Tag: #electronics

European electronics under geopolitical pressure: why industrial sovereignty matters

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

Europe’s Declining Electronics Manufacturing Base

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

Strategic Vulnerabilities in Defense Readiness

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

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

Broader Geopolitical and Economic Pressures

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

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

Why Industrial Sovereignty Matters

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

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

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

Gadget Shopping Made Easy: How PriceHub Helps You Choose Electronics Smarter and Cheaper

In today’s hyper-connected world, electronics have become an extension of our lives. From smartwatches and wireless earbuds to tablets, laptops, and smart home devices—gadgets power our work, communication, entertainment, and even fitness. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right product without overpaying or falling for clever marketing?

That’s where PriceHub, a modern and intelligent price aggregator, steps in. More than just a comparison tool, PriceHub helps you navigate the crowded electronics marketplace, save money, and buy smarter. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast looking for the latest gadget or just need a reliable pair of headphones, PriceHub gives you everything you need to make the best decision—fast.

Let’s dive into how this platform works and how it makes buying electronics online easier, cheaper, and more transparent than ever before.

One Platform. All the Options.

The heart of PriceHub’s value lies in its ability to bring together offers from hundreds of online stores into one easy-to-use website. Searching for a new smartwatch or Bluetooth speaker? PriceHub instantly shows you real-time prices from major retailers like Amazon, Currys, Argos, eBay, and smaller tech shops across the UK.

You don’t have to open 10 browser tabs or manually compare offers—PriceHub does all the heavy lifting, presenting every deal side by side, sorted by price, popularity, or delivery speed. It’s a single source of truth in a sea of digital noise.

Powerful Filters for Precision Buying

Gadget shopping isn’t one-size-fits-all. Someone looking for a powerful gaming laptop needs very different features than someone shopping for a travel-friendly tablet. PriceHub understands that, offering powerful filtering tools to narrow down your search by exactly what matters to you.

You can filter electronics by:

  • Brand and model

  • Technical specifications (processor, storage, resolution, battery life)

  • Customer rating

  • Price range

  • New, refurbished, or used condition

  • Availability of free delivery or warranty

Looking for noise-canceling headphones under £150 with Bluetooth 5.0? Or a 4K drone with a camera under 500 grams? PriceHub helps you pinpoint products that match your needs and budget in seconds.

Detailed Product Comparisons and Tech Specs

One of PriceHub’s standout features is its product comparison tool, which lets you place gadgets side by side to compare specs, features, and pricing. Want to see how the latest Fitbit compares with a Garmin watch? Or how the newest MacBook Air stacks up against a Surface Laptop?

With this tool, you get technical transparency, not marketing fluff. You’ll understand which device has the better display, faster processor, longer battery life, or more reliable connectivity—so you can make your decision with total confidence.

Price History Graphs and Alerts

Prices for gadgets can fluctuate wildly—especially around holidays, seasonal sales, or new product launches. PriceHub includes historical price graphs that show how a product’s price has changed over time, helping you decide when to buy.

Even better, you can set price alerts: just enter your target price, and PriceHub will notify you the moment a product drops to that level. This means you can wait for the perfect moment to make your purchase and avoid overpaying by £50, £100, or more.

Verified User Reviews and Expert Insights

When you’re spending serious money on electronics, you want to know what you’re getting. PriceHub combines user reviews and expert summaries in one place, so you can quickly read what real buyers think—both the pros and the cons.

You can also browse gadgets by popularity, based on user satisfaction and sales data, making it easy to discover what’s currently trending—and why.

Refurbished Tech: Sustainable and Affordable

Not every gadget needs to be brand new. Many electronic items—like tablets, smartwatches, and gaming consoles—are available as refurbished or certified pre-owned, often in like-new condition and with full warranties.

PriceHub makes it easy to find these listings and compare them directly with new versions, so you can choose between saving money and buying new—based on your own priorities.

Why Gadget Lovers Choose PriceHub

Whether you’re shopping for your next GoPro, a smart doorbell, or a robot vacuum, PriceHub helps you cut through the noise. It doesn’t just show you prices—it shows you value. It gives you the tools to compare, the data to buy smart, and the confidence to choose the product that’s right for your lifestyle.

Here’s what sets PriceHub apart:

  • Aggregates all major UK tech retailers

  • Offers smart filters and side-by-side comparisons

  • Tracks price history and sends price drop alerts

  • Includes verified reviews and expert summaries

  • Highlights refurbished and eco-friendly options

  • Helps users save time, stress, and money

Final Thoughts: Your New Favourite Tech Assistant

In an age of digital overload, PriceHub brings clarity. It’s a tool designed not just for bargain hunters, but for anyone who wants to make confident, well-informed decisions about their tech purchases.

Whether you’re buying a gift, upgrading your gear, or just browsing for inspiration, PriceHub turns the complex world of electronics into something simple and enjoyable. It’s not just about finding the best gadget—it’s about finding the right gadget at the best possible price.

So the next time you’re shopping for electronics, start with PriceHub—and finish with a smarter deal.

Handy octopus robot can adapt to its surroundings

Scientists inspired by the octopus’s nervous system have developed a robot that can decide how to move or grip objects by sensing its environment.

The team from the University of Bristol’s Faculty of Science and Engineering designed a simple yet smart robot which uses fluid flows of air or water to coordinate suction and movement as octopuses do with hundreds of suckers and multiple arms.

The study, published today in the journal Science Robotics, shows how a soft robot can use suction flow not just to stick to things, but also to sense its environment and control its own actions—just like an octopus. A single suction system enables the robot to grab delicate items, sense whether it’s touching air, water, or a rough surface, and even predict how hard something is pulling on it—all at once, without needing a central computer.

Lead author Tianqi Yue explained: “Last year, we developed an artificial suction cup that mimicked how octopuses stick to rocks using soft materials and water sealing.

“This research brings that work on, from using a suction cup like an octopus sucker to connect to objects to using ‘embodied suction intelligence’ – mimicking key aspects of the neuromuscular structure of the octopus in soft robotic systems.”

The suction intelligence works at two levels: by coupling suction flow with local fluidic circuitry, soft robots can achieve octopus-like low-level embodied intelligence, including gently grasping delicate objects, adaptive curling and encapsulating objects of unknown geometries. By decoding the pressure response from a suction cup, robots can achieve high-level perception including contact detection, classification of environment and surface roughness, as well as prediction of interactive pulling force.

This simple and low-cost suction intelligence could lead to a new generation of soft robots that are safer, smarter and more energy-efficient. Potential uses include picking fruit gently in agriculture, handling fragile items in factories, anchoring medical tools inside the human body, or creating soft toys and wearable tools that can interact safely with people.

The team are currently working on making the system smaller and more robust for real-world use. They also aim to combine it with smart materials and AI to improve its adaptability and decision-making in complex environments.

“It’s fascinating how a simple suction cup, with no electronics inside, can feel, think and act—just like an octopus arm,” concluded Tianqi. “This could help robots become more natural, soft and intuitive to use.”

Paper:

‘Embodying soft robots with octopus-inspired hierarchical suction intelligence’ by Tianqi Yue, Chenghua Lu, Kailuan Tang, Qiukai Qi, Zhenyu Lu, Loong Yi Lee, Hermes Bloomfield-Gadȇlha, and Jonathan Rossiter in Science Robotics.

The Technology Behind Modern Roller Shutters

Roller shutters have long been a staple in commercial, industrial, and residential security systems. Traditionally, they were operated manually and served a purely functional purpose: protecting doors, windows, and storefronts from intruders and the elements. However, like many building components, roller shutters have undergone a significant technological transformation. Today, modern roller shutters are equipped with advanced features that enhance security, automation, energy efficiency, and user convenience. This read explores the key technologies powering the evolution of roller shutters.

 

  1. Electric Motors and Automation Systems

Motorized Operation

One of the most significant technological advancements in roller shutters is the integration of electric motors. Electric motors eliminate the need for manual lifting and closing, allowing users to operate shutters with the push of a button. These motors come in different sizes and capacities, depending on the weight and size of the shutter according to Dublin Roller Shutters. 

Tubular Motors

The most commonly used motors in roller shutters are tubular motors, which fit inside the shutter axle, keeping the design compact and unobtrusive. Tubular motors offer smooth and quiet operation and can be easily integrated with remote control systems and smart home hubs.

 

  1. Remote Controls and Wireless Systems

Handheld Remote Control

Basic motorized shutters are often operated using a simple handheld remote control. These remotes use radio frequency (RF) technology to send signals to the shutter motor, allowing the user to open, close, or stop the shutter at any point.

Wireless Wall Switches

In addition to handheld remotes, wireless wall-mounted switches can be installed for convenience. These switches are battery-powered and communicate wirelessly with the motor, requiring no rewiring or invasive installation.

 

  1. Smart Home Integration

Compatibility with Smart Home Systems

Modern roller shutters can be integrated into smart home security ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This integration allows users to control shutters via voice commands or smartphone apps, even from remote locations.

Mobile App Control

Dedicated mobile apps give users real-time control over their shutters. These apps allow scheduling, remote access, and status monitoring, providing enhanced convenience and peace of mind, especially when away from the property.

IFTTT Automation

Through platforms like IFTTT (If This Then That), shutters can be programmed to react to other smart devices. For example, shutters can automatically close when the smart thermostat detects a certain temperature or when security cameras sense movement.

 

  1. Timers and Scheduling Functions

Programmable Timers

Advanced shutter systems include programmable timers that let users schedule opening and closing times. This feature is particularly useful for commercial premises, allowing businesses to automate security based on business hours.

Sunlight and Temperature Sensors

Some systems integrate sunlight and temperature sensors, allowing shutters to operate based on environmental conditions. For example, shutters may close during the hottest part of the day to keep interiors cool, reducing the need for air conditioning.

 

  1. Safety and Obstacle Detection Technology

Obstacle Detection Sensors

Safety is a critical concern in motorized roller shutter systems. Obstacle detection sensors automatically stop the shutter’s motion if an object or person is in the way. This prevents accidents and reduces wear and tear on the motor.

Auto-Reverse Function

Many systems include an auto-reverse function: when resistance is detected during closure, the shutter will reverse direction. This is particularly important in residential settings or places frequented by children and pets.

 

  1. Battery Backup and Power Failure Protection

Battery Backup Systems

Power outages can disable motorized shutters, but battery backup systems ensure they remain operational during blackouts. These systems automatically switch to battery power if the main supply is interrupted.

Manual Override

In the event of motor failure or a prolonged power outage, a manual override system—often a crank handle—allows users to operate the shutter manually, ensuring continued functionality.

 

  1. Noise Reduction and Vibration Control

Brush and Seal Technology

Advanced brush and seal systems reduce the noise produced by moving shutters. These components also minimize vibrations, making roller shutters quieter and more suitable for residential environments.

Soundproof Slats

Some manufacturers offer slats with soundproofing materials inside. These slats not only reduce operational noise but also help insulate the property against external sound pollution.

 

  1. Insulation and Energy Efficiency Technology

Insulated Slats

Modern roller shutters often include insulated slats made from aluminium and injected with polyurethane foam. These slats improve energy efficiency by providing thermal insulation, helping to maintain indoor temperatures.

Thermal Break Technology

Some premium systems include thermal breaks—barriers within the shutter slats that prevent heat transfer. This enhances energy performance and reduces reliance on heating and cooling systems.

 

  1. Security Enhancements and Locking Mechanisms

Electronic Locking Systems

Beyond simple latches, many roller shutters are now equipped with electronic locking mechanisms. These locks engage automatically when the shutter is closed and can only be disengaged via remote control or smart system access.

Anti-Lift Devices

To prevent burglars from prying open the shutter from the bottom, anti-lift sensors and mechanical devices automatically engage if unauthorized lifting is detected.

Alarm Integration

Roller shutters can be connected to alarm systems or CCTV cameras. If tampering is detected, an alarm can be triggered, and the system can notify the property owner or security personnel via SMS or app notification.

 

  1. Materials and Construction Technology

Lightweight, High-Strength Alloys

Modern roller shutters often use lightweight yet high-strength materials such as extruded aluminium or galvanized steel. These materials are corrosion-resistant and durable, ideal for long-term use in various environments.

Powder Coating Technology

Advanced powder coating techniques not only improve the aesthetic appeal of roller shutters but also increase resistance to weather, corrosion, and UV damage.

The Takeaway

Roller shutters have come a long way from their humble beginnings. Thanks to significant advances in technology, they now offer much more than just physical security. Motorized operation, smart home integration, safety sensors, and energy-efficient materials have all contributed to making roller shutters smarter, safer, and more user-friendly.

As the demand for home automation and security grows, roller shutters will likely continue to evolve—integrating AI, machine learning, and even predictive environmental responses. Whether for residential use or commercial applications, investing in technologically advanced roller shutters ensures enhanced convenience, safety, and long-term cost savings.

TechLabs, Ireland’s only tech, electronics and lifestyle consumer expo is coming to Dublin’s RDS

From the creators of GamerFest, Ireland’s biggest gaming and esports festival, comes TechLabs, the country’s only expo showcasing the latest advancements in consumer tech, electronics and lifestyle.  Taking place in Dublin’s RDS on Saturday, 18th October, TechLabs is set to be Ireland’s answer to Las Vegas’ CES.

Featuring leading global tech brands showcasing the latest in consumer electronics and smart technology, TechLabs is set to welcome over 10,000 tech-savvy visitors to the state-of-the-art exhibition highlighting the industry’s most cutting edge innovations.

Focusing on five key pillars, TechLabs is a free to attend event that connects consumers with the latest, most enhanced digital tech from around the world:

Urban Mobility – Discover next-generation urban mobility solutions including high performance cars and motorbikes, EVs, drones, e-scooters and e-bikes

Health and Fitness – Join the revolution of personalised health with the latest in wearable health trackers, smart fitness equipment and healthcare solutions

Audiovisual – Your gateway to entertainment with smart TVs, projectors, sound systems, headsets, home cinema, photography and action cameras

Connectivity – Get hands on with the latest smartphones, tablets, smart glasses and ultra-fast 5G connectivity that keeps everything – and everyone – connected

Computers and Gaming – Check out the very latest in PCs, high performance laptops, gaming consoles and immersive VR experiences

The event also sees the launch of the Innovation Stage, where visitors to TechLabs can experience live product demos, exclusive product launches, and expert reviews of innovative devices. It’s the go-to platform for discovering what’s new, what’s next, and what’s redefining the world of smart technology.

With 81% of Irish households embracing smart technology (according to a survey by European retailer Reichelt Elektronik), TechLabs is the perfect opportunity for tech lovers to engage with forward-thinking brands. Whether you’re a seasoned gadget fanatic or just curious about the latest in smart living, the event has something for everyone. Techlabs also comes just in time for those looking to trial products ahead of Black Friday sales and the Christmas shopping season.

TechLabs is created by the organisers of GamerFest, Ireland’s leading games convention which has welcomed over 35,000 gamers to the RDS, and the NEXUS Games Conference, a leading games industry conference bringing together global decision makers and industry leaders.

CEO of TechLabs, Stuart Dempsey, says: “We’re hugely excited to announce TechLabs, a groundbreaking, immersive new expo designed for everyone who lives and breathes technology. From next-generation smart TVs and cutting-edge wearable fitness devices to the latest in urban mobility, TechLabs will showcase the latest tech innovations ahead of the Black Friday and Christmas period.”

 

www.techlabsexpo.ie

NAD Electronics Introduces the C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier

NAD Electronics, a leading manufacturer in high-performance audio, announces the launch of its new Classic Series amplifier, the C 379 HybridDigital™ DAC Amplifier at the HIGH END Munich International Audio Show. The C 379 builds on NAD’s commitment to innovation and value-driven performance with a ground-breaking design featuring a carefully engineered Class D output stage, industry-leading ESS SABRE® DAC, and the second generation of Modular Design Construction (MDC) technology for upgrades and expandability. The NAD C 379 will be available at the end of June 2024 for a suggested retail price of US $1,099 / EUR€ 1,199 / GBP £899. 

The NAD C 379 utilises a customised UcD output stage with HybridDigital technology to deliver 80 watts of Continuous Power (into 8 and 4 Ohms) and a remarkable 120 watts of Dynamic Power (4 Ohms), all with virtually no noise or distortion. The C 379 can also be bridged with the C 268 Stereo Power Amplifier in a fully balanced configuration for 300 watts continuously and over 500 watts instantaneously to provide maximum power and performance for the most demanding tracks.

The NAD C 379’s highly efficient power supply consumes less than half the power of conventional amplifiers in its class while also providing clean power to all amplification stages. This energy-saving supply and balanced design also provides near perfect regulation of voltage across a wide range of conditions. 

“The NAD C 379 stands in a class of its own, integrating of every essential component of a high-performance music system and accommodating all music sources from vinyl to digital streaming,” said Cas Oostvogel, Product Manager of NAD Electronics. “With its meticulous, low-noise circuits and the ability to enhance both its features and power output, this Class D integrated is a testament to the legacy of NAD’s Classic Series and our relentless pursuit of sonic excellence at an affordable price.”

The digital circuity is built around the critically acclaimed ESS SABRE® ES9028 DAC, the industry’s highest performance 32-bit digital-to-analogue converter with unprecedented dynamic range and ultra-low distortion. 

Featuring the second generation of NAD’s Modular Design Construction, MDC 2, the  C 379 and its two expansion slots allow users to upgrade the amplifier’s capabilities with emerging A/V technologies and additional features through the module, including BluOS high-resolution multi-room streaming and Dirac Live Room Correction. The available MDC2 BluOS-D module further enables seamless integration with BluOS, Apple AirPlay 2, and two-way aptX HD Bluetooth. 

With BluOS, users can connect the C 379 to their home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and experience the most advanced multi-room wireless music management system with        24 bit/192kHz resolution. Controlled through the BluOS app for smartphone, tablet, or desktop, BluOS manages your digital music collection and connects to over 20 high-quality streaming music services including Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music, Spotify, and more.

Additionally, the NAD C 379 is equipped with a variety of analogue and digital connectivity including aptX HD Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, MM Phono stage, and two independent subwoofer outputs. The integrated amplifier also includes a built-in separate headphone amplifier with low output impedance and high output voltage capability, allowing it to drive a wide range of headphones.   

Join them at the HIGH END Munich International Audio Show from May 9-12, 2024, in Rooms D107 and D108 located in Atrium 3.1 at the MOC Event Centre and experience the NAD   C 379 HybridDigital DAC Amplifier.

FEATURES AND DETAILS: 

 

  • Customised HybridDigital UcD Amplifier with Stereo and Bridge Modes 
  • 2 x 80 Watts per channel of Continuous Power (8 and 4 Ohms)
  • 2 x 120 Watts per channel of Dynamic Power (4 Ohms)
  • 1 x 300W, in bridge mode
  • Industry-leading ESS SABRE® 32-bit/384kHz DAC
  • Dual MDC 2 Ports for Future Upgrades and Expanded Features
  • MM Phono Stage with Accurate RIAA Equalization and Ultra-Low Noise
  • Built-in Separate Headphone Amplifier for Low and High Impedance
  • HDMI eARC, Optical Digital and Coax Digital Inputs
  • Dual independent Subwoofer Outputs

Swappie appoints new country manager – Luísa Vasconcelos e Sousa

Swappie, Europe’s foremost brand in refurbished smartphones, is delighted to introduce Luísa Vasconcelos e Sousa as the Country Manager for Ireland. Armed with a degree in Business Management and a specialization in Digital Transformation, Luísa brings a wealth of experience from her years at Facebook’s European headquarters (Meta) in Dublin, coupled with a diverse background in banking and marketing.

With a mission to promote conscious choices and habits, Luísa joins Swappie with a dedication to reducing the environmental impact of technology and strengthening the circular economy through the promotion of refurbished devices. Her strategic role aligns seamlessly with Swappie’s ongoing commitment to making refurbished tech mainstream, exemplified by the company’s current #Women4SustainableTech initiative.

Launched in celebration of International Women’s Day, #Women4SustainableTech underscores Swappie’s dedication to gender diversity and empowerment within the tech industry. Luísa’s role as the Country Manager for Ireland plays a pivotal part in this initiative, adding momentum to Swappie’s commitment to fostering an inclusive

Luísa Vasconcelos e Sousa, commented: “Working at Swappie is an incredible opportunity to be part of a movement towards more sustainable technology. I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive Swappie’s mission in Ireland, encouraging conscious choices that positively impact our environment.”

Luísa Vasconcelos e Sousa

As Swappie continues to celebrate women making strides in sustainable tech through the #Women4SustainableTech campaign, Luísa’s dynamic background and commitment to sustainability position her as a key player in furthering the company’s goals. With Luísa at the helm, Swappie looks forward to making a lasting impact in Ireland, fostering a more connected and sustainable society.

Electronics contribute to the largest and fastest-growing waste stream worldwide, and less than 15% of phones are recycled. Swappie aims to make it easier for people to purchase environmentally friendly, responsible smartphones by closing the loop on refurbished electronics and making circular smartphones accessible to the masses. Swappie controls its entire value chain, including carrying out all refurbishments at its factories in Helsinki, Tallinn and Leipzig, to ensure that the phones consumers receive are refurbished to the highest possible standards using the latest technology. 

5 Key Drivers Behind the Embedded PC Boom

Living alongside smart devices has become a convenient and comfortable practice for all of us, but little do we realize the sophisticated performance that lies within. Embedded systems are sought after in almost every industry today as they vastly improve communication and connectivity with multiple devices and networks. Though many industries have suffered huge setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact has been neutral on the embedded systems market. According to a recent survey, Global Embedded Systems Market is estimated to reach $291.25 billion by 2025, registering a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period of 2019 to 2025. So what are the factors propelling the demand for such embedded systems? Here are five key drivers behind the boom:

 

1. Rising Demand for Hybrid Vehicles

Automatic transmission, anti-lock braking systems, keyless entry or security systems, and drift detection are examples of some applications controlled by embedded systems in a vehicle. However, recently, there is a growing demand for vehicles outfitted with car-to-road communication facilities and efficient navigation. Furthermore, shifting focus towards hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and electric vehicles (EV) to control emission is estimated to further fuel the embedded systems market growth.

 

2. Smart Consumer Electronics

Embedded systems have found their way into our everyday life through integration into various consumer electronics. Appliances such as home security systems, fridges, and ovens make use of embedded systems which aid in collecting user input, info regarding the functioning and modification of appliances, and controlling the appliance itself. This continued rise in demand for smart electronics is expected to drive the embedded systems market growth in the next five years.

 

3. Advancement of Healthcare Systems

Various equipment in the medical industry incorporates embedded systems. From scanning machines to imaging systems to sonography equipment, all machinery is built around and controlled by integrated networks. Even handheld and portable medical equipment used to monitor essential signs make wide use of embedded systems. All these advancements in healthcare are anticipated to propel the demand for embedded systems applications at a CAGR of 8.35% from 2016 to 2021. 

 

4. Need for High Precision Military Devices

Embedded systems are incorporated across a plethora of military applications such as intelligence, communications, and reconnaissance. As military tech like UAVs moves beyond outdated surveillance methods, the demand for more processing power, secure communication, remote control, and I/O flexibility has increased. Companies such as ADL Embedded Solutions are geared towards building better, more powerful, and durable embedded systems that can be deployed onto the field, and this further facilitates the growth of the market.

 

5. Continued Expansion of IoT

Adoption and expansion of IoT and connected devices are on the rise across all industries worldwide. Countless vendors are making significant efforts to provide interoperability in a range of connected devices, gateways, entertainment systems, and smart homes. This has increased the demand for embedded computer boards such as SBCs, COMs, and stand-alone boards. Therefore, the rising demand for IoT devices is expected to foster the growth of the global embedded systems market. 

 

With embedded systems becoming a significant part of our lives and being integrated across all applications, it’s safe to assume that the boom of the embedded systems market is here to stay.  

Call to love electronic products longer as E-Waste hits record high. #EWaste #WEEE #Recycling #InternationalEWasteDay

Ireland’s largest recycling scheme has called on consumers to boost the lifespan of unwanted electronics by repairing them or passing them on to others.

The call to recognise the potential left in electronic products comes from WEEE Ireland as International E-Waste Day reveals that the raw material value of global e-waste in 2019 was worth approximately €50.8bn, the equivalent value of 2.9 million electric cars.

Electronic waste is the fastest growing waste stream in the world. It is estimated that a new high of 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste were generated across the planet in 2019.

E-waste is projected to reach an incredible 75 million tonnes by 2030, which is 9 kg for every person in the world. Every house has an average of 72 electrical products, 11 of which are broken or not being used anymore.

International E-Waste Day is organised by the WEEE Forum, an international association speaking for 40 not-for-profit e-waste producer compliance schemes, including WEEE Ireland whose annual conference ‘Financing the Future, the WEEE Circular Economy’ will also take place virtually today to coincide with International E-Waste Day.

“It is, essentially, about loving our electronic items for longer,” said Leo Donovan, Chief Executive of WEEE Ireland.

“Before putting an electronic item to recycling we would ask people to consider if it can be repaired or if someone else might find a use for it. Research shows that 81% of all requests for product repair results in successful fixes, extending the product life. 

“We are making the request in support of a transition towards a zero carbon more circular economy, which aims to keep our resources in circulation for longer, reducing waste and easing demand for new raw materials used to manufacture new electronic goods.

“If we really want to progress to a circular economy in Ireland, we need to look further up the waste hierarchy and that may mean including more criteria such as durability and repairability in the information provided to customers.

“Through a variety of methods we should look at keeping suitable products in use for as long as possible, either by the original user, flowing to new owners or utilising repair services.”

WEEE Ireland was the second-best performing recycling scheme in Europe in 2019, with 38,594 tonnes of waste electrical items and the equivalent of over 44 million used AA portable batteries collected.

A new national record of 10.89kg of e-waste was recycled per head of population last year by WEEE Ireland, on behalf of over 1,114 members and partners – a rise of 6.2% on 2018.

Alongside International E-waste Day, International Repair Day takes place this Saturday, October 17 to encourage people to reduce the amount of goods discarded of every year and use authorised repair engineers for quality and safe repair of home electrical equipment.

By visiting RepairMyStuff.ie consumers can access an online directory of repair professionals nationwide.

As well as discussing initiatives to encourage consumers to prolong the use of their electronics today’s WEEE Ireland conference highlights the future requirement for eco-modulation.

This is a possible future economic instrument to put the circular economy in practice by providing a financial incentive to companies to redesign products to reduce their environmental impacts.