Tag: featured

Review – The SOUL Electronics Prime Wireless Earphones #tech #earphones

SOUL Electronics have a really nice catalogue of earphones and headphones and today we review another pair from the company which are really nice and come well presented like any product so far we have tried out over the last two weeks..

UNBOXING

Presentation once again is nice here and you get some extras to boot included and a nice leather pouch to keep the earphones safe when not in use, this is something getting more common with manufacturers and its good to see. On top of that the build quality is excellent once again.

 

Build Quality

Again great like our other review pieces we checked out. Metal buds which are solid and lets not forget these are once again magnetised so they can stick together whilst sitting around your neck which keeps them together,the inline control unit is also solid yet housed in plastic with rubber buttons which are nice and clicky so you know you have hit the right key,it might take a few hours to get familiar with the keys blindly. Also the cable is flat which means no tangles this is good and again many manufacturers are following suit here.

Wearability

These perhaps are more ideal for the runner or even one to just sit at home or commute they rest around the neck and you will forget they are there and with the several rubber caps that come inside you will find a size that fits you these sat better on my ears than the previous pair I tried out.

Connectivity 

Pairing here is simple yet again took a few seconds but unlike the SOUL XT you can’t select an individual side for preference but again they are not the target here but from having that choice I just thought I would mention it as its useful to have that ability if its something that suits you best. You do get audio signals here again when pairing and turning on and off etc.

 

Sound Quality

Overall it was a good experience at all volume levels, This time around we also have more control with the inline controls to change volume level unlike the SOUL XT I found these to be louder than the XT and the sound is really crisp and clear they really do pack a punch these for me and when I say loud they are loud unlike others I have tried,they did not disappoint with highs,lows and mids even someone coming from a cheap pair of earphones would see the difference in sound level and quality here.

Battery Life 

Battery life again good here with around 5/5.5 hours per charge which is the average these days and ample enough for mo, you most people especially those on a daily commute but I would still recommend charging each night if you are those users just to be safe and again it depends on what your personal usage is here.

Overal these are quite good for the money and the build quality here is another key point,the magnetised buds is also good to ensure you do not lose them,you cant go wrong for the price really and for one not to favour in-ears in general I liked them asa whole and especially the punch they pack at max volume,thought that’s a preference I am known for I do not suggest you have at max because everyone’s noise tolerance is different and I just like loud.

BUY HERE 

 

 

Nokia 5 and Nokia 8 December Security Patch now available in Ireland #Nokia5 #Nokia8

Yesterday the December update hit the Nokia 3 and just now the Nokia 5 and 8 has recieved the monthly update so check your device now. The update is 87.6 MB so be sure to connect to your Wi-Fi  Also we have just got the go ahead on Android Oreo beta for the Nokia 5 which we mentioned yesterday so updates galore from HMD Global.  Keep up the good work.

The Oreo Update is pretty substantial and weighs in at 1697.0 MB, This will take time and just sit back and let the update download. New features to the Oreo Update are Picture-In-Picture, Notification dots, December Update included, Google Play protect security plans, Autofill Passwords and a faster boot up time also not this update is only availble via Wi-Fi.

 

Review – ADONIT PRO 3 A precise analog stylus for writing and drawing. #Tech #Adonit

The ADONIT PRO 3 looks like a pen, feels like a pen but is designed to ensure an accurate precise contact point with all touchscreen devices with stability inbuilt. The Pro 3 is slim and is well balanced with a metal body.

Adonit is already a well-established and popular brand in both Europe and the UK. It’s perfect for business users, frequent travelers and for university and school work and a stylish and neat accessory. A great additional gift too if Santa is delivering an iPad this year!

 

Product details:

Colour Name: Silver

  • Product Dimensions: 12.6 x 0.9 x 0.9 cm; 18 g
  • Boxed-product Weight: 18 g

Available in 4 colours: Silver, Black, Midnight Blue, Rose Gold

 

Features:

SIMPLY ACCURATE

The new precision disc not only creates a precise contact point with the screen to write exactly where you place it, but also has been engineered into one piece for added stability.

MAGNETIC CAP

Quickly protect your stylus with the satisfying click of the new magnetic cap closure.

TEXTURED GRIP

Pro 3 features a textured grip etched onto the barrel of the stylus. This keeps the stylus right where you want it when sketching or taking notes.

CLIP-TO-CARRY

The solid aluminium stylus has a built-in clip, so you can keep track of it on the go.

COMPATIBILITY

Pro 3 works on all touchscreen devices and is always ready to go. No batteries required.

DESIGN

Clip and carry Pro 3’s slim, balanced, metal body for on-the-go convenience.

The Pro 3 works with most capacitive touch screen devices including: iPad Pro, iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab S 10.5, Samsung Galaxy Note 3, Google Nexus 7, Google Nexus 9, Kindle Fire 7, most Android Tablets and Windows Tablets.

My favourite part is the CLIP-TO-CARRY which allows it to be carried in a shirt pocket securely. The Magnetic clip has a cool sound as is clicks into place. The Disc-tip Styluses allows for viewing of the writing / drawing as you go over the touchscreen. The stylus does not scratch the screen due to disc type and flat surface on the tip. This is a niche device that looks and feels good for notes and sketches with a precise contact point for all touchscreen devices.

ADONIT Pro 3 is available in Black, Silver, Midnight Blue and Rose Gold for £29.99 via​ ​Amazon​. See more on Facebook @ Adonit Europe.

Review – The SOUL XT-XS Superior High Performance True Wireless Earphones. #Earphones

This is my first pair of earphones of this kind without the wires and come tucked in its own little charging box which is pretty cool too and it also keeps them save and sound and also charged which is great for those on the go, Given you have a small box so to speak to carry its small and compact so its not a bulky object to be stowing in your pocket its pretty neat and to add to the flavour it magentised inside so your little earbuds wont be knocking around inside it either ..

Unboxing showcase of the XT -XS RUN FREE PRO HD and Prime Wireless 

Build Quality

Excellent all round including its charge case, They have a generic design of your typical in-ear experience and constructed mostly of plastic but they do sport an IPX4 rating which is basically sweatproof  and seeing they are so light they would withstand plenty of drops,they are housed in plastic but have a rubber type touch coating which does give some addtional grip, On both earbuds there is visible connectors which do the obvious so it would be advisable to try keep dirt away from the contacts also note they are magnetised so they can stick to each other too so you wont loose them.

Wearability

Having used these for a while I did find they did fall out the odd time perhaps not the right size for me even with the included extra sized buts included in the package but I typically suffer from random drop-outs on similar buds but mostly on excessive workouts or running. The only fear I would have here is that if one fell out in an awkward place like a shore for example its gone whereas a wired offering similar to the Prime for example would be a safer bet if dropped on not loosing one of the earbuds.

Connectivity

A slightly different setup to most as you can pair separately ie one side or another or both,this is a handy option meaning you can just use one at a time for your car or office for example or you can sport both this will depend on the individual and their specific needs,for me having the choice was a better option meaning I could chose which side I want when I want or just use both depending on what I am doing. There is of course voice enabled notifications called out to you on pairing etc which helps being so small.

 

 

Sound Quality

They sound pretty good considered the price they come at compared to other packages on offer knocking out all mids,highs and lows pefectly fine I am no expert in Audio but for the general user whom is not seeking the ultimate definition of sound will enjoy them and I have tested more than enough earphones and headphones to tell you when something is basically brutal when it comes to dishing out sounds,these are not brutal.

Controls

When it comes to volume your out of luck for changing this from the buds themselves your are strictly limited to using your paired device be it a phone or tablet,with no cable and their size you can forgive this caveat so you will need to use your connected device to change the tone and volume its not all that bad and its not much trouble. There is one button on each side and both clicky with feeback so you know you have done a command, you have the usual play,pause,skip track options but you can hang up on calls and connect to Google Assistant if you use it.

Battery Life

Seems to be on par with their claim which is around 2 Hours on one single charge which might put people off but dont forget your charging box provides you with more on the go up to 4 times in fact so that would be plenty for those who may use them on a commute to work for example.

Charging box

It is limited to what it does as to where your charge status is,there is a blue LED that will flash but to let you know they are charging also on the buds they host a light in either Blue or White to let you know their status.

THE SPECS 

Overall thoughts

For the money you will be happy and this is the trend now with more manufacturers offering earbuds like this and there is many on offer today but they command a higher price offering similar in specs etc. Not the loudest in the world but not quite either but then again my preference is really loud and always has been but in a quite enviroment you will be happy with what they offer,outdoors you might notice more external noise but everyones ears are different, For the price you get a great prodcut if you want something simple,looks good gives great sound these are for you but for those on an excessive fitness regimes may want to consider the PRIME WIRELESS but having said that its just perhaps my ears that have the problem keeping them in.

BUY HERE 

 

What’s in store for enterprise messaging in 2018? #AI #AR #VR & #IoT top of the list.

The past few years have been transformative for enterprise messaging. Organizations across the world are embracing team communication and collaboration platforms such as Flock and realizing efficiency gains.  Flock’s CEO Bhavin Turakhia shares his predictions for the year ahead.

Plus, with distributed teams becoming more common, enterprise messengers have become virtual meeting grounds and office spaces for teams everywhere. And with the launch and availability of APIs for almost every service, it’s become much more easier for enterprises to use and customize messaging apps. Bots have also become a key component of messaging platforms – both for personal use and in the enterprise.

All this however, is just the preamble to the sea of change that is upon us. I see the year ahead bringing in even more changes and improvements to the way we communicate and work together.

New technologies – AI, AR, VR and IoT

New technologies such as artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality and the internet of things promise to usher in new ways of communication in the workplace. Meetings in a virtual room, AI-enabled data analysis within messaging platforms, bots that do more than send notifications, and IoT-based automatic attendance systems – the potential is unlimited.

Customer-centric development

A side-effect of the Uber-isation of apps and services is that customer retention is more important now than ever. Product development is now shifting towards a customer-led approach, where customer feedback is key to the development of new features. Companies are spending more effort on enabling customer success to retain users. This is a trend that will continue to influence the enterprise messaging space in 2018 and beyond. Put simply, customer-centric enterprise messengers are more likely to succeed.

Third-party integrations

Efficiency is a magic word for any enterprise, and one of the ways enterprise messengers are increasing efficiency is by integrating third-party apps and services within the messaging tool. This saves customers the hassle of switching between multiple apps at work, and gives them time that can be put to better use. For example, one of the most popular apps in Flock is Shared To-Dos, which allows users to create and assign tasks to team members, and track their completion. It’s really a simple idea that reduces the usual runaround between a company’s messaging and task management tools, and gives users time to do more.

Custom integrations for enterprises are going to be bigger and better in 2018, giving users more out-of-the-box functionality in their enterprise messaging tools.

Process and workflow automation

SOPs are the daily drivers of almost every function in a business. Consider the processes we follow for expense reimbursements, or for hiring and induction – there is a certain method to the madness, and these processes often require repetitive human intervention at multiple stages. Process and workflow automation aims to solve the problem of repetitive human effort in such use cases.

Enterprise communication platforms that can integrate with existing HR and Finance systems, and automate some processes will lead to jumps in efficiency and productivity for the entire organization.

The adoption of AI and a host of technologies such as AR, VR and IoT, customer-centric development, better third-party integrations and process/workflow automation are key trends to look out for. I expect them to make a big difference to the evolution of enterprise messaging, leading to better communication and collaboration in the workplace.

Ultimately, the best enterprise messengers will adopt these new technologies, making life simpler for teams working on the next great thing.

Nokia 3 December update hits Ireland. #Nokia #Nokia3

Updates are rolling out fast of late with HMD and Now the Nokia 5 and 6 are legible for Android Oreo in betalabs but you need to sign up for this and you will be notifed by email, Still waiting on my Nokia 5 to get it and also the latest update for the flagship Nokia 8.

The DECEMBER update has just hit my Nokia 3 so go and check your device to see if its available and rememeber updates are phased out but do keep checking in. If you need to check you just go to  Settings – About – System updates and you will be told then if its available but try two or three times as this has happened to me before and the update came through. This update is 466 MB

Review – The BT Smart Home Cam 100. #home #security #tech #smarthome

CCTV security DIY style. The BT Smart Home Cam 100 comes packed with a camera & charger and instructions. The BT history of products includes a very clear pictures & instructions of the setup. The manual or pull out instructions are easy to use, simple but effective to set up. The Home Cam 100 has an all-black body small enough not to look out of place in a home / office with the option to wall mount vertically with screw holes in the base with a ball joint to allow movement. The Home Cam 100 may look inconspicuous during the day but clearly visible in the dark with the Night vision IR Led clearly visible.

UNBOXING GALLERY

 

1 / 15

Contents:

  • Smart Home Cam 100
  • Power Adaptor  
  • User Guide

Weights and dimensions Camera:

  • 146g, 14.2(H) x 6.82(W) x 8.13(D) cm Power supply: 95.5g, 6.7(L) x 4.95(W) x 6.48(H) cm

Camera spec:

  • Focal length: 3mm, F2.0, digital focusing • Sensor: 3Mp 1/3-Inch CMOS digital image sensor
  • Viewing Angle: Horizontal 78 degrees, Vertical 45 degrees, Diagonal: 90 degrees

Key features:

  • HD quality video
  • Night vision
  • Motion detection alerts
  • Push notification when motion detected
  • Record clips to your Android device
  • Easy 3 step set-ups
  • Auto-login
  • Safe and secure
  • Premium plans to automatically record images and video when you’re not there

Note:

The BT Smart Home Cam 100 has no built-in storage, SD card or memory card reader, there is an option to automatically record video clips to the cloud when motion is detected. This requires a premium subscription that costs £6.99 for 30 days. If you use your phone / tablet to view or record motion there is no subscription required, when stored on your phone / tablet. You have the option via the app to click and save an image or video to your device.

 

Video image quality:

Supported resolutions: 720P, VGA 640×360 and QVGA 320×180 • Supported frame rates: Up to 10fps for 720P, 30fps for VGA 640×360 and QVGA 320×180 • Video encoding: H.264 • Multiple independent video streams (i.e. two different resolution / frame rate)

 

Hacked / tampered:

There is little chance of been hacked with the security options Security / Wireless connection Standards: Wi-Fi 802.11b / g / n • Security: WEP / WPA / WPA2 • Operating channels: 2.4GHz Ch. 1-13

Warranty:

This is a let down from a major brand that is recognised for its quality and support with a 1 Manufacturer Warranty.

Support:

A comprehensive support is available via FAQ on the website / app or on the phone via

0808 1000225

 

Setup:

The setup is straightforward but are required to follow the instructions step by step. This involves downloading The BT Home Cam app, (but do not open the app) connect the wi-fi to the camera.  Then the app is enabled which connects to the camera, setting up an account with your user name, email password.  There are no technical skills required for this but does require the clear instructions followed. In the event of an error / mistake there is a reset button on the camera which is great to see.

The BT Smart Home Cam 100 works via wi-fi. There is no wiring the camera to your router, no CD, laptop required for the setup. When the camera is setup within range of your router’s wi-fi signal you can place it anywhere within your premises. If the unit required to be placed a further distance, there is a wi-fi extenders options available while the latency may increase.

Once setup is complete you flip the switch on the back of the camera to ‘Network’ so it will connect to your router and be accessible through the app. A pair of indicator LEDs show the camera’s status, such as when it’s establishing a wireless connection.

Login via  https://myhomecam.bt.com/app/c/login.html  or via phone  the app.

 

The app:

The BT Home Cam app is free to download with 3 out of 5 recommend from 90 reviews listed as 5,000 – 10,000 installs. The BT Home Cam app can be used with iOS or Android to manage your camera and video settings remotely. This can be setup to invite family / friends to access your video stream in case you can’t access the system.  The App can link several cameras from a location / multiple location.  Alerts are sent to your phone / tablet if motion is detected, these events can be viewed or stored as required on your device.

THE APP

2 / 15

Picture Quality:

There is no minimum connection speed advised on the documentation, noting you are using the upload wi-fi speed not the download speed for the connection. The video quality depends on the bandwidth of your connection, especially when using over a mobile network. The camera will usually auto-adjust to the optimum bandwidth, if using from a poor 4G signal area you may have to lower resolution or lower frame rate, by changing your camera settings.

The Quality as stated may have quality issues when viewed on a 46’’ screen but viewed on your standard smartphone / tablet, this will not show up any quality issues. Night time viewing using the Night vision IR LED of 4pcs, 850nm resulted in an ordinary picture especially in a dark room. Their can be a latency when externally checking the camera remotely using the same wi-fi within the same premises is minimal.

Motion detection:

The camera set up as has motion detection setup which is designed to trigger on any movement, this sends an alert to your phone to view the recording. This is ideal is leaving your home/ office unattended.

This unit is not a professional type CCTV system and does not allow the more advanced features in terms of motion-detection zones, blocking out specific area, but has the motion-detection which acts like trip wires, so motion is detected when someone crosses the borders of a camera view. There is minimal setup required using the local Wi-Fi, with no cable runs nor technical skills required. The quality of the video day & night is sufficient to capture movement in a room bright or dark. The storage options ensure should the camera become damaged / tampered with, the storage is secure off site on the cloud or your device. This is a great option to give peace of mind for security in your home / office without breaking the bank.

www.shop.bt.com  

 

Review – The BT Video Baby Monitor 6000 #home #baby #tech #parenting

If you are planning on a new arrival getting a Baby Monitor is not an option, the choice becomes, what brand, what features in terms of audio, range, video temperature display and the cost.  The BT Video Baby Monitor 6000 has all the required features. It has the video, sound level lights and a variety of other features.

The setup is as straightforward as you can get, No App to download, no wi-fi to configure. BT have included a user guide very clearly laid which can be read in less than 5 minutes. The unit does not have any elaborate setup, plug in and use with the user guide as a backup in terms of how to change the screen brightness, Lullabies, talking to your baby, pan / tilt and zoom option.

What’s in the box?  

The Audio baby monitor 6000 comes with,

  • A parent unit
  • A video monitor for the babies’ room,
  • Two main power adaptors,
  • User guide to give a step by step guide to walk you through the set-up process.

WHATS IN THE BOX

3 / 9

Monitor features:

  • Digital signal.
  • Up to 250m range and out of range indicator.
  • 1 parent unit included – portable.
  • 2-way talk – allows you to reassure and comfort from another room.
  • 5 lullabies.
  • Temperature display – for added peace of mind.

Video features:

  • 5-inch colour screen.
  • Wall mountable camera.
  • Pan, tilt and zoom function.
  • Remote control included.
  • Features infra-red night vision so you can see your baby in the dark.

Power features:

  • Baby unit: yes.
  • Parent unit: yes.
  • Power saving mode.
  • Low battery indicator.
  • Parent unit includes mains adaptor – batteries required for parent unit 1 x Li-Ion (included).
  • Baby unit includes mains adaptor – Li-Ion (not included).

 

The initial charge takes 12 hours to charge with a battery life of 4 hours on a single charge. A quick charge of 30 minutes will give the option of a shorter duration.

The chargers supplied x 2 look propriety looking chargers rated as 5V – 1000mA standard 220V, checking an Android phone charger had a rating of 5v and 3.1 amp.  The connection was the standard android MicroUSB (as compared to     USB – C is on the latest phones which is reversible) The monitor charger was replaced overnight with a high rated phone charger which would indicate if stuck your normal phone charger would work as a backup to the charger supplied.

Operational use:

The parent unit that resembles a tablet has a large screen of 5 inches giving a clear picture. The menu is straight forward easy to follow. The pan tilt was very responsive with the right to left doing about 260 degrees, up and down had less of an angle movement, while the bracket could be mounted anywhere to accommodate a view of any part of the room. Access to the pan tilt was one button press and then given the options of up down etc the zoom has a magnification of 2.

Night vision in a completely dark room was impressive been clearly able to see the surroundings. The IR lights from the camera were not a visible distraction in a dark room. Power off to on was seconds, very fast. Sound quality via the audio was excellent and via the side bar, which allows 2 ways talking via the units.  There is a choice of 5 lullaby which can easily be switched off or on from the main controller. Temperature in the room is clearly visible on the parent unit. Signal strength and battery charging was clearly visible.  The visual sound level lights work well when you want to be alerted in any cries or sudden silence.

 

 

If the video monitor gets disconnected for any reason the parent’s unit beeps a warning indication which camera is the problem. This has the advantaged of IP based cameras system without the security concerns / know how to setup.

If thinking do you require a camera to view a sleeping child, wait till the sounds goes quiet and you only option is to check by entering the child room to confirm all ok, the camera saves the work in this. Having no camera option is like going back to terrestrial TV after using Sky plus or setting off to an unknown destination with an AZ instead of a sat navigation, you will get there with both but for an easy life having the camera with the pan tilt zoom option is a huge plus.

If cost is not your major priority, then the BT Video Baby Monitor 6000 would have all the features required. If Bond had a baby this would be the option supplied by techie sidekick Q.

You don’t need to be a hi-tech boffin to use this monitor as set up takes seconds, no connection to the local Wi-Fi, or downloading an app, plug in and use. An Argos review of this product gave 4.6 out of 5, I would go higher than this score if the warranty increased from its current 1-year warranty, this is a product when sleep becomes a distance memory, the BT Video Baby Monitor 6000 provided the technology to help, a BT winner.

https://www.shop.bt.com/products/bt-video-baby-monitor-6000-088306-CQPX.html  £119.98

Christmas Gifts from @SOULElectronics offer Style, Sportiness and Simply an Impressive Sound

We have been testing out some of SOUL Electronics goods over the last two weeks and reviews go live this week and we are impressed with them and not only this the price point here is really competitive in this market and it is crowded but this means choice.  Watch out for our thoughts this week..

SOUL Electronics is one of the world leaders in consumer electronics with a focus on high-quality headphones and Bluetooth speakers that combine powerful sound with stylish design and perfect features for daily workout – at fair prices.

Within the scope of the development of these products, SOUL has also worked closely with famous athletes and musicians, such as Hip-hop legend and Grammy winner Ludacris, sprint superstar Usain Bolt and German NBA legionnaire Dennis Schröder. SOUL headphones are also perfect for those who are looking for a spontaneous Christmas gift and are among others available on Amazon.co.uk and HMV.co.uk.

X-Shock Pure Wireless In-Ears

Weighing only 6 grams each, these in-ears are ergonomically designed and boast a sweat- and waterproof outer shell. Thanks to their Bluetooth 4.2. technology the X-Shock earphones have a range of up to 10 meters. The mobile charging station also offers convincing performance: It not only charges the X-Shock in-ears in 1.5 hours, but also serves as a power bank for the smartphone. In combination with the integrated remote control for easily answering incoming calls, the X-Shock in-ears provide ultimate comfort and flexibility – in the office as well as during workout in the gym or jogging in the park.

X-TRA Over-Ears

Sound meets comfort meets functionality with the SOUL X-TRA headphones: These sports over-ears use LED lights for better visibility for those who like to exercise outdoors, especially in dark winter nights. They weigh less than 200 grams, have removable and washable ear pods to keep them hygienic and are lightweight enough to sit over the user’s ear comfortably during activity.

 Prime Wireless In-Ears

These earphones are rather a fashion accessory, since a handy magnetic clip allows them to transition conveniently into a necklace that is perfect for all-day wear. They are made of high density metal, providing a distinct weight and texture for a more premium look and feel. Despite their compact size, these in-ears boast advanced drivers for warm, deep low bass and clear mids and highs. The Prime Wireless come in a stylish leather carrying case and feature 6 hours battery life, a mic for hands free calls and a remote for volume and playlist control.

RUN FREE PRO HD Bluetooth Earphones

The secure fit of these wireless in-ears can be individually adjusted thanks to the interchangeable ear lock system. They are water and sweat resistant due to their special Nano-coating, and their Wind Noise Reduction function maintains the clear and pumping Bluetooth 4.0 sound without being affected by strong wind noises – for instance during jogging or cycling. Along with up to 12 hours of battery life, this means extended workout sessions in- or outdoors.

 

 ST-XS True Wireless Earphones

Boasting two powerful 6mm dynamic neodymium drivers, these sweat-proof and only 4 grams light Bluetooth in-ears deliver balanced deep low bass and clear mids and highs. Their sweat-proof design ensures a secure and comfortable fit without any wires and hence without any interruptions. Offering up to 10 hours of playtime, the ST-XS also come with a charging carrying case that delivers four full charges – perfect for extensive workout or just for relaxed music entertainment on Christmas holidays.