Tag: processing

Hidden Hearing Introduces Oticon Zeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EZVIZ H8 Pro Pan and tilt security camera review

The EZVIZ H8 Pro is a feature-packed outdoor Wi-Fi camera that combines 360-degree panoramic viewing with high 2K resolution and advanced on-board AI processing. This combination aims to eliminate blind spots while delivering smart, actionable alerts, making it a strong contender in the mid-range pan-and-tilt security market.

The resolution is great on this camera which is crucial for identifying license plates, faces, and small details over distance, especially in large outdoor areas. The video compression uses H.265, which keeps file sizes small despite the high resolution which can also be quickly downloaded or watched on playback in the app.

The motorized 360° pan and 80° tilt delivers truly comprehensive coverage. When paired with its auto-tracking, the camera automatically locks onto detected human movement, rotates to follow, and even zooms in up to 4x to ensure the activity is recorded in full. This is its standout feature, ensuring you capture events that would otherwise move out of a fixed camera’s field of view.

The on-board AI algorithm for detecting human and vehicle shapes is highly effective. This at times did not reduce the frequency of irrelevant notifications caused by shadows, rain, animals and flies/moths particulary at night which is a common occurance and again with rain especially at night. The siren and spotlight do a great job with loud audibile alert and bright lights and two way talk also sounds clear.

Installation is generally straightforward, for me existing holes there from other camera reviews where fine, however if plugging direct to your router you might be limited The inclusion of an Ethernet port is a major benefit for stability, particularly if the camera is mounted far from the router. The EZVIZ mobile app is the central hub for control and viewing, offering features like defining viewing spots, which the camera can return to quickly after tracking an event you can see in the video review down below

One issue for me during testing was a constant connection loss or using the app at any given time this is due to house build despite moving router I still had connection issues dropping out quite often so a fix would be a wi-fi extender for those who have similar issues this has been the case with many camera reviews

The EZVIZ H8 Pro stands out as one of the best value pan-and-tilt outdoor cameras available if you go without a sunscription to get extra features, Its combination of 2K high-resolution video, reliable dual connectivity (after installing Wi-Fi extender), and intelligent AI tracking makes it a highly effective guardian for large areas, though tested in a tight spot for me to put it to the test it serves well on wider areas. While the short power cable is a common minor frustration, the overall package of features, particularly the AI-powered precision and ability to track and zoom automatically, makes it a top recommendation for anyone seeking comprehensive and smart outdoor surveillance at a fair price.

The App

Features 

  • 360° vision in 2K: The H8 Pro 2K pans and tilts to take in information from all directions in 2K resolution, so you can see the big picture of your protected area without missing the small details.
  • AI Detection: The camera’s on-board AI algorithm helps it identify moving people and vehicles in particular. It sometimes reduces alerts caused by falling leaves or flying insects, and informs you when someone parks in your property area without permission.The H8 Pro 2K distinguishes people from pets or insignificant moving objects. When human activity gets detected, the camera will lock on the target and automatically rotate to follow the movement. Nothing will easily escape your attention.
  • Active Defense: The camera features the active defense function to provide an extra layer of protection. Upon detection of intruders, the camera will set off a loud siren and flash two spotlights for on-site deterrence.

  • Color Night Vision: The camera makes sure that no one can easily sneak in under the cover of darkness. It renders color night vision with the help of built-in spotlights, and ensures impressive black-and-white vision when lights are off. What’s better, you can set the camera to the “smart night vision” mode so its vision can automatically switch from black-and-white to full color upon motion detection.
  • See, hear and talk, from anywhere: Leaving home for family trips but worried about missed deliveries or unexpected visitors? With the H8 Pro 2K, you can simply use your smartphone to see, hear and talk to anyone who shows up at your property area.The H8 Pro 2K has a compact design, and is weatherproof to deliver long-standing performance, even in harsh weather conditions.

BUY

Other security camera reviews

Video Review

Edifier announces S880DB MKII – “Precision Tuned. Performance Driven.”

Edifier, a global leader in premium audio technology, proudly announces the launch of the S880DB MKII—a fully upgraded successor to the acclaimed S880DB, featuring enhanced acoustic performance, redesigned circuitry and a modernized user experience.

The S880DB MKII features a completely upgraded driver system for a richer, more precise listening experience. The tweeter has been enhanced with a 1.25-inch titanium dome—up from 1 inch—and now includes a larger 25mm voice coil and neodymium magnets. These improvements deliver crystal-clear, transparent highs with greater accuracy and detail. Complementing this is a redesigned 3.75-inch mid-bass driver, which improves mid-range clarity and extends low-frequency response down to 50Hz. The result is a more solid, balanced soundstage that brings every nuance to life.

High-Quality Sound Performance
At the heart of the S880DB MKII are high-performance chipsets from Texas Instruments and the powerful XMOS XU216 processor, enabling advanced digital audio processing with precision and efficiency. This upgraded architecture supports high-resolution audio playback at 24-bit/96kHz, ensuring crystal-clear sound with ultra-low distortion. Together, these core components provide exceptional signal processing and audio fidelity, delivering a premium listening experience worthy of true Hi-Fi standards.

Hi-Res Audio Certified
The S880DB MKII meets and exceeds Hi-Res Audio certification standards, delivering uncompromising sound quality. Its digital interfaces support resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz, while the Texas Instruments analog front end operates at 24-bit/96kHz, ensuring ultra-precise signal handling and exceptional clarity across the entire frequency range.

Hi-Res Audio Wireless Certified
Equipped with a Bluetooth 5.3 receiver, the S880DB MKII supports the LDAC codec with transmission rates of up to 990kbps—enabling high-resolution wireless audio streaming at up to 24-bit/96kHz. This ensures audiophile-grade sound quality over Bluetooth from compatible Android devices (Android 8.0 and above), combining convenience with uncompromising performance.

Enhanced Bass Capability
The S880DB MKII features a dedicated SUB OUT port, allowing you to connect an external subwoofer for even deeper, more powerful bass response. This added flexibility lets you expand your sound system and enjoy a fuller, more immersive low-end performance—perfect for music, movies and gaming.

User-Friendly Controls & Smart Connectivity
Controlling your audio experience is simple and intuitive with the S880DB MKII. Use the newly designed rechargeable 2.4GHz remote control or the onboard speaker knobs for quick access to playback and volume. The integrated OLED display with auto-dimming ensures clear, real-time feedback without distracting glare. For deeper customization and convenience, the speaker is fully compatible with the EDIFIER ConneX app, allowing you to fine-tune settings and manage inputs directly from your smartphone.

Price & Availability:

The Edifier S880DB MKII is available at £335.59 from: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FCFYSZSY

See our Edifier reviews

Maximizing Productivity: Tools and Techniques for Faster PDF Processing

For many businesses, generating PDFs for contracts, reports, and invoices is routine. However, inefficiencies in document processing can lead to significant financial losses, potentially costing up to $14,000 per employee annually. That’s why many businesses are turning to document automation software.

But which automated document management tools are essential for optimizing PDF processing? And what techniques can help you maximize their capabilities?

In this blog post, we’ll provide you with all the answers. We’ll explore a range of basic and advanced PDF editing features that can significantly boost your workflow and productivity. 

Let’s get started.

Essential tools for PDF processing

Having the right editing tools is essential for making the most of automated document processing. Here are some basic features and functions to explore to improve workflow and boost productivity. 

PDF editing software: Exploring features and functions

PDF editing software is a cornerstone of efficient document management. Here are some key features to look for:

  • Text editing: Modify text directly within the PDF, including font size, style, and color.
  • Annotation tools: Add comments, highlights, and annotations to collaborate effectively.
  • Page manipulation: Rearrange, insert, or delete pages to organize your files.
  • Image editing: Crop, resize, or rotate images within the document.
  • Create fillable PDF: Easily set up or fill out interactive forms for smooth and simplified data entry, collection, and analysis.
  • Security options: Protect sensitive information with password encryption and digital signatures

PDF conversion tools: Converting between formats efficiently

Converting PDFs to and from other file types is a frequent need in various tasks. Conversion tools simplify this process, enabling smooth transitions between common document formats. Key features of this functionality include:

  • Support for various formats. Convert PDFs to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, JPEG, and more, and vice versa.
  • Preserve formatting. Maintain the formatting, fonts, and layouts of the original file during conversion..
  • Customization options. Adjust settings such as resolution and compression for tailored conversions.

PDF compression utilities: Reducing file size without compromising quality

Large files can be cumbersome to share and store. This often leads to inefficiencies in document management. File compression utilities address this issue by reducing the document size while maintaining quality. Consider the following:

  • Lossless compression. Shrink PDF files without sacrificing quality or clarity.
  • Preview functionality. Review the compressed file before saving it to verify the result is as expected and satisfactory.
  • Adjustable compression settings. Fine-tune compression levels to strike the right balance between file size and quality.

Advanced techniques for PDF processing

Managing PDFs efficiently goes beyond basic editing and conversion tasks. Advanced techniques can further enhance productivity and streamline workflows. Let’s delve into three powerful methods:

Batch processing: Processing multiple PDFs simultaneously

Batch processing enables you to handle multiple documents at once, saving time and effort. Key features include:

  • Select multiple PDF files. Choose all the files you want to process together.
  • Apply actions in bulk. Perform actions like applying watermarks, splitting, or combining all selected PDFs simultaneously.
  • Automate repetitive tasks. Set up predefined actions to execute on batches of PDFs.  Convert multiple PDFs to a specific format, extract specific pages, or merge PDFs in a single operation. 

OCR (Optical Character Recognition): Converting scanned documents to editable text

OCR is a technology that converts scanned docs into text. It lets you search and edit your digitized hard-copy files, opening up a new world of possibilities. With OCR, you can:

  • Extract text from images or scanned documents. OCR identifies text in scanned images or documents and converts it into searchable and editable text.
  • Preserve document structure. Retain the original formatting, fonts, and layout of the scanned document.
  • Enable text manipulation. Once converted, you can edit, copy, and search the text as if it were originally typed.

Automation scripts: Streamlining repetitive tasks with scripting languages

Automation scripts help you automate repetitive tasks when working on files. They speed up document processing while ensuring accuracy and consistency. Here’s how it works:

  • Scripting languages. Use languages like Python, JavaScript, or PowerShell to write custom scripts tailored to your specific document processing needs.
  • Task automation. Write scripts that execute predefined actions to automate tasks such as PDF conversion, watermarking, or data extraction.
  • Integration with other tools. Integrate your PDF processing scripts with other software tools, third-party platforms, or APIs to automate and simplify tasks and workflows.

Best practices for efficient PDF processing

Implementing best practices helps you achieve optimal productivity when processing PDFs. Here are some strategies to consider:

Organizing PDF files: Creating a logical folder structure

  • Create a clear and intuitive folder hierarchy to categorize files based on projects, departments, or content types. For example, create folders for each client, with subfolders for contracts, correspondence, and invoices.
  • Use descriptive file names to quickly identify the contents of each document without needing to open them. For instance, as an alternative to the example above, instead of “Document1.pdf,” you could choose to use “ClientName_Contract_Date.pdf” for clarity.
  • Ensure you maintain a consistent naming convention and file labeling for easy searches and retrieval.
  • Regularly review and update the folder structure to accommodate new documents and changing organizational needs.

Collaborative workflows: Enhancing team productivity with shared tools

  • Use a collaborative PDF editing tool like Lumin that enables team members to edit documents in real time. This means project collaborators can simultaneously work on a shared file online, regardless of their physical location.
  • Explore cloud-based storage solutions like Google Drive and Dropbox to store files centrally. This allows team members to access, edit, and comment on files from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Take advantage of annotation tools like text highlighting, inserting text boxes, and adding comments, hyperlinks, stamps, or symbols. These tools aid in feedback and review processes, enhancing team communication and decision-making.
  • Set clear rules for collaborating on documents to keep everyone on the same page and accountable.

Version control: Managing document revisions and changes effectively

  • Save new versions as separate files or utilize version control to track changes within documents.
  • Establish a clear versioning system, such as using numerical identifiers or timestamps for each document iteration to distinguish between them.
  • Establish protocols for approving and documenting revisions.
  • Implement check-in/check-out procedures to prevent conflicting edits.
  • Regularly archive older versions to declutter your document repository.

Conclusion

Optimizing PDF processing is crucial for saving time and maximizing productivity. Businesses can streamline workflows and minimize costs associated with outdated document-handling practices by leveraging essential tools like PDF editors, conversion utilities, and automation scripts and implementing efficient techniques such as batch processing and OCR.

7 Tips For Choosing The Best High-Risk Payment Processing

Are you a high-risk merchant looking for the best high risk processing solution? With so many options available, finding one that meets your business and customer needs can be challenging. Choosing the best high-risk payment processor requires careful consideration of features, fees, security measures, service offerings, and more. In this blog post, we’ll offer seven tips to help guide you through the selection process so that you can make an informed decision. From knowing what kinds of transactions qualify as “high risk” to assessing fees and compatibility with existing software solutions – these tips will ensure that you select the suitable payment processor for your business.

Here’s How To Choose The Best High-Risk Payment Processing

1. Look For A Payment Processor With Experience In High-Risk Industries

If you need high-risk payment processing, it’s essential to choose a payment processor with experience in high-risk industries. High-risk industries include businesses such as tech support services, online gambling, and adult entertainment. 

These industries are considered high-risk because of the higher likelihood of chargebacks or fraudulent transactions. A payment processor with experience in these industries will understand the risks and have systems to prevent fraud and minimize chargebacks. 

When researching payment processors, inquire about their experience in high-risk industries. It’s also a good idea to ask for references and read reviews from other businesses in your industry before deciding.

2. Review The Processor’s Fraud Prevention Measures

When selecting a high-risk payment processor, it’s crucial to investigate its fraud prevention measures. This is especially important since high-risk businesses are often targets for fraudulent activity. 

A reliable processor should have sophisticated fraud prevention tools, such as real-time monitoring, verification of customer information, and secure encryption. Additionally, look for processors that offer chargeback protection and customizable fraud filters. 

Don’t hesitate to ask potential processors for detailed information about their fraud prevention measures. Choosing a processor with robust fraud prevention measures can help protect your business from costly chargebacks and financial losses.

3. Check For Hidden Fees And High Processing Rates

It’s essential to be aware of the potential for hidden fees and high processing rates when it comes to high-risk payment processing. Despite what may seem like a straightforward process on the surface, several additional charges can often add up over time if not considered. 

To ensure you’re choosing the best payment processor for your business, research and ask plenty of questions about fees, rates, and other potential expenses. By checking for these hidden costs upfront, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises down the line and keep your business finances on track.

4. Ensure The Processor Supports The Payment Methods Your Customers Use Most

When choosing the best high-risk payment processing provider, it’s vital to ensure that the processor supports the payment methods your customers use most. After all, if your customers can’t pay in the way that they are most comfortable and familiar with, they may leave your site without completing their purchase. 

So before you sign up with a payment processor, look at their accepted payment methods and compare them with the payment methods your customers typically use. It may even be worth surveying your customers to determine their preferred payment methods and it is also wise to know what are embedded payments. 

By choosing a payment processor that supports the methods your customers use most, you’ll be making it easy and convenient for them to pay, which can help drive sales and improve customer satisfaction.

5. Consider The Processor’s Customer Support Options

One key factor to consider when finding the best high-risk payment processing option is the processor’s customer support options. No matter how reliable a payment processor may be, there can always be unexpected issues or questions that arise. 

That’s why it’s crucial to choose a processor that offers robust and accessible customer support. Look for a processor that provides multiple channels for assistance, such as phone, email, and live chat. 

It’s also worth checking if their customer support team is available 24/7 or only during certain hours. By prioritizing customer support options, you can ensure that any issues with your payment processing are dealt with promptly and efficiently.

6. Seek Out Processors With A Strong Reputation And Positive Reviews

Finding a trustworthy processor is critical when it comes to high-risk payment processing. It can be tempting to choose the first one that pops up on a search engine or the one with the lowest fees, but taking the time to research their reputation and read reviews can save you a lot of headaches down the road. 

Look for payment processors with a proven track record of successfully handling high-risk transactions and who have positive feedback from other businesses in similar industries. With a suitable processor, you can feel confident that your payments will be processed securely and efficiently, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

7. Investigate The Processor’s Integration Options

Investigating the processor’s integration options is critical when choosing the best high-risk payment processing solution. Integration options refer to how well the payment processor seamlessly fits into your website or e-commerce platform. 

A payment processor with limited integration options can cause severe disruptions to your sales funnel and ultimately cost you conversions and revenue. Before choosing a payment processor, investigate how easily integrating the solution into your website or e-commerce platform is. 

Some payment processors have straightforward API integration, while others require a complicated setup. Choosing a processor that offers a seamless and effortless integration process is essential to ensure that it does not negatively impact your business operations. Remember, the best payment processor should fit your business needs like a glove.

What Are The Benefits Of Choosing A High-Risk Payment Processing?

Choosing a high-risk payment processing system comes with various benefits for businesses that cannot work with standard payment processors. With high-risk processing, businesses can enjoy higher approval rates and more flexibility in accepting customer payments. 

This is particularly useful for industries deemed high-risk by traditional payment processors, such as adult entertainment, online gaming, and travel. Furthermore, high-risk payment processors offer top-notch security features that safeguard businesses from fraudulent transactions. 

Along with these benefits, businesses can access specialized customer support teams well-versed in handling high-risk transactions. Using a high-risk payment processor can provide businesses with greater options, security, and support.