Tag: PC

Maximizing Your Gaming Experience with the Tech You Already Own

Gaming has become a leading form of entertainment in today’s world, offering endless experiences for players of all ages and interests. Whether you’re playing video games on your console, enjoying casual mobile games, or engaging in online gaming experiences, it’s easy to get caught up in the temptation of upgrading to the latest and greatest tech. However, you don’t always need to invest in new gadgets to maximize your gaming experience. 

In fact, you can elevate your current gaming setup using the tech you already own. Here’s how to make the most of your existing devices, from your smartphone to your gaming console, without needing to spend a fortune on upgrades.

Optimizing Your Smartphone for Gaming

Casual gaming has gained immense popularity due to the convenience of playing anywhere, anytime. The great news is that if you already own a smartphone, you’re all set for a seamless gaming experience. Smartphones are perfectly suited for simple yet engaging games, like puzzle games, strategy games, and even multiplayer experiences. 

Similarly, online casino games, such as slots, blackjack, or roulette, are readily available on most smartphones, offering you the thrill of real-money gaming from wherever you are. Bettors can wager via apps on their phones or visit betting sites. There are domestic sites and international sites available to all bettors. In recent years many bettors have begun visiting international non GamStop casinos in the UK as they seek out flexible options that bypass the UKGC’s tough GamStop rules and regulations. Both domestic and international sites can easily be accessed from a smartphone. This level of accessibility has made gaming, including wagering, more convenient than ever, giving players the freedom to enjoy their favorite games anytime and anywhere.

To get the most out of your gaming experience, start by ensuring your phone is optimized. Close unnecessary apps to improve performance, free up storage space, and keep your operating system up to date. Additionally, if you’re looking to boost your gameplay, consider using a mobile controller that is compatible with your device. There are affordable Bluetooth controllers available that can provide more precise controls, especially for games that require a bit more accuracy.

Enhancing Your PC Setup for Better Performance

For those who already own a gaming PC or a general-purpose computer, there’s no need to rush out and buy a new system. Instead, focus on enhancing the performance of the equipment you already own. Even small tweaks can have a big impact on your gaming experience.

Start by updating your PC’s drivers and game clients to ensure everything is running smoothly. Many performance issues can be solved with a simple update. Additionally, consider adjusting in-game settings to find a balance between visuals and performance. Lowering settings such as texture quality and shadow resolution can improve frame rates, providing you with a smoother experience without sacrificing too much visual appeal.

For those who use their PC for video games, adding accessories like a gaming mouse or mechanical keyboard can increase comfort and performance. A high-quality mouse offers greater precision in games, particularly those requiring fast reflexes or precision, such as shooters or strategy games. Meanwhile, customizing your keyboard with programmable keys can give you an edge in competitive games.

Maximizing Your Console Setup

Console gaming is a favorite for many, and there’s no need to buy a new system when you can enhance your current setup. Whether you have a PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch, there are several ways to get more out of your existing tech.

Start by adjusting settings on your console to optimize the gaming experience. Many consoles offer different performance modes that can be adjusted depending on whether you prioritize graphics or frame rates. For instance, some consoles have “performance mode” that ensures smoother gameplay with higher frame rates, while others offer “resolution mode” for sharper graphics.

Consider investing in a good-quality controller that fits your preferences. If you already own a standard controller, you might want to upgrade to one that offers better ergonomics or additional features like customizable button mapping and better triggers for responsiveness in competitive play. If you like to game for extended periods, an ergonomic chair is essential for comfort and good posture.

Enjoy Online Gaming Without Upgrades

For those who love the thrill of online gaming—whether it’s video games, casual games, or even online casino games—there’s no need for a fancy new gaming rig to enjoy the experience. Your current devices, such as your PC, laptop, or mobile phone, are more than capable of connecting you to a wide variety of online platforms.

Many online gaming platforms, whether they involve wagering, poker, blackjack, or mobile-friendly games, offer a fully immersive experience even with minimal tech requirements. By ensuring your internet connection is fast and stable, you’ll avoid lags or delays that can interfere with your gaming. For those who enjoy socializing while gaming, like in online poker or multiplayer tournaments, using a good headset or even your phone’s microphone will allow you to chat with other players and enjoy the social aspect of gaming.

Set Up a Dedicated Gaming Space Without Additional Costs

Creating an ideal gaming environment at home doesn’t require huge investments. With the tech you already have, you can easily set up a dedicated gaming space. Whether it’s setting up your gaming laptop or desktop in a cozy corner or creating a more expansive gaming station with your console and accessories, maximizing your existing setup is key.

Start by making sure your space is comfortable. Invest in a supportive chair to avoid discomfort during long gaming sessions, and keep your setup organized to minimize distractions. A clean, tidy space will help you focus on the game itself and provide a relaxing environment for your hobby. You can even add personal touches to make the space feel more inviting, such as lighting options or decorations.

Additionally, if you have a desk or table where you play, make sure it has the right ergonomics. A sturdy table, proper lighting, and adequate room for your gaming equipment can all make a big difference in the comfort and convenience of your setup.

 

HP Announces 80+ New Devices at Amplify Conference

At its annual Amplify Conference, HP Inc today announced new products and services designed to shape the future of work, empowering people and businesses to create and manage their own way of working. The company unveiled more than 80 PCs, AI-powered print tools for SMBs, and Workforce Experience Platform enhancements all built to drive company growth and professional fulfillment.  

“HP is translating AI into meaningful experiences that drive growth and fulfilment,” said Neil Sawyer, HP Managing Director North West Europe. “We are shaping the future of work with game-changing AI innovations that seamlessly adapt to how people want to work.” 

Leading the Future of Work 

HP’s 2024 Work Relationship Index reports that only 28 percent of workers have a healthy relationship with work. Companies and people are seeking better work experiences and new advancements in technology – from seamless device connectivity to AI applications – that can help people work faster, think more creatively, and connect on a deeper level.  

With customers looking to refresh their devices to Windows 11, HP is supercharging its PCs to take advantage of the latest technologies available with select models qualifying as Copilot+ PCs, so work doesn’t feel like work:  

·       The HP EliteBook 8 Series is masterfully redesigned with mainstream enterprise workers in mind, delivering AI-powered productivity and seamless collaboration in a repairable and upgradeable package. With NPU options up to 50 TOPS, experience up to 224% better power efficiency and up to 43 times faster AI image generation for incredible performance gains versus previous non-NPU models.

·       The HP EliteDesk 8 Series brings AI powerfully and securely to the company’s desktop portfolio. These devices are ideal for corporate project managers and workers who need a reliable PC that can manage even the most demanding projects for smarter workflows and productivity. This is the world’s first business desktop PC portfolio to protect against quantum computer hacks, combining high performance with lower power consumption to reduce costs.  

·       The HP EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i is the perfect tool for an on-the-go employee constantly moving around the office. As the world’s first commercial PC with integrated KVM ability through HP Device Switch, an employee can use the all-in-one for work or quickly plug their laptop into the AIO with a single cable to power the notebook and access all the available peripherals.  

·       The OmniBook X Series is designed for creators who need a PC that adapts to their workflow, whether it be a svelte 14-inch flip device to ideate and draw, or a powerhouse clamshell 17.3-inch PC to power through their larger-than-life creations. The OmniBook 7 Series is built for power users on their PC for all-day productivity for school or work. And the OmniBook 5 Series is ideal for families and students with a versatile design that’s built for streaming, light gaming, and personal productivity. Devices across the consumer notebook portfolio are offered in a variety of sizes with powerful Intel Ultra or AMD Ryzen™ processors. 

  

HP is also delivering powerful new AI software experiences to complement this next generation of AI PCs.  Qualifying consumer and commercial devices from HP are equipped with exclusive software designed to transform how people work in the office, at home, and everywhere in between:  

·       HP AI Companion is an advanced on-device AI research assistant that delivers instant answers and secured file analysis, even without an internet connection. New features planned for this Spring include intuitive voice and text commands and built-in keylogger protections to enhance productivity while keeping data secure on the device.  

·       HP Go plans to deliver seamless global connectivity for highly mobile professionals. With automatic network switching regardless of carrier, advanced fleet management, and effortless setup, road warriors can connect and be productive wherever work takes them. The HP Go service option will first be available on the HP EliteBook 6 G1q powered by Snapdragon X Series, making it the world’s first AI PC with zero-touch multi-carrier 5G deployment. 

·       Poly Camera Pro newest features make virtual interactions and video conferencing more dynamic and engaging, with AI-powered features like Magic Background, seamless streaming integrations, and presenter overlays.[12] Multi-camera support, customisable aesthetics, and auto-framing transforms any workspace into a professional studio experience. 

  

HP is changing the way customers print and manage documents, making it easier and more efficient with new features and technology: 

·       Two new features to its collection of AI-powered tools that help SMBs simplify and enhance the print experience. The first feature streamlines the process of sharing scanned documents by using AI to summarise them and draft an email with the document attached, allowing for easy sharing via email or chat. The second feature offers automatic and guided redaction to safeguard sensitive information, ensuring that private data remains secure on HP devices without requiring a cloud connection. These innovations aim to reduce the complexity and enhance the security of document handling for small businesses.  

·       The HP LaserJet Enterprise 8000 Series Printers are the world’s first printers that protect against quantum computer attacks. They provide enhanced hardware-level security for highly regulated organisations that rely on secure printing, ensuring protection against future quantum computer attacks while seamlessly integrating with Zero Trust architectures. 

·       The HP Latex R530 Printer is the only compact all-in-one HP Latex printer, capable of handling both rigid and flexible media. Its digital operation simplifies workflows and maximises space, boosting efficiency. It helps small and medium-sized print shops (PSPs) meet customer demands with high-quality prints and impressive output. 

  

HP provides IT with valuable insights that empower employees to thrive with HP Workforce Experience Platform (WXP) enhancements and expanded availability. New features include:  

·       AI Sentiment Analysis now includes AI capabilities to assess and improve employee experience by analysing thousands of free text surveys. 

·       Fleet Explorer is a new AI-powered natural language processing (NLP) tool lets users query fleet data instantly for insights. 

·       Vyopta Integration enables HP and Vyopta customers to now check on the overall health of their organisation’s collaboration environment in WXP. 

·       Pre-built scripts, alerts and dashboards help organisations monitor fleets, automate workflows.  

  

Shaping the Future in Play 

  

Technology can also offer people a smooth transition from work into play. According to Mohamed Ala Saayed, Senior Program Director & Fellow, Frost & Sullivan, “About 60% of gaming PCs owners likely use their systems for work-related activities in addition to gaming.”

  

New gaming hardware across OMEN and HyperX delivers meaningful performance and personalisation for the ultimate in gameplay:  

·       The OMEN 16 Slim Gaming Laptop redefines portable gaming with its ultra-thin design to game anywhere. The PC delivers next-level performance with up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 285H processors, and comes with up to an NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPU for next-level graphics fidelity.   

·       The OMEN Transcend 14 Gaming Laptop is refreshed to deliver the same powerful CPU and GPU performance as the OMEN 16 Slim for gamers and creators on the go, bringing 25% more power.

·       OMEN AI is a personalised, one-click solution that recommends the best system, hardware, and gaming settings based on each unique device and game to eliminate endless tinkering. Accessible within OMEN Gaming Hub, OMEN AI is available on all HP gaming and consumer PCs.  

·       The HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Gaming Headset delivers unmatched comfort and immersive audio for up to 120 hours of battery life in 2.4GHz and up to 200 hours in Bluetooth mode on a single charge. HyperX-tuned acoustics ensure crystal-clear audio and the durable yet flexible design, boom and boomless mic options, and customisable earcup plates let gamers play longer, sound better, and do it in style.

vStream collaborates with AMD to open the first AMD Product Experience Centre in Dublin, Ireland

The new AMD Product Experience Centre offers an immersive and interactive experience for AMD’s stakeholders

Global experiential agency vStream has collaborated with AMD, the high-performance and adaptive computing leader, to launch in Dublin the first European AMD Product Experience Centre.  This groundbreaking interactive and immersive centre is designed to showcase the transformative power of the latest innovations from AMD in real-world applications across AI, cloud computing, gaming, and more by using immersive storytelling, interactive displays, and cutting-edge augmented reality experiences.

The new centre was opened by Ruth Cotter, Senior Vice-President for Marketing, Communications and Human Resources at AMD, together with Andrew Jenkinson and Niall O’Driscoll, co-founders of vStream, and Brendan Farley, Managing Director Ireland and Corporate Vice President of Wireless Engineering at AMD.

Andrew Jenkinson, Co-Founder of vStream, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to have worked with AMD on this project. The AMD Product Experience Centre is a testament to our shared vision of innovation, bringing advanced technology to life in a way that is both engaging and educational. Our expertise in immersive storytelling has allowed us to create a space where visitors can truly interact with and understand the game-changing technologies from AMD.”

Niall O’Driscoll, Co-Founder of vStream, added:

“At vStream, we believe that technology should be experienced, not just explained. The AMD Product Experience Centre encapsulates that philosophy by turning complex semiconductor innovations into a tangible, interactive journey. We are excited to see visitors explore and engage with incredible technological advancements from AMD.”

Ruth Cotter, SVP Marketing, Communications and Human Resources at AMD, said:

“We are delighted to open AMD’s inaugural Product Experience Centre that is strategically aligned to our R&D and engineering presence in Ireland and is expected to support further collaboration and breakthrough innovations with our customers and partners. Our collaboration with vStream enables us to showcase how AMD’s cutting-edge processors and adaptive computing technologies are shaping the future across a range of industries through a unique immersive experience.”

 

A Journey Through Innovation

Designed and built by vStream, the award-winning experiential agency, the AMD Product Experience Centre integrates multiple interactive elements to engage visitors in a dynamic and memorable way:

  • A Personal Welcome from AMD CEO Dr. Lisa Su – Upon entering the space, visitors are greeted by AMD’s CEO via a large switchable glass screen, setting the stage for an inspiring exploration of AMD technology.
  • Interactive Display Cases – Through an intuitive gamified experience, visitors can see how AMD processors power the world around us, with motion graphics, animations, and videos revealing physical products inside the futuristic transparent LED display cases.
  • The Intelligent Table – An innovative tactile experience where users place AMD chips—AMD Versal™, AMD Ryzen™, AMD EPYC™, and AMD Instinct™—on the table surface to unlock interactive content that explores their impact across industries.
  • Augmented Reality Experiences – A deep dive into how AMD is driving AI advancements in PCs with AMD Ryzen processors and in supercomputers with the latest generations of AMD EPYC processors and AMD Instinct accelerators, offering visitors a first-hand look at the future of AI-powered computing. Built on vStream’s award-winning work in Augmented Reality with brands including Pfizer and McLaren F1, this experience allows the user to interact with digital assets, while still seeing their surroundings and interacting with other guests – a true example of the power of spatial computing.

A Seamless Blend of Innovation and Experience

The AMD Experience Centre was meticulously crafted by vStream, from concept to production and installation, ensuring a seamless fusion of technology and storytelling. With a fully user-friendly management system, AMD representatives can demonstrate any product with the touch of a button, providing an engaging and dynamic experience for every visitor.

About vStream

Founded in 2007 by Andrew Jenkinson and Niall O’Driscoll, vStream is a global award-winning experiential agency specializing in innovation and storytelling. vStream uses design-thinking, creativity and innovation to solve complex problems and develop human-centric experience across multiple verticals for the world’s largest companies in both real and virtual worlds. With a diverse client portfolio spanning industries such as sports, technology, healthcare, finance, and FMCG, vStream has delivered world-first brand experiences for McLaren and Mercedes F1, The Super Bowl, Manchester City FC, SAP, Dell, Pfizer, Novartis, and many more. Their expertise in immersive experiences continues to set the standard for cutting-edge brand engagement.

Dell Technologies Leads AI PC Movement with New, Redesigned PC Portfolio

Dell Technologies has today announced a new, simplified AI PC portfolio featuring on-device AI for greater end-user creativity and productivity. To accelerate AI PC adoption across Irish businesses, Dell is also providing developers and IT administrators with the tools to seamlessly build and deploy AI applications to Dell AI PCs.

As the number one provider of commercial AI PCs, Dell is expanding its portfolio with new product designs, increased performance and battery life, the latest silicon innovation and AI accelerators, and industry-leading capabilities across software, management, and sustainability. Dell has unified its brand across PCs, displays, services and accessories to make it even easier for customers to find the right technology solutions they need today and in the future.

“The PC is the most important personal productivity device of our lifetime, and it is being transformed by AI,” said Michael Dell, chairman and CEO, Dell Technologies. “Dell has driven PC innovation for the last 40 years and we are well positioned for this moment. Our new, streamlined portfolio of AI PCs is here to deliver the future of computing.”

Unified brand and simplified choices

Buying a PC can be a complex experience, with multiple factors to consider – brands, models, form factors, performance, graphics, storage and materials. In fact, 74% of consumers walked away from technology purchases simply because they felt overwhelmed.

Dell’s new branding puts the highly trusted Dell name front and center with three PC categories:

  • Dell: Designed for play, school, and work.
  • Dell Pro: Designed for professional-grade productivity.
  • Dell Pro Max: Designed for maximum performance.

The Dell and Dell Pro product lines extend to displays, accessories and services for consistent customer experience across the entire client portfolio. For example, the Dell Pro 13/14 Premium is a Copilot+ PC with a sleek and lightweight laptop option for executives, sales managers and consultants who value performance and portability on the go. It’s available in 13- and 14-inch display sizes and is the slimmest and lightest of the Pro portfolio, starting at only 2.36 pounds. The Dell Pro Premium delivers up to 21.2 hours of battery life and 51% more run time than its predecessor.

Dell Pro Max PCs pack high-end performance in a portable, lightweight, and modern design, with Dell Pro Max Plus and Premium models coming later this year. The all-new 16-inch size provides expansive screen real estate and supports complex and high-performance applications on-the-go. The spacious display offers up to QHD+ resolution, 16:10 aspect ratio and an optional touch screen.

“Dell’s strategy to shift to simple, descriptive naming across its PC, ecosystem solutions and services portfolio brings significant value to customers amidst a complex and evolving AI PC landscape,” said Pat Moorhead, President, Moor Insights & Strategy. “Alongside new silicon options from AMD, in addition to Intel and Qualcomm, and new PC designs, Dell is well positioned to offer choice and help organizations futureproof for the AI era.”

Powering AI PCs for specific workloads

Dell provides the latest silicon choices across its new portfolio while removing guesswork and complexity for end-users and businesses. New Dell AI PCs [link to blog] offer built-in NPU technology to deliver AI performance suited to specific workload needs. Dell builds upon its extensive Intel® lineup by adding Intel® Core™ Ultra (Series 2) processors, expands AMD options with AMD Ryzen™ processors and continues working with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to offer customers the right devices for the right use-cases. The combined hardware, software and silicon innovations broaden powerful on-device Copilot+ PC experiences to reach more customers.

With new devices across Dell, Dell Pro and Dell Pro Max, offering multi-day battery life, users can stay productive longer and enjoy modern and professional grade designs that withstand rigorous daily use, with improved thermal technology that enhances airflow ensuring quite operation.

Professionals can handle intensive workloads, power demanding applications, and fine-tune large language models with Dell Pro Max mobile and fixed workstations, featuring a patented thermal design that boosts performance generation-over-generation. IT administrators benefit from Dell’s world-class security and manageability features, which allow remote management of entire fleets of Dell Pro devices, reducing operational costs and increasing uptime.

Building on company’s circular innovation leadership, sustainability is a core focus, with modular designs and increased use of recycled renewable, and low-emissions materials. Enabling easy repairs and reducing e-waste. Dell Pro and select Dell Pro Max devices include modular USB-C ports and modular mainboards that allow for repair of commonly used ports without affecting the entire system.

These devices utilize recycled and renewable materials, including low-emissions aluminium and bio-based plastics, reflecting Dell’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. Battery innovations further enhance sustainability, using 80% less cobalt to minimize reliance on critical minerals.

Dell accelerates AI PC adoption with Dell Pro AI Studio

Businesses want to use AI models trained on their data to address specific needs and run them locally on AI PCs for better efficiency.

 However, building and managing these models is challenging because hardware requirements differ across silicon vendors and CPUs, GPUs, and NPUs.

Dell is making AI development on PCs easy with the Dell Pro AI Studio, the industry’s most comprehensive AI toolkit leveraging NPU technology With Dell validated tools, frameworks, templates and models, developers and IT administrators can build and manage AI software with simplicity and speed, regardless of the underlying silicon. This is expected to reduce development and deployment time by as much as 75%,  going from six months to as little as six weeks.

Dell Pro AI Studio, part of the Dell AI Factory, is another example of how Dell helps enterprises right-size, implement and scale AI across various environments – from PCs to data centers. The Dell AI Factory gives customers access to the industry’s broadest AI portfolio and an open ecosystem of technology partners to create AI applications that meet their unique needs, budgets and power requirements.

Dell’s innovations are setting new standards in personal and professional computing, revolutionising how users approach productivity and creativity in Ireland and around the globe. Devices like the Dell Pro Premium with its sleek design and 21.2 hours of battery life and other advanced features such as HDR – enabled cameras, highlights its mobility and professional performance.

The Dell Pro Plus, available in multiple configurations, offers scalable performance with a durable and sustainable finish. Meanwhile, the Dell Pro Max line delivers unparalleled power and versatility for demanding workloads, making it an ideal choice for professionals in fields such as animation, design, and engineering.

Through user-centric innovation Dell cements its leadership in the AI PC world and setting new standards in personal and professional computing.

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Audioscenic Collaborates to Launch World’s First AI-enhanced PC Monitor

Audioscenic, the UK-based audio technology innovator and creator of Amphi 3D sound, announces a collaboration with a global leader in personal computing to launch a cutting-edge QD-OLED monitor. Featuring Amphi Hi-D technology, the 31.5-inch QD-OLED monitor includes a room-filling 5x5W bezel-mounted speaker array, offering a first-of-its-kind audio experience. The new monitor will debut at CES 2025 in Las Vegas.

Since launching in 2016, Audioscenic has been on a mission to evolve spatial audio rendering by combining Machine Learning AI with advanced signal processing to deliver an unparalleled immersive sound experience that adapts to the listener’s position. At CES 2023, Audioscenic Amphi debuted on the Razer™ Leviathan V2 Pro soundbar and was recognized as Best in Show. In 2024, Acer launched the SpatialLabs™ View 27 series of stereoscopic display products featuring Amphi, and today, the QD-OLED monitor with Amphi Hi-D takes display technology to the next level.

Audioscenic Amphi Hi-D delivers listener position-adaptive High-Dimensional sound, setting a new benchmark in spatial audio. Using the built-in webcam as a Machine Learning AI powered sensor, Amphi senses the alignment of the listener’s ears relative to the monitor screen. This positional data enables beamforming, and drives a process called cross-talk cancellation that unlocks spatial cues to deliver optimized 3D sound to the listener. Compared to conventional 2-channel stereo systems, Hi-D provides superior control over 3D sound reproduction through advanced cross-talk cancellation across multiple speakers. Hi-D offers an enhanced user experience with more uniform frequency response, wider cancellation spectrum, increased loudness, and reduced reflections.

“With the new QD-OLED monitor, we’re bringing AI-enhanced Hi-D sound to everyday computing,” said Marcos Simon, CTO and Co-Founder of Audioscenic. “Precision-tuned Amphi Hi-D transforms conference calls, games, movies, music and more into immersive experiences, delivering an enveloping sphere of life-like sound.”

Experience Amphi Hi-D® firsthand at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. To book a demonstration with Audioscenic at CES in Venetian suite 29-124, please contact the media contacts below.

See other audioscenic news

AI PCs Can Help Users Reclaim Time on Chores: Intel Research Finds

An Intel-commissioned consumer survey of 6,000 respondents across the U.K., Germany and France identified that people lose nearly 15 hours a week on “digital chores,” such as meeting transcriptions or drafting emails. At the same time, AI PCs offered a potentially transformative impact on peoples’ lives, saving individuals roughly 240 minutes a week on routine digital tasks. But the study also highlighted that current AI PC owners spend longer on tasks than their counterparts using traditional PCs. Study results show that greater consumer education is needed to bridge the gap between the promise and reality of AI PCs.

“The AI PC offers consumers the opportunity to unlock greater creativity, productivity and, perhaps most importantly, time to do what they want. But these benefits can only be achieved if people are able to effectively harness AI’s potential to augment the way they live and work. Our role as technology leaders is to support this transition to AI-assisted living and equip consumers with the knowledge they need to use an AI PC efficiently and ethically.”  said Robert Hallock, Intel vice president and general manager of Client AI and Technical Marketing.

Why It Matters: The transition to AI PCs represents a big leap forward in personal computing. Understanding the potential of artificial intelligence and learning how to integrate it effectively into daily routines can unlock unprecedented levels of productivity and efficiency. But it requires a change in mindset and new skills. The study reinforced the need for greater awareness of the benefits and potential of AI PCs and the need for further education on how to use the technology to its full extent.

Intel’s report around the research, titled “Reclaim your day: The impact of AI PCs on productivity,” seeks to understand both personal and professional consumer computer habits and identify the potential for AI PCs to optimize efficiency and return time to people. It found that people spend an average of 899 minutes on administrative tasks on their personal devices a week, with coding (78 minutes), data analysis (74 minutes) and video editing (68 minutes) identified as the most time-consuming tasks.

While AI PCs are proven to promote productivity gains, with early data suggesting they can save users around 240 minutes a week on routine tasks, many consumers aren’t aware of these benefits or don’t know how to access them. Despite AI PCs becoming more available to people, 86% of respondents have either never heard of or used an AI PC. Meanwhile those respondents who already own an AI PC are actually spending longer on digital chores than those using a traditional PC. This suggests that consumers are spending a long time identifying how best to communicate with AI tools to get their desired outcomes.

While AI boasts the ability to process text near instantly (compared to the average human typing speed of 40-60 words per minute), that doesn’t necessarily mean consumers will save time when transcribing meetings or drafting copy if they don’t know how to use the technology. As technology providers, there is a duty to provide meaningful education on AI implementation to enable consumers to explore other passions with the time they’ve claimed back.

The survey also discovered prohibitive misconceptions around these products, with 44% of respondents seeing AI PCs as a gimmick or futuristic technology, and 53% believing they are only for creatives or technical professionals.

How Awareness Brings Interest and Opportunity: Survey findings indicate a correlation between greater awareness of AI PCs and adoption of the technology. While only 32% of respondents who aren’t familiar with AI PCs would consider purchasing one for their next upgrade, this percentage jumps significantly to 64% among respondents who have used one before. This shows a promising outlook for consumer interest in AI PCs, but also demonstrates the need to drive awareness around real-world use cases of this emerging technology.

Respondents in Germany were the most aware of AI PCs, with 28% either owning or having used one compared to just 8% in the U.K. and 7% in France. The German market also had the least worries about the privacy and security of their data when using an AI PC, with only 12% of respondents claiming to be very or extremely concerned. This suggests that the German market is the most willing to engage with new technology compared to the U.K. and France, and that there is work to be done to drive greater awareness of AI PCs across Europe.

When asked which feature of an AI PC they would most likely use, respondents identified real-time language translation (39%), file search optimization (35%) and enhanced cybersecurity (32%) as the most enticing features. And 40% of consumers also feel positive about the adaptive capabilities of AI PCs to understand their habits and provide a more personalized experience.

What is an AI PC: An AI PC is the next evolution in personal computing, integrating artificial intelligence capabilities directly into its hardware and software. Unlike traditional computers that either lack AI capabilities or rely heavily on cloud services, AI PCs bring all the computing power into one place. This means that AI workloads running on the PC, such as generative AI, can be based on the user’s local data and personal preferences and don’t require an internet connection. All of this adds up to better data privacy, better efficiency and the option to personalize the computing experience.

Intel recently launched the Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series processors, delivering exceptional performance and long-lasting battery life, underpinned by AI. Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors deliver up to 120 total platform TOPS (tera operations per second) across central processing units (CPU), graphic processing units (GPU) and neural processing units (NPU). The fourth-generation NPU is up to 4x more powerful than the previous generation and is ideal for running sustained AI workloads while remaining energy-efficient.

HP Wolf Security Offers Unique Business PC Protection Against Physical Cyberattacks

HP Inc. has announced the launch of HP Enterprise Security Edition, a unique suite of security capabilities designed to enhance the physical security of HP business class PCs. HP Enterprise Security Edition includes multilayered safeguards to protect PC hardware and firmware from targeted physical attacks, while giving IT admins unparalleled visibility to help detect unauthorised firmware, and component tampering throughout a device’s lifecycle.
The rise of hybrid work and Work from Anywhere (WFA) has increased the risk of PCs being compromised by attackers with brief physical access, underscoring the need for protection and visibility into the integrity of devices throughout their lifetimes. Over half (51%) of ITSDMs are concerned that they cannot verify if PC, laptop or printer hardware and firmware have been tampered with during transit. This visibility helps to mitigate the risk of targeted attacks that gain a persistent foothold within a company.
HP Enterprise Security Edition help defends against such attacks by preventing harm to hardware and firmware layers in the PC, while also enabling IT teams to check if hardware and firmware have been altered by malicious third parties during a device’s lifetime.
Neil Dover, HP Inc Ireland Country Manager, comments:
“Physical attacks are riskier and more difficult to perform, so they are typically targeted and organised – for instance, as part of a nation-state campaign or corporate espionage. But the lucrative market for selling access to corporate networks means more opportunistic attacks – spotting an unattended PC and briefly plugging in a ThunderboltTM device – could be worth the risk for a cybercriminal.”
Dover continues, “By tampering with device hardware and firmware, attackers can gain an almost undetectable foothold on a device, which could help them gain access to a corporate network or mount destructive attacks. This is attractive to bad actors, providing them with unparalleled visibility and control – and multiple ways to monetise.”
To combat these physical cyber threats, HP Enterprise Security Edition equips PCs with the following multilayered protection capabilities:
  • Firmware Lock: User-controlled lock implemented at the firmware level and used in conjunction with HP Sure Admin. Once Firmware Lock is activated, HP Sure Admin’s cryptographic password-less authentication process is used to unlock the PC. This provides substantially stronger protection than a standard operating system lock when a PC is left unattended, preventing a bad actor from even being able to interact with system boot or attempt to start the operating system.
  • Platform Certificates: These digital certificates enable customers to validate that hardware and firmware components have not been modified since manufacturing, such as disk, memory, processor, BIOS/firmware version, or PCIe devices and the trusted platform module. This offers visibility and detection of unauthorised modification of device hardware and firmware components.
  • Sure Start Virtualisation Protection: Pre-boot protection from malicious or compromised third-party hardware being plugged into a ThunderboltTM/USB C or PCIe port. Third-party firmware runs inside a micro-virtual machine, protecting device hardware and firmware, and preventing the device from being infected by malicious third-party firmware.
HP Enterprise Security Edition delivers platform integrity protection capabilities by ensuring the hardware and firmware beneath the operating system are more secure and resilient to physical attacks. This enables organisations to manage risk to their endpoint device supply chain by validating hardware and firmware integrity prior to device onboarding. Importantly, this will help organisations implement strong governance and controls over the security of their PC hardware and firmware across their device lifecycle. Finally, end users can be confident and reassured that their sensitive data is protected however and wherever they work.
Neil Dover, HP Inc Ireland Country Manager, comments:
“Securing PCs from physical attack is often overlooked, but if bad actors want your data badly enough, they’ll go to any lengths to obtain it. Whether it’s from executives traveling for work and leaving a laptop in an insecure hotel room or stepping away in a cafe to buy a coffee, there are many ways devices could find themselves exposed.”
Dover concludes:
“Preventing cyber-attacks on the hardware and firmware of a device is key to maintain integrity of an organisation’s PC endpoint supply chain. HP Enterprise Security Edition introduces new defensive capabilities for PC hardware and firmware. This will help safeguard data and protect the integrity of the PC fleet, while shining a light on threats lurking below the operating system surface, where traditional security tools can’t go.”
The new HP Enterprise Security Edition is available for select PC platforms.

Harnessing the power of AI: a new era for business productivity and efficiency

The technology landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, comparable in impact to the rise of smartphones in the mid-00’s. While we’ve had a constant stream of technological advancements since then, none have had the same transformative impact as the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI isn’t just another tech trend or ‘phase’; it’s a fundamental reshaping of the way in which we live and work. Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead, Dell Technologies tells us more

The transformational impact of AI has been recognised by Government in its National AI Strategy and National Digital Strategy which aims to have 75% of enterprises in Ireland using AI by 2030.

For businesses, embracing AI is no longer optional and empowering workforces to adopt it into everyday practices is crucial. But success really hinges on providing them with the tools they need to harness its full potential. Refreshing PC estates across organisations is essential for achieving this and this promises multiple benefits from enhanced productivity and efficiency to ensuring competitive advantage.

Analysts are predicting that with an AI-enabled PC, workers can benefit from tools that are more responsive to their needs than ever before. Technology providers too are promising that these devices represent a significant leap beyond traditional computing, offering a potent blend of processing power and intelligent features that can redefine and improve processes across organisations. A refresh cycle of this nature can offer workers an immediate, tangible benefit from incorporating AI into daily processes – all while leaders plan for more comprehensive AI strategies to drive long-term growth.

But despite the significant benefits that the devices have to offer, there is still hesitation among business leaders to fully invest. Looking into this more closely, we understand that there are numerous barriers to more widespread adoption.

Cost and investment justification

According to Dell Technologies’ latest Innovation Catalysts Study, the main barriers to adoption are uncertainty, cost concerns and the fact that established use cases are still in development. This has resulted in one in two Irish businesses struggling to keep pace with advancements in Generative AI (GenAI).

The novelty and rapid evolution of the technology can make long-term planning difficult, especially in cases where AI’s benefits aren’t immediately clear. This makes it difficult to justify the potentially substantial upfront investment without a clear and immediate return on investment (ROI).

At the same time, our own research has revealed a widespread awareness  that AI will play a transformative role in industries with 62% investing in AI-optimised technology to enhance the work experience. Businesses are accepting that integration of AI tools is soon to become inevitable and largely unavoidable. It also became apparent in our research that businesses in Ireland are broadly positive about the ability of AI-powered machines to significantly augment human capabilities.

As we look towards a future defined by AI, businesses must embrace change and seriously consider the transformative power of AI PCs to empower their workforce.

Enhancing Human Potential

AI-enabled PCs are not just about raw computing power. They are designed to amplify human ingenuity.

These devices act as intelligent partners that can streamline workflows, automate repetitive processes, and provide instant access to information. This allows more time for strategic thinking and creative problem solving, which are crucial for driving innovation and achieving business success in today’s competitive landscape.

Professionals can explore new ideas, experiment with different approaches, and actively develop cutting-edge solutions that drive competitive advantage. Increased productivity and efficiencies in this way lead to faster turnaround times, improve project outcomes and a better utilisation of the available resources.

Similarly, features such as Copilot+ embedded within AI PCs also provide instant access to information and insights that can help humans to make more informed decisions. It can quickly gather relevant data, analyse it, and present it in a clear and concise manner.

This empowers professionals to make smarter, data-driven decisions while mitigating risks and optimise outcomes.

Unprecedented Productivity Gains

Automating repetitive tasks and streamlining work also has the benefit of reducing the cognitive load on the workforce. This can lead to a reduction in stress levels and improved engagement for enhanced productivity and innovative thinking.

The seamless multitasking enabled by AI- PCs further empowers professionals to effortlessly juggle multiple tasks for uninterrupted productivity and enhanced focus.

AI-intensive tasks, such as image recognition, natural language processing, and machine learning are particularly beneficial for professionals who need to work on multiple projects or applications simultaneously. For example, a designer can simultaneously edit high-resolution images, run 3D rendering software, and communicate with clients via video conferencing, all without experiencing any lag or performance issues.

Maximising ROI with Enhanced Services

Knowing that return on investment after an AI PC refresh is a major concern, it’s imperative to prioritise a seamless transition that maximises value and minimises disruption.

Partners that facilitate connection to a wider ecosystem of software and expertise can be a huge support through the transition. They can assist with strategic planning and deployment, using their deep understanding of AI technologies and best practices to help organisations avoid common pitfalls and minimize any costly downtime.

Similarly, proactive monitoring and maintenance services provided by partners ensure optimal performance at all times. These services include regular software updates, hardware diagnostics, and remote support, ensuring that AI PCs are always operating at peak efficiency.

Dell Tech Forum 2024

The future of business lies in embracing AI, and AI PCs are essential to unlocking this future. By partnering with Dell, organisation can empower their workforce and fully harness the potential of AI PCs to drive business success.

The upcoming Dell Technologies Forum on October 8th in the Convention Centre Dublin will explore the transformative power of AI PCs, offering important and practical insights for organisations aiming to unlock the power of AI and enhance growth. Featuring a range of AI expert speakers and innovation specialists, the conference promises to help businesses across the country advance their AI journey and position themselves for future success.

To learn more and register for Dell Tech Forum, click here.

Tech Review – Special Edition G7 SE Controller from GameSir and Eneba

Looking for a new controller well the new Special Edition G7 SE Controller from GameSir and Eneba might just be the one for you to check out, I am a gamer but nothing like I was years ago but still have the latest consoles and play them from time to time when I get a chance which is some weekends and the odd day during the week I would love to take it up full time like I did in the Streetfighter/Castlevania and Super Probotector days when I was never of my consoles and still have some old ones today I kept which I sometimes post on social when reminiscing in the past but time is an issue but I feel like I might just make time soon.

I do like a good controller and gaming peripherals though and have reviewed some in the past and this one caught my eye as I have a thing for things that catch your and this controller does exactly that.

Having tested this out for several weeks and having friends and family give it a go we all conclude the same result and it is one of the best controllers used here at techbuzz headquarters and given my time with it I certainly agree with how it feels in the hand and how your gaming can advance with the amount of customization that can be put into it here and not only that is looks great and again all that tried it said the same.

Check out the video for much more and see what you get for your hard earned cash.

Special Edition G7 SE Controller from GameSir and Eneba – techbuzzireland

Features

  • Play on almost anything: The G7 SE works with Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S, or Windows 10 and up on PC (including Steam).
  • Super precise control: Hall Effect joysticks and triggers use magnets for smooth, accurate movements that don’t wear out over time. It’s the control and precision that competitive gamers dream of.
  • Customize your way of play: Two additional buttons on the back can be programmed for fast actions. The back quick-latch can disable the rear buttons and prevent unintended input with a simple push. With the GameSir Nexus software, you can also create different profiles with unique button layouts.
  • Swappable faceplate: Utilizing magnetic technology, gamers can easily personalize the G7 SE by changing its faceplate with bare hands.
  • Toggleable trigger mode: Hair-trigger mode is perfect for fast-paced games, while analog trigger mode provides realistic feedback akin to an accelerator. Trigger sensitivity can be adjusted in the software too.
  • Comfy grip, long sessions: The G7 SE feels good in your hands thanks to the textured back grip.
  • Feel the rumble: Dual symmetric vibration motors bring your games to the next level with immersive feedback.
  • Plug in your headphones: The audio jack lets you connect your headset directly to the controller for easy chat and clear audio.
  • Lights to keep you informed: An LED indicator that shows your connection status.
  • Built to last: The braided 3-meter detachable USB-C cable is super durable, so you don’t have to worry about it fraying or breaking.

The controller is available globally through GameSir, Amazon, and retailers at 65.99 USD / 71.95 EUR, and comes with an Eneba Gift Card to stock up on our marketplace. Eneba is the ultimate source of digital entertainment with over 10M registered users and over 40,000 unique digital products to pick from.

Buy from GameSir 

Check out Eneba

Video Review