Tag: #communications

80% of SMEs Say AI Can Transform Their Business, But Lack of Skills Keeps Adoption Rates Low

Irish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) overwhelmingly believe artificial intelligence (AI) can benefit their business, yet most are still struggling to translate that opportunity into action, according to new research released today. The study, commissioned by Google in partnership with Amárach Research and based on a survey of 400 Irish SMEs, shows that while 80% believe AI can positively impact their business and 65% expect it to drive growth in 2026, adoption remains limited.

The findings indicate a significant confidence and capability gap. The main barriers preventing greater AI adoption include fear of making mistakes (30%), lack of skills (27%) and cost (24%), with many business leaders unsure of where to start (16%). More than half (57%) believe they are behind competitors in adopting AI, while 50% are concerned their business could be left behind without it. The research also highlights that micro-businesses, longer established  firms and non-exporters are most at risk of falling behind, underscoring the need for targeted, practical support that meet SMEs’ varying needs.

The research is being launched today at an event hosted by Google Ireland at The Foundry as part of Local Enterprise Week.  In partnership with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) network, Google also announced the launch of AI Works for Ireland, a series of complimentary, face-to-face regional events aimed at equipping SMEs with practical AI skills for business. The series begins today in Dublin, followed by events in Galway (April 30th), Cork (14th May) and Monaghan (28th May). Each event will feature insights from Google AI experts on how SMEs can use AI to drive growth, creativity and efficiency, alongside dedicated AI workshops offering support for founders and business leaders.

As part of the initiative, Google and the Local Enterprise Office network are providing up to 10,000 AI scholarships to workers across Ireland. Delivered through Coursera, the Google AI Professional Certificate offers practical training across more than 20 real-world AI business use cases, from data analysis and content creation to customer communications.

This research and initiative follows the release of the government’s National Digital and AI strategy, which includes key pillars to empower people, workers and businesses to develop cutting edge skills and fostering digital and AI literacy, alongside growing a digital innovative and competitive enterprise sector within Ireland.

Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, Niamh Smyth,  TD said:

“AI has the potential to boost productivity and enhance competitiveness across Ireland’s SME Sector. As we advance the ambitions of the recently published National Digital and AI Strategy, a key priority of my department is to fast‑track enterprise adoption digital and AI technologies. Initiatives like this one, delivered in partnership with Google and the Local Enterprise Offices, are vital in ensuring that businesses of all sizes, in every region, have the skills and confidence they need to adopt AI at pace.”

Vanessa Hartley, Head of Google Ireland, said:

“Irish SMEs are clear about the opportunity AI presents, but this research shows many are being held back by uncertainty rather than ambition. AI Works for Ireland is about closing that gap – providing practical, trusted support that helps businesses move from awareness to action, and from experimentation to real impact. At Google, we are committed to helping people and businesses across Ireland build the skills they need to succeed in an AI-powered economy. Through initiatives like this, we want to ensure SMEs have access to high-quality training, tools and expertise that empower them to grow, innovate and compete with confidence.”

Kieran Comerford, Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, said:

“Local Enterprise Week is all about helping businesses and entrepreneurs improve and showing them the resources available to them.  This new initiative with Google will bring accessible and hands on support in the area of AI which can benefit every small business.  In a business eco system full of AI noise they need trusted advice to get started and AI Works for Ireland will deliver that support locally, where it can make the greatest difference.”

Anne Lanigan,  Divisional Manager Local Enterprise & Regions, Enterprise Ireland said:

“ Empowering Irish companies of all sizes to adopt and deploy AI is a key objective of Enterprise Ireland’s strategy, and this is further endorsed by the Government’s updated National Digital & AI Strategy, Digital Ireland – Connecting our People, Securing our Future. We look forward to supporting the Local Enterprise Offices and Enterprise Europe Network in partnering with Google to deliver this important nationwide initiative to strengthen the digital capabilities of Irish companies.”

Gerard O’Neill, Chairman of Amárach Research, said:

“What stands out in this research is the gap between belief and behaviour. Irish SMEs recognise the value of AI, yet many lack the confidence, skills or reassurance to embed it in their day-to-day operations. Addressing these human barriers will be just as important as the technology itself if Ireland is to fully realise the benefits of AI.”

Further information on AI Works for Ireland and how to register for upcoming events is available at goo.gle/aiworksireland 

To register for Google’s AI Professional Certificate please visit here. To apply for one of the 10,000 scholarships please contact your Local Enterprise Office.

1 in 10 job postings now reference AI

New research from Indeed shows that one in ten (11%) job postings in Ireland mention AI, leading ahead of the US, UK, France and Germany. This trend is reflective of the tech sector’s sizable footprint in the Irish economy.

Job postings which mention AI are most frequently seen in tech-related categories, led by data & analytics (56%). That’s followed by software development (48%), IT systems & solutions (37%) and IT infrastructure, operations & support (29%). However, several non-tech categories also have significant shares of AI postings, including arts & entertainment (24%), human resources (20%) and sales (19%).

The research also shows that remote and hybrid work mentions have reached a new high of 19.4% by the end of December 2025 – more than four times higher than pre-pandemic levels. The occupations with the highest share of remote or hybrid mentions include software development (47%), media & communications (44%) and data & analytics (43%).

Indeed’s report shows that while job postings in Ireland are well down from peaks seen in early 2022, they still remain 7% above their pre-pandemic baseline as of January 2026. The level of postings has also remained relatively stable since May.

Other key findings in the report include:

  • Salary transparency growth has stalled: The share of Irish job postings which include salary information has dipped recently to around 34%, its lowest since late-2022. The report highlights how the Irish Government’s transposing of incoming EU legislation will result in increased transparency.
  • Benefit offerings have levelled off: The share of Irish job postings mentioning at least one benefit has levelled off over the past 18 months, after rising steadily since 2018. Standing at 48% in November, the share was unchanged from its level in May 2024.
  • Foreign interest in Irish jobs remains high: The Irish labour market remains attractive to foreign workers. On average in 2025, around 13% of searches for Irish jobs on Indeed originated outside Ireland. That was broadly in line with 2024 and higher than seen in recent years since at least 2017.
  • Posted wage growth remains solid: Tight labour-market conditions continue to translate into strong pay pressures in Ireland. At 4.1% in December (on a three-month average basis), wage growth as measured by the Indeed Wage Tracker remains well above the euro area average (2.5%).

Commenting on the report, Jack Kennedy, senior economist at Indeed, said:

“Ireland enters 2026 with the economy in good shape. Growth is set to slow slightly after a strong 2025, but lower interest rates and continued government spending mean the outlook remains broadly positive: jobs are still being created, unemployment remains low, but pay pressures haven’t gone away. For workers and employers alike, this year’s labour market story is one of ongoing change and adaptability.

For jobseekers, AI is rapidly reshaping how work gets done, with a clear expectation emerging for workers across all sectors to be comfortable using AI tools, even in roles that aren’t traditionally tech-focused. Those who adapt to these skills will have a competitive edge, as employers increasingly seek ways to integrate AI into their processes.

From an employer perspective, hybrid and flexible working have moved from a perk to an expectation in 2026, and they will need to keep this in mind when recruiting. The organisations that will stand out will be those offering not just competitive salaries, but transparency, flexibility and support for employees navigating a rapidly changing work environment.”

EPOS Announce IMPACT 500 Headset For UK & Ireland Market

Manufacturer EPOS today launches the IMPACT 500, an on-ear Bluetooth headset for professionals with dynamic workstyles who demand unrivalled call clarity and active noise cancellation – with a forthcoming option to go dongle free!

The IMPACT 500 combines high-end technology from EPOS AI™ enabling industry-leading voice pick-up, with EPOS BrainAdapt™ that lessens brain fatigue and enhances focus and productivity by as much as 40%, according to internal studies.

Adaptive microphone technology powered by EPOS AI™ intelligently identifies and shuts down noise, heightening the clarity of the speaker’s voice. By using adaptive beamforming technology with three microphones that scan environments 32,000 times per second, the speaker’s voice remains clear and crisp in any open office setting.

The IMPACT 500 will be EPOS´ first native Bluetooth headset – certified for Microsoft Teams Open Office with a planned future software release that supports Teams over native Bluetooth. The dongle-free option creates a more simplified and seamless user experience, with no USB port requirements whilst establishing direct connection to a PC, mobile phone or tablet. It comes with certifications for leading Unified Communication platforms – Microsoft Teams, Zoom Workplace, Cisco WebEx and Google Meet.

The latest headset innovation benefits from EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology that provides a state-of-the-art hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) system, which lessens brain fatigue caused by poor audio, boosting focus and productivity throughout the workday. Proven through clinical studies, EPOS BrainAdapt™ improves the user´s performance and communication by blocking out noise, reducing listening effort by as much as 67%.

Key features include: 

 

  • Clear, natural voice with EPOS industry-leading voice pick-up: EPOS AI™ and expertly tuned microphones remove unwanted noise, making remote conversations feel as real as being there in person. 

 

  • Seamless Microsoft Teams certified calls: Microsoft Teams certified with a future software release that will add support for Teams over native Bluetooth® – For dongle free calls.

 

  • Stay in control of your environment with hybrid ANC: Effectively reduce background noise during calls and when you need to focus, ensuring you remain productive in any work environment.

 

  • Professional performance all day long: Communicate with confidence all day with over 36 hours of talk time, talk-through mode and intuitive boom arm call control.

 

  • Protects from listening fatigue: EPOS BrainAdapt™ technology protects against brain fatigue caused by poor audio and noise, boosting focus and productivity.

The IMPACT 500 is a key addition to the expansion of the IMPACT line of headsets, as EPOS continues to deliver on its mission of unleashing human potential by perfecting audio experiences and steering innovation towards the needs of the global workforce of today and tomorrow.

That’s the view of Jesper Kock, VP of Research & Development at EPOS, who says the IMPACT 500 is designed for office-based as well as hybrid professionals with dynamic workstyles. It can be purchased with or without a dongle, for maximum user convenience.

“The IMPACT 500 continues to reflect our industry-leading pedigree based on cutting-edge innovation and exceptional audio performance, from finely tuned microphones to hybrid ANC and our renowned BrainAdapt™ technology. Native Bluetooth represents the next step in our pioneering headset technology journey, ensuring simpler pairing and no USB port requirements.”

MRSP from £169. Availability: November 4, 2025. Find more information at www.eposaudio.com

See our headset reviews 

European electronics under geopolitical pressure: why industrial sovereignty matters

The European electronics industry is facing mounting geopolitical pressures that threaten the continent’s technological and industrial sovereignty. Europe’s reliance on external sources for critical electronic components, especially in defense and advanced technologies, has created significant vulnerabilities in supply chains. Industrial sovereignty, the ability to produce essential technologies domestically, has become a vital strategic priority to safeguard European security, economic resilience, and technological leadership.

Europe’s Declining Electronics Manufacturing Base

Europe’s share of global electronics manufacturing has plummeted over recent decades. According to a 2025 IPC report, Europe’s share of global electronics production fell by over 35%, now constituting only 11.6% globally. This decline is particularly alarming in sectors linked to defense, where the electronic content of military equipment has risen from 10% in 2000 to 17% in 2023, expected to reach 25% by 2035-2040. Despite electronics becoming more critical to defense capabilities, Europe produces only a fraction of the advanced components it needs domestically. For example, Europe accounts for just 8% of global defense-related advanced packaging, 6% of printed circuit boards (PCBs), and 4% of integrated circuit (IC) substrates manufacturing.​

Strategic Vulnerabilities in Defense Readiness

The erosion of Europe’s electronics industrial base exposes it to supply chain disruptions, particularly for essential defense technologies like drones, radar systems, and secure communications. Without a resilient European electronics ecosystem, the continent’s defense readiness could be critically compromised amid geopolitical shifts.

Europe’s defense sector urgently needs policies focused on strengthening domestic electronics production to minimize dependency on foreign suppliers and improve industrial resilience. Events like the Evertiq Expo 2025 emphasize the growing recognition that Europe’s security is increasingly tethered to its ability to produce strategic electronics internally.​ Ecrin Systems, a key European player in embedded electronics and rugged industrial computers, exemplifies the importance of sustaining domestic manufacturing capacity to meet the most demanding industry and defense requirements.

Broader Geopolitical and Economic Pressures

Beyond defense, Europe’s entire electronics supply chain faces geopolitical risks heightened by U.S.-China tensions, trade disputes, and fractured global alliances. The semiconductor industry, a cornerstone of modern electronics, is globally concentrated, with around 80% of production located in Taiwan. Europe and the U.S. each hold about 10%, prompting the EU to launch initiatives like the Chips Act, aiming to quadruple domestic production of advanced chips by 2030 to reduce strategic dependencies and boost competitiveness.​

European components distribution data from 2025 reveal fragile recovery signs but also lingering vulnerabilities. The market showed modest growth (+4.09%) yet remained exposed to geopolitical tensions. Some regions such as Turkey and Benelux experienced growth while others, including Eastern Europe and the UK, saw declines. Semiconductor distribution increased by only 0.77%, highlighting ongoing challenges in supply stability and growth. Energy costs, fragmented markets, and industrial restructuring further complicate Europe’s electronics manufacturing landscape.​

Why Industrial Sovereignty Matters

Industrial sovereignty is more than an economic ambition, it is a strategic imperative. Europe’s ability to develop, manufacture, and control key electronic components directly impacts its technological sovereignty, defense capabilities, and economic stability. Dependence on external suppliers risks supply chain disruptions during geopolitical crises, undermining national security and critical infrastructure.

Achieving industrial sovereignty requires coordinated European policies, investment in innovation and manufacturing capacity, and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the electronics value chain. The European Union’s strategic frameworks seek to enhance resilience by financing new production facilities, improving scaling opportunities, and aligning defense and industrial policies.​

In a world where technology is a core geopolitical battleground, Europe’s path to industrial sovereignty is challenging but vital. Strengthening domestic electronics manufacturing capacity protects against external disruptions, underpins defense readiness, and ensures Europe retains leadership in the digital and green transitions vital to its future prosperity.

Google Pixel Watch 4 45mm Smartwatch Review

The Google Pixel Watch 4 is arguably the most significant update yet in the Pixel wearable line and coming from the Pixel Watch 3 45 mm I was looking forward to testing this one out and seeing how much it has improved there is some sublte differences and to look at both head on you might find it hard to notice..

The most noticeable improvement is the Actua 360 display, which is now 10% larger with noticeably slimmer bezels and a dazzling 3,000 nits of peak brightness, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight. Performance is snappy thanks to the new Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chip, but the real software star is the deeply integrated Gemini AI, which can be instantly activated with a simple “Raise to Talk” wrist gesture—a genuine game-changer for on-the-go queries and commands. IN short the watch can replace your phone with Gemini AI for anyhting and with that said the watch for me keeps me off my phone and now it helps even more which is a good thing in my book but I still love my Pixel 10 pro.

Crucially, the Watch 4 substantially boosts battery life (up to 40 hours on the 45mm model) and introduces super-fast charging, hitting 50% battery in just 15 minutes via a redesigned, convenient side-charging dock. For the health-conscious, dual-frequency GPS provides exceptional outdoor tracking accuracy. For me I would get a day and a half due to how much I have going to the watch but the fast charging helps and I do not wear a watch to bed however for those that do you will notice the faster charging and the new doc is excellent and welcome.

The Pixel Watch 4 also has fitness in mind with Fitbit inlcuded at a cost after your sub runs out and is now integrated into the Watch app I do take note of my fitness but no a fully fledged fitness freak but there is more than enough here for the fitness and health gurus especially with all the safety and medical alerts now on board.

The Pixel Watch app itself is simple to use and works well letting you customize to your requirements and it is a simple UI to use and navigate making it a comfortable experience all round you can see the screenshots below for exactly what you get and also in the video review.

Overall I am a fan of the watch as I was last years and the display really stands out,notifcations are clear and so are calls and the speaker is also better this time round letting you hear what is being said or for taking calls it is at the higher end with the price point but if like me and have a Google Ecosystem it all just works well and is seamless and if you have and Google cameras at home it is even better and notifications are rich and as you would find on your Pixel phone.

Pixel Watch App

 

FitBit 

 

Features

  • Innovative design all the way around. A leap forward in precision craftsmanship, with a first-of-its-kind Actua 360 domed display and powerful health and fitness sensors.
  • Iconic Actua 360 display. See it all and do the most with a 10% larger Active display that’s 50% brighter and as durable as ever with scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass.
  • The best watch for Gemini. Just ask questions and your ultra capable AI assistant will deliver quick response for personalised help.
  • Longest lasting. Fastest charging. With 25% faster charging and Google’s longest battery life yet, the Pixel Watch 4 is ready when you are.
  • AI text suggestions that sound like you. Stay connected with AI-powered quick replies when you’re texting – they’re personalised with your style and hyper-relevant to your conversation.
  • A leading approach to better health. The Pixel Watch 4 helps you to understand your health with Google’s most accurate heart rate tracking, sleep insights, Health Metrics and more.
  • Training smarter starts with the Pixel Watch 4. It connects the dots between your activity and recovery, so you can make informed decisions about your workouts and optimise your performance.
  • Detects loss of pulse, then calls for help. Loss of Pulse Detection can detect a loss of pulse event and prompt a call to emergency services for potentially lifesaving help.
  • SOS satellite communications. Get help even if you’re in a remote location – the Pixel Watch 4 can connect you to emergency services through geo-stationary satellites.
  • Get help if you need it. If you’re in a situation where you feel unsafe, the Pixel Watch 4 can alert trusted contacts or 999 with Emergency SOS.

BUY

Other Google Reviews

Video Review

Jabra powers Zoom’s new frontline platform with Perform 75

Jabra today announces that it has teamed up with Zoom to achieve new certifications for its professional headsets, underscoring their shared commitment to empowering both frontline and hybrid workers with communication tools that help them stay connected and productive in any environment.
Jabra Perform 75: Certified for Zoom Workplace for Frontline
Zoom announced its new Workplace for Frontline platform in April 2025 to better serve the 80 percent of the global workforce that operates on the frontline. The Jabra Perform 75 mono headset is now the first audio device to be certified for that program. Designed for employees who spend their workdays on the move, Jabra Perform 75 integrates with Zoom Workplace to keep teams connected, hands-free and more focused during every shift.
Zoom Workplace for Frontline combines on-shift communications and work management, giving frontline teams tools for chat, calling and push-to-talk (PTT), shift scheduling and reporting. Paired with Jabra Perform 75, frontline workers gain easier access to these tools, remaining heads-up, hands-free, and comfortable throughout their shift, while managers benefit from task overviews and attendance insights that keep operations running smoothly.
AI at the Core of Collaboration
Zoom AI Companion is a generative-AI digital assistant, that delivers powerful, real-time capabilities to help users improve productivity and work together more effectively. With this certification news, Jabra plays a key role in ensuring that frontline workers can interact with Zoom’s AI features through clear, accurate voice input and dependable audio performance. This collaboration helps make AI-driven communication practical and effective in busy, real-world environments.
Jabra Evolve2 75: Certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset
In addition, the Jabra Evolve2 75 professional headset has been certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset. This headset enables workers to enjoy the full Zoom collaboration experience without the need for a dongle. The result is greater flexibility and consistent performance for teams who depend on straightforward tools to stay connected.
Janne Jakobsen, SVP for Enterprise Headsets at Jabra said: “These certifications mark a special milestone for our collaboration with Zoom. Users can trust that our headsets deliver not only premium sound and comfort but also full compatibility with Zoom, the platform they rely on every day. Together, we are enabling an even better experience for mobile professionals worldwide.”
 
Key Features of the Jabra + Zoom Collaboration
 
Jabra Perform 75: Certified for Zoom Workplace for Frontline
  • Hands-free Bluetooth headset built for shiftwork, helping associates stay connected and focused
  • Noise-cancelling microphone technology that blocks out 99% of background noise for clearer conversations in busy environments
  • Modular design with hot-swappable battery and easy pairing for smooth shift handovers and uninterrupted performance
  • Lightweight comfort with cushioned earcups and multiple wearing styles, seamlessly integrated with Zoom Chat, push-to-talk, task management and scheduling tools for both associates and managers
 
Jabra Evolve2 75: Certified as a Zoom Native Bluetooth Headset
  • Enables seamless connectivity without a dongle
  • Delivers dependable, flexible performance for teams who need effective tools to stay connected
Eric Yu, Head of Hardware Partnerships, at Zoom said: “Our goal is to provide users with the best possible tools for their daily work. By certifying Jabra’s headsets, we make it easier for mobile professionals using these Jabra products to enjoy seamless connectivity, and the confidence of full Zoom Workspace performance.”

Why Tech Companies Are Taking Control of Their Communications

The disconnect between Ireland’s world-class tech sector and its telecommunications infrastructure has reached a critical juncture. While Dublin’s docklands host the European headquarters of Google, Facebook, and Microsoft, and Cork houses Apple’s only wholly-owned manufacturing facility in Europe, many tech companies still struggle with communication systems that fail to match their operational sophistication. Yellowcom, serving Irish businesses from their Dublin office, reports that technology companies achieving the best performance gains are those taking direct control of their communication infrastructure rather than accepting standard business packages.

The irony is palpable. Irish tech companies building cutting-edge software solutions often rely on communication systems that wouldn’t look out of place in 2010. This infrastructure lag doesn’t just affect startups in Galway co-working spaces or scale-ups in Limerick’s tech clusters—it impacts established firms across Dublin, Cork, and Belfast that assumed their business phone systems and business broadband would naturally evolve with their needs. The reality proves far different, with many discovering that generic business communications packages severely constrain their operational capabilities.

The Technical Debt of Traditional Telecoms

Ireland’s tech sector faces a unique paradox. Companies capable of building complex distributed systems, implementing sophisticated DevOps practices, and managing global cloud infrastructure often tolerate communication systems they wouldn’t accept in any other operational domain. This technical debt accumulates not through ignorance but through focus—engineering teams prioritise product development over internal infrastructure, assuming telecommunications is a solved problem.

The assumption proves costly. Traditional telecoms providers, even when offering “business-grade” services, rarely understand tech company requirements. A software company’s communication needs differ fundamentally from those of traditional businesses. API access for automation, programmatic control of call routing, integration with development workflows, and granular analytics aren’t nice-to-have features—they’re operational necessities.

Dublin’s tech companies particularly suffer from this disconnect. Despite the city’s status as European tech capital, many firms operate with communication infrastructure that creates friction at every interaction point. Engineers cannot programmatically provision phone numbers for testing. Support teams lack integration between phone systems and ticketing platforms. Sales teams juggle multiple disconnected tools because their CRM doesn’t properly integrate with voice systems.

The problem extends beyond pure software companies. Ireland’s growing ecosystem of tech-enabled businesses—from medtech firms in Galway to agritech companies in Cork—require communication systems that support their hybrid physical-digital operations. Traditional telecoms solutions force these companies into awkward workarounds that reduce efficiency and increase complexity.

Why Standard Business Packages Fail Tech Companies

The mismatch between standard business telecommunications and tech company needs stems from fundamental differences in operational philosophy. Traditional business packages assume predictable usage patterns, fixed locations, and hierarchical communication flows. Tech companies operate with variable demand, distributed teams, and network-style communication patterns that break these assumptions.

Consider authentication and security. While traditional businesses might accept username-password authentication for phone systems, tech companies require SSO integration, multi-factor authentication, and granular permission controls. Security isn’t just about preventing unauthorised access—it’s about maintaining compliance with SOC 2, ISO 27001, and customer security requirements that demand comprehensive audit trails and access controls.

API accessibility represents another crucial gap. Tech companies expect to automate everything, from user provisioning to call routing rules. Traditional business phone systems might offer basic APIs as an afterthought, but tech companies need comprehensive, well-documented APIs that enable deep integration with existing tools and workflows. The ability to programmatically control communications becomes essential for maintaining operational efficiency at scale.

Scalability requirements differ dramatically too. A traditional business might grow predictably, adding employees gradually. Tech companies can experience explosive growth, doubling or tripling headcount within months. Communication systems that require manual provisioning, hardware installation, or contract renegotiation for scaling become operational bottlenecks that constrain growth.

Data analytics expectations highlight another divide. Tech companies accustomed to comprehensive metrics from every system find traditional telecoms reporting laughably basic. They need real-time dashboards, custom metrics, data export capabilities, and integration with business intelligence tools. Communication data should flow into the same analytics platforms as other operational metrics, enabling holistic performance analysis.

The Hidden Costs of Communication Friction

The true cost of inadequate communication infrastructure extends far beyond monthly service charges. For tech companies where talent represents the primary asset and productivity drives valuation, communication friction creates compound negative effects that impact everything from recruitment to customer satisfaction.

Developer productivity suffers when engineers spend time managing communication workarounds rather than building products. A Dublin software company might lose dozens of engineering hours monthly to communication-related issues—time that could otherwise advance product development. When senior engineers earning €80,000-€120,000 annually waste time on communication problems, the opportunity cost becomes substantial.

Customer support quality deteriorates when communication systems don’t integrate properly with support infrastructure. Tech companies pride themselves on responsive, high-quality support, but disconnected phone systems create information silos that frustrate both agents and customers. The inability to automatically log calls, screen-pop customer information, or route based on technical expertise degrades service quality and increases resolution time.

Sales efficiency plummets when communication tools don’t support modern sales processes. Tech company sales cycles involve multiple stakeholders, complex demonstrations, and careful relationship management. Communication systems that don’t integrate with CRM platforms, support call recording for training, or enable sophisticated routing rules handicap sales teams competing against well-equipped competitors.

Remote collaboration challenges multiply with inadequate communications. Irish tech companies increasingly compete globally for talent, building distributed teams across multiple time zones. Communication infrastructure that only works properly from Irish offices limits talent acquisition and reduces team effectiveness. The best engineers have options—they won’t tolerate inferior tools.

Building Communications for Scale

Successful tech companies recognise communication infrastructure as critical technical architecture requiring the same attention as product infrastructure. They’re moving beyond traditional telecoms toward platforms that align with their operational philosophy and technical requirements.

Cloud-native architecture becomes non-negotiable. Tech companies already operating in AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure expect communication systems built on similar principles. This means horizontal scalability, API-first design, infrastructure as code capabilities, and seamless integration with existing cloud services. Traditional on-premise PBX systems or hybrid solutions feel anachronistic to teams accustomed to cloud-native operations.

Programmable communications enable the automation tech companies expect. Whether provisioning numbers for new employees through HR systems, updating call routing based on on-call schedules, or triggering customer notifications through communication APIs, programmability transforms communications from static infrastructure to dynamic capability.

Integration depth matters more than feature breadth. Tech companies prefer communication platforms that integrate deeply with their existing stack rather than attempting to replace it. This means native integrations with Slack or Microsoft Teams, webhooks for event processing, and SDKs for custom development. The communication system should enhance existing tools rather than creating another silo.

Geographic flexibility supports Ireland’s distributed tech workforce. With engineers in Dublin, designers in Cork, and support teams potentially anywhere, communication systems must provide location independence. This goes beyond simple remote access—it means consistent experience regardless of location, device, or network conditions.

The Irish Tech Ecosystem’s Response

Leading Irish tech companies are pioneering approaches to communication infrastructure that others can learn from. Rather than accepting telecommunications as unchangeable overhead, they’re treating it as solvable technical challenge worthy of engineering attention.

Dublin’s scale-ups are building internal platforms that abstract communication complexity from end users. Engineering teams create custom interfaces that integrate voice, video, and messaging into unified experiences tailored to specific roles. Support agents see communication options embedded in their ticketing interface. Sales teams access everything through their CRM. Engineers interact through CLI tools or Slack commands.

Cork’s tech cluster benefits from collaboration between companies facing similar challenges. Informal knowledge sharing through meetups and online communities helps smaller companies learn from larger ones’ experiences. This collective intelligence accelerates the adoption of modern communication approaches across the ecosystem.

Galway’s medtech companies, with their unique regulatory requirements, demonstrate that sophisticated communications can coexist with compliance demands. They’ve proven that cloud-based systems can meet strict quality and security requirements when properly configured and validated.

The rise of Irish communication tech companies creates additional options. Local providers understanding tech company needs offer alternatives to international platforms that might not fully grasp Irish market requirements. This competitive pressure drives innovation and improvement across the sector.

Practical Implementation Strategies

Tech companies successfully modernising their communications follow patterns that others can replicate. The key lies in approaching communications as technical project rather than procurement exercise.

Start with technical requirements gathering, not vendor comparison. Define API requirements, integration needs, security standards, and scalability parameters before evaluating solutions. This prevents being swayed by irrelevant features while missing crucial capabilities.

Assign technical ownership to engineering or technical operations teams rather than traditional IT or facilities. Communications increasingly resembles software infrastructure more than traditional telecoms. Teams managing cloud infrastructure often have better context for evaluating and implementing modern communication platforms.

Implement gradually through proof of concept deployments. Start with single team or use case, validate the approach, then expand. This reduces risk while building internal expertise. Many tech companies begin with engineering or support teams who can provide technical feedback before broader rollout.

Build abstraction layers that insulate users from underlying complexity. Whether through custom applications, browser extensions, or API integrations, create interfaces that match existing workflows rather than forcing workflow changes.

Measure everything from the start. Establish baseline metrics before migration, track throughout implementation, and continuously monitor post-deployment. Tech companies excel at data-driven decision making—apply the same rigour to communications.

The Competitive Advantage of Superior Communications

Irish tech companies with modern communication infrastructure report competitive advantages extending beyond operational efficiency. Superior communications become a differentiator in talent acquisition, customer satisfaction, and market expansion.

Recruitment benefits materialise immediately. Engineers evaluating opportunities increasingly consider tool quality alongside compensation and culture. Companies offering modern, integrated communication tools signal technical sophistication and operational maturity. The ability to support truly flexible working—not just “work from home with a laptop and mobile”—attracts talent with options.

Customer experience improvements follow naturally. When support teams have complete context, sales teams respond instantly, and technical teams collaborate seamlessly, customers notice. In competitive markets where product features converge, service quality becomes differentiator. Superior communications enable superior service.

International expansion becomes feasible when communications don’t constrain operations. Irish tech companies targeting European or global markets need presence without infrastructure. Modern communication platforms enable local numbers, regional support, and follow-the-sun coverage without physical offices.

Innovation acceleration occurs when communications become programmable platform rather than fixed infrastructure. Tech companies build custom applications on communication APIs, creating unique capabilities that competitors cannot match. This transforms communications from cost centre to innovation enabler.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Technical Destiny

The gap between Ireland’s tech sector sophistication and its communication infrastructure represents both challenge and opportunity. Tech companies accepting traditional business telecommunications handicap themselves unnecessarily. Those taking control of their communication infrastructure gain operational advantages that compound over time.

The transformation doesn’t require massive investment or disruption. Modern communication platforms designed for tech companies offer consumption-based pricing, gradual migration paths, and immediate benefits. The primary requirement is recognition that communications deserve the same technical attention as other critical infrastructure.

Irish tech companies have proven they can compete globally across every dimension—talent, innovation, execution. They shouldn’t let communication infrastructure become the limiting factor. By applying the same technical rigour to communications as they do to product development, they can eliminate this constraint and accelerate their growth.

The tools exist, the knowledge is spreading through the ecosystem, and early adopters are demonstrating the benefits. For Irish tech companies ready to treat communications as solvable technical challenge rather than immutable overhead, the opportunity to gain competitive advantage awaits. The question isn’t whether to modernise communications, but how quickly you can eliminate this unnecessary friction from your operations.

How AI is Shaping the Future of Telecom Operations

After several years of experimentation and pilot projects, AI in the telecoms industry is now beginning to show measurable improvements. Industry data from providers, such as Subex, indicates that billing queries can be reduced by up to 60% through better automation and error reduction.

However, research conducted by MIT highlights a wider shift across the sector from early-stage innovation in labs to embedding AI solutions directly into operational IT systems.

These findings underscore a maturing landscape, where both vendors and communications service providers (CSPs) are focusing on practical deployment and demonstrating clear returns on investment.

Within this evolving context, Cerillion is providing a true product approach with AI built into the core of its BSS/OSS product suite, so CSPs can immediately benefit from the technology without needing any specific AI expertise or complex integration. This follows a “Bring Your Own” AI model, which supports all the major public large language models (LLMs), but can equally be used with private models.

In recognition of this progress, Cerillion has recently been positioned in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant™ for AI in CSP Customer and Business Operations. This new report reflects how AI capabilities are now becoming integral to core telecom operations, moving beyond pilot projects into large-scale deployments. With many CSPs looking to Gartner research when shaping their technology strategies, this acknowledgement underscores the growing importance of embedding AI within BSS/OSS platforms to deliver measurable business outcomes.

A key area of Cerillion’s solution involves GenAI-powered image recognition to support rapid product configuration.

This approach allows CSP teams to sketch new product ideas on a whiteboard, upload a picture into Cerillion’s Enterprise Product Catalogue, and the configuration is built automatically. This is already proving to significantly shorten product development lifecycles, with time savings of up to 95%.

Additionally, the company’s AI-driven promotions engine is used to support faster and more precise marketing campaigns, enabling offers tailored to customer behaviour and preferences.

AI adoption in telecoms is now focused towards delivering outcomes that matter, including:

  • Improving campaign efficiency and ROI
  • Optimising lead generation and conversion
  • Growing customer lifetime value
  • Improving operational efficiency

As technologies continue to advance, CSPs face increasing pressure to move beyond AI pilot projects and demonstrate tangible business value. Successful deployments are expected to integrate AI capabilities within core business support systems (BSS) and operations support systems (OSS), ensuring scalability, compliance, and smooth operation alongside existing infrastructure.

CSPs who effectively embed AI into their business processes, treating it as a foundational operational capability rather than a standalone feature, are likely to achieve faster and more sustainable benefits.

For CSPs aiming to modernise, the industry is at a turning point. Third-party benchmarks, such as those from Subex and academic studies from MIT, show a sector-wide transformation is underway. Cerillion’s ongoing innovation efforts, including AI-powered image recognition for product setup and AI-driven promotions, exemplify how emerging technologies can contribute to operational improvements and greater responsiveness to market needs.

 

Easco to Showcase Ireland’s First Mobile Phone Brand at IFA Berlin 2025 with New Android Model

Easco, Ireland’s first homegrown mobile phone brand, will debut its latest product lineup at IFA Berlin 2025 this September. The company will reveal a brand-new Android smartphone, alongside its previously announced feature phone range, including a modern flip phone and  bar device, both designed with accessibility, safety, and simplicity in mind.

Easco’s mission is to provide mobile devices that promote Ease of Communication while addressing the overexposure of children and vulnerable individuals to smartphones and social media. The phones are engineered specifically for young teens, elderly users, and those with special needs, making up over 20% of Ireland’s population.

Key features include:

  • Distinctive Irish design (green, black, and gold) inspired by heritage brands
  • 4G calling and SMS without internet browsing or app stores (on feature phones)
  • Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tracking for safety—first in a global feature phone
  • Simplified UI, large tactile buttons, and an external display
  • New Android smartphone, offering parents and users more control with smart functions

“As the first mobile phone brand to be born in Ireland, we’re proud to build devices that reflect the Irish culture and meet the real communication needs of underserved users,” said Hao Lee, founder of Easco.

IFA Berlin 2025 runs from 5-9th of September, and Easco will be exhibiting in the MicFlip booth.

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