Tag: #irishtechreviews

Review – Google Nest hub. Goes on sale in Ireland today for €89.99 #GoogleNestHub #Tech

The Google Nest hub has been around some time but now it goes on sale in Ireland today which is welcome news this comes a day after the Google Pixel Buds went on sale which I am enjoying and you can see the full hands on review HERE.

The Nest hub is basically a mash of a google home and a tablet but it just works, You get visuals rather than voice which is more realistic because sometime I feel like an idiot talking to a speaker and the same applies to all including my Alexa gadgets in the house but hey it makes like easier and so does the Google Nest hub and the integration into the home is just great if you own multiple products like lights,security cameras,tv and more and you can control them here too as you could do on your previous gadgets but its the screen that makes it more real for me.

This is a well built kit and comes wit a decent speaker that sounds good too and can be paired up with existing google products which is a seamless process I might add. There is a volume key on the rear and a switch to turn of/on the mic and that is it,the rest can be done on screen by voice or by using the simple UI and you can customise it too by using images from your smartphone or pre installed ones and use the nest hub as a image carousel which is nice in the home setting,this can be ideal for the kitchen,sitting room or perhaps beside your bedside locker the choice is yours its not too big or intrusive and blends in anywhere plus you have an ambient display which adjusts the screens brightness to fit the current setting and works well. I have been using this all over the house to see how it worked and it works perfectly fine no matter where I place it or what the light situation is.

The Nest hub does allow calls but you cant be seen which might be a downside for some and there is no keyboard like there is on the echo show and no built in browser so to speak but you do ask google and it does the rest it is a bit more refined and feature rich than the echo show which I still use, the echo show offers these two omissions but it is no huge deal as google’s voice detection is class and gets it right most times,they are two great products being honest and do their jobs well and priced fairly, One thing I do not own any nest product and would like to have a complete singular ecosystem in the house from one manufacturer so it can all work seamlessly and not all home security systems work with it just yet.

Overall it is a great product to have in the house to make life much more simple you can even plan your commute,get tips listen to music and much more and all done by voice and you get all your information at a glance. For 89.99 this is a bargain for someone who is yet to delve into home IoT or perhaps someone looking to add to their setup.

BUY 

10 Things to Know About Google Nest Hub Smart display  

 

 

1. Introducing Google Nest Hub 

Google Nest Hub brings you everything you love about Google Home–now with a 7” display to give you help at a glance in any room at home. With the Google Assistant built-in, you’ll always see your best and latest shots from Google Photos. Plus, view and control your compatible connected devices from a single dashboard. Simply use your voice to watch YouTube and play songs from YouTube Music on a crystal clear speaker*now. And with Voice Match, get your personalised calendar, answers from Google, and more. Hub helps with the little moments so you can enjoy the big moments.

2. Thoughtfully designed for any room  

Google Nest Hub’s design is compact, so it fits in any room–like your kitchen counter or nightstand. And, with its Ambient EQ Light Sensor, Hub adjusts to match the colours and lighting in its environment, so photos on Hub seamlessly blend in with your home decor. The display is big enough to get visual, immersive answers from Google, and watch helpful videos from YouTube, all with a full-range speaker that delivers crystal clear sound. Available in two colors from the Google Store—Chalk and Charcoal.

3. Get help at a glance 

With the Google Assistant built-in, Hub brings the best of Google right to your display–see your family activities with Google Calendar, watch how-to videos from YouTube. Plus, ask questions and find visual, immersive answers from Google on recipes, local business info, sports, weather and more. Getting ready for a party? Just say “Hey Google, show me how to tie a bowtie” to learn something new. 

8. Get hands-free help in the kitchen [OPTION 1]

Discover recommended recipes brands like [insert local partners], follow step-by-step directions, set timers, conversions completely hands-free and at a glance. And for those moments when you’re not quite sure how to dice an onion, a simple “Hey Google, show me how to dice an onion” will stop the recipe and play a how-to video from YouTube to help you get it right. 

8. Find your own balance [OPTION 2]

Our Digital Wellbeing tools make it easier to focus on your friends and family. Downtime lets you block your device from responding between certain hours, like after bedtime and during dinner. Filters ensure everyone in your home is enjoying family-friendly content.

9. Your helpful home3

When you combine Google Nest Hub with Nest products, like the Nest Hello Doorbell, Learning Thermostats, and Nest indoor and outdoor cameras, you get the best of Nest and the power to control your home with your voice or from the home view screen. “Hey Google, show me who’s at the front door” immediately shows your front door on Google Nest Hub. You can lock the door from the Google Home app or with swipe on Hub. We’ve made having a thoughtful home easier than ever. 

 4. Relive your memories with Google Photos

Google Photos was created to help you store, organise, relive and share your memories. On Google Nest Hub, you can use your voice to show pictures you’ve taken in Google Photos and see your favourite albums even when the display is not in use. Thanks to machine learning, With no uploading hassles, Google Nest Hub is a great gift for grandparents and friends that enjoy sharing your memories.  

5. Control your connected home in one view1

The Google Assistant works with hundreds of devices and now Google Nest Hub makes it easy for all of those devices to work with each other. With Google Nest Hub’s home view, now you can see and control compatible devices in one place, by touch or by voice. Just swipe down to monitor cameras, dim the lights, control the TV, and more from a single dashboard–no more switching between apps. See who’s at the front door with the Nest Hello video doorbell and check in on the kids with Nest Cam Indoor security camera.2 Even when you’re away from home, thanks to the new Google Home app you can still manage your home.

6. Get hands-free help with YouTube 

Enjoy YouTube’s video catalogue directly on your Google Nest Hub. While you’re cooking in the kitchen or getting ready in the morning, you can watch sports highlights, YouTube creators, cooking clips, and how-to videos with just your voice. Plus, play your popular songs and music videos from YouTube Music in crystal-clear sound. You’ll see recommended YouTube videos on your home screen–personalised just for you.

7. Better together

Google Nest Hub is designed to work seamlessly with Made by Google devices. See who’s at the front door with Nest Hello video doorbell, view your best and latest photos as you capture them on your Pixel 3, and send your entertainment straight to the big screen with Chromecast devices.4 And with multi-room, play popular songs from YouTube Music, Spotify and local radio stations across Google Nest Hub and Google Home speakers.

10. Peace of mind while you’re away with the Google Home app

With just a tap, you’re always in control of your connected home. No matter where you are, you can use the Google Home app to monitor and manage devices easily—including compatible lights, cameras, TVs, speakers, and more.5 You can even customise Routines to do what you need at just the right moment. (Available on both Android and iOS.)

Check out more features and commands at g.co/hub/explore 

Google Nest Hub Requires WiFi and a compatible mobile device.

1 – Controlling certain devices and features in your home requires a compatible smart device, such as compatible smart cameras, lights and TVs. 

2 – Nest Hello Video doorbell and Nest Cam Indoor security camera sold separately.

3 – Chromecast sold separately.

5 Controlling certain devices and features in your home requires a compatible smart device, such as compatible smart cameras, lights and TVs.

Google provided us with the Nest hub and we did not get any compensation for our review they are also seeing this review for the first time and had no copy approval.

Review – Google PixelBuds. Earbuds done right. Now on sale in Ireland #PixelBuds #Pixelbuds2 #Google

Google Pixel buds go on sale today in Ireland for  €199 and I have been testing these out for a week, given I own a pretty large collection of TWS earbuds in all shapes and sizes and including strange cases which is fine it is nice to have a variety and to see what is on offer but the latest offering from Google the new pixel buds 2 is something different, That begins with the matte white finish case,I can’t let go of it,it is shaped like an egg and is robust with 2 LED lights and comes with wireless charging and then the buds which look like mints in your ears but so what, they deliver in all respects..

Pairing to your smartphone is simple and there is an app and the app is also a great feature underpinning their functionality giving you choice on how to use them,it is an excellent app with great visuals for those who are not tech savvy on how to control the buds and this I really like and something we should see more of in the future.In fact it was the most enjoyable set up app I have used in a long time. The only thing missing from the app is an EQ setting but to be honest you do not really need it here.

The buds themselves are small and light and fit really well in the ears you will forget they are there after a few minutes but they fit tightly and snug and there is extra tips to suit all ears so it is a matter of finding the right size for you, they do offer some noise isolating too from the get go but you also get adaptive sound and in ear detection too.

Controls are simple swipe gestures which you will need a few minutes to get use to due to the small footprint of the surface just like many other earbuds out there but once you get use to it you will be a pro in no time getting the commands right.. We take a look at this in the video and you have all the controls you need,volume,skip,reverse track,play and pause and manage calls and of course you have google assistant on tap here too. Lost your pixel buds ?? No problem

When it comes to sound these really shine,better than expected,the pixel buds have 12 mm dynamic speakers, I did not check the previous pair out so can’t say if they are better but if you just happen to pick these up you will not be dissapointed, I test many earbuds and these really did deliver  with all my usual testing tracks,You Tube and Netflix and also great on calls  with beamforming microphones that focus on your voice, plus a voice accelerometer to detect the vibrations of your jawbone . No lag latency noticed either… Well balanced is the best word to sum them up.

One thing I also love with these is the option to respond notifications without touching your phone, example I use WhatsApp and Messenger alot and if I get a message I am notified by voice on the earbuds and can listen to it and also respond via the earbuds by voice,this is truly a great feature and saves time.. Also you can get real-time translations right in your ear should you wish say on holidays for example. If you are on the go they come with an IPX4 rating so you are good to go for activities outdoors and so on again helpful and no need to get your phone out.

Should you buy these? Yes if you are in the market for a new pair of earbuds get them, There is too much banging on about Airpods that are overpriced and simply not worth the money and there is better out there for less.

TEN THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE PIXEL BUDS

1

Brilliant sound, all around

 With custom-designed 12 mm dynamic speaker drivers, Google Pixel Buds deliver rich, high-quality audio. A unique hybrid acoustic design combines the best of in-ear and earbud styles. The eartips gently seal the ears to isolate loud outside noises and deliver powerful sound. The spatial vents reduce that plugged-ear feeling, and let through just the right amount of environmental sound so that you can stay aware.
2

Iconic design

 Pixel Buds were designed to sit almost flush with the ears for a low-profile look, so they’re not easily knocked out when putting on a hat or removing a jacket, and you can wear earrings without worry. The charging case is small and pocketable. Soft and smooth, it even doubles up as the ultimate fidget toy. Pixel Buds come in Clearly White.
3

Comfortable and secure fit

 Because everyone’s ears are shaped differently, we scanned thousands of ears to create a design that’s comfortable for as many people as possible. Eartips in three sizes ensure that your earbuds can be customised to best fit your unique ear shape. Each earbud’s stabiliser arc gently tucks into the ear, and together with the soft-fit eartip, helps Pixel Buds to stay put securely and comfortably, even when you’re exercising. 
4

Clear calls, anywhere

 Each earbud has dual beamforming microphones that focus on your voice, and a voice accelerometer to detect the vibrations of your jawbone when you’re talking. These features help you to sound crystal clear on calls, even in noisy and windy conditions, such as when you’re running or cycling.1
5

Adaptive Sound

 Adaptive Sound dynamically and subtly adjusts the volume as you move between quiet and noisy environments, so you don’t have to constantly raise or lower the volume. This comes in handy if you’re moving from the quiet of your home or office to somewhere noisy, such as a city street, a busy café or public transport.2 Adaptive Sound adjusts for sustained noise, rather than one-off background noise, to ensure a non-disruptive listening experience. And if you manually adjust the volume, Adaptive Sound will be temporarily disabled to respect your settings.
6

“Hey Google”

 Talk to the Google Assistant hands-free to start your workout music, continue a podcast, or send a quick reply – just say “Hey Google” or touch and hold either earbud while you speak.3 
7

Real-time translation

  

Get real-time translation right in your ear while using a Pixel or Android 6.0+ phone.4  Say “Hey Google, help me speak Japanese” to start a conversation. Whether you’re finding your way around foreign countries or connecting with multilingual family and friends during the festive season, you can easily understand and be understood.
8

Touch controls

  

Important controls are a touch away, so you don’t have to pull out your phone. Tap your earbud once to play/pause, twice to skip, three times to rewind, or swipe to adjust the volume. Controls are identical on both earbuds, making gestures easy to remember.
 
9

Water- and sweat-resistant

 Google Pixel Buds are water and sweat-resistant, so rainy days and sweaty workouts are no problem.5
10

Battery life and
wireless charging

 Get five hours of listening time on a single charge, and 24 hours with the case. A 10-minute charge in the case gives you two hours of listening time, and an hour in the case will give you a full charge.6 Google Pixel Buds is Qi-certified, so you can easily charge them without reaching for a cable. Just place the case on a compatible wireless charging pad.7

 

Google provided us with the Pixel Buds and we did not get any compensation for our review they are also seeing this review for the first time and had no copy approval.

BUY HERE

 

 

 

 

Review – The Groov-e ZEN wireless headphones with ANC. #Tech #Headphones

The latest headphones from Groov-e have been tested and overall a solid pair of cans which deliver the goods for the price in a very saturated market. They have a matt black finish overall with the typical industrial look but when it comes to sound they are on the bass heavy side so for fans that like bass these are ones to look at.

The build quality is average with mostly plastic which makes these light and good for long term use which will be fine for most the cups are padded nicely and fit nice and snug on the ears giving you good noise isolation straight away, you can wear these for several hours and I have done so with no issues with sweat but this might vary on humidity levels and so on..

Controls are good on these with raised rubber keys which are easy to find blindly and work well all the time. On the left is your power key slightly recessed on the outside of the cup and you have your music controls, ANC headphone jack and a mic so everything on one side which makes things less confusing. On the right is the micro USB port and a mic.

When it comes to sound these are good,when you turn them on first though you get the strange voice which makes them sound terrible but fear not they dont once you start playing your music you will be fine and availing of the ANC better again. ANC on all the time though will eat into the 10 hour battery life but having said that they last along time so for those on long commutes for example need not worry about battery life no matter..

Overall for the money here you get good sound albeit bass heavy so the bass lovers will like these I fall into that category,they are ideal for music,you tube Netflix and more with no lag latency present and being comfortable and light it is an easy win for most people. More colours though would be nice..

BUY ON AMAZON

Tech Review – The Groov-e Ultra headphones with Wireless charging. #Headphones #Tech

Groov-e is a brand that brings affordable tech to the masses and does not dip on quality either for the price bracket, their latest headphones have just dropped and I have been testing these out for some time now and for the money if you like a little bass and super easy to use controls these are worth a look. Comfort is another factor here with soft cups that give great isolation off the bat.

Mostly made with plastic they do feel a bit cheap but light but overall you cant complain they deliver a nice tone of sound mostly being deep and with bass with 40mm drivers they are loud and pleasing overall no matter what you might listen to be it music, Netflix or You Tube also to note there’s no lag latency. What I love most on these it the controls which you will see in the video below and how easy they are to use, none of this double triple tap rubbish to change tracks and volume etc. You get around 30 hours of music playback and you can of course opt in for a wired connection should you run out but these also come with wireless charging which you don’t see at this price, Simply placed on a wireless charger and you are good to go. Wireless charging with the Apollo light is one example and lives at my bedside locker and is designed to be as easy as possible. Users simply place compatible devices on the 5w charging pad to start powering up the battery immediately.

Apollo’s light utilises three LED modes; warm, warm white and cool white enabling the user to tailor the light tone as required. Whilst, a dimmer function means the brightness can be adjusted up or down too. For those that like tunes before bed or to get them through the working day – Apollo also has an integrated Bluetooth speaker.

  •  Bluetooth Connectivity
  •  30Hrs Wireless Audio Playback
  •  Voice Assistant
  •  Hands-Free Microphone
  •  Removable Audio Cable

 

  •  Supports Wireless Charging
  •  Super Bass
  •  Soft Ear Pads
  •  Folding Design

35 Quid folks you cant complain..  BUY HERE