Tag: connectivity

Garmin launches first microLED watch and brings inReach to your wrist

Garmin  is advancing the future of smartwatch technology with the introduction of fēnix® 8 Pro series. These premium GPS smartwatches are the first to feature inReach technology for satellite and cellular connectivity—letting athletes and adventurers leave their phone behind and still stay in touch. Further revolutionising the smartwatch industry, fēnix 8 Pro – MicroLED introduces a first-of-its-kind, high-resolution MicroLED display for superior readability.

“fēnix 8 Pro is changing the game for smartwatches. This new lineup is full of breakthrough innovations, bringing life-changing inReach technology to the wrist to help keep athletes and adventurers in touch with their family and friends and introducing the first-ever ultra-bright MicroLED display to a smartwatch so users can see their maps, stats, health and wellness metrics and more like never before.”

—Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

Leave the phone behind and still stay connected

Designed for those pursuits that make it impractical to carry a phone, fēnix 8 Pro has built-in inReach technology for satellite and cellular connectivity.

Satellite connectivity

fēnix 8 Pro uses inReach technology to let explorers exchange messages and send location check-ins.

  • Text messages: Send and receive text messages with those using the Garmin Messenger™ app on their smartphone or compatible Garmin smartwatch.
  • Location check-ins: Send location updates to family and friends so they can keep track of trip progress.

Cellular connectivity

In addition to sending text messages or providing location check-ins, fēnix 8 Pro can be used to make phone calls, send voice messages, share LiveTrack links and view weather forecasts when connected to the LTE network.

  • Voice calls: Make and take voice calls from the watch with other fēnix 8 Pro users or those using the Garmin Messenger app on their smartphone.
  • Voice messages: Check in with family and friends by exchanging 30-second voice messages. Recipients can listen to the messages or read the transcriptions on their watch or in the Garmin Messenger app.
  • LiveTrack: Friends and family can follow the adventures with LiveTrack location sharing and location check-ins on their smartphone. Users can also alert their friends and family when a LiveTrack session has started, in case they want to follow along or reach out during an activity.
  • Weather forecasts: Access current weather conditions and multiday forecasts to stay prepared for what’s ahead.

SOS capability supported by Garmin Response

When an SOS is triggered, fēnix 8 Pro will send a message over satellite or cellular connectivity to the Garmin Response℠ center, where a dedicated team of skilled emergency response coordinators are ready at any time. From there, Garmin Response will communicate with the user, their listed emergency contacts, search and rescue organisations and other available local resources. They provide updates to users and emergency contacts on the response effort, including confirmation when help is on the way, and remain available as the incident is being resolved. With nearly two decades of experience, the Garmin Response team has supported more than 17,000 inReach incident responses in more than 150 countries on all seven continents.

First-of-its-kind MicroLED display

Offering remarkable brightness in exquisite detail, fēnix 8 Pro – MicroLED features over 400,000 individual LEDs delivering up to 4,500 nits, making it the brightest smartwatch ever. The result is a revolutionary display that produces rich colors and high pixel densities with wide viewing angles and superior readability—even in direct sunlight.

Rugged design, premium features

Made for any adventure, all fēnix 8 Pro models are dive-rated and feature leakproof metal buttons, a metal sensor guard cover, AMOLED or MicroLED touchscreen displays and titanium bezels, plus an LED flashlight for greater visibility in dark environments.

Built for wherever the adventure leads, fēnix 8 Pro is loaded with Garmin’s full suite of performance, navigation, health and wellness2, and connected features, including endurance score, hill score, daily suggested workouts, preloaded TopoActive Maps, dynamic round-trip routing, the Garmin ECG App3, sleep coach, Garmin Pay™, safety and tracking features and more. To learn more, visit https://www.garmin.com/en-IE/.

ITU report details USD 2.6-2.8 trillion cost to connect everyone meaningfully by 2030

Achieving universal, meaningful Internet connectivity by 2030 could require an investment of USD 2.6 trillion to USD 2.8 trillion at current prices, according to the Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint released today by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) – the UN agency for digital technologies – and the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The report outlines the challenges, projected costs, and collaborative strategies needed to make sure everyone, everywhere, can use the Internet, including the estimated one-third of humanity currently offline.

The largest investment component — USD 1.5 trillion to USD 1.7 trillion — is required for hard infrastructure, alongside substantial funding for human and institutional capacity, mainly in developing countries.

“Digital connectivity means creating opportunities for education, jobs, and access to essential services that can transform lives and communities,” said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. “While significant resources are needed to meaningfully connect everyone, these are investments that will contribute to a prosperous digital future for all.”

The challenge of connecting billions

ITU estimates that 2.6 billion people are still excluded from the digital world, with connectivity closely linked to levels of socio-economic development. In 2024, an estimated 93 per cent of the population in high-income countries was using the Internet, compared to just 27 per cent in low-income countries.

The new report on achieving universal meaningful connectivity builds on ITU’s original 2020 Connecting Humanity study, published under the direction of the G20 during the presidency of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, by identifying critical gaps with the anticipated costs for addressing them.

“The world needs between USD 2.6 trillion and USD 2.8 trillion to connect humanity by 2030. This figure is nearly five times higher than the last assessment conducted in 2020 in partnership with ITU during the Saudi chairmanship of the G20,” said H.E. Eng. Haytham AlOhali, Acting Governor of CST. “Such a dramatic increase underscores the urgency for international cooperation, collective investment, and the sharing of expertise if we are to achieve the vision of universal, meaningful connectivity for all.”

Key costs highlighted in the report include:

  1. Digital infrastructure – USD 1.5 trillion to USD 1.7 trillion: Expanding broadband networks to underserved populations represents the single largest cost. The report estimates the costs of deploying fibre networks in and around urban areas, 4G fixed wireless in rural regions, and satellites in the most remote locations.
  2. Affordability – USD 983 billion: Reducing the cost of smartphones and broadband services — both fixed and mobile — is vital so that individuals and households worldwide, particularly in lower-income regions, can afford to connect and stay online.
  3. Digital skills – USD 152 billion: Connectivity alone is not enough — people must have the skills to use the Internet effectively. Investments to fund large-scale digital literacy initiatives can empower individuals to access online education, secure better jobs, and actively participate in a digitally-driven society.
  4. Policy and regulation – USD 600 million: Modernizing regulations and creating predictable policy environments worldwide are essential to unlock efficiencies and promote innovation. While this represents the smallest cost component, it holds back digital transformation and sustains the other gaps. The impact of closing it would be massive.

Public-private collaboration needed

As the Connecting Humanity Action Blueprint highlights, global progress on connectivity has been uneven, with the world’s 46 least-developed countries lagging significantly due to financing barriers, limited technical expertise, and unreliable infrastructure.

To address these challenges, ITU calls for innovative business approaches and renewed collaboration between governments, the tech industry, development finance institutions, and civil society, to close current divides and prevent future ones, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence (AI).

The report concludes with recommendations to accelerate digital inclusion worldwide, including using schools as gateways to Internet access, investing in energy infrastructure in Africa, and enhancing data collection at the sub-national level.

 

  • Read the full report here.
  • Learn more about the report project here and access the Executive Summary here.

 

Custom Application Development Company — How to Choose the Right Partner & Maximize ROI

If your business needs software that fits exact workflows and scales with growth, hiring a reliable custom application development company is critical. Off‑the‑shelf solutions may work for many tasks, but when you require unique integrations, industry compliance, advanced security or AI‑driven features — bespoke software delivered by an experienced team becomes a business advantage.

Why choose custom application development? Custom application development provides a tailored solution that aligns with your specific processes and objectives. Compared to off‑the‑shelf software, a custom solution offers:

  • Full alignment with business workflows and unique user journeys.
  • Seamless integrations with ERP, CRM, payment gateways and third‑party APIs.
  • Better scalability and long‑term total cost of ownership.
  • Stronger security and compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, industry standards).
  • Competitive advantages through unique features and functionality.

Key services offered by a custom application development company:

  • Custom software development (web & mobile)
  • Custom ERP development and integrations
  • Fintech & payment solutions development
  • Healthcare software with compliance (HIPAA, data protection)
  • IoT / IIoT solutions and device connectivity
  • AI / ML integration and data engineering
  • MVP development & rapid prototyping
  • Legacy modernization and platform re‑engineering
  • QA, automated testing and performance optimization
  • DevOps, cloud migration and managed hosting
  • Staff augmentation and dedicated development teams

How to evaluate prospective vendors: 8 practical criteria

  1. Relevant industry experience
    Look for case studies in your industry: fintech software company experience for payment platforms, healthcare app experience for EHR integration, logistics experience for WMS or tracking systems.
  2. Technical stack and expertise
    Ensure the vendor works with technologies you need (backend: Node.js, Java, .NET; frontend: React, Angular, Vue; mobile: Swift, Kotlin, React Native; cloud: AWS, GCP, Azure). Also check experience with microservices, containerization and CI/CD pipelines.
  3. Portfolio and measurable outcomes
    Ask for metrics: conversion lift, process time reduction, cost savings, uptime improvements. Real numbers prove competence.
  4. Development process and communication
    Prefer partners with clear processes: Discovery → Architecture → MVP → Iterative development → QA → Deployment → Support. Regular sprint demos and transparent reporting matter.
  5. Security, compliance and QA
    Confirm the team follows secure coding practices, threat modeling, penetration testing, and compliance measures (GDPR, HIPAA, SOC2 when needed).
  6. Pricing models and engagement types
    Assess fixed‑price vs time‑&‑material vs dedicated teams. For uncertain scope, a Discovery + MVP approach reduces risk.
  7. Team composition and culture fit
    Meet the engineers and product owners who will work on your project. Team stability and domain knowledge help reduce ramp‑up time.
  8. Support and SLAs
    Make sure there are clear SLAs, incident response times and maintenance plans.

Common project types and typical timelines

  • MVP for startups: 6–12 weeks (basic features, core UX & API integrations)
  • Medium enterprise app: 3–6 months (multi‑module system, integrations)
  • Large enterprise solution / ERP: 6–18 months (architecture, compliance, migration)

Estimating cost: realistic ranges

  • Small web app / MVP: 10k–10k–50k
  • Mid‑sized business application: 50k–50k–200k
  • Enterprise / custom ERP with integrations: $200k+

(Actual costs depend on feature complexity, integrations, compliance needs and geographic makeup of the team.)

How to structure a low‑risk engagement\

  1. Start with Discovery & Technical Audit — clarify scope and constraints.
  2. Build an MVP — test assumptions, show value and collect user feedback.
  3. Move to phased delivery — deliver in increments with measurable KPIs.
  4. Scale via dedicated teams — staff augmentation or a long‑term managed team.
  • Custom software development (web & mobile)
  • Custom ERP development and integrations
  • Fintech & payment solutions development
  • Healthcare software with compliance (HIPAA, data protection)
  • IoT / IIoT solutions and device connectivity
  • AI / ML integration and data engineering
  • MVP development & rapid prototyping
  • Legacy modernization and platform re‑engineering
  • QA, automated testing and performance optimization
  • DevOps, cloud migration and managed hosting
  • Staff augmentation and dedicated development teams

When to consider staff augmentation or a dedicated team Staff augmentation makes sense when:

  • You already have product management and need extra engineers.
  • You need to scale fast for short‑term sprints or specialized skills (ML, IoT).
  • You want lower overhead and flexible headcount vs hiring full employees.

Dedicated teams are better for:

  • Long‑term product ownership and evolution.
  • Projects requiring continuity and deep product knowledge.

Local vs offshore vendors — how to choose

  • Local vendors offer easier overlap hours, face‑to‑face meetings and often better domain knowledge for local markets (e.g., London, Dubai).
  • Offshore vendors can provide cost efficiency and access to a vide pool of tools 

Creative Pebble Nova Named Best Speaker at the European Hardware Awards 2025

Awarded for its exceptional audio performance, striking modern design, and innovative features, the Pebble Nova sets a new standard for desktop speakers
London UK, June 26th 2025: Creative Technology is thrilled to announce that the Pebble Nova has been awarded Best Speaker at the European Hardware Awards 2025, a prestigious accolade that recognises excellence in consumer technology across the continent.
Celebrated for its exceptional audio performance, striking modern design, and innovative features, the Pebble Nova stood out in a highly competitive field, securing its position as a top-tier desktop audio solution in Europe and beyond.
Over 100 of Europe’s most experienced editors reviewed the speakers they’ve tested, and voted the Creative Pebble Nova as the best product in its class.
The European Hardware Awards is organised by the European Hardware Association, comprising editors from the region’s most respected technology publications. Winners are carefully selected by an expert panel, ensuring that only the most outstanding products receive recognition.
Launched in late 2024, the Pebble Nova is the latest evolution of Creative’s acclaimed Pebble series. Equipped with powerful coaxial drivers, customisable RGB lighting, and versatile wireless connectivity, it has quickly earned a loyal following among gamers, content creators, and audiophiles seeking immersive sound in a compact footprint.
The award reflects Creative’s ongoing commitment to redefining everyday audio experiences through bold innovation and thoughtful design. The recognition of the Pebble Nova by such a respected panel underscores Creative’s dedication to delivering accessible, high-quality sound to users around the world.
For more information on the Pebble Nova and Creative’s full portfolio of audio solutions, please visit www.creative.com.

Vodafone Ireland Powers Flavours of Fingal 2025 as Official Connectivity Partner

Vodafone Ireland has been announced as the sponsor of the Walled Garden and the official Connectivity Partner for this year’s Flavours of Fingal, one of Ireland’s largest summer family festivals, organised by Fingal County Council. Taking place on July 5th and 6th at Newbridge House and Farm in Donabate, the event is expected to welcome in excess of 65,000 visitors.

As the official connectivity partner, Vodafone will deliver enhanced mobile connectivity across the festival grounds—supporting families, foodies, and local businesses alike. The Vodafone Walled Garden will serve as a vibrant hub for live music, food, and digital connection, while vendors and event organisers benefit from robust network infrastructure designed to keep everyone seamlessly connected.
Vodafone Ireland is gearing up to connect people at events across the country this summer with their improved network. After kicking off this summer of connectivity at Bord Bia Bloom, Vodafone will be enhancing connectivity at events such as Kaleidoscope, All Together Now, the National Ploughing Championship, Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival, Electric Picnic, St. Anne’s Park, and the Phoenix Park.
Vodafone has also enhanced the mobile service on its network locations such as Emerald Park and in Wexford Town for the Fleadh Ceoil, ensuring that families stay connected this summer. Vodafone will optimise its network services at large venues, such as the Aviva Stadium, to provide a better customer experience to those attending events such as Lana Del Rey and Dua Lipa.
Following a record-breaking summer last year, Vodafone is set for another summer of connectivity as they prepare to match the continuing surge in mobile data consumption, with usage continuing to grow year-on-year. This growth can be explained by richer content, real-time sharing, and an increasing number of connected devices at live events.
At festivals like Electric Picnic and Fleadh Cheoil in 2024, Vodafone customers used weather and map apps over 90,000 times. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok saw peak activity during headline performances, showcasing the growing demand for seamless, high-speed connectivity in the moments that matter.

Committed to delivering reliable service, managing substantial data volumes and maintaining consistent connectivity, Vodafone Ireland ensures a seamless experience for customers throughout the summer.

“At Vodafone Ireland, we have made significant investments in our network infrastructure to ensure customers experience fast, reliable connectivity wherever they are this summer,” said Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland. “Whether it’s a packed festival, a family day out, or a headline concert, our network is built to keep people connected when it matters most.”

 

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Vodafone Ireland is now using Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel in its generators at events. HVO is a renewable, biodegradable fuel that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel. This ensures that powering connectivity this summer will not only be reliable, but environmentally sustainable as well.
In addition to optimising connectivity across the festival, Vodafone Ireland will support older adults through its Hi Digital initiative at Flavours of Fingal. Created by the Vodafone Foundation in partnership with ALONE, Hi Digital helps older adults build confidence with technology through a free, easy-to-follow online course. The programme covers everything from using smartphones and apps to staying safe online and avoiding scams. Festival-goers can visit the Vodafone Foundation Hi Digital stand to learn more, receive one-on-one guidance, and connect with volunteers working to bridge the digital divide.

Mayor of Fingal County Council, Cllr. Tom O’ Leary, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Vodafone Ireland as our connectivity partner and sponsor for The Walled Garden at Flavours of Fingal. Their support will not only enhance the overall visitor experience through improved connectivity and their commitment to improving digital inclusion through initiatives like Hi Digital is especially meaningful as we work together to ensure no one is left behind in our increasingly connected world.

 

”The Vodafone Walled Garden will be a popular go-to spot over the weekend, a space where visitors come to relax, enjoy live music and delicious food and drink. Designed as a chill-out zone and a connectivity hub, it being the perfect place for friends and families to unwind, connect, and recharge both digitally and socially.”

The Evolution of the Software-Defined Vehicle

It wasn’t that long ago that people wondered “just what is a software-defined vehicle?” The idea of an SDV felt like science fiction—a car that could improve itself after it left the factory, evolve based on its environment, and offer entirely new experiences without a trip to the dealership. For real? 

In just over a decade, SDVs have transitioned from cutting-edge concepts to production realities. Since their early debut, the technology and features that define these vehicles have undergone significant transformation, reshaping the automotive industry from the inside out.

This article explores how SDV capabilities have expanded since their initial rollout, what improvements have been made, and what it means for drivers and manufacturers alike.

The Early Days: Limited Scope, High Potential

The first generation of software-defined vehicles emerged in the early 2010s. Tesla was the early torchbearer, demonstrating that a vehicle’s behavior could be altered remotely through over-the-air (OTA) updates. Owners were stunned—and thrilled—to wake up to new driving modes, range enhancements, and autopilot tweaks delivered digitally, just like a phone update.

Back then, however, SDVs were still tightly bound to traditional hardware configurations. A handful of electronic control units (ECUs) might be updated, and only select models had the connectivity or architecture to support meaningful changes post-sale. Features were often basic: minor performance boosts, infotainment adjustments, and bug fixes.

From ECUs to Centralized Brains

Since then, SDVs have made a dramatic architectural shift. Early vehicles relied on dozens of independent ECUs to control everything from climate systems to engine performance. These systems couldn’t easily communicate with one another, and their software was deeply intertwined with specific hardware components.

Today, leading SDVs have centralized computing platforms—essentially high-powered automotive supercomputers—that coordinate the entire vehicle ecosystem. One of the biggest advancements has been the separation of hardware from software through virtualization and abstraction layers. This means updates are no longer limited to infotainment or navigation systems; now, everything from braking algorithms to battery management software can be refined and optimized long after the vehicle rolls off the line.

Centralization has also opened the door to richer data gathering, smoother feature integration, and improved diagnostics. The car isn’t just running on software; it’s learning, adapting, and optimizing with every mile.

From Gimmicks to Game-Changers

With their debut, SDV features felt more like novelty add-ons. Today, they’re central to the driving experience. OTA updates now routinely deliver:

  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Lane centering, highway autopilot, traffic-aware cruise control, and more can be added or refined after purchase.

  • Personalization: User profiles, biometric access, and behavior-adaptive interfaces have become standard in high-end SDVs.

  • Energy Efficiency Improvements: EV battery performance and charging behavior are optimized in real time via software updates, extending range and reducing wear.

  • Subscription-Based Upgrades: Features like heated seats, enhanced navigation, or parking assist can be “unlocked” after purchase, allowing consumers to pay for what they use.

The jump in complexity and quality over the last decade is staggering. What began as infotainment polish has evolved into the dynamic control of nearly every system in the car.

Connectivity and Ecosystem Integration

One of the biggest transformations is how well-connected SDVs have become—not just internally, but as part of a broader digital ecosystem.

Early SDVs had rudimentary LTE or 3G connections for navigation or software patches. Today’s vehicles come equipped with 5G connectivity and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication capabilities. Cars can now:

  • Communicate with infrastructure to anticipate traffic light changes

  • Share hazard alerts with nearby vehicles

  • Optimize routing based on real-time road and weather conditions

Moreover, SDVs are increasingly integrated with users’ digital lives. Calendar syncing, remote climate control via smartphone apps, voice assistant compatibility, and even smart home integrations are common. The car is now part of a seamless digital lifestyle.

AI and Autonomy: Real-Time Adaptation

Artificial intelligence is a driving force in the SDV evolution. What started as basic automation has grown into real-time decision-making powered by AI and machine learning.

Today’s SDVs use AI to:

  • Recognize and respond to road signs, lane markings, and pedestrians

  • Predict driver preferences and adjust cabin settings automatically

  • Identify mechanical wear patterns and recommend preventative maintenance

  • Analyze sensor data for semi-autonomous navigation and parking

The combination of edge computing and cloud processing allows SDVs to make smart, real-time decisions—both to enhance safety and to elevate user experience.

Manufacturing and Business Model Disruption

Perhaps one of the most surprising areas of SDV evolution is how it has upended traditional automotive business models. In the past, a car’s value depreciated rapidly after purchase. Today, SDVs offer a new path: value creation through continuous updates and new services.

Manufacturers now treat the vehicle as a software platform that generates revenue long after the initial sale. Subscription models, feature unlocks, and performance packages can be rolled out remotely. This is a profound change—not just in how cars are sold, but in how automakers structure their organizations and revenue streams.

What’s Next?

The pace of innovation in SDVs shows no signs of slowing. In the coming years, we can expect:

  • Greater modularity, allowing drivers to upgrade software packages based on seasonal needs, usage patterns, or travel plans.

  • Enhanced autonomy, as real-world driving data continues to train AI algorithms across millions of vehicles.

  • More open ecosystems, where apps, third-party services, and personal digital assistants work natively with in-car systems.

The dream of a vehicle that evolves with its owner is no longer futuristic—it’s happening now. And the SDV’s journey, from novelty to necessity, has only just begun.

The software-defined vehicle has rapidly progressed from an experimental concept into a mainstream, must-have innovation. Its evolution has touched every corner of automotive design and usage—from architecture to ownership experience—redefining what it means to drive in the 21st century.

 

TCL 60R 5G: Next-Gen 5G Performance Without the Price Tag

TCL, a global leader in display innovation for smartphones, tablets, and connected devices, is proud to announce the European availability of the TCL 60R 5G, first unveiled at MWC 2025. Designed to make 5G access more inclusive, the TCL 60R 5G delivers smooth performance, immersive visuals, and long-lasting battery life in a feature-rich device that’s more accessible than ever.

With broader attainability, the TCL 60R 5G brings high-speed 5G connectivity to more people, empowering everyday communication, streaming, and productivity—without compromise.

5G Performance Meets Everyday Affordability

Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset—a power-efficient 6nm processor that delivers advanced 5G capabilities—the TCL 60R 5G features an octa-core CPU clocked at up to 2.4GHz, offering strong, reliable performance. Users experience up to 20% faster app launches and 10% smoother scrolling, making daily interactions seamless and responsive—thanks to TCL’s exclusive NXTURBO software acceleration. This proprietary optimisation technology enhances GPU and RAM efficiency, enabling smoother graphics and faster load times for a more fluid user experience.

The 6.6-inch HD+ display offers a 120Hz refresh rate, bringing vibrant visuals and smooth transitions to everything from social feeds to videos and gaming. Slim at just 8.3mm, and lightweight for everyday portability, it’s a smartphone that feels premium without the premium cost.

All-Day Power, Entertainment and More

The TCL 60R 5G is equipped with a large 5200mAh battery that provides up to two days of usage on a single charge. TCL’s smart charging technology helps extend battery health over time, making this device a smart long-term investment. Dual stereo speakers enhance the multimedia experience, while expandable storage up to 2TB ensures users have ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

Capture every moment with the 50MP AI triple camera system, offering enhanced image clarity and intelligent scene recognition. From low-light photos to sharp portraits, the TCL 60R 5G delivers quality where it matters.

Designed for Everyday Life

The TCL 60R 5G is built to adapt to a range of lifestyles. For students, it’s a reliable tool for online learning and communication. Professionals benefit from its fast connectivity and multitasking capability, supported by up to 12GB RAM (via RAM expansion). Families and on-the-go users will appreciate the anti-fingerprint matte finish and IP54-rated resistance to dust and splashes.

With a commitment to inclusivity, performance, and practical design, the TCL 60R 5G helps users stay connected, creative, and in control—all at a highly competitive value.

The TCL 60R 5G (128GB) will be available at Vodafone. For a limited time, it will be on promotion for just £70 for 4 weeks, subject to availability. After the promotional period, the price will return to £99.

open eir and Sky Partner to Deliver High-Capacity Backhaul Network Connectivity

open eir and Sky are pleased to announce a strategic five-year partnership aimed at enhancing connectivity between their core network infrastructures. Under the agreement, Sky will leverage open eir’s extensive fibre network, to continue its growth across Ireland.

open eir is actively expanding Ireland’s largest fibre-to-the-home network, already accessible to over 1.3 million homes and businesses today, with plans to extend coverage to 1.9 million locations, serving 84% of premises in Ireland. open eir’s fastest growing and largest gigabit fibre network allows Sky to expand their market size, delivering choice to the Irish consumer.

Oliver Loomes, CEO of eir, stated, “open eir and Sky Ireland’s collaboration marks a significant milestone in the Irish telecommunications industry. This direct relationship with Sky is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional network services. We are excited to work with Sky to enable them to bring innovative solutions to the Irish market. This initiative represents a strong working relationship between the two companies and sets the stage for a brighter future in the world of connectivity.”

JD Buckley, CEO of Sky Ireland, commented, “We selected open eir as a full fibre broadband network partner because of their scalable solution and their proven network capability. Sky will harness open eir’s network to broaden its market reach, providing a wider range of services to Irish consumers. This partnership allows Sky to strengthen our broadband capability as an ever increasing number of our customers migrate to IP based products.”

Maeve O’Malley, Managing Director of open eir Wholesale, commented on the partnership, saying, “We are thrilled to partner with Sky in this pivotal venture. This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to extending high- capacity, future-proof network infrastructure to homes and businesses throughout the country. By leveraging open eir’s expansive fibre network, we are ensuring that even customers in the most remote areas of Ireland can enjoy the benefits of world-class connectivity and next-generation services. This partnership marks a significant step forward in delivering superior network solutions to Irish consumers.”

SIRO AND VODAFONE ANNOUNCED AS CONNECTIVITY PARTNERS FOR CARRICKMACROSS CTEK2 ENTERPRISE HUB

SIRO and Vodafone have been announced as connectivity partners for Monaghan’s newest enterprise hub, CTEK2. The Carrickmacross enterprise hub was officially opened earlier this month by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys T.D., with representatives from Monaghan County Council, Enterprising Monaghan, elected representatives and other key stakeholders all in attendance.

The CTEK2 Hub has now also joined the Gigabit Hub Initiative. The Initiative is a partnership between SIRO and Vodafone, which brings Gigabit Fibre Connectivity to remote working and digital hubs across Ireland. CTEK2 is joining a host of other successful Hubs across Ireland, such as Dundalk’s Creative Spark, Galway’s PorterShed and Skibbereen Ludgate Hub which have already benefitted from the Initiative. CTEK2 is the 24th Hub to join the Initiative.

The CTEK2 Hub can now provide businesses and tenants with high-speed, high-quality fibre connectivity, supported by SIRO’s 100% fibre network, which can provide speeds of up to 25 Gigabits,  future proofing the service for decades to come. This means that as the bandwidth and speed needs of Monaghan businesses grow in the years to come the CTEK2 Hub can continue to keep pace with their needs.

CTEK2 is already proving hugely popular with the Carrickmacross and wider Monaghan business community, with 11 tenants already availing of the 17 units onsite. The new hub compliments the existing CTEK1 building located next door, which has been open for several years. The new Hub is already supporting 50 jobs. Businesses using the Hub include a home care provider, an accountancy firm, an executive car rental company and physical therapist, among others. Overall, the 1,450-square-meter facility supports regional talent retention, provides a work base for former commuters, and attracts start-ups from Monaghan and surrounding counties.

Offering a range of office options, from hot desks to private spaces, CTEK2 is designed to meet the needs of various users, from solo entrepreneurs to established enterprises. Its extensive facilities, including ample parking and kitchen spaces, allowing tenants to work in a flexible, professional environment close to home. As CTEK2 continues to grow, it plans to host community events and offer further professional development opportunities, solidifying its role as a cornerstone for local business success and innovation.

SIRO is a leading full fibre broadband operator rolling out a 100% fibre broadband network across Ireland. Its network is already available in Carrickmacross and Monaghan town.

Monaghan County Council CEO Robert Burns stated:

“Supporting innovation and driving economic growth in the region are top priorities for Monaghan County Council. We are confident that the partnership between SIRO and Vodafone will significantly advance these goals. The Gigabit Hub Initiative, with its provision of high-speed connectivity, will foster the development of new businesses in the Carrickmacross area and promote sustainable job creation throughout the region.”

SIRO CEO John Keaney said:

“We’re pleased to partner with Monaghan County Council to bring Gigabit connectivity to CTEK2, a vital addition to Carrickmacross that supports local business growth and job creation. Through the Gigabit Hub Initiative, we are committed to empowering business communities across Ireland by providing the high-speed, reliable infrastructure they need to innovate, attract talent, and expand into new markets. CTEK2 is an excellent example of how world-class connectivity can drive regional economic growth, and we look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the local community.”

Vodafone Ireland CEO Amanda Nelson commented: “Vodafone is pleased to partner with Enterprising Monaghan to provide 100% fibre broadband at their new Carrickmacross facility as part of our Gigabit Hub Initiative. This high-speed connectivity will serve as an asset for the facility’s thriving community of businesses, start-ups, and remote professionals, enabling them with the digital infrastructure essential for growth and success, both locally and beyond.”

 

Find out more about CTEK I & 2 at www.enterprisingmonaghan.ie

Find out more about SIRO at www.siro.ie