Tag: device

SumUp unveils new all-in-one POS device, SumUp Terminal

Global fintech SumUp has launched SumUp Terminal, an all-in-one point of sale (POS) device that directly addresses the challenges faced by growing businesses. The device includes a card reader, POS, ordering system, and receipt printer, helping merchants manage orders, staff, inventory, and reporting in one place. This design allows staff to leave the sales counter behind, taking orders and payments directly on the shop floor or right at the table.

In May this year, SumUp surveyed Irish SMEs and found that 25.5% of Irish businesses had made no key changes to their operations beyond raising prices, despite 38% stating that the current economic climate had negatively impacted their business. This highlights a concerning trend: many Irish businesses are falling behind in adopting innovative strategies to navigate growing economic uncertainty. The SumUp Terminal is a direct response to this challenge, underscoring the company’s commitment to equipping merchants with tools tailored to today’s evolving consumer landscape.

Niall Mac an tSionnaigh, CEO of SumUp Ireland, said “At a time when many Irish businesses are feeling the pressure of rising rent, stock, and staffing costs – but are struggling to adapt – it’s clear that practical, lean and accessible tech is more important than ever. The SumUp Terminal was built to meet that need, equipping merchants of all sizes with the tools to streamline operations and stay competitive in a rapidly changing environment.”

Key features and benefits for merchants using the SumUp Terminal include its all-in-one efficiency, allowing businesses to take card payments, manage orders, speed up checkouts, and print receipts or order tickets from a single device. Designed for durability and ease of use, it features an intuitive HD touchscreen and a long-lasting battery that supports staff throughout the entire workday. The Terminal also enables smarter operations by allowing the creation of custom staff profiles with role-based permissions and providing real-time sales reports to support informed business decisions.

Irish merchants can simplify their bookkeeping by integrating popular accounting solutions such as Sage Accounting, Xero, and QuickBooks. Dual connectivity with built-in WiFi and free 4G mobile data ensures the device always connects to the strongest available network, keeping payments uninterrupted. To accelerate setup, Terminal uses its built-in camera to instantly digitise an entire product list from a single photo. This AI-driven feature means merchants can capture their handwritten or printed menu, and the device automatically creates an editable digital catalogue. This significantly reduces manual setup time, allowing merchants to then easily add descriptions, images, or new products.

“We see countless merchants hit a growth ceiling where a simple card reader is no longer enough, but a traditional POS system feels too expensive and complex,” said Tomer Sabag, Chief Hardware Officer at SumUp. “Terminal was built to be that perfect next step. It delivers the core operational power a growing business needs with the speed, ease-of-use, and affordability that are hallmarks of the SumUp ecosystem. It’s designed to help our merchants scale in an easy and seamless fashion.”

SumUp will continue to enhance Terminal with free, automatic software updates. Upcoming features include barcode scanning, table management, and the ability for multiple Terminal devices to sync and operate together in the same venue. As an integral part of the SumUp ecosystem, the Terminal will also connect and sync seamlessly with SumUp POS systems – enabling streamlined, connected operations across devices and services.

8 Years Later, how is the Aviator game still so popular?

Since its release, Aviator has remained a hugely popular game in the gambling word. It’s so popular that gaming platforms are increasingly offering this crash game to players. In fact, Aviator has sparked a wave of other crash games too, with entire crash game lobbies now available at many top sites. So, while there are many other games and options, what is it that makes Aviator stand out from the crowd? Let’s take a look at the reasons this game has retained its popularity over the years.

Reasons Aviator is great

First of all, the game is simple. While some players look for complexity, others just want a straightforward game that they can enjoy right away. Unlike those who look for a high skill level to do well, those who want something find it in Aviator. Its gameplay is simple, the rules are easy, and it plays smoothly. To illustrate the point further, the game simply requires the player to place a bet, let the plane head upwards, and then choose when to cash out before the plane crashes. This simplicity is hugely appealing, especially to newer players looking to start playing online. It’s accessible on many different platforms too, with Aviator Bet Malawi offering the game to anyone who signs up.

Another reason that it’s so popular is that it is still an exciting game to play. This is even when the game is simple. It’s a stressful game too, with tension when it comes to determining when to cash out. The game is all about determining when to stop letting the plane fly, and hopefully grab any winnings before it crashes. As this occurs at random, and there’s no predicting it, tension and suspense are created. On top of that, the longer the plane is flying, the higher the multiplier, which means that players can get more stressed when trying to get a big win.

Aviator also has a high RTP. Also known as return to player rate, this is the theoretical return to player percentage awarded after a player plays the game. It’s a measure of the likely returns players will get when they play the game hundreds of thousands of times. The higher the RTP, the better it is for players in terms of getting a return on what they have spent. Ideally, games should be 95% or higher. So the 97% RTP of Aviator makes it very attractive. Alongside this, there’s an extremely high maximum payout available as well. In fact, the top payout is 20,000x the bet. Of course, this means that players do need to be playing the hardest level and, to get the biggest payout, play the largest bet size. A £5 bet winning the 20,000x maximum payout would still win you £100,000. Higher bets than that would payout a whole lot more.

The final reason for Aviator being so popular is that it appeals to a wide range of budgets. Importantly, the game has a low starting bet limit, and then goes up to a big top limit. This enables players of all types and budgets to give the game a go. It’s also available in a demo mode. While players won’t win money this way, it does mean that it’s possible to check out the overall gameplay, and get to grips with the way it works. As such, players are able to figure out what works for them, and even to see whether or not they actually like the game before they put their own funds into it. This option further helps to make players interested in playing the game, especially for those who have never played a crash game before and may be uncertain as to how to play.

Conclusion

Aviator is a hugely popular game and has many great features for playing it. Its easily accessible and is found on a growing number of platforms. In fact, this is another feature that makes the game so appealing — it’s available on a range of devices from phones to computers, no matter the operating system. With all these different aspects to consider, it should come as no surprise to see that the game is still popular, and in fact growing in popularity.

 

 

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.

Video

Biometric Authentication in Online Casinos

Biometric authentication is transforming the industry by enhancing security and simplifying the player experience. Using unique traits like fingerprints or facial recognition, it verifies identities with ease. Discover how biometrics brings benefits, tackles challenges, and shapes the future of online casinos, alongside trends like no KYC casinos that prioritize minimal verification for faster access.

What Is Biometric Authentication?

Biometric authentication verifies a user’s identity through distinct physical or behavioral features. Unlike passwords or PINs, biometrics are nearly impossible to copy. Common methods include:

 

  • Fingerprint scanning: Involves analyzing the unique patterns of ridges on a person’s fingers.
  • Facial recognition: Using advanced algorithms to map facial features.
  • Voice recognition: Detecting unique vocal patterns.
  • Iris scanning: Analyzing detailed iris patterns.

 

In online casinos, biometrics make logging in and handling transactions easier, either replacing or improving traditional ways of verifying identity.

Why Biometrics in Online Casinos?

Biometric authentication is important because it offers security, works efficiently, and builds trust. These features explain why more people and businesses are starting to use it.

Enhanced Security

Casinos manage sensitive data, from payment details to personal information. Biometrics reduce unauthorized access risks, as biological traits are far harder to forge than passwords. A stolen password can be guessed, but replicating a fingerprint or iris is a difficult challenge.

Seamless User Experience

Players prioritize convenience. Biometrics eliminate the hassle of remembering passwords or completing lengthy verifications. A quick scan allows instant account access, boosting engagement and satisfaction.

Fraud Prevention

Identity fraud, such as account takeovers, plagues the gambling sector. Biometric systems ensure only the rightful user can log in or authorize transactions, significantly reducing fraud risks.

Privacy-Friendly Verification

Players increasingly prefer privacy-focused platforms that don’t demand much personal information. Casinos that offer no KYC are a clear example, allowing participation without detailed identity checks. These platforms can be further strengthened by integrating biometrics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, which offer secure verification methods without requiring detailed personal documents.

Challenges of Biometric Adoption

Despite its potential, biometric authentication faces obstacles that casinos must address:

Privacy Risks

Biometric data is highly personal, and players may fear breaches or misuse. Casinos need strong encryption and clear data policies to gain user confidence.

Device Compatibility

Not all devices support biometric technology. Older hardware may lack the necessary sensors, potentially alienating some users. Environmental factors, like dim lighting, can also hinder performance.

Regulatory Hurdles

Casinos must closely follow strict regional laws, such as GDPR and CCPA. It’s crucial for biometric systems in these establishments to adhere to these legal frameworks. This compliance is necessary to avoid any possible fines or negative impacts on their reputation.

Implementation Costs

Integrating biometrics requires a large financial commitment due to the need for specialized equipment, sophisticated software, and comprehensive training for staff. These high costs can create significant hurdles for smaller businesses, especially those operating in highly competitive environments where managing high costs is particularly difficult.

The Future of Biometrics in Online Casinos

Biometric technology is progressing and expected to tackle current challenges, which could lead to more widespread use. Major trends consist of:

 

  • Multi-Factor Biometrics: Combining different methods like fingerprints and face scans can make security much stronger and more precise. It’s like using a double lock on your door, adding extra safety and assurance.
  • AI Enhancements: Artificial intelligence boosts how biometric systems work. These systems become faster and more accurate. Imagine having a reliable system that efficiently identifies unusual patterns and maintains optimal performance.
  • Behavioral Biometrics: New and exciting methods like keystroke and walking pattern analysis are emerging. These can keep checking your identity seamlessly as you play games, making sure you stay secure without interruption.
  • Privacy-Centric Solutions: As platforms increasingly focus on privacy, biometrics might soon become the standard method for secure and straightforward access. This approach allows users to safely access necessary resources with minimal effort. It respects privacy needs while providing strong protection for all systems involved.

Conclusion

Biometric authentication is reshaping the online casino landscape by introducing a highly secure and straightforward way to verify user identities, thereby significantly reducing fraud risks. While there are concerns, such as privacy issues and associated costs, the substantial advantages in building trust and enhancing process efficiency are notable. As the online casino sector advances, biometrics are anticipated to become a critical component, especially on platforms where privacy and efficiency are paramount. By integrating biometric technology, casinos can keep a competitive edge in an ever-evolving, technology-driven industry.

Chipolo launches new item tracker the Chipolo POP – Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Extra features available via the free companion Chipolo app:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chipolo POP App

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

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

Amazon UK & US links:

BUY

See our Chipolo reviews

Video Review

HONOR Magic7 Series to Introduce Autopilot AI for Mobile

Global technology brand HONOR announced that its upcoming Magic7 Series will be powered by the revolutionary Snapdragon® 8 Elite Mobile Platform from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. At Snapdragon Summit 2024, HONOR revealed its plans to develop an AI-first ecosystem. On stage, HONOR showcased groundbreaking AI features coming to the Magic7 Series, including the industry’s first on-device AI Agent for an open ecosystem, and the first real-time NPU graphics rendering for mobile gaming. The company also gave a sneak peak of what its new flagship will look like.

“Openness and collaboration are in our DNA,” commented Dr. Ray Guo, CMO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd. “With this collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, we are defining the AI-first ecosystem and revolutionizing user experiences for the AI era. We are thrilled to introduce the industry’s first AI Agent for an open ecosystem, and bring on-device generative AI to gaming powered by NPU computing for the first time. Welcome to the era of Autopilot AI for mobile.”

“We are excited to work with HONOR to shape the future of AI and redefine how people interact with technology,” commented Chris Patrick, SVP and GM of Mobile Handsets, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Together, we’re poised to push the boundaries of AI and create truly transformative experiences.”

Autopilot AI for Mobile: Industry’s first AI Agent for an open ecosystem

 

The HONOR Magic7 Series will debut the industry’s first on-device AI Agent for an open ecosystem. From a simple text or voice prompt, the AI Agent can order takeout on the user’s behalf. With consent, it can learn from users’ habits to make intelligent decisions, for example it can understand if the user prefers their coffee with coconut milk, and order accordingly.

It can also find and cancel unwanted subscriptions across different apps with just a simple command, breaking boundaries between apps and services. The AI Agent can assist across a wide range of uses including travel planning, ticket booking, calendar scheduling, notification management, cross-app file transfer, and more. Set to launch on MagicOS 9.0 on the HONOR Magic7 Series, the AI Agent provides unparalleled convenience and ushers in the era of Autopilot AI.

AI-empowered Hardware: On-device generative AI in gaming powered by NPU computing for the first time

The upcoming Magic7 Series smartphone will bring on-device generative AI to gaming powered by NPU computing for the first time. The new series will introduce the industry’s first real-time AI graphics rendering for mobile gaming. Compared to other smartphones, HONOR’s solution reduces GPU load, leading to lower device temperatures and a better gaming experience with higher image quality.

Seamless AI: MagicRing empowering the Snapdragon ecosystem

Throughout the show, HONOR demonstrated how it is working together with Qualcomm Technologies to define the AI-first ecosystem, aimed to revolutionize user experiences in connectivity, interaction and performance. HONOR showed how its MagicRing technology is empowering the ecosystem across a range of products, apps, and services.

MagicRing makes the multi-device AI experience easier, with its secure and smooth flow of services and information across devices. For example, when using Windows on Snapdragon, Cocreator allows users to produce detailed artwork from simple drawings. Powered by MagicRing, users can seamlessly access Cocreator on their HONOR MagicPad 2, drawing AI masterpieces with their Magic Pencil. They can also use the HONOR Magic V3’s AI Eraser on the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 to experience the convenience of mobile AI across all their devices.

Empowered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite  and MagicOS 9.0, the HONOR Magic7 Series is set to usher in a new era of Autopilot AI with its intuitive AI Agent. The upcoming device will bring on-device generative AI to gaming powered by NPU computing for the first time. Stay tuned for more information at the HONOR Magic7 Series China launch event on 30th October 2024.

See our HONOR reviews 

Google announces new settings and features to help parents, teens and families navigate safer experiences online

Parents  think deeply about how their children should use technology, including how to strike the right balance for time spent online. Every family has different needs and perspectives on this topic. Today, Google is announcing a new setting for Android phones and other devices that empowers parents to use a School time feature.

Helping students focus on learning during school hours

Google regularly engages with parents when designing products, and often hears directly from parents who do not want their children distracted at school but still want to be able to get in touch in case of emergency.

That’s why this year Google has introduced School time on Fitbit Ace LTE smartwatches. Over the next year, School time will be rolled out to even more devices including select Android phones, tablets and wearables including Samsung Galaxy Watches as part of ongoing work to promote productive learning environments.

School time enables parents to set their child’s personal device to a dedicated home screen with limited functionality during school hours, which helps reduce distractions during class. Parents can schedule and select which apps are allowed during School time in Family Link, the parental controls app for Google and YouTube. Parents will also have the option to allow calls or texts from specific contacts.

School time can also be turned on outside of class when it may be time to focus or take a break from screens. For teens who are not supervised by a parent through Family Link, Focus mode on Android devices can be used to prevent notifications and limit distractions during a specific time period.

Additional settings for teens and teen supervision

As children grow into teens, parents may want different supervision options to better reflect their teens’ understanding and use of technology. Recognising that the settings a family wants to use can differ by age and developmental stage Google is continuing to provide tailored settings and experiences:

  • New supervision features for parents of teens are coming to YouTube. In an update rolling out later this summer, parents and teens will be able to link their accounts, enabling parents to gain visibility into their teens’ activity and interests on YouTube.

  • In Family Link, supervision can be enabled for all ages. This helps give parents flexibility to determine the apps, products and experiences their teens can use, while also continuing to monitor their activity and set digital ground rules such as screen time limits or location sharing.

  • Default safety settings for all users under 18. This includes turning SafeSearch on, implementing content restrictions and turning autoplay off on YouTube. Recently introduced new safeguards limit recommendations of videos with content that could be problematic, especially for teens, if viewed in repetition –  such as content related to body image.

Ongoing investment in parental controls

Google is continuously investing in research and development to address the evolving needs of parents and children. By working closely with experts in child development, education and technology, with the goal to help ensure that time online and offline is time well spent.

Evolve IP Launches Anywhere Mobile – Putting The Power Of A Desk Phone Into The Hands Of Mobile Users

Evolve IP has launched a new Fixed Mobile Convergence [FMC] mobile solution, which seamlessly combines desk phone functionality within a personal mobile device, to further accelerate its ‘work from anywhere’ strategy.

The leading UCaaS collaborations provider has announced Anywhere Mobile which uses innovative eSIM technology, designed to streamline business communication into one personal device in a ‘best of both worlds’ scenario.

Powered by technology partner, Tango Networks, the service enables Evolve IP EMEA partners to have flexibility in device usage and encourages a BYOD (bring your own device) culture across a host of industries. This drives efficiencies and convenience by turning any employee’s personal mobile phone into a fully-featured business extension.

Making Business Mobile 

Evolve IP Solutions Director, Scott Rixon says the new addition gives a business direct control over a second line on an employee’s phone, whilst personal communications remain private and secure. All business communications use the existing UC platform and business number.

“This represents a major step forward and offers a host of benefits to organisations and their staff,” he explained. “For example, it allows employees to use the mobile phones they like and are familiar with. It’s about working smarter and more effectively in an increasingly mobile-driven world. As it’s a full extension the presence of a user is visible, and the calls can be recorded and fully reported with reports and on dashboards. This should be thought of as just another way to take a call, supporting all our platform features.”

Anywhere Mobile is simple to use and requires no special apps, phone clients or training. It supports eSIM and physical SIMs. Furthermore, a business can reduce administrative overheads by eliminating personal phone expenses, according to Rixon.

“They can prevent employees from making business calls with personal numbers and retain business contacts when employees leave. Routing calls correctly means having proper call treatment, fewer missed calls and ultimately higher customer satisfaction.”

Work Anywhere Technologies 

He says Anywhere Mobile offers the best of both worlds with added cost savings and convenience.

Rixon concluded: “This is another innovative addition to our Anywhere UCaaS Solutions. Anywhere Mobile is the latest UC solution we are excited to be offering to partners across EMEA after seeing a clear demand and understanding that mobile services should sit within the essential part of any UC offering. Empowering teams to have the tools that allow them to work anywhere.”

Lee Essex, SVP Global Sales and Marketing, Tango Networks, is equally enthusiastic and emphasised: “We are thrilled to partner with and support Evolve IP with their launch of Anywhere Mobile. As leaders in fixed mobile convergence, we want to work with fellow leaders in UCaaS. Evolve IP continue to show themselves as innovators in both technology and their approach to delivering customer focused outcomes. This collaboration underscores our joint commitment to delivering seamless communication solutions on a global scale.”

To learn more, resellers can register to attend a webinar on August 7th by clicking here.

 

Piceasoft’s new AI-powered self-service promotes mobile device circularity by bringing troubleshooting assistant to your pocket

Piceasoft, Europe’s leading provider of mobile device lifecycle solutions, has expanded its Picea® Online mobile circularity platform by developing AI-supported self-service device diagnostics and troubleshooting capabilities. The new self-service features, currently being piloted with a major mobile operator, allow end users to remotely detect and resolve device issues or find the most relevant trade-in or repair options wherever they are.

Self-service capabilities make it easier than ever for end users to access the right services to get the most from their mobile devices. There is no need to visit a physical store; customers can initiate the service from a link or QR code. The platform also enhances mobile operators’ customer experience, allowing them to promote the most relevant add-on services, such as trade-ins and repairs at the right time, uniting mobile operators, trade-in vendors, and repair centers as a full-service ecosystem.

“Picea® Online’s expansion into self-service opens up a whole new workflow for mobile operators and gives them greater access to new business opportunities throughout the entire self-service journey,” says Samuli Ylinen, Product Director at Piceasoft. “The platform performs a personalized, AI-supported device analysis based on the issues experienced by the customer and then recommends resolutions for device problems. These allow operators to promote the most relevant add-on services, for example, trade-in, repair, or insurance, giving operators full control of the entire process through a single platform.”

The solution also promotes device circularity and prevents old phones from being scrapped and ending up as e-waste, as operators are able to offer trade-ins or repairs precisely when the customer needs them. Based on the results of the AI-supported diagnostics, operators can then provide tailored services addressing specific device issues experienced by the consumer.

“The new developments strengthen PiceaOnline as a comprehensive, all-in-one solution for mobile circularity. We’re effectively the middle layer between mobile operators and end customers, as well as the glue holding together all the ecosystem services from partners like trade-in vendors, repair centers, and insurance providers.” Ylinen explains.

Self-service, AI-supported diagnostics, and troubleshooting provide an additional time and cost-saving benefit by significantly reducing the number of No Fault Found (NFF) cases faced by mobile operators, retailers, and repair companies.

“According to our customers, as many as 60%-70% of devices sent for repair are recorded as NFF. NFF cases are very costly for operators and present a significant sustainability issue from the unnecessary shipping of devices that could have been fixed with the right self-service diagnostics,” Ylinen explains. “Most often, these could be avoided if users were guided in the diagnostics phase to perform simple steps like rebooting their device, updating to the latest software, or freeing up some of the devices’ memory.”

Increasing the supply of used mobile devices

Despite high and increasing demand, the supply of used mobile devices in the European market remains low. As this demand continues to grow, the market’s success depends upon increasing the supply of second-hand devices, for example, through effective trade-in programs.

“From a sustainability and mobile circularity point of view, self-service has an extremely high potential to drive change,” says Samuli Ylinen, Product Director at Piceasoft. “There’s a severe shortage of second-hand mobile devices, but there is significant, and increasing consumer demand. One of the major challenges holding back device circularity is the fragmented nature of the process for trade-ins. By supporting customer-driven processes, operators can significantly incentivize trade-ins by providing the best deals for the customers, which helps put more sought-after second-hand devices back into the market.”