifts.

If you’re buying a gift for one of those lucky enough to receive a hot new gadget from Santa, or you’re on the ‘nice’ list yourself, Twelve South has a fantastic selection of products to accessorise, charge and protect this year’s most sought after gadget gifts.

AirFly Pro – best for Nintendo Switch and AirPods Max RRP: £49.99

Buy from Amazon  

Available in black and white. REVIEWED HERE

This nifty adaptor allows users to pair their Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite with their favourite pair of Bluetooth headphones for an improved audio experience that doesn’t disturb others. The AirFly Pro connects wireless headphones or earbuds that would otherwise be incompatible with the Switch, for an immersive gaming experience free from wires at home or on-the-go. AirFly Pro also lets users stream audio to two sets of headphones, which works well for local multiplayer games. The AirFly Pro is self-powered too, so it won’t drain the Switch’s battery.

AirFly Pro also allows users to wirelessly connect their brand new AirPods Max to devices typically only accessible via a headphone jack, such as gym equipment and in-flight entertainment. Now users can continue to enjoy the outstanding audio from their AirPods Max completely free from wires wherever they are.

AirSnap Pro – best for AirPods Pro

RRP: £34.99

Buy from Amazon UK

Available in slate blue, cognac, black

House that new precious pair of AirPods Pro in this stylish leather case to protect them from damage and dust. Uses simply place their Airpods Pro and charging case inside, to charge them wirelessly or via lightning cable. The handy S-clip, which can be attached to coats, bags, keys and more, is ideal for anyone who is known for ‘misplacing’ things… There is even a nylon wristlet included to offer another way of keeping Airpods Pro safe. Made from premium top-grain leather and available in three different colours slate blue, cognac and black, the AirSnap Pro is a fashionable way to keep AirPods Pro safe.

BookBook case – best for Kindle Paperwhite and iPad

RRP: £49.99 (Kindle), £89.99 (iPad)

Buy Kindle Paperwhite case from Amazon UK

Buy iPad case from Amazon UK

Kindle has transformed the way we read books, but avid readers can often be heard saying that it can’t be compared to reading a real book… The BookBook for Kindle Paperwhite, gives readers the feel of reading a print book on their digital device. Made with beautiful distressed vintage leather, the case mimics the feel of an ancient book and spine that one might discover in a traditional library while offering useful modern features. The integrated kick-stand gives users a hands-free reading option, ideal for reading over breakfast or lunch. The BookBook case is also available for iPhone, iPad and MacBook models, making a whole library of book themed gadgets possible!

BookBook for iPhone 12 and 12 Pro

RRP: $69.99

Compatible with iPhone 12/12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini

Buy from TwelveSouth.com

Give Apple’s latest flagship phones a vintage twist with the BookBook for iPhone 12. Hand crafted from distressed full-grain leather, the BookBook wallet case turns one of the world’s most modern smartphones into a gorgeous ancient book. Keep the new Apple Card as well as other credit and membership cards safe with the wallet section or separate the magnetic shell to keep the phone protected while using it in the gym or docked in a car holder. The case also folds to serve as a viewing stand so users can watch their favourite movies and TV shows while on the move.

BookBook for MacBook

RRP: £95.70

Compatible models: 12 inch Macbook, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 13 Inch Pro USB-C / Air Retina, 16 Inch MacBook

Available from Amazon UK

BookBook is the iconic MacBook case that makes a statement wherever it goes, the hand-crafted full grain leather cases giving MacBooks the appearance of a vintage book. The vol 2 edition is refined and tailored exclusively for the USB-C MacBooks with a slim silhouette and a strong, crush-resistant spine, with the added bonus of a hidden portfolio pocket to carry printed reports, swatch samples, contracts and so on. Not only does this case protect MacBooks while not in use, it can also be used as an outer shell while in use too, ideal for protection while on transport and in cafes.

SuitCase – best for MacBook

RRP: £79.99

Available from Amazon UK Compatible models: MacBook Pro, MacBook Air

A thoughtful gift for Apple lovers who have a MacBook Air or Macbook Pro. Available in two sizes (13in and 16in), SuitCase boasts many features that are designed to protect precious Macbooks from scratches, bumps, water damage and more. The quilted signature diamond pattern exterior and thermoform shell securely hold and protect the MacBook inside. Inside, there is a small pocket ideal for carrying a small notebook or cable. With a slim design and a recessing leather handle, the SuitCase will fit comfortably into a work bag or backpack.

Users can also work on their MacBook without removing it from the SuitCase, again helping to keep it in pristine condition. Twelve South’s innovative suspension system holds the SuitCase securely against the MacBook without interfering with its display.

It’s ideal for professionals and creatives who enjoy taking their Macbooks for trips to coffee shops and the office or far-flung business trips and holidays.

Irish Agency Creates AI Christmas Cards Painted by Van Gogh & Written by William Butler Yeats. #AI #Christmas2020

Irish creative agency, Connector by Granite, has used AI to bring back Van Gogh and William Butler Yeats to create their Christmas cards this year. The company trained neural networks to recognise patterns in the source data from Van Gogh’s starry night and transpose it to iconic Dublin Christmas scenes. The project also tasked the AI with learning all poems by Irish poet, William Butler Yeats, to produce a special new poem to lift spirits in celebration of Christmas.

Goodbye 2020,

Long live the Future.

The air grew still, and then

A murmurous laugh arose;

A starlight glimmered through,

A misty and hazy fire.

Together with kindred spirits

Every soul should seek,

For music that can burn

And love is all around

But no, farewell;

A starlight glimmering through, a misty and hazy fire.

– William Butler Yeats

 

According to Ivan Adriel, Creative Strategy Director: “Connector has always been an agency with creativity in our DNA and this year we were acquired by Granite Digital – Ireland’s biggest digital agency.  We wanted to merge the power of technology and creativity to show that AI can open new realms of creative possibility, in contrast to dystopic headlines heralding technology as the death of creativity.”

In an effort to avoid waste, the company is not posting cards this year but is sending them to clients by email.

Tesco Mobile launches Bill Pay and Pre-Pay Christmas offers. #TescoMobile #Christmas2020

This Christmas, it’s more important than ever to stay connected to our loved ones. No matter where you’re spending the holidays. Tesco Mobile wants to help you find the perfect gift with an amazing range of handsets at great prices, available online and in Tesco Mobile Phone Shops nationwide.

You can shop from the comfort and safety of your own home or in store, the choice is yours and enjoy great savings on smartphones, with something for everyone on your list. Give the gift of connectivity, upgrade or switch to Tesco Mobile.

TESCO MOBILE IRELAND BILLPAY CHRISTMAS OFFERS

Dates available: December 1st – December 28th

 Including the very best Android and Apple handsets, Bill Pay customers will enjoy great seasonal savings on all the leading smartphones from just €30 per month. Running from today (Tuesday December 1st), right through the festive period, these great value price plans start with 15GB of high-speed 4G data with 500 texts and 500 minutes on our €30 per month plan.

Huawei P30 Pro now only €49.99. Save over €190 (Pay €30/Month)

Capture the best things in the moment and create your vision for the future. Featuring the Leica Quad Camera and an immersive 6.47-inch curved OLED screen, take breath-taking portraits and night shots, all with the Leica quad camera. This unmatched super camera system includes a Super Zoom Lens, a 40 MP Super Sensing Camera, a 20 MP Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens and a HUAWEI TOF Camera, giving you the freedom to capture your incredible moments. Allowing you to record exciting videos while on the go, the professional AIS plus OIS makes handheld video seamless and steady. Capture and relive your precious family memories as you have always wanted with the Huawei P30 Pro.

Apple iPhone XR now only €49.99. Save over €245 (Pay €40/Month)

Featuring a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, advanced Face ID lets you securely unlock your iPhone, log into apps and pay with just a glance. Featuring a 12MP camera system with portrait mode, portrait lighting, enhanced bokeh and all-new depth control as well as a 7MP true depth front camera, an A12 Bionic Chip uses real-time machine learning which will transform the way you experience photo’s, gaming and more. The iPhone XR is brilliant in every way.

 

 Samsung Galaxy S20FE 4G now only €99.99. Save over €195 (Pay €40/Month)

This is the phone for people who want it all. Whether you’re a fan of photography, gaming or filling your feed with all that inspires you. This is the phone that gives you what you want, to do more of what you love. The 6.5-inch Full HD+ Infinity-O Display with a more immersive screen that makes your gaming, streaming, and video calling way more fun. With a stunning rear-mounted triple camera array featuring 12MP wide angle, 12MP Ultrawide and 8MP Telephoto Camera allows you to get closer to the action. Also allowing you get that professional #nofilter-worthy shot with ease.  When there’s a 32MP Front Camera, your selfies and vlogs are taken to a whole new level. Be the star of the shot and enjoy more detail in your photos and videos with the Galaxy S20FE battery packs in 4500 mAh, that’ll keep you going – cleverly using power to save it for when you really need it.

TESCO MOBILE IRELAND PREPAY CHRISTMAS OFFERS

Dates available: December 1st – December 27th

 With up to €50 off great Tesco Mobile prepay offers this Christmas, you or your loved one will have the freedom to pay what you want when you want. Clubcard customers will also earn double points on all prepay top ups, with 30GB of 4G data and unlimited* any network minutes when they top up by just €15.00.

 Alcatel 1. Only €39.99!

This all-in-one device offers everything you could need! A compact and light-weight handset boasting a 18:9 5” display with high-grade design and smooth system performance, made only better with Android Go- featuring a camera complete with all social media sharing features stay connected with your Christmas festivities.

Nokia 2.3. Now only €78.36. Was €98.36. Save €20

The Nokia 2.3 is guaranteed to get you the best snap, with a feature-packed camera fueled by AI technology and an impressive 6.2” HD+ 19:9 screen. The battery will last up to 2 days and unlocks with just a glance! The gift they want and at a price you’ll love, the Nokia 2.3 is ready for Android 10 and beyond, so you can look forward to 2 years of Android upgrades and 3 years of monthly security upgrades.

 Samsung Galaxy A20E. Now only €117.23. Was €167.23. Save €50

Including all the essential features you need on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, the A20e has you covered with a large 5.8” infinity screen, dual rear camera, huge 3000mAh battery and rear mounted fingerprint scanner.

Check out all these unmissable Christmas deals and more on www.tescomobile.ie

Christmas gifts for Apple lovers. #Christmas2020 #Apple #Tech #QDOS #TwelveSouth

With less than 6 weeks until Christmas, the hunt is on for the perfect Christmas gift for Apple lovers. Below is a host of gadgets and accessories for the latest Apple products (including the new Macbook series and iPhone 12 series) that will make the Apple experience even better. The gadgets and accessories include UV sanitizers to keep your iPhone12 clean, iPhone 12 cases and screen protectors, plus cases and stands for the new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac mini, and a portable USB-C hub.

 

The QDOS UV Sanitizer quickly and easily disinfects your iPhone, tech devices and accessories eliminating up to 99.99% of common surface bacteria at the click of a button. Qi functionality also allows you to wirelessly charge your smartphone while disinfecting other devices such as a smartwatch or earphones simultaneously. The QDOS UV Sanitizer offers two UV-C light sterilisation modes including three-minute rapid or 10-minute intensive sterilisation.

QDOS I HYBRID

SRP: £19.99

Available for: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

Sleek, slim and easy to grip, the crystal-clear QDOS I HYBRID case perfectly showcases the design of the iPhone 12 while providing everyday protection. The HYBRID is made from a unique blend of highly protective materials and features air-cushionedTPU corners that can keep the iPhone safe from a drop of up to 4ft. With flexible sides (available in clear, navy or space grey) and a solid,scratch-resistant and transparent polycarbonate back, the HYBRID case is easy to get on and off. To ensure the case stays looking pristine, the HYBRID has been treated with an optimised coating to prevent discolouration.

QDOS I TOUCH

SRP: £24.99

Available for: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

Soft to the touch, the QDOS I TOUCH case for iPhone 12 is made with real liquid silicone for a silky-smooth finish that is easy to grip. Combining a shock-absorbent polycarbonate inner shell with a high-quality wipe-clean finish, the TOUCH provides everyday protection from knocks and bumps and is resistant to dust, dirt, spills and marks. The interior has been lined with soft microfibre which encases the iPhone 12 perfectly. TOUCH has also been designed with precision cut-outs, offering easy access to ports and buttons.

 

QDOS I OptiGuard™

SRP from £19.99

QDOS’ new generation of OptiGuard™ screen protectors, now available for the iPhone 12 series, are as tough as they come. Made from premium Japanese tempered glass with a hardness rating of 9H, they offer protection against impacts, scratches and shock, without affecting the sharpness, clarity or touch sensitivity of the screen. Antimicrobial protection kills 99.99% of bacteria on the surface of the phone while an oleophobic coating repels fingerprints and oily residue. Each screen protector comes with an original bespoke application tool that helps to remove bubbles for the perfect installation. The OptiGuard™ range, which also offers a limited lifetime warranty, includes:

  • QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Protect: Ultra-thin 0.3mm glass screen protection with a 9H hardness rating and ultra-clarity. Offering hassle-free installation with an easy applicator tool, the OptiGuard Glass offers perfect touch sensitivity for the iPhone 12. Available for: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Curve Clear: Curved and designed to fit around the display of the iPhone 12, the OptiGuard Curve offers maximum edge-to-edge protection against impact and scratches. Available for: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • QDOS I OptiGuard™ Glass Curve Privacy: Shielding data from shoulder-surfers in public, the OptiGuard Glass Privacy incorporates a 180-degree privacy filter. This restricts the angle of view to the user directly facing the screen.  Available for: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12/12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

 

Twelve South SuitCase for Macbook

From £69.99

Available for the 13-inch MacBook Pro/Air and the 16-inch MacBook Pro from Amazon.co.uk

Providing maximum protection, the new Twelve South SuitCase combines a stylish, quilted water-resistant exterior with a thermoform shell to securely hold and protect the MacBook inside. With a slim design and a recessing leather handle, the SuitCase will fit comfortably into a workbag or backpack for everyday use. Alternatively, knowing that the new MacBooks have 20 hours of battery life, if users would rather travel light with just a few papers and a Lightning cable, a handy slim pocket hidden inside the case can hold notes, cables and other essentials.

Users can easily work on their MacBook without removing it from the SuitCase thanks to Twelve South’s innovative suspension system which holds the case securely against the MacBook without interfering with its display. Dual wetsuit-style zippers keep the SuitCase securely closed but also allow for the MacBook to be easily and safely charged whilst still inside the case.

 

Twelve South Curve SE

£49.99

Available from Currys.co.uk

The Twelve South Curve SE is the perfect stand to pair with a new MacBook. Not only does it perfectly match clean modern office spaces and the aesthetics of many Apple accessories, it also has an improved ergonomic design. Users no longer have to hunch over and tilt their head downwards towards a screen, they can easily elevate their MacBook to a healthier, more comfortable height.

Offering multiple uses, the Curve SE can be paired with a full-sized keyboard and mouse for a convenient desktop setup or used with a monitor for dual screen functionality. Its minimal design uses a single piece of aluminum which allows for 70% of the base to be exposed for optimal cooling. Anti-slip silicone pads and bent arms keep the laptop in place and prevents scratches.

Twelve South BookArc

£49.99

Available from Amazon.co.uk

The Twelve South BookArc is the little MacBook stand that makes room for a big monitor by holding a MacBook vertically and off the desk. By placing a closed MacBook on the BookArc and plugging in an external monitor, keyboard & mouse users now have a comfortable desktop setup for their home or office. Things like photo editing, spreadsheets and other projects are easier to see on a bright 24-inch (or bigger) screen. When it’s time to go mobile or head out for a meeting, unplug the desktop connections and the BookArc Cable Catch will keep them in place.

Twelve South Curve Riser

£79.99

Available from Amazon.co.uk

The Twelve South Curve Riser is the perfect accessory for the Mac mini. A handsome and practical stand designed to elevate iMacs and external monitors, it also features an integrated shelf which is the ideal place to put a Mac mini. Perfect for home offices or those with limited space, Curve Riser helps to keep desks clutter free.

Twelve South HiRise for MacBook

£69.99

Available from Very.co.uk

The Twelve South HiRise for MacBook is a beautifully designed, height adjustable stand that elevates a laptop to the perfect position. Unlike fixed stands, the HiRise allows users to set their screen height from a few inches up to a half foot off their desk, making it perfect for MacBooks and users of all sizes. HiRise allows users to align a MacBook with an external monitor for the ultimate dual-display set-up. Users can perch their MacBook on the HiRise and pair with their favourite wireless keyboard and mouse to create a comfortable and convenient workstation. This sleek brushed metal stand features non-slip arms to securely hold all size MacBooks from 11-inch Air to 16-inch Pro.

Twelve South StayGo

£99.99

Available from Amazon.co.uk

The Twelve South StayGo is a portable USB-C hub that’s designed to add additional ports to USB-C MacBooks and MacBook Pros. Perfect for anyone who is working from home and perhaps missing their office set up, the StayGo makes it much easier to connect extra screens, a keyboard, storage and displays etc.

The hub comes with eight port options built in including a 4K HDMI port, three USB A 3.0 ports, gigabit ethernet port, an SD port, a micro SD port, and an 85W USB-C pass-through power port which allows you to connect your power source to the StayGo to keep your MacBook Pro charged up while powering other devices such as an iPhone, AirPods, Apple Watch etc. The Gigabit Ethernet port is especially useful allowing users to connect to super-fast wired networks and servers.

Five Tech-Tastic Gifts From Speck This Christmas. #Tech #Christmas2020

2020 has been an exciting year in tech, with highly-anticipated products like the iPhone 12 arriving just in time for Christmas. For your friends and family expecting shiny new devices for Christmas this year, help them get the most out of their tech with a stocking-filler from Speck!

Presidio Perfect-Clear Ombré, iPhone 12/ 12 Pro

Flaunt your new iPhone 12 in style with one of Speck’s latest arrivals: Presidio Perfect-Clear Ombré.  This sophisticated take on a classic clear case adds a pop of color to the iPhone 12 while still showing off its sleek design. The chic ombré print is designed to resist fading and discoloration with Speck’s Perfect-Clear coating. Available in white or pink ombré, this case offers 13-foot drop protection and Microban® antimicrobial technology, which delivers a 99% reduction in bacteria growth on the case’s surface.

£29.95 Available on Amazon.co.uk

Presidio Perfect Clear with Grips, iPhone 12 Mini

For photography buffs or those with butter fingers, look no further than Presidio Perfect Clear with Grips. An evolution of Speck’s flagship Stay-Clear line, this case includes innovative no-slip grips which provide a secure grasp for taking photographs and texting on the go. And when those inevitable falls do happen, Speck’s clear impact technology absorbs shock and provides drop protection of up to 13 feet. With Microban® antimicrobial treatment and anti-yellowing materials built-in, your case will stay perfectly clear all the way to next Christmas!

£29.95. Available on Amazon.co.uk

Presidio2 Armor Cloud, iPhone 12 Pro Max

For your loved ones that live life on the go, Presidio2 Armor Cloud provides premium protection for iPhone 12. Its advanced technology features air capsules which act as a shock-absorbing airbag for your device, protecting it against even bigger drops of up to 16-feet. Microban® anti-microbial treatment provides a 99% reduction in bacteria growth on the case’s surface, delivering the ultimate all-round protection for your new iPhone 12. The slim design of Presidio2 Armor Cloud will not only fit seamlessly into your Christmas stocking – it even allows for quick and convenient wireless charging!

£34.95. Available on Amazon.co.uk

Balance Folio, iPad Air

For something a bit bigger than a stocking filler, Balance Folio for iPad Air is always a treat. Ideal for the home-office or kicking back on the sofa with a Christmas movie, this slim and stylish case offers multiple viewing and typing angles, so you can use it throughout the home. It also boasts 1.2 meter drop-protection and Microban® anti-microbial technology, keeping your device safer for longer. Magnets on the back cover allow you to shield your camera’s lens when it’s not in use, and easily retract when you want to snap a photo.

Available in select UK retailers.

Presidio Clear + Glitter, AirPods Pro

Last but not least, add a touch of sparkle to their life this Christmas with Presidio Clear + Glitter for AirPods Pro. This dazzling case is designed with a hard outer shell and soft rubber interior, protecting your AirPods against the bumps and drops of daily life. A convenient carabiner clip and Microban® antimicrobial technology make this the ultimate accessory for the gym, long walks or wherever life takes you. Leave a sparkle wherever you go with this smart tech staple from Speck!

Available in select UK retailers.

Festival of perfect sound. The Sennheiser holiday gift guide. #Sennheiser #Christmas2020

While the year isn’t over, 2020 has been really different. Yet some things will remain the same, like the magic of the upcoming holiday season. Whether baking biscuits or wrapping presents: the holiday season has always been a festival of sound – from singing festive pop songs, decorating the tree listening to jazzy tunes or watching “Love Actually” and “Home Alone”.
Delight your family and friends with brilliant audio gear this year. Between great-sounding true wireless earbuds or noise-cancelling headphones to really get lost in the music, Sennheiser has the perfect gift for all the music and movie lovers on your list.

True wireless earbuds for those always on-the-go – CX 400BT True Wireless (£169)

  • Astonishing sound thanks to Sennheiser’s 7mm dynamic drivers
  • Personalised listening experience with built-in equaliser
  • Customisable touch controls
  • 7-hour battery life (+13 hours via the case)
  • Available in black or white

For the trendsetters on your list who want incredible sound and style – MOMENTUM TRUE WIRELESS 2  (£279)

  • Exceptional sound featuring Sennheiser’s 7mm dynamic drivers
  • Active noise cancellation
  • Transparent Hearing feature that blends in ambient noise at a touch
  • Customisable touch controls
  • Smart Pause feature
  • Exquisite craftmanship
  • 7-hour battery life (+21 via the case)
  • Available in black, white or as a special 75th anniversary edition

On-ear headphones delivering iconic Sennheiser sound for the always-on – HD 450BT (£159.99)

  • Active noise cancellation
  • Great sound with deep dynamic bass
  • Intuitive controls including voice assistant button
  • Impressive 30-hour battery life
  • Available in black or white

For those who truly want to get lost in the music – HD 560S (£169)

 

  • Natural and accurate reference sound
  • All-new transducer with high-strength magnet effortlessly reproduces deep, defined bass and brilliant treble
  • Angled transducers recreate the optimal listening position every time, without the need for acoustic room treatment
  • Open earcups facilitate the natural expansion of sound waves
  • Superb detail retrieval with fast, clear bass response

Premium headphones for the music lover on your list – MOMENTUM WIRELESS (£349)

  • Outstanding sound performance
  • Three ANC modes and Transparent Hearing function
  • Auto On/Off and Smart Pause
  • Luxurious design with soft leather on the earpads and headband
  • 17-hour battery life
  • Tile Bluetooth tracker makes them almost impossible to misplace
  • Available in black or sandy white

Must-haves for movie lovers – FLEX 5000 (£179.99)

 

  • Smart listening solution that intensifies TV sound for any pair of wired headphones
  • Dedicated profiles enhance TV, movies or music
  • Speech Intelligibility button dynamically reduces TV background noise for crystal clear dialogue