Tag: iOS

Chipolo launches new item tracker the Chipolo POP – Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Extra features available via the free companion Chipolo app:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chipolo POP App

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

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

Amazon UK & US links:

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See our Chipolo reviews

Video Review

What to Do if Your Phone Is Stolen: 7 Essential Recovery Tips

With the rising cost of phones, comes the rising cases of theft. Like minded  Tech Expert Joe Davies shares tips on how to recover yours if lost.
In the age of expensive smartphones, the rising trend of phone thefts, and the ever-present risk of losing your device, it’s essential to be prepared. Phones now contain much more than just contact lists and photos.
They now also hold sensitive information and act as our connection to the digital world. With TikTok trending hacks and expert advice, we break down how you can improve your chances of finding your stolen phone.
The TikTok Hack: Can It Help You Find Your Stolen Phone?
Recently, a TikTok video went viral, showing a hack for tracking a stolen phone. By using the “Find My” feature from Apple or Google, it demonstrated how you could locate your device if it’s turned on and connected to the internet. This hack, while useful in theory, is not always reliable, particularly if the thief has turned off the phone or disabled location services.
“The viral TikTok hack is a good starting point, but it’s not a complete solution. If your phone is off or disconnected from the internet, you’re left with limited options. Always ensure that the necessary tracking services are enabled before any potential loss.”
That said, while the hack can be part of the solution, here are some other effective strategies to help you recover your stolen device.
7 Tips to Find Your Stolen Phone
  1. Use Find My iPhone (Apple Devices) or Find My Device (Android)
Apple and Android devices come with pre-installed features designed to track your phone. If you have “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device” enabled, these tools can pinpoint your phone’s last known location. Additionally, they offer the ability to lock your device or erase sensitive data remotely.
“One of the most reliable ways to track a stolen phone is through the manufacturer’s built-in features. Just make sure they’re enabled beforehand, or you’ll miss out on these helpful tools.”
  1. Contact Your Service Provider
If location tracking doesn’t lead to your phone, reach out to your mobile network provider. They may be able to track your device’s IMEI number (a unique identifier for your phone) and lock it remotely to prevent further use.
  1. Remote Lock Your Phone
Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android, remote locking can prevent thieves from accessing your personal data. “Find My iPhone” and “Find My Device” both offer the option to lock your phone remotely, offering some peace of mind in case the phone can’t be recovered right away.
  1. Report the Theft to Local Authorities
While you may not be able to track your phone in real-time, it’s important to file a police report. This not only helps with the recovery process but is necessary for insurance claims. Some local law enforcement agencies have the means to trace stolen phones based on their IMEI numbers.
  1. Check Lost-and-Found Services
Many airports, malls, and other public places have lost-and-found services. If you’ve lost your phone while out and about, make sure to check with them in case someone turned it in.
  1. Use Third-Party Apps
Third-party apps like Lookout or Prey offer additional tracking options and remote control of your phone, such as taking photos of the thief, locking your phone, or erasing your data.
“Third-party apps can be a good backup option, but you need to install them in advance. These apps may not be as effective as the built-in features, but they offer extra layers of security.”
  1. Protect Your Phone with a Case and Screen Protector
While this doesn’t help you track a stolen phone, using a protective case makes your phone less appealing to thieves. A bulky or uniquely designed case can act as a deterrent.
While recovering a stolen phone is not always guaranteed, taking these steps can increase your chances. However, the most effective way to protect yourself is to ensure your phone is equipped with the necessary security settings before any incident occurs. Enable location tracking, use strong passwords, and stay vigilant when in public spaces.
“The best way to prevent a phone from being stolen is to be proactive. Prevention is always better than trying to recover something once it’s gone.”
With these tips and expert advice, you’ll be better prepared to find your phone if it’s stolen or lost. But, ultimately, safeguarding your device starts with taking simple steps to protect it from theft.

Vodafone crowned Best Mobile Internet and 5G Provider in Ireland

<a href=”https://n.vodafone.ie/en.html”>Vodafone Ireland</a> has been awarded Best Mobile Internet Performance 2024, for a third year in a row, and Best 5G Provider in Ireland for 2024 at this year’s nPerf Awards. This recognition follows Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network transitioning customers to a faster, more efficient 4G and 5G network in 2024.

Short for network performance, nPerf is a trusted partner for both fixed and mobile operators, providing comprehensive network testing solutions and analysis. The results for 2024 were based on thousand of actual tests performed by users in real conditions using the nPerf application available on Android and iOS. nPerf points are calculated across five factors – Download (DL) Speed, Upload (UP) Speed, Latency (delay), Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming.

Vodafone Ireland maintained its leading position in Ireland’s mobile market, achieving the highest score of 108,153 nPoints, demonstrating its promise of a premium network making every connection count for its customers. The operator excelled in multiple categories and was the best-performing provider across four – Upload Speed, Latency, Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming – showcasing reliable performance in the 5G sector.

2024 saw Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network. This upgrade to a more sustainable, efficient and reliable 4G and 5G network offers all Vodafone Ireland customers an enhanced experience with improved connection across the country. Vodafone’s 5G is now available across Ireland with 78% population coverage.

Over the past three years, Vodafone has invested over €300 million into its network nationwide, with plans to invest an additional half a billion euros over the next four years. This investment will further enhance call and text reliability, provide superfast 4G and 5G services, and expand high-definition voice coverage for Vodafone customers.

Accepting the award, <b>Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland</b>, commented:

<i>“Every day, we strive to offer our customers the best, most reliable mobile network experience and this award is a testament to our teams across Ireland who work to deliver on this promise day in and day out.</i>

<i>“This award recognises our ability to respond to the ever-evolving needs of our customers, who increased their data usage by 20% last year alone and still experienced the same premium service they have come to expect from Vodafone.”</i>

<i>“We remain focused on supporting businesses across Ireland, with 60% of Irish businesses entrusting their mobile business accounts to Vodafone. We understand the critical role that robust and reliable connectivity plays in today’s fast-paced business environment, and we are dedicated to maintaining our position as the leading provider of mobile internet services. We look forward to bringing even more cutting-edge solutions to our customers, enhancing their digital experiences and supporting their connectivity, growth and success.” </i>

Recognising <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=vodafone”>Vodafone’s</a&gt; continued success in 2024,<b> Sébastien de Rosbo, Managing Director nPerf</b>, stated, “The year 2024 has seen Vodafone continue its strong performance in the Irish mobile market, particularly in the 5G space, despite a slight decrease in overall testing volume.”

HSE launches HSE Health App

The Department of Health and HSE have just launched the first version of the HSE Health App. It is one of the first initiatives delivered as part of Digital for Care, Ireland’s health and social care digital framework. Anyone aged 16 and over can download the app for free from Google Play or the App Store. However first phase functionality will be most useful for expectant mothers. 

This first phase functionality allows people to carry a digital list of self-declared medications and see a list of medicines received through the Drugs Payment Scheme or Medical Card Scheme. It allows them to store their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), medical card, Long-term Illness card (LTI), Drugs Payment Scheme card (DPS) and GP Visit card. It provides access to flu and COVID-19 vaccination records and allows the user to easily find information about HSE services, such as EDs and Injury Units. It further allows those involved to view maternity service appointments (for expectant mothers).

According to HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster, there has been “much progress made in modernising the data capabilities and digital technologies of our health service in recent years. The launch of the first version of the new HSE Health App represents the next step forward in our digital transformation journey, as we seek to harness the power of data and innovation to help improve access to care for patients and enhance efficiencies across services.

“Through utilisation and ongoing development of digital tools, such as the new HSE Health App, we see a future where our patients and the people who care for them are empowered and better informed about their care. I will continue to ensure that we prioritise providing increased access for patients to their data allowing them to interact with our health services to improve their experiences.”

Damien McCallion, HSE Chief Technology and Transformation Officer added that “anyone who wishes to, can use the first version of the HSE Health App. This is just the beginning – the app is an evolving programme of work, with new services and features planned each year, including expanding the appointment functionality for all public hospital appointments. This is a challenging undertaking but a key priority to deliver for everyone under our care.The app is one aspect of the digitisation of the health service and a major priority as we face new challenges and ensure we can provide the health service the country needs and deserves.” 

The app development team has consulted with a number of organisations representing disabled people and worked with a Patient Advisory Group to understand the needs of a wide range of individuals. This has ensured their needs are heard and they are involved in the design process. The app has also been tested with users who rely on assistive technology, and audited to ensure it reaches HSE and European standards for accessibility. Work is ongoing with users of the app to identify and implement improvements so new features and functionality can be added.

Future app features will be guided by ongoing research and engagement with patients, staff, and the public. For now, the HSE Health App is available in English and Irish – other languages are being explored for future versions. 

A verified MyGovID is needed to access personal health information. If the user does not have a verified MyGovID, they will still be able to use the app to find information about health conditions and HSE services.

For more information see hse.ie/health-app   

Munchd takes on Just Eat and Uber Eats with launch of new mobile app

Munchd, the disruptive online food ordering platform committed to empowering local takeaways and restaurants to save money, which launched in February 2024, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated mobile app for both iOS and Android devices. 

This custom-built app, developed over the past year alongside the expert digital team in award-winning, Dundalk based marketing agency ZOMA, marks a significant milestone for Munchd, and is poised to disrupt the food ordering industry, providing a direct and compelling alternative to established giants like Just Eat and Uber Eats.

Building on Munchd’s core mission of supporting local businesses, the app offers a seamless and convenient ordering experience for customers while maintaining its groundbreaking 1% commission model for restaurants.Typically the larger competitors charge 10% – 30% commission. Munchd’s unique approach allows takeaways and restaurants maximise their profits, reinvest in their businesses, and offer more competitive prices to consumers.

The Munchd app brings a wealth of features to users, including effortless browsing of a diverse selection of local restaurants and takeaways all in one convenient location. Users can enjoy streamlined ordering, placing orders quickly and easily with an intuitive and user-friendly interface. The app also provides access to exclusive deals, a loyalty program, and promotions available only through the app.

Since its launch in early 2024, Munchd’s prototype app has achieved an impressive turnover of nearly €2 million, highlighting its rapid growth and strong market demand. One of the demo takeaways on the Munchd platform managed to save over €100,000 on fees in 2024, which highlights the cost savings that takeaways and restaurants can achieve by switching to Munchd. 

“The launch of the Munchd app is a game-changer for the food industry,” said David Kieran, Managing Director of Munchd. “For over a year, we’ve been dedicated to developing a platform that truly benefits both restaurants and customers. This app represents the culmination of that hard work, offering a superior ordering experience while staying true to our commitment of 1% commission for restaurants. We believe this will level the playing field, help the already struggling hospitality sector and allow food businesses to thrive and give consumers more choice and better value.”

The Munchd app is now available for download on iOS and Android devices. Customers can download the app from the App Store and Google Play Store by searching for “Munchd”, or visiting www.munchd.io.

Restaurants and takeaways interested in joining the Munchd platform and benefiting from the 1% commission model can visit http://www.munchd.io/join for more information.

BluePoint is A Free Irish Phone App to Combat Plastic Pollution

Created under the EU-funded BluePoint Project, the app leverages cutting-edge technologies to tackle marine plastic waste while fostering innovative solutions.

Co-director of the Centre for Robotics and Intelligent Systems at UL, Professor Gerard Dooly, said the new app, which is available for iPhone and Android, could also create a pathway for recycling plastic pollution collected along Ireland’s 3,172 kilometres of coastline – the longest coastline per head of population in Europe. “Employing drones equipped with sensors, the app leverages cutting-edge technologies such as infrared (IR), multispectral imaging, LiDAR, and artificial intelligence (AI) to identify and locate plastic waste in natural environments, particularly beaches and can scan vast areas to pinpoint the exact locations of plastic debris,” he said.

Prof Dooly said anyone with a suitable camera-equipped drone could scan any area and upload the data and disclosed that commercial partners plan to incorporate the project’s outcomes, using recycled raw materials to drive a circular economy and promote industry-wide sustainability. “In minutes, the BluePoint app identifies pollution hotspots and can even locate items as small as a bottle cap. BluePoint enables communities to keep their coastlines free of plastic pollution, and we can link them up with companies who can commercialise this waste – it’s a win-win for everybody,” he added.

Team member Mr. Jose Alvarez said the app features an intuitive user interface, making it easy for anyone to navigate and contribute to cleanup efforts. “On top of that, BluePoint offers an augmented reality (AR) mode, allowing users to visualise the plastic waste in real-time and better understand its impact on the environment.

Prof Dooly said BluePoint is more than just an app, describing it as a powerful environmental conservation tool. “By engaging the public and providing them with the necessary information and resources, we can collectively make a significant difference in protecting our oceans and beaches.”

BluePoint is available for download on iOS https://apps.apple.com/ie/app/blue-point/id6720749903 and https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.glorystats.bluepoint&hl=en_IE

To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, visit  https://www.bluepointproject.eu/the-project.htm.

More tech news

Revolut enables Tap to Pay on iPhone for business and freelance customers in Ireland

Revolut, the global fintech with more than 45 million customers worldwide and over 2.8 million in Ireland, today announced that it has enabled Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone contactless payment acceptance technology for Revolut Pro and Revolut Business customers across Ireland.

With Tap to Pay on iPhone and the Revolut iOS app, designed for customers with a Pro account, such as sole proprietors or small business owners, or the Revolut Business iOS app for business of all sizes, Revolut customers will now be able to accept in-person, contactless payments with just an iPhone – no need for additional terminals or hardware. The feature provides an easy way for merchants to accept payments from contactless debit and credit cards, Apple Pay and other digital wallets that enable contactless transactions.

For payments to be accepted, customers simply need to hold their contactless card or payment device near the merchant’s iPhone until the transaction is complete, just as with a traditional contactless payment terminal. Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone technology uses the built-in features of iPhone to keep both business and customer data private and secure. 

Revolut Pro and Business customers can start using Tap to Pay on iPhone directly within the Revolut app or the Revolut Business app. New customers wishing to use Tap to Pay on iPhone can do so by downloading the Revolut app or the Revolut Business app on the Apple App Store using an iPhone XS or later running the latest iOS version. From there, they can sign up with a Revolut Pro or Revolut Business account directly within the app to start accepting contactless payments within minutes.*

James Gibson, GM of Revolut Business: “Since 2017, Revolut Business has been providing hundreds of thousands of business customers around the world with a comprehensive platform to manage business finances effectively. We are excited to be amongst the first to enable Tap to Pay on iPhone for our business customers in Ireland and to be providing this simple and secure solution that offers greater flexibility for accepting payments. We are continuously expanding the benefits of the Revolut Business platform, and this is another great tool to support customers to do business seamlessly.”

Alex Codina, GM of Merchant Acquiring at Revolut: “Our ambition in Merchant Acquiring is to provide customers with the products and services they need to accept payments in a secure and convenient manner. The launch of Tap to Pay on iPhone allows us to offer greater choice for both consumers and merchants in Ireland. We expect to see all kinds of businesses, from retail stores to barbershops and food stands, quickly start accepting in-person contactless payments with only an iPhone.” *Terms and Conditions apply.

Some contactless cards may not be accepted. The Contactless Symbol is a trademark owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC. Tap to Pay on iPhone is not available in all markets.

Tech Review – EasySMX game controller

The EasySMX game controller for Android and iOS is a simple gamepad controller to set up and get going and now are a popular piece of tech in stores from what I see alongside game pads.

This might come as a surprise to some but there is no software or official app with the product and key layouts can be done using the controls on the game controller itself.

There is third party apps you can try if you are a bit more into the gaming hacks than me but I take things as they are out of the box.

The build quality is excellent and the ergonomics with it  with excellent key layout and thumbsticks the controls work really well and are well placed and all tactile all round making gaming seamless.

There is a vibration motor built in too making your gaming experience feel that bit more immersive depending on the game of course i how this will react but you can set the limits.

With the tactile keys Hall effects key placement and excellent weight distribution for the money it is not bad, though missing and app and software might  be a caveat for some and it cant be connected to a PC however look at the cost.

EasySMX M15 controls

Main Features:

Full-mechanical tactile buttons:

The M15 features fully mechanical tactile buttons, with a lifespan of up to 5 million clicks. With faster response times and a more comfortable tactile feel, the M15 provides an unparalleled level of consistency and enhances the gaming experience.

More Precision But No Drift

Equipped with a Quadruple Hall Effect Sensor System (Dual Joysticks & Dual Triggers), the M15 boasts superior durability.Not just featuring Hall triggers, the M15 also comes with a rapid trigger function that reduces the cooldown time of game operations, making your gaming experience smoother.

Universal Connectivity & Compatibility

M15 is compatible with Android and iPhone 15 and up series under direct USB-C connection and wired Bluetooth . The M15 features a flexible plug design, allowing the plug angle to be adjusted, which helps protect your phone. Compatible with the latest iOS and Android games to games on different cloud gaming platforms (Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Remote, GeForce NOW and more)

2 Back Paddles and Higher Vibration

The back paddles can be remapped or programmed, allowing gamers to perform additional actions. Upgraded with a high-speed micro vibration motor, the M15 delivers stronger and more refined vibrations. It offers six adjustable levels.( available on streaming games)

Unboxing

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First Look – EasySMX M15 Android and iPhone Game controller

EasySMX M15 is designed for Android and iPhone 15 and up series mobile gamers. Building on feedback from the previous models- the M05 and M10, the grip design has been upgraded to be more ergonomic, so even mobile gamers can enjoy a gaming console-level experience. With upgraded the buttons to fully mechanical tactile buttons and integrated dual Hall effect joysticks and triggers. Additionally enhanced the vibration with a high-speed micro-motor and added two back buttons. The button response, vibration intensity, and grip comfort have all been significantly improved to deliver a superior gaming experience.

Main Features:

Full-mechanical tactile buttons:

The M15 features fully mechanical tactile buttons, with a lifespan of up to 5 million clicks. With faster response times and a more comfortable tactile feel, the M15 provides an unparalleled level of consistency and enhances the gaming experience.

More Precision But No Drift

Equipped with a Quadruple Hall Effect Sensor System (Dual Joysticks & Dual Triggers), the M15 boasts superior durability.Not just featuring Hall triggers, the M15 also comes with a rapid trigger function that reduces the cooldown time of game operations, making your gaming experience smoother.

Universal Connectivity & Compatibility

M15 is compatible with Android and iPhone 15 and up series under direct USB-C connection and wired Bluetooth . The M15 features a flexible plug design, allowing the plug angle to be adjusted, which helps protect your phone. Compatible with the latest iOS and Android games to games on different cloud gaming platforms (Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Remote, GeForce NOW and more)

2 Back Paddles and Higher Vibration

The back paddles can be remapped or programmed, allowing gamers to perform additional actions. Upgraded with a high-speed micro vibration motor, the M15 delivers stronger and more refined vibrations. It offers six adjustable levels.( available on streaming games)

Stay tuned for a full hands on review soon here on techbuzzireland and YouTube

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Unboxing