Tag: Hybrid

Why Remote Tech Teams Still Need a Physical Base in Dublin

There is no doubt that even up to this day, Ireland still holds the title of being one of Europe’s most dynamic technology hubs. This is made even more evident by the fact that global companies like Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon maintain major operations in Dublin. Plus, there are quite a lot of startups and scale-ups that are building products from across the country.

These days, remote work has become more prominent than ever before. Remote work has completely changed the way that teams operate these days. After all, everyone from developers to engineers can collaborate despite not being in the same continent.

And yet, even with the growing popularity of remote work, there are still companies that maintain a physical presence in Dublin. This is completely reasonable, seeing as Dublin is a powerhouse filled with global opportunities. Plus, remote flexibility and physical base perfectly complement one another these days. After all, there will eventually come a time when companies who have remote workers will need a physical presence for important meetings with investors, stockholders, and partners.

The Rise of Remote Tech Teams in Ireland

It was the COVID-19 pandemic that made remote work adoption accelerate quickly. Even after the pandemic ended, a lot of companies still retained flexible working policies.

Because of remote work, companies in Dublin were able to recruit talent beyond Dublin’s city limits. This is very convenient, especially since there is no need for hired talent to relocate to fulfill their roles and responsibilities. As a result, most remote teams in Ireland now consist of professionals who are spread across multiple regions.

Sure, remote setups have plenty of advantages. For instance, there is easy access to a wider talent pool that allows companies to recruit specialists who might be unavailable locally. Plus, remote operations do not require a huge overhead. This can be very important for companies that are just starting out.

And yet, there are also some challenges that come with remote setups. These challenges must be anticipated by businesses to make sure they can still thrive despite possible hiccups.

Why Physical Meeting Spaces Still Matter

There is no denying that nothing beats face-to-face interaction. Sure, platforms like Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams make it very easy to collaborate remotely. But of course, there are times when physical meetings are needed.

Some instances where face-to-face interactions might be necessary include strategy sessions, product design workshops, and investor presentations. When participants are in the same physical environment, there is a higher chance that productivity is better.

This is the reason why a lot of distributed companies plan for periodic in-person meetings in serviced offices Dublin. This way, they can plan for sessions, onboarding, or collaboration days in person. Flexible spaces are a huge help for these instances since they provide temporary but professional environments that support hybrid teams without a huge overhead.

In a way, these serviced offices serve as meeting points instead of daily workplaces. Employees can still work remotely most of the time and then just gather occasionally for key milestones or project reviews.

Collaboration and Culture in Hybrid Teams

It’s important for all members of an organization to be able to feel comfortable with one another. But since remote work means different people from different cultures can work together, there is a need to set aside a time to get to know each other’s cultures to foster better communication and collaboration.

It’s best if casual conversations, spontaneous brainstorming, and informal mentorship can happen naturally in person once in a while. This way, companies will be able to strengthen team relationships and align employees around shared goals.

These interactions can significantly improve communication and productivity despite the geographical restrictions that exist within an organization.

The Future of Work in Ireland’s Tech Sector

Since remote work has become established in today’s world, there is a very small chance that Ireland’s technology sector will go back to fully office-based work. Therefore, organizations must embrace all the advantages and disadvantages that come with the remote work setup and deal with them as efficiently as possible.

Sure, remote work is a very convenient and flexible setup. And yet, there will always be a need for in-person meetings and interactions; regardless of whether the purpose is to boost morale or collaboration or to brainstorm ideas and solve problems more effectively. Luckily, there are spaces like serviced offices Dublin that companies can pay for just for occasional meetings.

Remote work and occasional in-person meetings are a good combination. While there is no denying that the remote work setup is very convenient, nothing beats the advantages that come with meeting people in person. After all, interactions feel more natural. Plus, there is more room for building rapport and improving relationships.

As Ireland’s technology sector continues to grow, this balance between flexibility and physical presence will likely define how remote tech teams Ireland operate in the years ahead.

New AI Model Improves Personalized Blood Glucose Prediction for Type 1 Diabetes

Jeonbuk National University Researchers Develop an AI Model For Personalized Blood Glucose Monitoring

The hybrid model integrates three components to address key challenges and was rigorously evaluated, paving way for accurate blood glucose prediction

Patients with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) require accurate and consistent monitoring of their blood glucose levels. Over the past decade, AI models have been explored to tackle this challenge; however, inter-patient variability and large data volumes remain key challenges. In a new study, researchers present BiT-MAML, a model-agnostic algorithm aimed at personalized blood glucose prediction of patients with T1D. This approach overcomes the limitations of existing models and enables precise predictions in real clinical settings.

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s own immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. As a result, patients with T1D must closely monitor their blood glucose (BG) levels and rely on insulin injections or pumps. Even small miscalculations or oversights can lead to unregulated blood sugar levels, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems have emerged as a promising tool for predicting and forecasting BG levels. Over the past decade, researchers have explored artificial intelligence (AI) models for improving the prediction accuracy of CGM systems. However, differences in physiology between patients and poor adaptation for new users persist to challenge the widespread adoption of this technology in real-world settings. In addition, traditional models often focus on either short-term or long-term glucose patterns, but not both.

In an attempt to address these issues, a research team led by Professor Jaehyuk Cho from the Department of Software Engineering at Jeonbuk National University in South Korea, have developed an innovative model, named BiT-MAML, aimed at tackling inter-patient variability in BG prediction. Explaining further, Prof. Cho says, “BG dynamics are not uniform across all patients. The physiological patterns of an elderly patient are vastly different from those of a young adult.” Adding further, he says, “Our model demonstrates how this variability can be accounted for by developing more personalized models.” Their findings were published in Scientific Reports on August 20, 2025. 

BiT-MAML (where “BiT-“ stands for Bidirectional LSTM-Transformer” and “MAML” stands for “Model-Agnostic Meta-Learning”) uses hybrid architecture combining two deep learning models: bidirectional long-short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) and Transformer. Bi-LSTM processes time-series BG data bidirectionally, precisely capturing short-term patterns. Simultaneously, the transformer, utilizing a multi-head attention approach, efficiently models long-term patterns, capturing complex day-to-day and lifestyle-based cyclical variations. During training, the researchers applied a meta-learning approach known as Model-Agnostic Meta-Learning (MAML) that helps the model quickly adapt to new and diverse patients using only a small amount of training data by learning from a wide range of patient examples. 

To test model performance, the researchers adopted a Leave-One-Patient-Out Cross-Validation (LOPO-CV) scheme. “In simple terms, we train the AI on five patients, then test it on the sixth patient it has never seen before,” explains Prof. Cho. “This is effective for assessing the model’s ability to generalize to unseen patients.” 

The model demonstrated significantly reduced prediction error compared to conventional models. Notably, the prediction error varied from an excellent 19.64 milligram/decilitre (mg/dL) for one patient to a challenging 30.57 mg/dL for another. While these results represent a clear improvement over the standard LSTM models, they also highlight the persistent difficulty of managing inter-patient variability in real-world settings. “Our study shows how AI-based BG prediction models should be evaluated to improve both trust and model performance,” concludes Prof. Cho. “Addressing this challenge will contribute to the development of effective CGM models that can serve diverse patients with T1D, from children to elderly.”

These findings attest to the fact that the development of effective personalized BG prediction requires the use of advanced AI models incorporating robust evaluation methods that can transparently report the full spectrum of performance.

Reference

Title of original paper: Personalized blood glucose prediction in type 1 diabetes using meta-learning with bidirectional long short term memory-transformer hybrid model

Journal: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-13491-5  

FNTCASE Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra cases review

The FNTCASE Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra cases have arrived for us to check out and again the company has you covered with a vasr range of cases and colours to suit all pockets and sytles at affordable prices, Recently reviewed was the Google PIxel 10a case range and this range is similar to those for you very expensive Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.

With the range of cases on offer here there is a case for all with several different styles and the best magnets in the business different textures and finishes too all giving you phone the best protection in one place.

There is shockproof cases clear cases Magsafe cases and much more, all cases provide better grip keep your camera area safe and the screen with a lip around the edge, the buttons are tactile and work well and all ports accessible and overall keeping your phone out of harms way.

We check these out in the full hands-on video review below with a dummy model as we are waiting on the device to arrive with more cases and will be doing a another video with all the cases we have soon so stay tuned..

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Shock Protection Cell Phone Case Sturdy Cover with Non-Slip Texture

  • Two Piece Durable Hybrid Covers: soft TPU inner cases – shock absorbing; hard PC back outer shell – strong impact resistant. Double guard protection with a reinforced corner, specially designed to protect your new mobile.
  • Upgraded Slip-Proof Texture Design on Side and Back: sturdy armored phone case with hexagon grip rear shield prevents your smartphone from an unexpected drop. Also, simple, classic & stylish.
  • Enhanced Camera Protect & Raised Bevel for Scratch Resistance: Each camera lens is 360 fully surrounded and protected. A 1.5mm (0.06 inch) lifted bezel on the screen and 2.0mm (0.08 inch) on the camera lens can prevent daily scratches when you put your cell phone face down.
  • Precious Cutouts & Flexible Tactile Buttons: All the holes fit perfectly. What’s more, the Honeycomb design inside for heat dissipation and cooling is breathable to guarantee your telephone works normally. Functional design & vivid colors that brighten your mood. Multicolours for choices, suitable for everyone.

BUY

 

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Clear Phone Case: Magnetic Charging Shockproof Magsafe Support

  • Compatibility: Only for Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (6.9 inch). Please carefully confirm your phone model before making a purchase. Precise cutouts and tactile buttons ensure quick access and response, and full access to all ports
  • Strong Magnetic: The built-in powerful N52 magnets with 2400 gf of holding force make it easy to attach all kinds of Magnetic Charging accessories like wireless car chargers, wireless chargers, battery packs, etc. Even if you vigorously shake your phone, it won’t easily fall off
  • Yellow Resistance: This Galaxy S26 Ultra phone case is made of anti-yellowing PC and TPU materials, making the case transparent for long periods and effectively resisting sweat and stains, clearly showing the original color of your phone
  • Full Protect: This case provides double protection for the phone screen from cracks and scratches
  • Military Grade Full Body Protection: 4 Air-cushioned corners for added drop protection, which provide excellent cushioning impact from accidental bumps and drops. The raised lip design provides enhanced scratch protection for the screen and camera

BUY

 

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Clear Magnetic Case – Anti-Yellowing, Magsafe Compatible, Rugged Shockproof Protective Bumper

Strong Magnetic Array for Effortless Accessories & Charging
Fully compatible with Magsafe and all Qi wireless chargers with zero signal interference. The case features 38 precisely aligned N52 super magnets, delivering an exceptional 2400 gf magnetic force for a secure hold on chargers, mounts, and magnetic accessories.

Permanent Clarity with Advanced Anti-Yellowing Technology
Made from premium Bayer ultra-clear TPU and PC materials to showcase your Galaxy S26 Ultra’s original design. The nano anti-yellowing coating and anti-fingerprint coating effectively resist stains, sweat, and oxidation, ensuring long-lasting clarity without discoloration.

10FT Military-Grade Shockproof Protection
Certified to withstand drops from up to 10 feet. The hybrid construction combines a rigid polycarbonate backplate with flexible TPU bumpers and four corner airbags to effectively absorb and dissipate impact energy from all angles.

360° Raised Edges for Screen & Camera Protection
Features 2.5mm raised camera lips, 1.5mm raised screen bezels, and 0.5mm back lip to comprehensively protect against scratches and damage when placed on flat surfaces. Every edge is designed for maximum defense.

Perfect Fit with Secure, Comfortable Grip
Designed exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. Offers precise cutouts for full access to all ports, buttons, and functions. The textured edges provide an excellent non-slip grip, enhancing handling safety and comfort.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Case with Built-in Screen Protector and Kickstand – Military Rugged, 2 Front Frames, Drop Proof Protective Cover

Compatibility: Designed exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra (6.9-inch, 2026 release). It will not fit any other phone models. Please verify your phone model before purchase to ensure perfect compatibility.

Built-in Kickstand: Features a convenient, built-in foldable stand that supports both vertical and horizontal viewing angles, freeing your hands for other tasks. This sturdy holder also provides excellent support for stable, effortless photography with your large-screen device.

Built-in Screen Protector: The integrated screen protector offers excellent light transmission and highly responsive touch performance, allowing full access to your phone’s features while guarding against scratches and scuffs. This built-in design eliminates the hassle of applying a separate screen protector yourself.

2 Front Frames for Personalized Needs: In addition to the main frame with the built-in screen protector, we include an extra replacement front frame without a screen protector. This gives you the freedom to choose your preferred setup based on your personal habits, delivering a truly customized protection experience.

Comfortable & Full Protection: The case combines a non-slip textured grip on the sides with matte-finish edges that resist fingerprints and oils, keeping it clean and providing a secure hold that’s less likely to slip from your hand. The raised TPU bezel helps keep the screen and camera lifted off surfaces and absorbs shock from accidental drops. Together, the rugged case and integrated protection provide comprehensive, military-grade defense for your Galaxy S26 Ultra.

BUY

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Video Review 

UAV Manufacturing 2026: Full Guide to Processes, Technologies, and Market Leaders

The technology of UAV manufacturing has evolved from simple prototypes into a sophisticated global industry, driven by growing demand across both defence and civil sectors. Modern unmanned platforms support security, surveillance, infrastructure monitoring and tactical missions all around the world. The evolution of UAVs reflects the advances in aviation, automation, and ecosystem-level integration.

History and Evolution of UAV Manufacturing

The roots of what we call today’s UAV manufacturing trace back to the early 20th century, when the first prototype of a UAV was created in the United Kingdom to train artillery. This sample was straightforward yet innovative, advancing to highly capable autonomous systems over the decades.

Early military interest caused further developments during World War II and the Cold War, with the first strike UAVs and reconnaissance aircraft being produced. Innovations in microelectronics, radio communications, GNSS, and remote control laid the foundation for later unmanned aerial platforms with higher performance, speed, and endurance.

Types of UAVs and Their Manufacturing Specifics

Contemporary UAV manufacturers produce a wide range of unmanned aerial vehicles to meet different mission requirements:

  • Fixed-wing UAVs – offer extended range and endurance for prolonged missions at the expense of structural reinforcement and aerodynamic optimisation
  • Multirotor UAVs – excel in vertical take off and landing for inspections or urban operations, and prioritise improved propulsion and modular payloads
  • Hybrid VTOL – combine both capabilities, but require advanced testing cycles

Classification may also depend on autonomy level, payload capacity, or size, which directly influences UAV manufacturing processes.

Key Materials and Components in UAV Manufacturing

Material engineering is fundamental to efficient UAV manufacturing. Lightweight carbon fibre is widely used to maintain strength while reducing the actual weight of the airframe. Metals like titanium and aluminium remain essential for mounting systems, landing gear, and structural components. Advanced polymers and engineering plastics help to reduce weight in moulding frames and secondary components.

Many modern UAV military producers, like Abris Design group, rely on high-quality UAV materials and solid composites to make their developments more secure and durable when operating in challenging environments.

Advanced Technologies in UAV Manufacturing

Automation and digitalisation now define how a reliable UAV manufacturer scales their production. Intelligent manufacturing commonly incorporates robotic assembly, machine vision, and AI-driven design optimisation. At the system level, advances in avionics, autonomy, and sensors enable refined flight control and mission execution while implementing new standards in the UAV manufacturing processes.

Future Trends in UAV Manufacturing

Looking ahead, UAV manufacturing will be shaped by robust communications protection, machine learning, and deeper interoperability with other systems. Swarm technology is emerging as a growing trend in both military and civil applications, involving coordinated flights of multiple UAVs within a single system. Sustainability will also define the next generation of unmanned platform manufacturers, influencing battery capabilities, energy solutions, and lifecycle management.

Jabra Evolve3 85 first look

Jabra, a global leader in professional audio and video solutions, announcedthe launch of the Evolve3 series, the next generation of its market-leading headset lineup. Building on the success of Evolve and Evolve2, this latest evolution introduces a boomless mic design with class-leading comfort and portability, future-ready voice access for AI and real-time adaptive noise cancellation. It’s engineered to be the first true cross-over headset, built to meet the needs of today’s hybrid professionals and designed for day-to-day personal use.

The Evolve3 85 (over-the-ear) and Evolve3 75 (on-the-ear) offer professional-grade voice clarity and all-day comfort in a modern, contemporary and Danish design. Whether switching between meetings, concentrating on complex projects or using voice to activate AI tools, Evolve3 is built to match the pace and flexibility of modern work.

I have been testing these out for a few days but this does not warant a review just yet but I will say so far after initial testing these are specatular with the audio both on PC calls and listening to music so far and the size difference between the last model and these is remarkable and in my opinion not just a typical cautious spec bump most companies put out each year but rather a big leap foward.

Poor sound quality remains a top concern for today’s professionals, with 99 percent of knowledge workers reporting that bad audio impacts online meetings and call quality ranking as the number one pain point in headset use. Despite this, only 20% are using an enterprise grade headset and rely on other solutions, with 46 percent still bringing consumer headsets to work, which often lack the clarity, comfort and compatibility needed for professional communication.

There is a preference for consumer headset design, and Evolve3 is intended to meet this challenge with a cross-over experience that delivers professional grade performance paired with matching consumer expectations on design. For the first time, users will sound professional but look smart, regardless of wearing it for prolonged time in the office, being on calls in an airport, listening to media on a flight, taking meetings while commuting in traffic or any other situation where you need a headset. Evolve3 delivers clear speech in any environment, even outdoors, which is a significant step up in performance from the previous Jabra Evolve2 85 and 75 boom arm products.

 

Distraction-free conversations in any environment

Evolve3 features Jabra ClearVoice, a combination of deep neural network (DNN) technology and Jabra’s multi-mic algorithms. Inspired by how the human brain filters noise in a crowded room, and leaning on technology from GN’s hearing division, the DNN model processes layers of sound data to distinguish the user’s voice from surrounding noise without the need for a visible boom arm. This means you can now always be heard clearly on a call with all background noise blocked. This AI-driven approach works with the hardware to enable discreet mic placement while maintaining high level clarity.

Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) responds in real time to both your environment and how the headset fits. Unlike most headsets, the ANC on Evolve3 85 and 75 continues to block out distractions even during calls, not just between them. Whether in a meeting or listening to music, Jabra Evolve3 helps users stay in the zone with fewer interruptions.

Designed for both work and pleasure

Unlike traditional professional headsets, Jabra Evolve3 85 and Jabra Evolve3 75 offer a minimalist design that fits the flexibility of modern work scenarios as well as most user’s wish for a clean, every-day look. This makes Evolve3 a true cross-over headset from professional to leisure use. The Evolve3 85 is an over-the-ear headset designed for immersive focus, while the Evolve3 75 offers an on-the-ear fit for lighter wear with greater environmental awareness. Both models are the most compact and lightweight design in their class, setting new standards for comfort and portability.

 

Voice-ready for the future of work

Evolve3 supports voice interaction through seamless and accurate access to Gen AI, enabling professionals to use voice input in mobile and screen-free scenarios. Powered by Jabra ClearVoice, this system uses AI-driven deep learning technology trained on more than 60 million real-world sentences to isolate speech from background noise with high accuracy. In real-world environments, it delivers AI-ready performance capturing 96% of words accurately across tested environments (99% in open office), even without a visible boom-arm. This helps users with AI prompts, to complete tasks, issue commands or dictate messages on the go. Voice input is up to three times faster than typing, making it a practical option for staying productive in mobile or screen-free situations.

 

Smart, secure and scalable

The Evolve3 series is certified for major UC platforms, includes a pre-paired Bluetooth adapter for instant and secure connectivity and supports Bluetooth Native for connection directly to devices. With the Jabra Plus Management software, IT teams can manage devices remotely, push firmware updates and configure settings through a central dashboard. End-users benefit from the new Jabra Plus mobile app with customisation options like equalizer controls, wind noise reduction and quick firmware updates from their smartphone. A desktop version of the Jabra Plus app will be available later in 2026.

 

Both headsets also feature replaceable batteries for extended product life, in compliance with repair legislation. With up to 25 hours of calls and 120 hours of music, wireless charging and fast charging that provides up to 10 hours of power in just 10 minutes, the Evolve3 series is designed to keep professionals connected and powered throughout the day.

 

Calum MacDougall, President at Jabra says, “In today’s hybrid world your work and life converge into one and with Evolve3 we deliver a real step-change in user experience of a professional headset. This series brings together industry-leading voice technology, a design you want to wear and seamless integration with the tools and platforms you rely on every day both professionally and personally.”

 

Key Features shared across both Evolve3 85 and Evolve3 75

·       Boomless design with Jabra ClearVoice, powered by deep neural network (DNN) technology for professional-grade voice clarity

·       Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation that adjusts in real-time to environment

·       Spatial Sound for more natural, and less fatiguing call experiences

·       Fast-charge support that delivers up to 10 hours of power in just 10 minutes by cable. Wireless charging also available.

·       Voice input for accurate access to AI workflows and tools

·       AI-readiness and screen-free productivity

·       Tuned for high-fidelity music with the LC3 audio codec

·       Certified for leading virtual meeting platforms (UC-certified variants)

·       Secure Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity with pre-paired adapter included

·       Centralised device management through Jabra Plus Management

·       Customisation and control via the Jabra Plus mobile and desktop (later in 2026) app

·       Replaceable batteries to extend product life and support battery recycling

·       Designed with sustainability in mind incl. recycled and bio-circular materials, replaceable parts (batteries and ear cushions) and certified to TCO generation 10

 

Jabra Evolve3 85 (Over-the-Ear) Key Features

·       Over-ear design for maximum immersion and noise isolation

·       Ideal for professionals needing full focus in louder environments

·       Extended battery life for 25 hours of call time or 120 hours of listening to entertainment (with ANC/busylight off) and 10-minute fast charge for 10 hours of use

·       35% slimmer and 23% lighter than Jabra Evolve2 85

·       Foldable and portable with compact storage case

 

Jabra Evolve3 75 (On-the-Ear) Key Features

·       On-ear design for lighter, more breathable wear

·       Great for hybrid workers who want greater situational awareness

·       22 hours of call time or 110 hours of listening to entertainment (with ANC/busylight off) and a 10-minute fast charge for 10 hours of use

·       More compact and travel-friendly for everyday mobility

 

Availability

·       Jabra Evolve3 85 will be available from March 1, 2026 from £495

the   Bundle option with wireless charging at £539

·       Jabra Evolve3 75 will be available from March 1, 2026 from £349

the   Bundle option with wireless charging at £389

·       Warm Grey colour variant will be available in select markets from April 2026

 

For more information, visit www.jabra.com/evolve3 

See our Jabra Reviews

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The World of Work in 2026 – How Technology, Talent and Trust Will Redefine the Workplace

2026 will see businesses doubling down their focus on their people. As not only their biggest asset, but also one of their greatest investments – companies are ensuring that their teams are being offered the wellbeing, training, development and new technology-driven learning opportunities that they need to thrive.

With companies increasingly prioritising their employees, they are also recognising that productivity and engagement are driven by how, when, and with whom they collaborate rather than solely where they work.

Organisations of all sizes are embracing flexible and hybrid working models to attract and retain  the best talent. Recent technological advancements will further accelerate this shift, enabling smarter collaboration and more dynamic ways of working as businesses invest in data-driven workplace design and AI-powered personalised experiences. Increasingly, career pathways will be defined by skills rather than traditional degrees, and personalised human-AI collaboration will become an increasingly valuable skill for business success.

In 2026, the attention will now turn from where work happens to focus on a company’s profitability, productivity and the wellbeing of their teams. Businesses will invest in flexible workspace memberships, allowing employees to work closer to home where they will be most productive, avoiding costly, unnecessary commutes. For most, this will mean working from suburban commuter hubs, small towns or emerging 15-minute cities, with work becoming more local, more personal and more intelligent than ever before.

Below, International Workplace Group, the world’s largest platform for work with brands including Spaces and Regus,reveals the top 10 trends that are set to shape global working in 2026.

 

The Rise of AI: Your Work Co-Pilot

In 2026, hybrid teams will more regularly integrate AI copilots into their daily operations. These systems will significantly reduce the need for simple tasks such as admin, knowledge retrieval, and scheduling. Employees will find themselves with more time for creative work, able to tackle complex problem-solving tasks, and develop meaningful relationships. Moreover, this transformation will enable individuals to better manage their work-life balance, ultimately leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.

This shift is being accelerated by a new wave of intergenerational collaboration. Research from IWG reveals that 62% of Gen Z employees are already coaching older colleagues on how to use AI to boost productivity and efficiency. In turn, 77% of Directors and Senior Directors have said this has boosted productivity levels, while 80% said it unlocked new business opportunities (1). Capitalising on this trend, employers will increasingly use AI and workplace analytics to create “personalised hybrid plans” for each employee, including optimised schedules, ideal collaboration days, and preferred office or coworking locations.

 

Return-to-Several-Offices

Companies of all sizes are moving away from loosely defined hybrid policies, to more structured, multi-location models with teams increasingly empowered to work from more convenient places closer to home. Rather than insisting on a “Return to the Office, it’s a case of a “Return to Several Offices”.

Microsoft recently announced that by 2026 many of its U.S. employees will need to be in their closest Microsoft office at least three days per week while many corporates are empowering their teams to work from a network of coworking or flexible workspace locations.

 

Micro-Certifications as Currency

Hybrid workers will stack “micro-certifications” (bite-sized, skill-focused credentials) instead of relying on traditional degrees or annual performance reviews. Employers will support this by funding on-demand learning platforms, creating more agile talent pools. This trend will change internal mobility, with skills becoming more portable and accessible.

 

Reversing The Quiet Crack

Unlike “quiet quitting”, where employees deliberately do the bare minimum, “quiet cracking” describes something subtler: employees who are still performing, but feel mentally and emotionally checked out resulting in burnout, stalled progression, and a lack of purpose.

With 57% of workers saying they’re more likely to disengage when they feel undervalued or micromanaged, companies will put more emphasis on employee wellbeing and flexible work options, to remain competitive and keep people engaged (2). As wellbeing becomes a bigger focus, companies are also expected to move past traditional perks and start using new “well-tech” tools – like stress-tracking wearables, AI mental health reminders, and wellness challenges that gamify healthy habits and make them more engaging.

 

Fractional C-Suite and Executive Talent

As they navigate economic uncertainty, more companies are turning to fractional executives, opting for part-time or contract-based C-suite talent who bring in laser-focused expertise without the cost of full-time appointments.

With nine in 10 (87%) CEOs and CFOs concerned about the impact of ongoing macroeconomic instability and two thirds (67%) already reducing operating costs, businesses are looking for smarter leadership models (3). This flexibility allows companies to secure world-class strategic insight when needed, while enabling experienced professionals to work across multiple organisations.

 

Building 15-Minute Cities from the Ground Up

The 15-minute city concept, where everything from work to leisure is accessible within a short walk or cycle is entering a new phase in 2026. Until recently, this has mainly been a story of adaptation: retrofitting existing neighbourhoods to bring work, living, and recreation closer together. In the year ahead, 15-minute cities will be taking an entirely new form, they will be built  from the ground up, designed to encourage connectivity, sustainability and community.

One standout example is The Ellinikon in Athens, one of Europe’s largest urban regeneration projects, built on the site of the former airport with over $8 billion in funding. Similarly, in the US, The Point in Utah is transforming the site of the former state prison into a model community designed around 15-minute city principles.

Hybrid work is making these urban ecosystems viable, as professionals choose to live and work locally while businesses decentralise their footprints to be closer to where people actually are – saving up to $30,332 a year thanks to the reduced need for lengthy commutes (4).

 

The Local Loyalty Effect

Hybrid work will foster a renewed connection to local communities. Companies may encourage employees to integrate volunteerism, local partnerships, or skill-sharing into their workweek, strengthening employer brands while supporting civic engagement, in the communities where employees live and work.

 

The Hospitality-Infused Office

The workplace will increasingly look and feel like boutique hotels. In 2026, expect concierge-style services, curated food and beverage options, and sensory design that mirrors boutique hotels. Take IWG’s latest partnership with YOO – blending design-led hospitality expertise with IWG’s flexible workspace network, these spaces will fuse work, socialising, and wellbeing together, transforming the office into a lifestyle experience.

 

Rising Day Office Demand

Day offices are set to become a key part of the landscape, providing a professional and productive office space whenever and wherever it is needed. Whether employees are seeking quiet, focus rooms or collaboration spaces for ad-hoc team days, these “on-demand” options eliminate the need for long-term commitments while offering all the amenities of a traditional office.

With wellbeing firmly on the agenda, features such as natural light and on-site wellness amenities will differentiate day offices, helping employees work efficiently, flexibly, and with purpose.

 

The New Workforce Demographic: Why Business Leaders Need to Know What Gen Z Wants at Work

Gen Z is entering the workforce with clear expectations that go beyond pay: they prioritise wellness, mental health, flexible hours and meaningful work that aligns with their core values.

With an aging global population, rising retirements and widening talent gaps, it is critical that business leaders understand and react to these changing priorities in order to stay competitive.

Companies that embrace flexibility, autonomy, and meaningful work will attract and retain the next generation of leaders – those that don’t, risk falling behind.

Mark Dixon, Founder and CEO of IWG, comments:

“Continuous improvements in technology including AI and new approaches to training and development will be significant drivers of productivity, engagement, and loyalty, enabling companies to create a  future-ready workforce and working environment that propels business growth.

We will continue to see a fundamental shift in the geography of work with the centre of gravity moving towards local communities. The remarkable advances in cloud technology and video conferencing software – both vital to enabling effective hybrid working – mean workers no longer need to travel long distances on a daily basis. Innovations in technology will continue to advance in years to come and will radically underline and fuel the flexibility of location.

The rising demand for more localised working has led to the majority of our new IWG centres opening in the heart of local communities, suburbs and rural areas, enabling many people around the world to say farewell to long daily commutes.”

 

(1) Research by IWG in collaboration with Mortar, sampling 1007 UK office workers in June 2025.

(2) Research by IWG in collaboration with Censuswide, sampling 1,005  Office full time/hybrid workers in June 2024

(3) Research by IWG in collaboration with Censuswide, sampling CEOs and CFOs (50/50 split) working at companies that operate a flexible working model in the USA and UK in May 2025.

(4) IWG Hybrid Working Report in collaboration with Arup, June 2025

1 in 10 job postings now reference AI

New research from Indeed shows that one in ten (11%) job postings in Ireland mention AI, leading ahead of the US, UK, France and Germany. This trend is reflective of the tech sector’s sizable footprint in the Irish economy.

Job postings which mention AI are most frequently seen in tech-related categories, led by data & analytics (56%). That’s followed by software development (48%), IT systems & solutions (37%) and IT infrastructure, operations & support (29%). However, several non-tech categories also have significant shares of AI postings, including arts & entertainment (24%), human resources (20%) and sales (19%).

The research also shows that remote and hybrid work mentions have reached a new high of 19.4% by the end of December 2025 – more than four times higher than pre-pandemic levels. The occupations with the highest share of remote or hybrid mentions include software development (47%), media & communications (44%) and data & analytics (43%).

Indeed’s report shows that while job postings in Ireland are well down from peaks seen in early 2022, they still remain 7% above their pre-pandemic baseline as of January 2026. The level of postings has also remained relatively stable since May.

Other key findings in the report include:

  • Salary transparency growth has stalled: The share of Irish job postings which include salary information has dipped recently to around 34%, its lowest since late-2022. The report highlights how the Irish Government’s transposing of incoming EU legislation will result in increased transparency.
  • Benefit offerings have levelled off: The share of Irish job postings mentioning at least one benefit has levelled off over the past 18 months, after rising steadily since 2018. Standing at 48% in November, the share was unchanged from its level in May 2024.
  • Foreign interest in Irish jobs remains high: The Irish labour market remains attractive to foreign workers. On average in 2025, around 13% of searches for Irish jobs on Indeed originated outside Ireland. That was broadly in line with 2024 and higher than seen in recent years since at least 2017.
  • Posted wage growth remains solid: Tight labour-market conditions continue to translate into strong pay pressures in Ireland. At 4.1% in December (on a three-month average basis), wage growth as measured by the Indeed Wage Tracker remains well above the euro area average (2.5%).

Commenting on the report, Jack Kennedy, senior economist at Indeed, said:

“Ireland enters 2026 with the economy in good shape. Growth is set to slow slightly after a strong 2025, but lower interest rates and continued government spending mean the outlook remains broadly positive: jobs are still being created, unemployment remains low, but pay pressures haven’t gone away. For workers and employers alike, this year’s labour market story is one of ongoing change and adaptability.

For jobseekers, AI is rapidly reshaping how work gets done, with a clear expectation emerging for workers across all sectors to be comfortable using AI tools, even in roles that aren’t traditionally tech-focused. Those who adapt to these skills will have a competitive edge, as employers increasingly seek ways to integrate AI into their processes.

From an employer perspective, hybrid and flexible working have moved from a perk to an expectation in 2026, and they will need to keep this in mind when recruiting. The organisations that will stand out will be those offering not just competitive salaries, but transparency, flexibility and support for employees navigating a rapidly changing work environment.”

Hidden Hearing Introduces Oticon Zeal

Groundbreaking new hearing device delivers exceptional sound quality, always-on AI sound processing and full modern connectivity, with a virtually unseen design

It addresses the overlooked consequences of hearing loss in the workplace and beyond

Hidden Hearing, Ireland’s leading provider of hearing healthcare, has announced the arrival of a breakthrough in hearing technology with the launch of Oticon Zeal. This next-generation hearing device combines exceptional sound quality, always-on AI sound processing and full modern connectivity in a remarkably discreet form.

Not everyone sees themselves in traditional hearing aids and with that in mind Oticon designed something different, discreet, elegant and effortless.It looks and feels more like the earbuds that many people already wear. It’s an exceptional hearing aid without the compromise or stigma of conventional designs.

With Zeal, seeing is believing. It’s the hearing aid for people who never thought they’d wear one. It delivers intelligent, high-performance hearing with seamless connectivity to today’s digital world, while remaining virtually invisible in use.

For many people, particularly those in fast-paced and demanding roles, hearing loss becomes a silent challenge. Missed information in meetings, increased listening effort and end-of-day fatigue can all affect performance long before someone realises hearing is the root cause. Despite this, most people delay seeking help for seven to ten years, often due to concerns about visibility, stigma and the belief that they must compromise on either discretion or performance.

“We regularly meet people who are coping rather than thriving at work,” said Dolores Madden, Marketing Director for Hidden Hearing. “They are working harder just to keep up, without realising how much untreated hearing loss is impacting their focus, confidence and energy. By launching this premium product in our clinics, we’re offering a solution that supports people in their working and social lives without drawing attention or requiring compromise.”

In the modern workplace, clear communication is critical. Untreated hearing loss can quietly undermine productivity, collaboration and confidence, particularly in meetings, open-plan offices and hybrid working environments. Supporting clearer hearing can reduce mental strain and help people stay engaged, effective and confident throughout the day.

“I see patients with hearing loss that is often left untreated due to perceived stigma around it,” said Dr Clodagh Gallagher, Medical Advisor for Hidden Hearing. “They also experience mental fatigue, frustration and a drop in confidence at work as a result. When you have clear hearing, it supports better decision-making, stronger communication and overall performance.”

This new innovation addresses the often unseen impact of untreated hearing loss on people’s professional performance, confidence and everyday wellbeing.

A significant barrier to early treatment is the belief that people must choose between discretion and performance. Many delay addressing hearing loss because they don’t want a visible device to define them professionally or socially.

Stigma remains one of the most powerful reasons people put off seeking help. Hearing loss affects people of all ages, yet outdated perceptions continue to hold many back.

“One of the most damaging myths around hearing loss is that it’s something to hide or ignore,” added Dr Gallagher. “The longer people wait, the more impact it can have on their personal and professional lives. Discreet, modern solutions like this help remove that stigma and encourage people to take action earlier.”

Oticon Zeal is designed to fit effortlessly into everyday life, offering a personalised hearing solution for people who want to stay active, social and fully engaged. Whether in quiet moments, busy social settings, at work, enjoying sport or listening to music, it adapts naturally to different environments while maintaining exceptional sound quality and connectivity.

With state-of-the-art innovations like Oticon Zeal now available in Hidden Hearing clinics nationwide, the organisation continues its commitment to helping people hear clearly, perform confidently and stay fully connected to their work and lives without

Fujifilm mini Evo Cinema 3-in-1 Hybrid Instant Camera First Look

FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, has announced the introduction of the instax mini Evo Cinema™ (mini Evo Cinema) hybrid instant camera. The mini Evo Cinema offers multiple ways for users to make highly personalized, one-of-a-kind content through still photos, short-form video (15-second clips), and instax™ mini photo prints via the free, downloadable instax mini Evo™ smartphone app. This 3-in-1 hybrid instant camera is designed to give users one of the most dynamic creative experiences the instax™ brand has ever offered. Also announced was their new smartphone printer.

“mini Evo Cinema offers the best of both worlds – the vintage look of an 8mm video camera, with all of the modern functionality of a hybrid instant camera now integrating photo, video, and print in one unique package,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe. “The mini Evo Cinema delivers a smooth, unique photographic experience that gives the user a myriad of ways to turn casual moments into unforgettable ones.”

Main Features: 

Eras Dial™

The mini Evo Cinema hybrid instant camera features a first for instax™ cameras – the Eras Dial™, which allows users to apply photo effects from 10 different eras to their image – from the grainy, pale tones of the 1930s, to a 1960s effect inspired by 8mm film cameras, to the vibrant colors of the 1980s, and to the sharp, rich imagery of the 2020s. Each era is designed to capture the look and feel of the imagery of that time. 

Degree Control Dial

Content created in each era can be fine-tuned with any of the 10 effects from the Degree Control Dial on the lens. By simply rotating the dial to precisely adjust color, contrast, and noise expression – users can create up to 10 creative variations per era. 

Frame Switch

Once an era is chosen and the intensity of the era is selected via the Degree Control Dial, users can continue to personalize by adding a frame to every shot or video clip utilizing the Frame Switch. There’s a frame for every era, each paying homage to the characteristics, media, and playback devices that defined that time.

CINE/STILL Modes

Users can easily switch between “CINE” and ”STILL” modes to capture either a video or photo, respectively, with ease. In CINE mode, users can shoot a series of clips – up to 15 seconds in total – and the camera will stitch them into one smooth video automatically. Via the free, downloadable instax mini EvoTM smartphone app, users can connect via Bluetooth® and extend video creations to 30 seconds by adding or reordering clips. 

Zoom Lever

The mini Evo Cinema features built-in digital zoom. The tactile Zoom Lever lets you dial up the intimacy of the shot or pull back for greater scope and more atmosphere.

 

“My Gallery”

Within the instax mini Evo™ app, the My Gallery section provides users a secure place to store the images and videos they create, segmented into categories including Favorites, Printed, Video, Photo, Projects. Through this function, users can also save printed images digitally to their smartphone’s camera roll, finished with the iconic instaxTM mini border.

Video Printing

Users can access videos via a one-of-a-kind instax™ mini instant photo printed with a QR code ready to be scanned and played back on a smartphone. Video is captured as standard at 600 x 800, and with the 2020 Era selection is captured at 1080 x 1440. 

Timeless Design

With sleek black, vertical grip design (inspired by Fujifilm’s “FUJICA Single-8”, an 8mm camera introduced in 1965); and analog-inspired details, this hybrid instant camera is meticulously crafted for those who appreciate tactile functions alongside beauty and elegance.  

Additional camera features include:

 

  • Remote shooting capability (via app)
  • Integrated Selfie Mirror and Self-Timer
  • 1.54-inch high-resolution LCD Monitor
  • Print Lever
  • The camera features an analog-style printing operation lever – lift and twist to print a photo.
  • Accessories
      • The mini Evo Cinema includes viewfinder and grip attachments, and a premium hand strap. 
  • USB-C & Micro SD Card Slots
  • Integrated flash/continuous light source

 

Pricing and Availability

The instax mini Evo Cinema™ hybrid instant camera will be available on 28th January 2026 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €380.00 (inc. VAT). Available at FUJIFILM stockists nationwide. For more product information, please visit https://instax.ie/cameras/mini-evo-cinema/

See our instax reviews

Unboxing