Tag: industry

Tech Industry Alliance Announces TechFest 2024

Tech Industry Alliance has officially launched TechFest 2024 in the AIB offices 66 South Mall Cork with AIB being one of the main event sponsors. TechFest is its annual flagship technology conference which will be held in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island, Cork from 9:30am on the 14th of May 2024. This year the focus is on “Tech for Good: Driving Deep Tech, Fostering Sustainability & Building a Better Tomorrow”and to complement the main event, a  festival of supporting events will take place throughout the week of TechFest led by well known organisations and agencies throughout the South-West region. Tickets for the main conference are currently on sale at https://techindustryalliance.ie/event/techfest-2024/

The line up of expert speakers include global leader in promoting tech for good – Sarah Porter who is the founder and CEO of InspiredMinds, a global community of 220,000 high level experts in AI and emerging technology and an advisor to both the UN and to the EU AI council.  TechFest 2024 will again this year be MC’d by award-winning industry broadcaster Jonathan McCrea and will feature panel discussions on AI, sustainability & diversity as well as having plenty of networking opportunities and an industry expo featuring leading companies from across Ireland.

Gerry Murphy, Tech Industry Alliance Chairperson commented: “We are delighted to be announcing TechFest 2024 which will feature rare content, rich dialogue and facilitate real connections and which would not be possible without the vital support of our sponsors, who all recognise the importance of our sector to the Munster region.  Following on from a really successful TechFest last year, we are excited with this year’s amazing line up of speakers and even greater opportunities to network with colleagues and businesses across the south west region.”

“Our three key themes this year are Disrupt, Evolve and Ignite and we will hear from leaders of Industry and academia on how technology can contribute to sustainability, the threats and opportunities from the latest AI technology, how to ensure a vibrant and diverse talent pipeline as well as how tech can benefit society and the future of business.”

Approx. 450 people are expected to attend the event, network, connect and collaborate. Other expert speakers on the day include Denis Ryan Technology, Media & Telecoms AIB; Joanne Sheahan, Senior Advisor – Sustainability & Climate Action Enterprise Ireland; Robert McArdle, Director in Trend Micro’s Forward Looking Threat Research; Steve Fleming Founder and CEO Voxxify; Andy Bastick, Senior Director, Product & Partner Marketing, Digital Realty; Susie Harding Senior Manager Data, Analytics & AI at EY; Nikki Bradley Motivational Speaker, Amputee and Adventurer and Lynsey Monaghan, Global Diversity & Inclusion Strategist at NetApp.

 TIA Vice Chair Donagh Kiernan added: “TechFest 2024 is a groundbreaking event dedicated to exploring the pivotal role of technology in addressing global challenges and fostering a sustainable future. The event will also showcase young innovative tech companies in the south west and provide attendees with an insight into technology aimed at addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. And we are delighted to acknowledge the invaluable support of our Skillnet again for TechFest 2024. Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet (TIAS) has been a consistent sponsor throughout the last 10 years.

The theme of TechFest this year fits perfectly with our Skillnet services, fostering innovation in talent strategies for tech, through subsidised support with up- and cross- skilling programmes. In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, the significance of talent development and upskilling cannot be overstated. Our TIAS Team will be available at TechFest 24 to chat with attendees on how they can further support their organisation’s growth and development.”

Tickets for the event are now on sale at https://techindustryalliance.ie/event/techfest-2024/ but numbers are limited so attendees are encouraged to book early as the event is expected to be a sell-out.

Ireland’s Industry Leaders Unite at Cantillon 2024 to Address Urgent Issues in a Sustainable World

Cantillon 2024, scheduled for 7th March at Ballygarry Estate Hotel, Tralee, marks its 10th year as a pivotal platform for thought leaders, visionaries, and industry experts to delve into the urgent issues arising from the transformation towards a sustainable future. The conference will be an opportunity to hear from industry experts on topics including strategic planning, meeting future talent needs, and the evolving culture of organisations. The conference will explore how business leaders can navigate complex transformation processes, framing transformation not just as a strategic imperative but as a commitment to a resilient and prosperous world for generations to come. Cantillon 2024 is not to be missed for those looking to lead transformation in their organisation.

President of MTU, Professor Maggie Cusack, expressed the urgency of the conference, stating, “Tickets are selling fast, be sure to secure your place at Cantillon 2024 which aims to spark innovative solutions to the most pressing issues in securing a sustainable future, honouring the legacy of Richard Cantillon, the pioneering economist.”

In a rapidly changing global landscape, Cantillon 2024 highlights the importance of the need for transformation across sectors from technology and energy to healthcare and manufacturing. The conference serves as a nexus for industry leaders, policymakers, scholars, and innovators to collectively address challenges and strategically plan for a sustainable future. The need for transformation extends beyond businesses – influencing economies, shaping policies, and necessitating the cultivation of a dynamic talent pool geared for the future.

Cantillon 2024 will feature a diverse array of presentations, interactive panel discussions, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. The conference will emphasise the urgency recognised by governmental bodies to develop and implement policies fostering sustainability. From carbon emissions reduction to incentivising green innovations, policymakers play a crucial role in steering industries towards a secure and sustainable future. Organisers are urging those interested to secure their tickets fast before they are sold out.

Highlights from the programme include keynotes from industry leaders:

  • Shane McGibney, Chief Business Transformation Officer at Kerry Group, who will be discussing how to create a transformational culture mindset;

  • Senior Economist at AIB, John Fahey who will be sharing the future transformation requirements from a global economic perspective;

  • Gemma Corrigan of Federated Hermes Limited, focusing on the multi-stakeholder engagement process when leading sustainable transformation; and

  • Disruptive innovation expert Aidan McCullen, who will explain the need to embrace the paradigm shift impacting every facet of global industries, economies, policies, and talent development.

Following the keynotes, panel discussions will dissect the seismic shift towards sustainability across industries. The rising demand for professionals with expertise in sustainability, environmental science, and technology will be a central focus, reflecting the changing landscape of the workforce.

Expert panellists across a host of industries will include:

  • Mr. Padraig McGillycuddy, CEO Ballygarry Estate Hotel: Transforming the Business Model for a Secure Future

  • Ms. Sheena Dympsey Executive Vice President and Chief Solutions Officer at Indivi.: Navigating Transformation in a Complex Digital Health environment.

  • Mr. Cathal Foley CEO, PACE; CCO, Fexco Drive: Platforming to analyse Carbon Emissions in the Air!

  • Dr Assumpta O’Kane, Business Psychologist: Workforce of the Future: The Competing Forces shaping 2040 and beyond!

  • Dr Alison Hampton, Ulster University:  Transformation through the lens of the Zillenial and AI!

With networking opportunities built in throughout the day, key topics of discussion will include the value of collective problem-solving approaches through cross-industry partnerships, public-private collaborations, and knowledge-sharing platforms.

Cantillon 2024 will also shed light on the increasing priority boards, investors, and consumers place on businesses committed to sustainable practices, influencing market trends and investment strategies.

For the full line-up of speakers, visit: www.cantillon.ie; and tickets are available to purchase here: https://events.mtu.ie/index.cfm?page=events&eventId=954

Drone Summit shines light on Northern Ireland’s thriving cybersecurity industry

The UK and Ireland second Drone Summit has highlighted the great potential of drones in the economic growth of the UK and Ireland. 

The summit, organised and sponsored by ANGOKA, supported by the UK Royal Air Force, Invest Northern Ireland and KPMG, who hosted the summit at their Belfast offices, gathered industry leaders from across the UK and Ireland including senior representatives from the British Civil Aviation, the UK Research and Innovation (InnovateUK), AWS, Manna, Skyport, Spright, Avtrain and others discussing the rapid advances being made in the sector. 

The conference explored the economic benefits in the adoption of drone advancements, the role of rapid technology evolution in advancing drone capabilities and making its benefits a reality, the great and complex cybersecurity risks such advancement in technology brings to the drone industry as well as the regulatory and societal challenges the sector faces. 

Shadi Razak, chief technology officer at ANGOKA, says: “Drones are allowing us to achieve more than ever before and continue to provide opportunities to businesses and the local economy. Whilst use of drones is important, the risks of cyber is real, both commercially and physically.  

“The conference allowed us to discuss the benefits of wider adoption of drone usage, and how as an industry we can continue to make advancements. Northern Ireland in particular has really great opportunities for drone development with its thriving technological scene, as well as its links to the UK, Ireland and Europe.  

“We heard of instances of drones being used in vital services, such as the delivery of medication, which is not only of huge benefit to local communities, but also in economic growth. 

“However, as comes with this industry that is moving at a rapid pace, we must be mindful of the risk of cyber. There’s always a worry and a risk of drones being used recklessly or for malicious purposes, especially because it’s a relatively new technology in a new industry, and as we know, technology is always way ahead of regulations and frameworks that will govern and guide.” 

ANGOKA is in the business to ensure the safety and resilience of next-generation air mobility by safeguarding the identification and communication of drone flight and operation in free space or air corridors.  

Throughout the summit, the team at ANGOKA demonstrated to the audience that cybersecurity works both ways in the drone industry. Preventing hostile and unwanted drone activity on the one hand and protecting drones from interference by hackers and other unauthorised sources. The team demonstrated the takeover of a commercial drone, spoofing its video stream and bringing it to fall from the sky. 

Mr Razak concludes: “Drones will have a huge impact on us as a society, even for our own safety, and whilst use of drones is important, but the risks of cyber is real, both commercially and physically. It’s events like this that are so important to bring together thought leaders and innovators to discuss the benefits, and also the downfalls, that come with UAVs, and how as an industry we can work together to ensure both physical and digital security.” 

Cyber4AM highlights the need to fortify digital defences for Ireland’s manufacturing industry to maintain its global edge

For Ireland to maintain its cutting edge advantages as a world class location for the manufacturing industry and leading exporter of a range of high end and sophisticated products it needs to double down on all aspects of security, especially in operational technology security according to the Cyber4AM project at the ISA Ireland OT Cybersecurity conference.

Manufacturing is the backbone of the Irish and northern Irish economies, with both regions having clusters of world class manufacturing operations in sectors such as biopharmaceuticals, electronics, medical device technology, and food production. The total value of products manufactured in Ireland in 2022 was €132 billion and manufacturing is consistently one the strongest growth sectors in Northern Ireland’s dynamic economy.

Central to preserving and advancing this competitive edge is building on the foundations of a robust cybersecurity ecosystem for Ireland’s manufacturing industry, particularly in light of findings that in 2022 the manufacturing sector had one of the highest share of cyber-attacks among the leading industries worldwide.

As factories continue to digitise, moving towards automation, this brings increasing security risks for the Information Technology (IT) environment, which manages data and information, and the operational technology (OT) environment, which manages physical systems such as machinery or critical infrastructure.

A dedicated one-day conference provided attendees with a comprehensive overview of cyber security trends and challenges for the manufacturing sector in operational technology (OT) cybersecurity.

At the conference, Cyber Ireland and NI Cyber held a workshop on Cybersecurity for Advanced Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, to discuss the research findings of the Cyber4AM project. It is funded by InterTrade Ireland’s Synergy programme which aims to scale cross-border collaboration in the manufacturing sector to accelerate innovation, cluster development and knowledge sharing.

It found that small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector have established roles responsible for cyber security and have conducted cyber risk assessments, with a significant percentage having business continuity plans.

However, there are areas for improvement with the need for increased cyber security awareness and training, adoption of certifications and standards, and for a comprehensive cyber security strategy for the business. It was also found a need for training in OT cyber security.

Speaking at the one-day conference, Eoin Byrne, Cluster Manager at Cyber Ireland, said “The Cyber4AM project has highlighted the increasing importance of cyber security to the manufacturing sector in Ireland, in particular for SMEs. This is also an opportunity for cyber security solution providers in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the potential for a more integrated All-Island cyber security market.”

Gillian Colan-O’Leary, Programme Manager with NI Cyber, said “Cyber4AM is at the forefront of fostering cross-border and cross-cluster collaboration by connecting cyber security companies with advanced manufacturing firms in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

“Our mission is to fortify the digital defence of the manufacturing industry, promoting innovation and resilience through strategic partnerships,” added Colan-O’Leary

Alison Currie, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at InterTradeIreland commented, InterTradeIreland’s Synergy programme supports knowledge sharing and collaboration between the Irish and Northern Irish manufacturing sectors to accelerate innovation.

“This research will benefit advanced manufacturing companies across the island of Ireland to improve their cyber security preparedness, support their digitalisation process and reduce the risk of cyber attacks. It will also create new business opportunities for cyber security companies in Ireland and Northern Ireland,” Currie said.

Expert speakers at the ISA Ireland Section OT Cybersecurity Conference 2023 included Ita O’Farrell, Head of NCSE Compliance, National Cyber Security Centre, Philip Westbroek, OT Security Officer of Enexis  the Netharland’s regional grid operator, Carlos Buenano, Chief Technical Officer for OT, Armis, a leading asset intelligence platform, Jacky Fox, Europe Security Lead, Accenture, Katie McCarthy, Head of Security, Uisce Éireann and Donal Óg Cusack, Senior Engineering Manager, DePuy Synthes who engaged in some of the biggest topics and issues of the day including the impact of EU regulations, OT Cyber security standards, and securing critical infrastructure.

Excitement builds as Ireland’s aquatech industry aims for global recognition at BIM conference

Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s seafood development agency is hosting a conference next month that aims to position Ireland as the centre of excellence for aquatech. The inaugural Aquatech Business of the Year award is also being announced at the event.

The conference, being held in partnership with global aquaculture accelerator, Hatch, and supported by the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, will gather some of the leading experts in aquaculture including Kristen Virega, SVP Global Shrimp efishery, Neil Sims, Founder and CEO, Ocean Era and Jennifer Bushman, Sustainable Aquaculture Strategist and Communicator. BIM CEO, Caroline Bocquel is also among the key speakers.

Aquatech can be defined as any technology enabling sustainable seafood farming. There are currently 62 aquatech companies operating in Ireland, employing almost 900 and with a combined turnover of €217 million.

This exclusive discussion and knowledge sharing opportunity will provide a platform for senior policy makers, aquaculture and tech sector thought leaders and investors to learn how  Ireland can build its capabilities in this space.

‘Aquatech – Ireland’s Global Opportunity’ is taking place at the Brehon Hotel in Killarney, Co Kerry on Thursday 19 October from 14:00 to 16:00 (Irish Standard Time). You can register to attend for free at the following link:  bit.ly/44CLJgX

Tech Investments in the Digital Entertainment Industry

In an age defined by digitalisation, the entertainment industry has undergone a seismic shift. Traditional forms of entertainment have gracefully paved the way for their digital counterparts, driven by technology’s relentless march forward. As consumers increasingly embrace digital platforms, the fusion of tech investments and digital entertainment continues to redefine how we engage with content. Let’s delve deeper into this dynamic relationship and its profound impacts on our leisure time.

Tech Innovations in iGaming

The iGaming industry has experienced a significant surge in popularity over the past few years. This growth can be attributed to various factors such as user-friendly interfaces, secure payment options, and engaging gameplay. The presence of famous casino slots games, with their state-of-the-art graphics and innovative features, exemplifies the extent of tech investments in this sector. These games, such as Big Bass Bonanza and Gonzo’s Quest, provide players with immersive experiences, often taking inspiration from popular culture, historical themes, or even abstract concepts.

iGaming has seen swift advancements primarily driven by significant tech investments. These funds have catalysed progress in several areas. For instance, blockchain technology has been adopted to guarantee fair play and transparent transactions. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence tools have been implemented to scrutinise player behaviour, optimising the gaming experience without crossing ethical lines. Additionally, augmented and virtual reality technologies have been integrated, either simulating real-world scenarios or forging entirely novel environments, thereby elevating the immersion level in gaming.

Such technological innovations have not only enhanced player experience but also ensured security, transparency, and reliability in the iGaming space.

Streaming and Music Platforms

In recent years, the transition from traditional forms of entertainment to their digital counterparts has been nothing short of spectacular. Streaming platforms, especially the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, stand at the forefront of this revolution. These giants have significantly changed the way we consume entertainment, driven by their massive investments in AI algorithms. Such investments ensure viewers receive personalised content recommendations tailored to their unique viewing habits.

On the music front, platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal have not only democratised music access for diverse audiences worldwide but have also employed sophisticated data analytics to curate playlists and suggest tracks. This innovation harnesses user listening habits, ensuring each individual is treated to a unique and bespoke auditory experience tailored to their preferences and moods.

Digital Reading and Publishing

The realm of literature and publishing hasn’t remained untouched by the tidal wave of digitisation. Platforms such as Kindle and Audible have ushered in a new era for book enthusiasts. Gone are the days when one needed to physically visit a store or library to procure a book.

Today, vast digital libraries are available at our fingertips, making it easier than ever for readers to dive into new adventures or learn about various subjects. Moreover, these platforms’ robust tech investments have added features like adjustable fonts, integrated dictionaries, and narration speeds, catering to the diverse needs of readers and ensuring a comfortable and enriching reading experience.

Tech investments in the digital entertainment industry, from iGaming to streaming services, have transformed how audiences consume content. As technology continues to evolve, one can anticipate even more groundbreaking innovations that cater to diverse consumer preferences and redefine entertainment in the digital age.

The Impact of Online Streaming services on the Sports Industry in Australia

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, online streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume sports content. From thrilling cricket matches to exhilarating rugby clashes, sports enthusiasts in Australia now have unprecedented access to their favorite games, regardless of location.

Platforms like ITV, offering a range of live and on-demand sports programming, have played a pivotal role in reshaping the sports industry. With the ability to watch ITV in Australia and other sports streaming services, fans can engage with sports content on their own terms.

In this blog, we delve into the profound impact of online streaming services on the Australian sports industry, exploring how these platforms have transformed the game for both fans and sports organizations alike.

Effect of Streaming Platforms on Australia’s Sports Industry

Accessible Anytime, Anywhere:

Online streaming services have revolutionized the way sports fans consume content by providing the convenience of accessing live games and matches at their fingertips. Whether fans are on the go or at home, they can tune in to their favorite sports events via smartphones, tablets, or computers. This flexibility eliminates the need to be tied to traditional TV schedules, allowing fans to watch sports on their own terms and never miss a moment of the action.

Global Reach and Exposure:

The advent of online streaming services has propelled Australian sports onto the global stage. International fans can now easily access and enjoy Australian sports events, leading to increased exposure for both the sports themselves and the athletes involved. This expanded reach has the potential to grow fan bases, attract new sponsorships, and encourage investments from a worldwide audience, further boosting the development of Australian sports.

Diverse Sports Coverage:

Online streaming platforms offer an extensive range of sports, going beyond mainstream favorites and including niche and lesser-known sports. This diversification allows fans to explore a wide variety of sports and discover new athletes and teams they may not have had access to through traditional broadcasting. It promotes inclusivity within the sports industry, giving lesser-known sports the opportunity to gain recognition and attract dedicated fan bases.

Enhanced Viewing Experience:

Streaming services go the extra mile to enhance the overall viewing experience for sports fans. With features such as multiple camera angles, instant replays, real-time statistics, and live chat options, fans have more control and engagement while watching their favorite sports. These interactive elements provide a deeper level of immersion, allowing fans to analyze plays, discuss game strategies, and share their excitement with fellow viewers in real-time.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Online streaming services offer flexible subscription options that cater to individual preferences, making sports content more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. Instead of paying for entire cable TV packages, fans can choose specific sports or events they are interested in, reducing costs and eliminating the need for expensive bundled subscriptions. This cost-effectiveness opens up opportunities for more people to enjoy their favorite sports without breaking the bank.

On-Demand Content:

One of the significant advantages of online streaming services like HBO Max is the availability of on-demand content. In addition to live events, streaming platforms offer access to past matches, highlights, interviews, and documentaries. This feature allows sports fans to catch up on missed games or relive memorable moments at their convenience. The ability to access a vast library of sports content enhances fan engagement, extends the lifespan of sports events, and keeps fans connected even outside of live matches.

Direct Fan Engagement:

Online streaming services facilitate direct interaction between fans and athletes or teams, creating a sense of community and fostering stronger connections. Through live chat features, social media integration, and exclusive content, fans can engage in real-time conversations, share their thoughts, and express their support for their favorite athletes or teams. This direct fan engagement not only strengthens loyalty but also provides personalized experiences that make fans feel more connected and valued within the sports industry.

Monetization Opportunities:

Streaming platforms offer new avenues for revenue generation in the sports industry. With targeted advertising, sponsorships, and partnerships, brands can reach specific audiences and measure engagement more effectively. Streaming services provide valuable data on user preferences and demographics, allowing brands to create tailored marketing campaigns that resonate with sports fans. These monetization opportunities benefit both the streaming services, by generating revenue, and the sports organizations, by attracting sponsors and enhancing their financial stability.

Data-Driven Insights:

Online streaming services gather a wealth of user data, including viewing preferences, engagement patterns, and demographic information. This data can be analyzed to gain valuable insights into fan behavior, preferences, and trends. Sports organizations can leverage these insights to make informed decisions about content creation, scheduling, and marketing strategies. By understanding their fan base on a deeper level, sports organizations can optimize their offerings and tailor experiences to meet the evolving needs and preferences of their audience.

Expansion of Niche Markets:

Online streaming platforms have played a pivotal role in the growth of niche sports markets in Australia. Previously, lesser-known sports struggled to gain exposure through traditional broadcasting. However, with streaming services, these niche sports now have a dedicated platform to showcase their events and competitions. This increased visibility attracts new fans who may have otherwise been unaware of these sports, thereby expanding their fan bases. Additionally, streaming platforms provide opportunities for niche sports to secure sponsors and investments, fostering growth and development within these specialized sporting communities.

Crux

In conclusion, online streaming services like Kayo Sports have significantly impacted the sports industry in Australia. They have expanded access, enhanced viewing experiences, provided monetization opportunities, and promoted fan engagement. These platforms have also contributed to the growth of niche sports, improved data analytics, and expanded the global reach of Australian sports. As technology continues to evolve, it is expected that the influence of online streaming services on the sports industry will only continue to grow, shaping the future of sports consumption in Australia.

 

How Technology is Revolutionizing the Entertainment Industry

The online gaming industry is quickly becoming one of the world’s most active and profitable, thanks to leaps in technology that are revolutionizing both the conception and delivery of gaming experiences. With computer power now advancing far beyond what was previously imaginable, operators have the potential to bring unprecedented levels of realism, interactivity, and reward to their users – while reaping huge profits themselves. In this article, we’ll explore how advanced technological advancements such as virtual reality (VR) integration and cryptocurrency payments are transforming the future of online gambling.

The Growing Popularity of Online Gambling

The online gambling industry has experienced significant growth and popularity in recent years. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global online gambling market size is expected to reach USD 127.3 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 11.5% from 2020 to 2027.

The convenience and accessibility of online gambling platforms have contributed to their widespread adoption. Now, it’s never been easier, for example, to play slots online, bet on sporting events (both physical and virtual), or even engage in a game of poker with players worldwide.

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the adoption of online gambling platforms as traditional betting shops have been closed due to lockdown measures. So now, more than ever, technology is playing a critical role in the industry.

The influence of technology on the online gambling industry has been truly revolutionary, bringing forth an array of innovative concepts that are taking gaming experiences to exhilarating new heights. With the advent of highly sophisticated software and hardware systems, online gambling operators can now deliver unprecedented levels of realism, interactivity, and reward to their users, all while reaping huge and increasing profits.

Virtual Reality Integration

One of the most exciting technological advancements in the online gambling industry is integrating virtual reality (VR) technology. With VR, operators can deliver an immersive gaming experience unmatched by traditional online gambling platforms.

VR provides users with a 360-degree view of the gaming environment, allowing them to immerse themselves in the game fully. This technology can simulate real-world casinos, giving users the feeling of being there while playing their favorite games.

Moreover, VR enables operators to create entirely new gaming experiences that were not previously possible. Virtual reality poker, for example, allows players to sit at a virtual table and engage with other players as if they were sitting in the same room. This immersion and social interaction level elevates the online gambling experience to a new level.

VR technology is also being utilized to create virtual sports betting experiences. Users can place bets on virtual horse races or soccer matches and watch them unfold in a fully immersive VR environment.

Cryptocurrency Payments

Another technological advancement that is transforming the online gambling industry is the integration of cryptocurrency payments. Cryptocurrencies are digital or virtual tokens that use cryptography for security and operate independently of a central bank. They are decentralized, meaning no central authority controls their flow or value, allowing users to enjoy increased anonymity and security when making payments or receiving payouts.

With cryptocurrency payments, online gambling platforms can offer users greater convenience, speed, and security than traditional payment methods like credit cards or bank transfers. Transactions can be completed in seconds, across borders, without costly intermediaries. Cryptocurrencies also allow users to avoid some security concerns associated with traditional payment methods, such as fraud and identity theft.

One of the biggest advantages of using cryptocurrency payments in online gambling is anonymity. Traditional payment methods require users to provide their personal information, including their full name, address, and bank account details, which can cause concern for many gamblers who value their privacy. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, however, allow users to make payments and receive payouts without revealing their identity, providing gamblers with a sense of security and privacy. This level of privacy is particularly important for players who reside in countries where gambling is illegal or heavily restricted.

In addition to privacy and security benefits, cryptocurrency payments can bring cost savings for operators and users. Because cryptocurrency transactions can be completed without intermediaries, operators can avoid hefty processing fees charged by credit card companies or banks. As a result, users can enjoy lower transaction fees and higher payouts. Cryptocurrencies also offer a simplified payment process, as users do not have to go through lengthy verification processes or wait days for payouts to be processed.

Cryptocurrency payments are still relatively new in online gambling but are rapidly gaining traction. Some online gambling platforms already accept Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies, and many others are expected to follow suit. With cryptocurrency payments’ increasing benefits and convenience, it’s safe to say that they will play a pivotal role in the future of online gambling.

Mobile Gambling

The emergence of mobile gambling is probably the most significant development in the online gambling industry in recent years. Mobile gaming is becoming increasingly popular among players worldwide, allowing them to play their favorite casino games anytime and anywhere on their smartphones or tablets.

Mobile gambling apps are optimized for iOS and Android devices and give users access to various features and services, from bonus promotions to real-time customer support. With mobile gambling, users can quickly find the game they’re looking for with intuitive menus and swipe gestures, deposit funds into their accounts, receive promotional offers and bonuses, participate in leaderboards and tournaments, and more.

Mobile gambling also allows operators to create immersive experiences for users by taking advantage of device features such as accelerometers and GPS, allowing them to create unique casino games tailored to the user’s physical environment.

The rise of mobile gambling has created a new generation of gamers who demand immediate gratification and convenience. As such, many online casinos have begun to offer their services on mobile platforms, giving their customers even more access to their favorite casino games whenever they want. Mobile gambling is certainly here to stay and will continue to be an integral part of the online gambling industry in the future.

The Future of Online Gambling?

The future of online gambling will surely be exciting, with many technological and regulatory advancements on the horizon. As technology evolves, VR and cryptocurrency payments will likely play an increasingly important role. In addition, more countries and states are legalizing online gambling and regulating it more strictly, making it easier for users to engage in the activity safely and securely.

It’s clear that online gambling has come a long way since its humble beginnings over 20 years ago. With the help of new technologies, operators can create richer gaming experiences for their customers while users can enjoy a safe and secure environment for playing their favorite games. The future looks bright for the online gambling industry!

 

Tech Industry Alliance Announces TechFest 2023

Tech Industry Alliance has today officially launched TechFest 2023, its annual flagship technology conference which will be held in the Clayton Hotel in Cork City from 8:30am on the 25th of May 2023.  To coincide and complement the main event, a  festival of supporting events will take place throughout the week of TechFest which will be led by well known organisations and agencies throughout the South-West region. Tickets for the main conference are currently on sale at https://techindustryalliance.ie/event/techfest/ 

The line up of expert speakers include leading Norweigian AI Expert and Futurist Elin Hauge whose expertise in connecting the dots between business strategy and the application of AI is world-renowned. The event, MC’d by award-winning industry broadcaster Jonathan McCrea, will also feature parallel sessions focused on sustainability, digitsation, cyber, energy etc,  networking opportunities and an industry expo featuring leading companies from across Ireland.

Gillian Bergin, Tech Industry Alliance Chairperson and Senior Consultant with DELL Technologies commented: “We are delighted to be announcing TechFest 2023 which is the first technology conference under our new brand Tech Industry Alliance, a collaboration between it@cork and KerryScitech.  Following on from a really successful TechFest last year, we are excited with this years amazing line up of speakers and even greater opportunities to network with colleagues and businesses across the south west region.”

“Staying with our three key themes of Transform, Innovate and Inspire, we will hear from Industry and academia on the latest AI technology with its societal and sectoral impact, the future of power and responding to the energy crisis, as well as how we are building tech capabilities and expertise in the South West around cyber security, energy and smart manufacturing. Business leaders and academic thought-leaders will discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Ireland and how talent and skills need to be realigned in an increasingly fast changing environment”.

Approx. 300 people are expected to converge on the Clayton hotel on the day to attend the event, network, connect and collaborate. Other expert speakers on the day include Matt Watts, Chief Technology Evangelist at NetApp and Dr. Paul Deane, Research Fellow at MaREI Centre for Marine and Renewable Energy.  The conference will also feature speakers, panellists and facilitators from The Cantillon Academy at MTU, Enterprise Ireland, Technology Ireland, UCC, Keelvar, Trend Micro, Graphite Note, Grant Thornton Ireland, Future Planet, ENERCON, EY, VMware and MTU 

TIA Ingnition team lead and CFO, Aspen Grove Solutions Manjit Gill added: “We are delighted to be further developing the festival theme of TechFest and are building on the successful alliances formed throughout the region over the last number of years and in particular, the successful events held last year as a part of the week-long festival. We encourage and welcome any new organisations who want to showcase and support the very best of our tech ecosystem to get in touch and be a part of the celebration of our growing STEM community in the region”.