Eleven ways to reduce your laptop’s impact on the environment

The climate crisis impacts all of us, and we know that to hold a global temperature rise to less than 1.5°C, we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions dramatically. Addressing the climate crisis requires breaking it down into small actions that add up to a big impact. We can all make simple choices to shrink our carbon footprint, including that all-important laptop purchase. Check out these eleven ways to live your best laptop life and reduce your carbon footprint.Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead, Dell Technologies Ireland gives us 11 tips.

1. Know your numbers

Do you know your carbon footprint? It’s the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) – including carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and others – that you produce as you live your life. There are several great calculators out there that can help you calculate your carbon footprint, like Carbonfootprint.com. You may be surprised by your own footprint, so knowing it will be the first step in figuring out where you can make savings. Many brands will help you compare the carbon footprint of various models to further inform your sustainability-minded buying decisions.

2. Circularity at the centre

We normally think of recycling as a waste issue, but it’s also a climate issue. For example, a recycled aluminium can has a 95% smaller carbon footprint than making that same can from virgin aluminium.

So, before you buy a new laptop, consider how you might responsibly return, refurbish or recycle your old one. Depending on the brand of your laptop, you may be able to send it back to have it recycled. Some, like Dell, will collect your old electronic goods of any brand, in any condition, and recycle them for free.

3. Before you replace it, can you repair it?

Repair is essential to keep products in use longer and out of landfills, so it’s worth checking whether a laptop is designed with repair and recycling in mind. If a component is covered in adhesive and takes hours to disassemble, it isn’t as easy to repair and may not be able to be recycled at all.

Some brands provide customers with easy access to the resources, spare parts and support they need should they wish to repair their products themselves. For example, some brands, like Dell, make it easy to access information online, including manuals and downloads that keep products performing. Publishing their parts list online means customers can order parts to conduct their own repairs. Dell has even created an augmented reality app that provides step-by-step part replacement instructions for almost 100 products for many customer-addressable issues.

4. Level up

Many people think about changing their computer to support the latest applications or games. Before buying new, check whether you can upgrade components like memory, storage, graphics cards, or the CPU to instantly extend your device’s usual lifespan.

5. Old is the new, new

If you have decided on a new laptop, why not consider refurbished? Going through an official refurb programme removes the uncertainty of buying through peer-to-peer websites. You can have peace of mind with a warranty that protects your device and your studies.

6. Lean, mean (sustainably built) machine

If buying new, what is it made of? There are lots of materials that can be recycled to create a new laptop. Recyclable and renewable materials, including tree-based bioplastic upcycled from the papermaking industry, reclaimed carbon fibre, post-consumer recycled plastic, and new bio-based rubber feet made from castor bean oil can all be used to create sustainable laptops now.

The team at Dell uses recycled plastic in nearly every hardware product they make, and we’re expanding our use into more components throughout our devices. Up to 85% of the materials used in our monitors are made from recycled materials We have also reclaimed carbon fiber for several years now and it’s just a fantastic material to work with. This carbon fiber is left over scrap material from the aerospace industry and we blend it with post consumer recycled plastic and bioplastic to make the lids and bottom base of some of our notebooks.

7. Energise your coursework with energy efficiency

You’ve got energy-efficient LED light bulbs in your house – but how energy efficient is your laptop? Energy-efficient devices help cut your electricity bills and reduce the amount needed. Thankfully, there are some helpful standards to tell you how efficient any device is, like the EPEAT rating (the Green Electronics Council’s Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool). It’s the most comprehensive tool for evaluating overall environmental criteria and makes it easy to evaluate the life cycle implications of a product.

8. Don’t feed the vampires

Reducing energy use is a simple solution with environmental and economic benefits. According to recent studies, household appliances use 20% electricity when they are left on standby. PCs are some of Ireland’s top energy vampires, so switch off your laptop at the mains when you’re not using it – even the standby light uses energy.

Try not to over-charge your laptop unnecessarily, too. Unplugging it as soon as it’s charged will save energy and help your battery last longer. You can also adjust your PC’s Power settings to reduce the energy impact and save battery life by optimizing things like backlit-keyboard, screen brightness and adjusting your settings for “Best Battery Life.”

9. What’s on the outside counts too

What about packaging? In Ireland, 1.1 million tonnes of packaging waste were produced in 2019 alone,  but only 28% of this amount is recycled. Therefore making sustainable choices based on packaging will also help you select a more sustainable laptop. Check whether a company uses styrofoam or other packaging materials that are difficult or impossible to recycle. Many companies now use reclaimed plastics and natural products like bamboo to make more sustainable packaging, so you can go ahead and responsibly recycle or compost the packaging or use it to send your old tech for recycling. Dell’s packaging for example is made from 100% recycled or renewable materials – and is 100% recyclable.

10. Future-proof

If you want to play your part in preserving the environment, one of the easiest things you can do to help is preserve your laptop – that means protecting it and extending its lifespan. So, update your software regularly to optimise your PC’s efficiency and avoid viruses, treat the battery well, and keep your laptop clean!

While software can’t help get rid of fingerprints on a screen, it can help you keep your energy-efficient laptop running like new. Dell’s SupportAssist, for example, is an intelligent technology that runs on your PC and removes viruses, detects issues, optimises settings and tells you when you need to make updates. All of which keep your laptop healthier, reducing the need to replace or refurbish/recycle.

To protect your choice of sustainable laptop when on the move, consider purchasing a laptop case. For a double-whammy sustainability choice, there are cases on the market that are eco-conscious in their own right, like the Ecoloop Pro Backpack, which is made with recycled ocean-bound plastics.

11. Variety is the spice of your device

How multifunctional can you make your device? For example, can you make your laptop work for school, work, and entertainment? If you’re big on gaming, look for a PC that can take a marathon session without breaking a sweat and can also keep you focused when you have those tight deadlines. You could even consider repurposing old tablets or phones as home management devices for alarm systems or other uses.

The bottom line is that, as consumers, we have the power to influence how seriously companies take the issue of our collective carbon footprint. Through our choices to reward companies with strong sustainability programmes, we can take a concrete first step towards our push for effective climate change solutions.

New XPS 13 2-in-1, XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition and Pro Webcam announced from Dell

Dell Technologies has announced the arrival and availability of the XPS 13 2-in-1, XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition with Ubuntu 22.04, and Dell Pro Webcam (WB5023), a best-in-class together image quality webcam with intelligent features for everyday professionals who want to look their best on video calls, broadcasts or live streams without breaking the bank.

New XPS 12 2-in-1 & XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition

For customers who prioritize versatility like students and entrepreneurs, the XPS 13 2-in-1 empowers users to seamlessly transition between work, school, entertainment and much more. Complete the experience with an optional XPS Folio and XPS Stylus — transition freely and fluidly from consumption to full productivity mode by attaching the magnetic XPS Folio and enjoy a natural writing and inking experience with the XPS Stylus.  Available in Sky with Wi-Fi 6e at launch.

The first OEM PC to be certified for Ubuntu 22.04, Dell’s flagship XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition is available pre-installed with Ubuntu 22.04 LTS. The Ubuntu certification program ensures that all of the components in a certified computer work as expected, so the user can be sure of the best experience out of the box. Certified devices also include specific software or drivers that differ from the default distribution where required. These are defined in a meta-package that automatically installs the optimal configuration of packages, drivers and kernel to deliver the best experience on that device. For a full breakdown of the new features of Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, read the release notes and official announcement.

Dell Pro Webcam

Dell continues to expand its portfolio of personal collaboration devices to cater for the varying needs of hybrid work. On the heels of the flagship 4K Dell UltraSharp Webcam launch, the company is adding Dell Pro Webcam (recent examples include the Dell Speakerphone and Dell Slim Conferencing Soundbar). This professional-grade 2K QHD webcam provides the world’s best image quality in its class offering superior image quality over a FHD (1080p) webcam and delivering clear, professional quality in any lighting condition.

The Sony STARVIS™ sensor and multi-element lens take in substantial light to deliver crystal-clear picture clarity. The combination of Digital Overlap HDR and Facial Detection Auto Exposure optimizes images, helping users to always look good.

Advanced Image Signal Processing and 3D/2D noise reduction automatically eliminates grainy images, making sure to look your best – even in low light. The webcam’s intelligent AI Auto Framing feature ensures users are always centred in the frame.

This sleek-looking cylindrical webcam also features a built-in noise reduction mic for clear communication, a magnetic shutter cap for privacy and a built-in mounting clip for easy attachment to a monitor, notebook or affix to a tripod.  Compatible with Windows and Mac Operating Systems, this webcam works well with all leading UC platforms and is certified for Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Lastly, make the most out of the webcam with the Dell Peripheral Manager where users can customize the webcam settings such as Field of View, brightness, sharpness, contrast and saturation based on their preferences.

Pricing & availability

  • XPS 13 2-in-1 w/ Folio: Available in Ireland in September, with pricing to be announced upon release.
  • XPS 13 Plus Developer’s Edition: Available in Ireland in the coming weeks, with pricing to be announced upon release.
  • Dell Pro Webcam (WB50523): Available in Ireland now starting at €107.99 ex.VAT

 

Dell Technologies Unveils New Alienware Gaming Monitors with High-Speed Performance & Premium Visuals

Dell Technologies has today released details of two additions to the Alienware line –the 25 Gaming Monitor and the Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor. These gaming monitors are among the fastest on the market and are equipped with high-quality visuals, exceptionally smooth gameplay, and optimized industrial design combining beauty with practicality. Both are the first in the line to feature a retractable headset hanger, helping to create a clutter-free gaming setup.

Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor (AW2523HF)

Designed with feedback from pro gamers, this monitor is eSports-optimized for competitive gaming. With its revamped Legend 2.0 design featuring a hexagonal base for a smaller desktop footprint, competitive gamers have ultimate flexibility in terms of keyboard placement and maximum room for mouse movement for the ideal esports setup. Gamers can also place their headset on the new integrated retractable headset hanger for a clutter-free desk.

A 360Hz variable refresh rate and 0.5ms* GtG response time means incredibly smooth motion on a Fast IPS FHD panel. Experience stutter- and tear-free gaming and crystal-clear graphics, even during action-packed sequences with the support of AMD FreeSync™ Premium Technology and VESA® AdaptiveSync certification.

Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2723DF)( header image)

 The Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor combines premium performance with functional design. With its 280Hz overclocked / 240Hz native variable refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time, gamers are guaranteed lag-free gaming. This Fast IPS 27” QHD display supports AMD FreeSyncTM Premium Pro Technology and is also NVIDIA® G-Sync® and VESA® AdaptiveSync certified to enable tear-free, crystal-clear graphics.

Dive into vibrant colours across a wide viewing angle on an InfinityEdge screen with IPS Nano Colour technology that lets you experience dynamic, vivid colours with 95% DCI-P3 colour coverage and VESA DisplayHDR™ 600 certification for a truly immersive gaming experience. For gamers who also content create, the Creator Mode pre-set allows you to choose between DCI-P3 (native) and sRGB colour spaces or adjusts gamma levels.

This monitor features the iconic Legend 2.0 design in Lunar Light with AlienFX lighting, 360-degree ventilation, improved cable management and fully adjustable stand. The integrated headset hanger is also available on this monitor.

Pricing and Availability

  • The Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor (AW2523HF) will be available in Ireland on September 7th with pricing to be announced upon release.
  • The Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2723DF) will be available in Ireland on September 6th with pricing to be announced upon release.

Laying the Foundations for a Cyber Resilient Future – Jason Ward, Vice President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland

With citizens, governments, and businesses more dependent than ever on digital connectivity, one of the most pressing sectoral issues for this decade is cybersecurity.

While this issue has been in the public consciousness for some time now, there is still a wide perception gap in Ireland between business leaders who consider cyber security a priority, and the lack of implementation of security strategies within their own organisations[1].

The reality is that cybercrime is showing no signs of slowing down, posing risks across all aspects of society. In 2021, ransomware attacks were up 150% and more than 80% of experts say this growth is now threatening public safety[2]. Here in Ireland, the Garda National Cybercrime Bureau has seen a significant increase in the number of ransomware attacks in 2021[3]. These statistics demonstrate the gravity and prevalence of cybercrime today. The question is, as we focus on global recovery, and a new era of economic growth, how do we protect against cyber threats?

In order to deliver on globally ambitious designs of digital inclusion, sustainability, improved health outcomes, defence, and much more for the economies of tomorrow; cyber resiliency is a key building block and enabler.

The adverse financial impacts involved with cybercrime are seismic, and unsustainable for economies to absorb long-term. It’s no secret that advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and IoT are the key building blocks for future progress, but perhaps ironically, it’s these same technologies that can present new opportunities for cyber criminals.

The ultimate challenge will be securing such technologies and enabling more resilient, long-term solutions to the threats posed by cyber criminals. To make this vision a reality, the need for collaboration and support between the public and private sectors has never been more vital.

SME Cyber support vital for wider economy

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of local economies. Yet they increasingly find themselves the target of cyberattacks. Almost one in three small and medium firms in Ireland say they have experienced some form of cybercrime in the past year, according to an EU survey. Irish SMEs recorded above-average levels of incidents with ransomware compared to other EU countries[4].

It is essential that we work to support and protect such businesses, particularly as we look to build more resilient, balanced societies. SMEs, unlike other businesses, often require and are entitled to greater government support and nurture. Governments that recognise SMEs as integral to a truly flourishing society will empower and deliver the most economic progress. Helping these smaller organisations protect themselves against the ever-growing cybersecurity threat must be a priority for public sector recovery strategists, in the months and years ahead.

The convergence of proactive and reactive digital resilience strategy is now imperative across organisations, businesses, and industries – cybersecurity defences alone are no longer enough. Organisations need to integrate resilience into all areas of their businesses’ digital transformation planning and operations[5]. This will be a key focus of the Dell Technologies Forum, which we will be hosting at the Convention Centre on September 27th.

Public to Private Sector Empowerment

It is now more important than ever that public sector infrastructure empowers business resilience to help identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover from a cyberattack and enable a rapid return to fully functioning operations. Even with strong cyber defences in place, it’s impossible for companies to avoid all cyber disasters and their resultant, adverse impacts on data, privacy, and trust. Therefore, the key objective should be developing a cyber resilience strategy that can anticipate and quickly recover from significant disruption.

One essential component of such resilience is to create and implement thorough cybersecurity training exercises amongst workforces. This not only prepares employees to identify security risks and lures, but also heightens awareness and reinforces the need for teamwork, skills, and collaboration across the whole organisation.

From the development of a baseline security standard to be applied by all Government Departments and key agencies through to the creation of a Public Sector IT Security Forum to facilitate information sharing and support the deployment of the baseline security standard, it’s positive to see Government prioritise a top-down and unified approach to cyber security within our public services.

However, given the fast pace of digital transformation and the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats, there is a need to ensure even closer links between Government and industry so that Irish businesses and the public sector remain one step ahead of any cyber threats before they emerge.

As innovation transforms our economy, helping it to meet pressing challenges in areas ranging from education to justice to health, so too should our cyber resilience strategies be evolving to ensure the continuity of these vital services.

By adopting a proactive, collaborative and unified approach to cyber resilience, we can turbocharge our long-term economic prosperity and innovation, creating a more agile and resilient infrastructure that provides the digital defences crucial to modern Ireland’s recovery.

 To register for the Dell Technologies Forum on September 27th at the Convention Centre, visit: https://events.dell.com/event/14f9f60b-bbb9-4e58-bbef-ab6206452026/summary

An integrated approach to realise a 5G future

By Marc O’Regan, Chief Technology Officer for EMEA at Dell Technologies

5G is set to completely transform the mobile communications network. Yet rarely discussed are two key components to its success: edge and cloud. The reality is that cloud solutions facilitate the cost efficiencies and pace of innovation that make 5G such an exciting prospect – and hybrid cloud is the firm favourite amongst organisations seeking new network speeds.

But businesses, like telecom operators, for example, can’t simply adopt existing available cloud technology. Instead, they need a bespoke cloud platform designed for their requirements and challenges. If 5G Private Mobility and associated technologies are to achieve their true potential, telecom operators need to incorporate highly scalable cloud-native infrastructure into their rollouts. This is a complex task, requiring expertise from trusted technology partners.

The 5G Challenge

Understanding that software is just one piece of the cloud is important. Hardware, services, and additional tools are needed to bring a cohesive cloud strategy together. Therefore, collaboration with experts and integration with other technologies are important parts of the 5G ecosystem in order to achieve a successful outcome.

Many need to question their understanding of 5G – it’s often not what they think. It is software driven, born from and Native to Cloud – and it’s still relatively young. It is the transformer and provider of new cloud-based services. One of the first beneficiaries of this will be rural broadband services. 5G will help progress rural connectivity by using mobile networks to close digital divides, bringing broadband to homes at a reduced cost – without the disruptive need to drag fibre up the driveway.

Meanwhile, 5G will also power a new range of devices and services across industries. In high-density areas such as a Rugby or football stadium – where previously signal bars would be low – now, not only will fans have accessible signal, but they will also have entirely new content-driven experiences. For example, streaming a try or goal via mobile phone from a close-up viewpoint will augment the in-stadium experience. Similarly, at live gigs, concert goers will be able to stream close-ups of their favourite musicians and players live.

The opportunities

These opportunities are driven by fundamental cultural shifts – we have moved from an era of content consumption to content creation, transforming our technological needs.

As businesses respond to the potential offered by lower latency, capturing these new enhanced services will enable organisations to monetise 5G networks. But in order to do this, they need to be nurtured, provided with technological expertise and develop a good level of business savvy.

In the industrial world, 5G will be an enabler of smart factories, providing connectivity for devices in remote locations and streamlining processes. Industrial IoT (Internet of Things) and automation powered by edge technologies are key in this context. Automation has a role to play in the network itself, helping service providers deploy their work. For enterprises looking to leverage automation in their factories, such as warehouse automation for retailers, 5G accelerates that automation with an immediate impact on both the bottom line and the top line of an enterprise. It will be possible for businesses to achieve more in a shorter time because the robots will go faster, and because the response to any needs or obstructions will be resolved faster.

We also have the intersection between 5G and other Emerging Technologies like Machine Learning and Intelligence that will allow us to build and scale new digital services at the point of Data creation. Using new blends of algorithms, Data Scientists can work in teams of OT and IT personnel to scrum their way toward new essential services delivered through information that is extracted from the Edge, near the sensors, alarms, pumps and actuators powered by new and powerful AI Models that are driven by architecture that combines the ability to drive high yield and draw low power in the factory environments and beyond.

Bespoke cloud technologies for telecoms

Underpinning everything is the quest to modernise networks and embrace cloud operating models which provide more choice, speed, and agility – especially in the vital sector of telecommunications. Ultimately, telecom operators want Open Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies that offer better performance and efficiency. The growing open ecosystem offers telecoms greater choice in their technologies and partners as they modernise to cloud-native networks. Telecoms need the various technologies of the open ecosystem to work together seamlessly to offer differentiated edge services and reduce costs.

That’s where Dell Technologies can help and add value. We began building telecom-grade servers and partnering with telecom cloud vendors to create telecom cloud platforms that are pre-integrated, pre-validated, and proven to work out of the box. We have added infrastructure automation tools to make it simple to deploy and manage virtualised network functions at the edge, in the RAN, and the core on purpose-built, standards-based, bare-metal servers. This will give cloud and service providers a scalable cloud foundation. Also, with the introduction of Dell Telecom Multi-Cloud Foundation, we are providing telecoms with a simple way to build and deploy open, cloud-first networks faster with less cost. We’re laying the cloud foundation for an open software ecosystem.

According to Government targets, all Irish households and businesses are set to be covered by a Gigabit network no later than 2028 and all populated areas by 5G by 2030. 5G is an indispensable part of our data-driven future and can unlock the value of data in unprecedented ways. However, to get there, telecommunications companies and the public sector alike need expert partners and a solid foundation of cloud and edge. By adopting this approach, they can deliver agility and reduce operational and capital expenditures, with an open, software defined, cloud native, and data centric approach that can bring innovation to market and allow them to realise the vast opportunities presented by the 5G future.

Dell Technologies Transformation Made Real Event to Focus on ‘Making Your Business Cyber Resilient’

On June 30th, Dell Technologies will host the latest event in their Transformation Made Real Series focused on theme of ‘Making Your Business Cyber Resilient’.

As business leaders look back over the last two years, it’s clear there has been a seismic shift in how organisations perceive technology and its role in shaping a do-anything-from-anywhere economy.

However, with new technologies shaping a data-driven economy, there is a growing need for businesses to place cyber resilience at the heart of their digital transformation journey. After all, success in a digital economy relies on the ability of businesses to secure data and maintain trust in their IT systems.

To truly thrive in the digital era, leaders must focus not only on the power of new technologies to transform their business but also on the importance of putting in place measures to mitigate against, respond to and recover from the growing threat of cyber-attacks.

With cyber-attacks occurring every 11 seconds globally, what steps can Irish businesses take to strengthen their cyber resilience and ensure they can continue transforming at speed in the months ahead?

Connected and The Business Post, in association with Dell Technologies, will host a Transformation Made Real hybrid event on Thursday, 30 June.

The hybrid event will reveal the growing focus on cybersecurity amongst Irish business leaders. With the cyber risk front of mind for everyone right now, speakers will map out the steps leaders can take to make their business cyber resilient.

Speakers will include Jason Ward, Vice-President and Managing Director and Tom Digan, Cyber Security Director, both of Dell Technologies Ireland. Further members of the panel will be announced in the coming days.

To register, visit: https://partnerships.ie/

 

Dell launches a new wave of Inspiron PCs designed to keep you connected to what matters most

Dell today unveiled the new Inspiron family – with 13-inch, 14-inch and 16-inch sizes available – providing an immersive experience while streaming videos, browsing social media, creating content or connecting with friends and family around the world.

“We live in a world where people – especially the younger generations – want to creatively and easily connect with friends, families and the rest of the world – all with the click of a button while showcasing their personalities,” said Kevin Terwilliger, vice president, Inspiron and Vostro, Client Product Group, Dell Technologies. “This is what inspired our latest Inspiron portfolio, all while keeping productivity and quality at the forefront of our products so individual expression flows freely.”

 Meet the New Inspiron Plus

Designed to provide extra performance to power passions, the new Inspiron Plus laptops are built for those who want to bring their creative projects to life and share with others.

The Inspiron 16 Plus, presented in a Dark Green color, is a powerful laptop that features the latest 12th Gen Intel® Core™ H-series processors and optional NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics, which allows for quick photo and video editing. When configured with a GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, it provides access to a powerful suite of NVIDIA Studio tools including Broadcast and Canvas apps. Load and switch between apps effortlessly with the new 4800 MHz DDR5 memory, which has 1.5x more bandwidth than the previous generation of 3200 DDR4 memory. And with a 15% increase in the area of air outlet vents over the previous generation, the laptop can circulate out more air, keeping it running fast and smooth.

The Inspiron 16 Plus has a larger 16:10 aspect ratio active area with up to a 3k resolution display, allowing consumers to see more content while working and playing. Video chats get even better with Inspiron’s latest technologies. The built-in FHD webcam with temporal noise reduction and wide dynamic range work together for crisp detail. Dual microphones capture voices distinctly, while echo cancellation and AI-based noise reduction cuts down on background noise. And a mechanical camera privacy shutter provides peace of mind.

Inspiron 16 Plus levels up viewers’ front-of-screen experience with Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos®. With Dolby Vision, take full advantage of HDR content’s superior dynamic range with infinitely deep blacks and dazzling brights. Entertainment recorded with Dolby Atmos allows you to experience sound exactly the way the artist wanted. Quad speakers, two of which are up-firing and two are down-firing, provide loud, clear, and unmuffled audio.

With everyone spending more and more time in front of their screens, it is essential to keep your eyes comfortable. The Inspiron Plus series comes equipped with ComfortView Plus hardware, a low blue light solution that reduces harmful blue light emissions without sacrificing true-to-life color. Coupled with dimming technology that reduces flicker, extended screen time is easy on your eyes. Additionally, there is plenty of space for navigation with a roomy touchpad, that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Edge-to-edge material stretches across the palm rest and touchpad for a modern and smooth work surface.

The Inspiron 14 Plus is a new member of the Inspiron family, designed to meet the needs of those who want an Inspiron Plus but prefer a smaller form factor. The Inspiron 14 Plus comes in light (Platinum Silver – available only in China) and dark (Dark Green) and provides impressive performance in a mobile design, allowing for connectivity on the go. Select configurations of both the Inspiron 14 Plus and Inspiron 16 Plus are Intel® Evo™ certified.

 Inspiron 13, 14 & 16 and Inspiron 2-in-1

Inspiron laptops and 2-in-1s provide fast and smooth performance for everyday needs, whether it’s checking email, posting on social media, or streaming music and movies. The experience is customizable, making it easy to pick and choose the features that are most important, with optional colors, fingerprint readers, backlit keyboards, and more.

The new Inspiron family is powered by Windows 11 and includes more options to meet customers’ diverse needs, with 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors or AMD Ryzen™ 5000 Series processors with AMD Radeon™ Graphics. The Inspiron family also provides a choice of color options – Platinum Silver, Pebble Green or Light Pink (check models for specifics).

The new portfolio has an immersive front-of-screen experience, with products featuring a 16:10 aspect ratio and 4-sided narrow borders for more viewing room.  Panels start at FHD+ resolution and offer DC dimming and low blue light solutions such as optional ComfortView Plus hardware, helping ensure comfort even when viewing the screen for extended periods.

Aiming to keep family and friends close, the new features allow for even more connectivity. Products are equipped with a built-in FHD webcam and dual microphones with noise reduction technology.

And for added flexibility, the new Inspiron 14 2-in-1 features a 14% larger touchpad, providing extra room for navigation. An optional active pen offers a natural and accurate writing experience with no pairing required.

In line with Dell’s 2030 Goals, the company incorporates environmentally-friendly solutions, materials, and packaging. The new Inspiron laptops and 2-in-1s feature and 100% low volatile organic compound (VOC) waterborne paint on all painted parts. Our laptop and 2-in-1 packaging components are comprised of up to 90% recycled materials.

Services

Software, support and services are available for all new Inspiron PCs, with Premium Support Plus option available on Inspiron Plus. There is also the option to upgrade to Dell Migrate.

  • Dell Premium Support Plus offers support features under one comprehensive plan, including 24X7 phone support, automated issues detection, virus removal and automated PC optimization. Repairs for accidental damage and onsite support following remote diagnosis are also included.
  • Dell Migrate makes it easier than ever to move the hard to replace data, photos, personal records and important files to your new Dell PC. Bring your whole digital life with you using our simple, automated tool.

 

Product pricing & availability

  • The new Inspiron line is available in Ireland today, with pricing available on the Dell website here.

 

 

 

 

Dell Technologies unveils the new XPS 13 and XPS 13 2-in-1

Because the course of a day can change with one email, text or spark of spontaneity, the XPS 13 (available with Windows 11 or Ubuntu 20.04) has been designed by Dell to be the ultimate on-the-go companion. Artfully thin, light and compact with up to 12 hours of long battery life, it slips seamlessly into a backpack, bag or purse, while still delivering the premium performance with 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processors to multitask with ease.

True to the XPS aesthetic, it features our fifth generation, 4-side InfinityEdge display and enhanced sound for an immersive entertainment experience whether streaming music, video-chatting friends or watching the latest blockbuster. High brightness, improved clarity, precise detail with up to 4K+ resolution, and vivid colour bring the content to life, while larger speakers enable louder sound, deeper bass and a better overall audio experience. Eyesafe® technology intelligently manages light energy at the source, reducing harmful blue light without compromising the visual experience.

Dell XPS 13

Expertly crafted from premium materials, the XPS 13 delivers an inclusive approach to expressive colour, with unified tones inside and out that embody our mindful, minimalist approach. Available in softened shades of Sky and Umber, the tinted CNC machined aluminium is curated and premium.

With the new XPS 13, Dell set out on a long and ambitious journey to “miniaturize” the motherboard to be 1.8x smaller than the one found in our previous XPS 13 (2021). In fact, it’s the smallest motherboard ever created and fitted for a Dell PC. This created the architectural space needed to pack in a tapestry of new technologies and enlarge the speaker enclosures. The result is an XPS 13 that is thinner and lighter, yet better sounding, high performing and long lasting.

Taking versatility to new heights, the XPS 13 2-in-1 is launching this Summer

 As the lines continue to blur between work, life and learning, the XPS 13 2-in-1 reflects just that. This XPS device provides the ultimate flexibility allowing users to effortlessly transition between streaming, working creating and sharing content, and connecting.

This is the first XPS device to offer 5G connectivity, which enables faster downloads, like WiFi speeds, but for mobile broadband. Streaming, downloading files, rich video content –  it all happens a lot faster with the speed of 5G, so users can be productive and entertained no matter the location. The new XPS 13 2-in-1 also features eSIM technology, which allows users to go to different countries and connect to global carriers without having to switch SIM cards.

The XPS 13 2-in-1 allows for a fluid transition from consumption to full productivity mode by attaching the magnetic XPS Folio, providing a complete laptop experience that supports three angle adjustments (100°, 112.5°, 125°) for flexibility and comfort. The natural writing and inking experience of the XPS Stylus will allow users to express their creativity, turning the device into a state-of-the-art sketchpad.

Designed around an intuitive, landscape-first viewing mode – because that’s how we see the world – the stunning display panel delivers high brightness and precise detail with up to 3K resolution and vivid colour. The high-resolution 1080p front-facing webcam offers a crisp and clear image and is placed horizontally for practical and productive video calls.

The XPS 13 2-in-1 offers two connectivity options, standard WiFi 6E or 5G with WiFi 6E, each featuring a sleek, minimalist design. The standard WiFi 6E model is constructed of machined aluminium, just like the XPS 13 and is available in the subtle blue Sky colour. Unique to the 5G model, the back is made from Gorilla Glass 7 to optimize connectivity and eliminate signal interference. It’s available in a darker Slate hue.

Pricing and availability

  • XPS 13 is now available in Ireland, starting at €1,339.00.
  • XPS 13 2-in-1 will be available later this Summer.

Dell introduces new PC repair app with Augmented Reality

Dell Technologies has today unveiled a new app that allows users to replace common parts on selected Dell computers through an Augmented Reality (AR) experience with step-by-step instructions.

With smart phones already ingrained in everyday lives, Dell created a free application available on both IOS and Android that provides a step-by-step augmented reality experience to help customers replace parts on their Dell systems.

Dell’s AR Assistant guides users through servicing and repair procedures for more than 100 Dell PCs and servers in seven different languages. Dell is currently working to add over 20 additional systems by the end of the summer.

The app’s development was fast tracked during the early months of the pandemic when technicians were unable to visit people’s homes. Currently the use of the Dell AR Assistant is dependent on proper diagnosis first, then ordering parts through our technical support team. Dell’s plan is to make parts more readily and easily available for sale online for an even easier customer experience.

Dell provides product manuals and related resources online – and has for well over a decade. This includes downloads for software, drivers, BIOS, firmware, OS and security patches. The Dell AR Assistant is a natural extension of the manuals – in an easy-to-follow, customer-friendly format that can accessed from anywhere. AR Assistant users can see their devices and how to repair them using mixed reality and informational overlays on the machine being repaired, leveraging a smartphone camera. The app also has an augmented clone technology on select systems, which displays a cloned server in any desired space and allows a full 360 degree interaction with amazing realism.

Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead, Dell Technologies Ireland, said: “Repairability continues to be a priority for us at Dell Technologies. As we know users want more control over their devices – including repairs. As a longtime champion of repairability, Dell has changed the game with a first-of-its-kind augmented reality app for IT repairs, the Dell AR Assistant. Our aim is to enable consumers to easily repair devices themselves where they are able to – and ultimately we’re looking to reduce repair time for issues that can be resolved by the users themselves, with a little help from Dell. We are excited to extend repairability to our customers directly and help them extend the life of their systems. Ease of repair is a win for our customers and the environment – and we’re proud to enable the next generation of consumer repairability with the Dell AR Assistant.”

The Dell AR Assistant also upholds Dell’s wide-reaching and longstanding commitment to sustainability. By making parts more accessible, replaceable and reusable, products can exhaust fewer resources and let users keep more circular materials in the economy. This is in line with Dell’s core tenets – repairability and sustainability – which were also reflected in Concept Luna, announced earlier this year.

For more information on the Dell AR assistant, visit Dell’s FAQ or take a look at quick demonstration of how the app works here.

For those not interested in making the repairs themselves, Dell has other repairs options – visit the Dell Tech Support page for more information.