Tag: #streaming

How technology is reshaping the sports industry in Ireland

The way Irish people experience sports has changed dramatically over the past decade. What used to be a simple affair of showing up at the stadium or turning on the telly has evolved into something far more complex and, frankly, more interesting. Technology has seeped into every corner of the sports world, and Ireland is no exception to this global shift that’s transforming how we play, watch, and engage with athletics.

From grassroots GAA clubs using performance tracking apps to Premier League fans streaming matches on their phones during lunch breaks, the digital transformation is everywhere you look. It’s not just about watching anymore. It’s about engaging, analysing, and participating in ways that weren’t possible even five years ago. The technology has fundamentally altered the relationship between fans and the sports they love.

Data analytics changing how teams compete

Professional sports teams in Ireland have embraced data analytics with open arms. The days of relying purely on a manager’s gut feeling are fading fast. Today, decisions about player selection, tactical approaches, and even transfer targets are increasingly driven by numbers and algorithms that process thousands of data points.

Rugby teams like Leinster Rugby have invested heavily in performance analysis departments. Every training session is recorded, every match dissected frame by frame by analysts looking for patterns and opportunities. Players wear GPS trackers that monitor their movements, heart rates, and fatigue levels throughout matches and training. Coaches receive detailed reports that help them tailor training programmes to individual needs and identify potential injury risks before they become serious problems.

This data-driven approach has filtered down to amateur levels too. Club managers now have access to affordable tools that would have seemed like science fiction a generation ago. The democratisation of sports technology means that a Sunday league team can analyse their performance with similar methods to professional outfits, albeit on a smaller scale and budget.

The streaming revolution

Traditional broadcasting is facing serious competition from digital alternatives. Irish sports fans increasingly prefer the flexibility of streaming services over conventional TV packages that lock them into fixed schedules. Being able to watch a match on your tablet while commuting or catching up on highlights during a coffee break has changed consumption patterns significantly across all demographics.

The GAA’s decision to stream more matches online opened up access for the diaspora scattered across the globe. An emigrant in Sydney can now watch their home county play championship football in real time, something that was impossible just a decade ago. That connectivity matters, both emotionally for fans abroad and commercially for the organisation. It keeps people engaged with Irish sports regardless of where life has taken them.

Fan engagement in the digital age

Sports consumption has become increasingly interactive in recent years. Fans don’t just watch passively; they comment on social media in real time, participate in fantasy leagues that require careful analysis, check live statistics on their phones, and follow sports betting markets in Ireland to see how odds shift during matches. The second screen experience, where viewers engage with their phones while watching on television, has become completely standard practice for most fans.

Clubs have adapted by building their digital presence substantially. Social media accounts, dedicated mobile apps, and regular online content keep fans connected between matchdays. The relationship between supporters and their teams now extends far beyond the ninety minutes on the pitch. It’s a continuous conversation that technology has made possible and that fans have come to expect.

Wearable technology and athlete performance

The gadgets athletes wear have become increasingly sophisticated over the years. Heart rate monitors, sleep trackers, and recovery apps give both professional and amateur athletes insights into their bodies that previously required expensive laboratory testing. Irish athletes competing at international levels rely heavily on this technology to optimise their preparation and recovery.

Even recreational runners training for the Dublin Marathon use GPS watches and training apps that provide personalised coaching advice. The technology adapts to your performance over time, suggests workout adjustments based on your progress, and tracks improvement over weeks and months. What was once available only to elite athletes is now accessible to anyone with a smartphone and the motivation to use it.

The integration of technology into Irish sports will only deepen in coming years. Virtual reality experiences that put fans pitchside from their living rooms, artificial intelligence that predicts match outcomes with increasing accuracy, and ever more sophisticated performance tracking are all on the near horizon. The challenge for sports organisations will be embracing these innovations while preserving what makes live sport special in the first place: the unpredictability, the atmosphere, and the shared human experience of supporting a team through good times and bad.

The Tech Behind Live Streaming

Live streaming has become one of those things people use every day without thinking about what makes it work. It sits behind video calls, investor briefings, gaming platforms, remote onboarding, and half of the entertainment world. When a stream loads instantly, nobody notices. When it doesn’t, suddenly the entire system feels fragile. The truth is that the technology behind live streaming is layered, messy, and constantly evolving in the background while the front-end looks calm.

How Real-Time Streaming Became a Standard

The shift toward real-time delivery hasn’t come from one industry alone. Finance, gaming, education, and entertainment all pushed for it in different ways. The gaming sector, in particular, raised the bar. Many non GamStop casino sites offer live dealer table games, which depend on smooth video to keep the entire experience believable. When the cards hit the table, the player sees it instantly. If there’s lag or the picture breaks, people stop trusting what’s on the screen.

That need for precision forced streaming providers to rethink everything from how video is encoded to how far it travels before it reaches the viewer. Those same upgrades now support financial dashboards, compliance recordings, large-scale investor calls, and other tools that demand immediate data without distortion. Live streaming didn’t grow because it was trendy. It grew because different sectors relied on it for different reasons and ended up shaping one another’s standards.

Why Compression Does Most of the Heavy Lifting

When someone tunes into a live stream, what they actually receive isn’t raw footage. It’s been compressed, trimmed, rearranged, and re-encoded in milliseconds. Most people never think about this part because they never see it.

Compression technology has changed quietly but dramatically. Older systems used fixed rules; newer systems adapt on the fly. If your connection weakens, the stream doesn’t stop; it reorganises itself. The sharpest details stay sharp, less important parts soften, and the video keeps moving.

This adaptability is what lets a financial analyst watch a live earnings call on a train, or a remote employee take part in an onboarding session from a café. Everything hinges on compression working fast enough that the viewer doesn’t realise anything changed.

The Importance of Edge Routing

Another piece of the puzzle sits at the “edges” of the network. Instead of sending all traffic through distant servers, companies now place smaller nodes closer to users. It shortens the distance data has to travel, which cuts down the delay.

Streaming companies borrowed this approach early, but now finance relies on it heavily, too. A real-time trading screen can’t freeze just because thousands of people log in at once. Edge routing spreads the load, redirecting traffic before it builds into a bottleneck.

The biggest advantage is stability. If one route slows down, another picks up the slack. Viewers never notice the switch, but without it, delays would be constant.

Security Built Directly Into the Stream

As streaming expanded, so did the security expectations around it. Encryption is now standard from the moment the feed is created. Tokens determine who can access it. Some systems rebuild the stream each time someone logs in, just to keep it from being reused elsewhere.

In the finance world, this matters because live-streamed meetings often contain sensitive information. In gaming, it matters for a different reason: payments and personal details move through the same systems that carry the video. Platforms want to make sure the wrong person can’t intercept or mimic the stream. Security isn’t a checklist anymore. It’s part of the architecture.

Latency and the Psychology of Timing

Latency, the small delay between an action and the viewer seeing it, affects how people interpret what happens on a screen. A one-second delay during a live interview feels uncomfortable. A half-second delay during a digital card game feels suspicious.

To shrink latency, developers trimmed how long each step takes: capturing, compressing, routing, and displaying. They removed extra buffer space. They rewrote how devices prioritise streaming data over background processes.

The result isn’t instant, but it is close enough that people feel as though the moment is happening right in front of them. In an economy that depends on trust, whether financial or recreational, that perception matters.

AI in the Control Room

A few years ago, live streaming relied mostly on fixed rules. Now, AI systems adjust quality before a user even notices a problem. They guess when the connection is about to dip and prepare alternative routing. They identify whether the image is too sharp for the available bandwidth and soften it before the viewer sees a glitch.

Some platforms use AI to detect motion and decide what needs the most clarity. Others predict peak usage times and shift server loads ahead of time. It is invisible work, but it is the reason modern live streams rarely collapse the way they used to.

How Different Sectors Shape the Technology

The strange thing about live streaming is that the industries shaping it rarely share the same goals. Finance wants reliable logs and verifiable security. Gaming wants speed and low latency. Education wants accessibility on low-bandwidth connections. Entertainment wants clarity.

Because all of these needs overlap in certain places, streaming providers have been forced to build systems that can handle unpredictable demands. A platform that streams a quarterly earnings call in the morning may be supporting a thousand gaming streams at night, and both expect flawless performance. This cross-influence is why live streaming keeps evolving even when users don’t notice any change.

Why the Future Will Depend on Consistency

As AI tools expand, as remote work continues, and as more industries move toward real-time platforms, the pressure on live streaming will only increase.

The next big improvements likely won’t be flashy. They’ll be structural: cleaner paths for data, faster response times during heavy usage, and new protections for everything that moves across a live feed.

Streaming has become one of the quiet pillars of the digital economy. The more people depend on it, the more the technology shifts from convenience to infrastructure.

Conclusion

Live streaming is no longer something reserved for entertainment. It supports financial markets, business operations, gaming platforms, identity verification, and daily communication. Its evolution has been shaped by the industries that needed it most. Often, without users realising the influence behind the scenes.

As more services depend on real-time interaction, streaming will continue moving from a background tool to a core part of how digital systems run. The better it gets, the more invisible it becomes and the more essential it is.

 

SoundPEATS Air5 Pro True Wireless Earbuds Review

The SoundPEATS Air5 Pro True Wireless Earbuds are their latest to hit the shelf and we have been testing these out the last while and it is of course now time to tell you how we got on and with SoundPEATS being a regular here we where impressed at what you get for the price.

The design is familiar here but keeping in line with their product line-up with nice bronze accents to finish them which looks well they have a small stem and look clean and do not stick out which is also nice and do not protrude from the ears much.

They are light fit securely with the right tips and block alot of outside noise out of the box before you even play around with the EQ in their app which we look at along with the settings in the video review below.

The controls work well and can be customised to your needs which is nice and all the features you expect present and both earbuds offer commands and it is then up to you as to what settings you apply.

We again see Hi-Res LDAC with Snapdragon sound here which is good to see at their pricepoint making way for a great audio experience overall with no issues to report, during my usual testing loop no tinny sound noted no lag latency with LE Audio, and aptX Lossless for seamless gaming and streaming which is a win for anyone. With 10mm composite drivers ,highs lows and mids all good and really good bass but the EQ app is where it is at where you can modify to your needs and turn the notch up even more. You also get AI Adaptive Noise Cancellation cuts noise by up to -55dB and the ANC is quite good. Not forgetting transparency mode and normal mode.

We have also multi-point connection which is now a standard these days and this also works well as my reader know I work with a laptop and phone all day and it is standard procedure to test this out and all good including calls. Battery life is good but will vary on the users settings as always the case but expect up to 37 hours without ANC and a ten minutes charge gives you two hours more use. There is also an IPX5 rating so can we worn outdoors for you commute..

The App

Features

・Hi-Res Audio & Snapdragon Sound™ powered by Qualcomm® QCC3091 for high-fidelity sound

・Lag-free, lossless sound — with LE Audio, LDAC, and aptX Lossless for seamless gaming and streaming

・AI Adaptive Noise Cancellation cuts noise by up to -55dB for better focus

・10mm Composite Bio-Diaphragm Driver (PU + PEEK) for rich bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs

・Enhanced Call Clarity with 6-MIC AI Noise Reduction + cVc™ 8.0

・7.5H playtime, 37H with case. 10-min charge = 2H use

・Sleek, ergonomic, and ultra-light (4.8g)—designed for all-day wear without the fatigue

・Bluetooth 5.4, Multipoint & IPX5 – Dual-device connection, low power, and water-resistant for daily use

・All-in-One App Control – Fine-tune sound and track your earbuds anytime with PeatsAudio

Buy from below

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F3J363BH
Official site: https://soundpeats.com/products/soundpeats-air5-pro

Our Library of SoundPEATS reviews

Video Review

10 Best Website Builders for Musicians and Bands in 2025

Those in the artistic field like musicians flourish in the virtual arena where their skills are easily displayed. In 2025, bands are enabled to get in touch with others around the world using web builders. The premier website builder for musicians offers intuitive design tools. In this article, the top ten solutions are ranked with heavy focus on technical features pertaining to music-oriented websites.

A professional site raises the scope of a musician and his/her income. These builders, the best for user-friendly interfaces, integrate audio players and e-commerce. They are fan-friendly and SEO-friendly. Digital presence is the key to success which means the selection of the proper builder is paramount to musicians.

Understanding Website Builders for Musicians

Musician website builders make simplified creation of sites. They include templates that have music players and a calendar of events. An illustration is a builder who has a drag and drop editor and has audio widgets. This also streams through HTML5, meaning it is compatible with every device.

Such sites are essential in advertising and selling. The premier website builder for musicians integrates eCommerce for merch sales. They are marketed with the help of SEO tools as well as responsive designs. In 2025, musicians rely on these to build fanbases, making them the best choice.

10 Best Website Builders for Musicians and Bands:

1. Elementor

The premier website builder for musicians, Elementor, transforms WordPress sites. It contains responsive templates in its drag and drop editor. Musicians include audio players of songs. It is integrated with hosting which means it will load fast, which is perfect on SEO.

The widgets provided by Elementor include support of dynamic data such as gig calendars. Its AI products create meta descriptions that are SEO friendly. The platform, the best for customization, enhances fan engagement. This results in beautiful, pro-looking sites of musicians without any hassle.

In the absence of Elementor, musicians are stuck in complicated codes. Delays in sites are bad for SEO and fan retention. Recklessness on features limits attraction, which affects brand credibility greatly.

2. Bandzoogle

Bandzoogle provides music-centred designs of websites. It has a music player and eCommerce templates. Customization is also easy using the drag-and-drop editors. The site bolsters direct selling of tickets through SSL encryption.

Bandzoogle is a zero-commission sales platform that increases sales. It incorporates the use of Google Analytics in its SEO tools. The best for musicians, it ensures responsive designs. This links fans effortlessly on devices.

Bands have to pay high fees when there is no Bandzoogle in place. Few templates are bad branding. Inefficient analytics destroy any development thus curtailing an increase in the fanbase.

3. Wix

Wix provides flexible templates of websites for musicians. It has an unstructured editor that enables the pixel-perfect structure. Audio widgets play songs through HTML 5. eCommerce merchandise and tickets safely.

The site is connected to SoundCloud as a streaming site. It has auto generated SEO tools in meta tags. Wix, the best for flexibility, ensures mobile responsiveness. This improves the performance of the fans and the visibility of the sites.

Without Wix, there is no opportunity for customization of sites. Streaming suffers because of poor integration. Poor search engine ranking decreases traffic levels and this affects sales adversely.

4. Squarespace

Squarespace is the best square in terms of slick, musician friendly templates. It has an internal audio player whose songs play smoothly. It has an eCommerce option which sells merchandise and takes safe payments. The builder makes a user-friendly one that is responsive to all devices.

It has inbuilt marketing tools. This increases through email campaigns and social links. Squarespace, the best for aesthetics, enhances SEO. This promotes traffic at musician websites.

In the absence of Squarespace, websites are dull. Marketing tools are limited hence reach is low. Weak SEO is detrimental to ranking and cuts down upon fan communication drastically.

5. Hostinger

Hostinger offers low cost site construction to musicians. It uses an AI editor which makes responsive sites. The sound plug-ins facilitate sound-track streaming. eCommerce tools make it easy to sell goods safely.

The site has artificial intelligence tools for SEO. This gives it 99.9 percent up time hence it is reliable. Hostinger, the best for budgets, supports mobile designs. This is to the advantage of the maximum available access to world fans.

In the absence of Hostinger, the level of the site’s creation is impractical due to the high expenses. Access is interfered with by unreliable uptime. Ineffective SEO will destroy visibility, negatively affecting the development of new fans.

6. Music Glue

Music Glue is a musician centered in eCommerce. It provides direct ticket sales through its templates. Tracks are streamed by audio players using HTML5. The builder keeps transactions secure using SSL encryption.

The platform has fan club integration. Engagement is promoted with the help of marketing tools such as email lists. Music Glue, the best for sales, enhances SEO. This is what will send traffic to online stores of musicians.

In absence of Music Glue, the profits are reduced due to high charges. Less marketing limits the reach of the fans. When search engine optimization is poor, it hurts sales by affecting the ranking.

7. BandVista

Musicians are served by simply designed templates at BandVista. Its drag and drop editor has features supporting audio embeds. eCommerce tools have commission-free selling capabilities. The developer makes sure designs are fashionable to fans.

The software has email marketing facilities. Female fan demos are followed. BandVista, the best for simplicity, supports SEO. This assists musicians to expand their social platform.

With BandVista, editors involve complex menus to annoy users. The profit is decreased by high fees. Ineffective analytics exclude growth, which is negative to fan engagements.

8. WordPress

Music websites are created in WordPress. Its plugins incorporated audio players to the fullest. WooCommerce facilitates secure retailer sales. The platform also does responsive design through themes.

WordPress has such SEO tools as Yoast. These are the best meta tags optimizers. The premier website builder for musicians, it maximizes flexibility. This is ideal to tech-savvy artists that desire to control.

In the absence of WordPress, one has to code. Fewer plugins are detrimental to functionalities. Weak SEO will minimize the flow of traffic which affects the reach of the fans in a great way.

9. Shopify

Shopify is the best eCommerce store for musicians. Its templates allow embedding of audio. Sales are done through secure payment gateways. The contractor will make sure that the designs are responsive.

The streaming is through SoundCloud on the platform. It stimulates its marketing tools. Shopify, the best for stores, enhances SEO. This directly facilitates the conduction of traffic to the sites of musicians.

In absence of Shopify, profits are shaved by high fees. Centralized integrations damage the streaming. Bad SEO lowers the visibility, which affects sales.

10. Pixpa

Pixpa provides musician oriented site construction. Its responsive sites are built through its drag and drop editor. Streaming of audio tracks is easily embedded. 

It has optimization features such as SEO tools. It is reliable since it has 24/7 support. Pixpa, the best for visuals, enhances fan engagement. This generates sites that are professional among musicians.

Sites cannot be attractive without Pixpa. Complaints are slow with few people to help. Ineffective SEO does damage rankings to a considerable extent narrowing down the interaction between fans.

Necessary Features of the Musician Websites:

  • eCommerce and Audio Streaming

Music is a way of interaction with fans through audio streaming. The HTML5 players have cross-device support. eCommerce tools offer merchandise through secure sales using SSL. These characteristics give impetus to income and fanbase.

The premier website builder for musicians integrates these tools. They favour direct commissions-free sales. SEO leads to increased discovery. This will guarantee that musicians make optimum use of the internet.

Fans are not able to access music without streaming. eCommerce loses profits because of high fees. When the SEO is poor there is less traffic which negatively affects sales.

Example: Site streaming is performed with HTML 5. Merch sales are secured under SSL. SEO is on the list. The site streams without any latency.

  • SEO and Mobile responsive SEO

SEO increases the visibility of musicians’ sites. Rankings are optimized by means of meta tags and sitemaps. Mobile compatibility is achieved through responsive designs. The features improve the interaction with the user.

The best builders integrate SEO tools seamlessly. They engage in responsive tools such as Bootstrap. This helps in fast loading of sites on mobiles. Optimized sites offer musicians access to international connections.

In the absence of SEO, the sites turn out to be low. Mobile users are frustrated by non responsive designs. Lack of visibility affects success and slows the growth of fans.

Example: A site has meta tags. Bootstrap also makes it mobile compatible. SEO creates rankings. It takes the site 0.2 seconds to load.

Conclusion

In 2025, the premier website builder for musicians empowers artists. Elementor is a head-start in flexible, SEO designs. Platforms like Bandzoogle and Wix, the best for features, support music streaming. Such constructors develop professional websites promoting sport fan activity and income.

These solutions range all the way to Squarespace and Pixpa. They amalgamate eCommerce, SEO and responsive designs. The musicians who work with these platforms create their lively online presence that succeeds in the digital music world as it was in 2025.

Nokia brings Wi-Fi 7 with launch of Beacon 4 and 9 home devices

Today, Nokia launched two new Wi-Fi 7 gateways designed to deliver, reliable, ultra-fast broadband to every corner of the home. Nokia’s entry level Beacon 4 and mid-tier Beacon 9 offer gigabit speeds over Wi-Fi – essential for supporting the expanding demands of streaming, online gaming, video, smart home, and security applications in the home.

As XGS-PON and 25G PON services grow, Wi-Fi upgrades are essential to delivering multi-gigabit speeds into homes.   Nokia’s new Beacon 4 and 9 are designed specifically for this purpose, allowing service providers to offer an affordable, best-in-class Wi-Fi 7 experience for the masses. Incorporating Wi-Fi 7’s full capabilities, the dual-band Beacon 4 gateway delivers 3.6Gbs speeds over Wi-Fi while the tri-band Beacon 9 gateway delivers blazingly fast 9.4Gbs speeds that help eliminate slowdowns and buffering issues. Both Beacons are powered by its Corteca software which allows operators to create and monetize better broadband experiences.

“As the connected home ecosystem grows increasingly complex, Wi-Fi 7 emerges not just as a technological upgrade, but as a strategic necessity. To unlock the full market potential of Wi-Fi 7, it is essential to accelerate its availability across a wider range of devices. Expanding access – while preserving opportunities for service providers to differentiate and monetize premium offerings – will be key to driving adoption at scale and delivering the elevated experience consumers expect.” said Alzbeta Fellenbaum, Practice Leader, Service Provider – Consumer at Omdia.

“Wi-Fi 7 is a pivotal new technology that will power the connected home of the future. Operators can now make Wi-Fi 7 a reality for customers, with two new affordable solutions that ensure multi-gigabit speeds are delivered to every corner of the home for the ultimate experience,” said Dirk Verhaegen, Head of Broadband Devices, Fixed Networks at Nokia.

The new gateways expand Nokia’s portfolio of Wi-Fi 7 devices which now include the Beacon 4, Beacon 9, Beacon 19 and Beacon 24 models, each designed to meet the varying demands of operators and end-users globally.

Multimedia, technical information and related news 

Web Page: Nokia Wi-Fi

Web Page: Nokia Beacon 9

Web Page: Nokia Beacon 4

Tesco Mobile Ireland Survey Reveals Digital Clutter, Streaming Regrets, and Pet Obsession

A new survey commissioned by Tesco Mobile Ireland has unveiled a nation grappling with digital clutter, streaming service regrets, yet a unified picture of mobile habits, with the majority of users relying on their devices for the same core activities: chatting, scrolling, and sharing. This proves that everyone does the same things with their phones, but with Tesco Mobile Ireland, customers can get the same coverage and reliability of a big network, but with the great value and service of Tesco.

The survey also reveals that while Irish consumers are savvy in managing their core digital needs, they often feel shortchanged in other areas of their lives.

More than 1 in 3 people (37%) admit to having more apps than they need on their mobile phones with a staggering majority (92%) admitting that they have apps on their phone that they never use. However, the focus remains on essential communication, with calls and messaging dominating usage, particularly among female consumers.

Unsurprisingly, messaging and social media apps came out on the top as the types of apps consumers use most frequently at 76% and 73% respectively with a significantly higher percentage of females (85%) using social media apps compared to males (65%). The data points to a broader trend: despite the endless variety of apps available, most consumers ultimately gravitate toward the same digital habits.

Streaming Subscriptions: More Regret Than Reward

Streaming services and subscriptions, however, emerged as a source of regret and dissatisfaction for many. 67% of consumers subscribe to more than one streaming service, yet only 31% use all their subscriptions each week. Additionally, over half (55%) have regretted subscribing to streaming services which points to consumers increasingly scrutinising the value of their digital subscriptions. This is also evident when it comes to mobile phone plans with 60% of consumers comparing mobile plans at least once a year to ensure they are getting the best deal.

“Our survey shows that Irish consumers are increasingly discerning, focusing on what truly matters in their digital lives. They want value, simplicity, and reliable connectivity, which is precisely what we offer.” said Sean Nolan, Director of Tesco Mobile Ireland.

Paws, Pics & Priorities: The Pet Obsession is Real

Elsewhere, the survey found that when it comes to consumers using their phones to capture everyday moments, more than a third (36%) of pet owners say that they use their mobile phone to take photos of their pets daily with over half (56%) of consumers admitting that they have 50 photos of their pets, and a select few (7%) have over 1,000! Even among parents, 62% say they take more pictures of their children, but 17% confess to prioritising snapping pictures of their pets instead.

The findings also reveal a significant level of dissatisfaction with the value received from gym memberships (50%), indicating a broader trend of consumers feeling shortchanged.

Sean Nolan added, “Consumers are clearly looking for value across all aspects of their lives. Tesco Mobile Ireland is committed to delivering that value, ensuring our customers get the most out of their mobile experience. With the added benefits of Clubcard vouchers and exclusive Clubcard Prices, our customers can enjoy even more rewards just for staying connected.”

Tesco Mobile remains the only mobile operator in Ireland to have guaranteed no price increases for its customers consistently for the last four years.

With nearly 500,000 customers enjoying Tesco Mobile’s award-winning customer service and 99% population coverage powered by the Three network, there’s never been a better time to switch and lock in great value. Whether you’re already with Tesco Mobile or considering making the move before another provider hikes your bill, now’s the time to take advantage of Ireland’s best mobile commitment.

Fancy a laugh? Check out the latest ad from Tesco Mobile Ireland!: https://youtu.be/e1DpI74yelU

Vodafone crowned Best Mobile Internet and 5G Provider in Ireland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Almost half of people in Ireland use their smartphones during meals

Almost half of people in Ireland (47%) use their smartphones during meals and 70% say they spend too much time on their devices, a new Deloitte survey has found.

The survey of 1,000 people in Ireland was carried out as part of Deloitte’s Digital Consumer Trends report.

It shows that three-quarters of adults (74%) tend to use their mobile phones as soon as they wake up while 54% say they tend to stay awake later than planned because of their devices. Over one third (34%) check their phone at least 50 times a day and 15% do so more than 100 times.

Young people are also more likely to stay up later than planned due to phone use with 73% of those aged between 18-24 and 60% of those aged 25-34 years admitting it delays their bedtime. More women (74%) than men (66%) say they spend too much time on their smartphones while adults aged 18 to 44 express the most concern.

Nearly everyone in Ireland, 95%, now owns a smartphone, and almost half of those surveyed (47%) use their smartphone or smartwatch to pay for goods and services in-store through digital wallets, up from 36% in 2023.

The use of wearable devices (55%) has declined from 67% in 2023 while the ownership or use of games consoles is down from 40% to 37%, most likely due to the lack of new console releases in 2024. Just 7% of people own or have access to a VR headset.

42% of those surveyed own a Samsung, the most popular mobile phone brand, up from 38% in 2023, while 38% own an Apple phone.

Android is the most popular phone type in every age group with the exception of 18-24 where 64% own Apple handsets and 35% own Android. Almost three-quarters of those aged 65-75 (74%), 69% of those aged 45-54 and 66% of those aged 35-44 use Android phones.

The survey found the average respondent has access to 2.3 subscription services. 74% have access to a video streaming service and Netflix is the lead service by a significant margin despite a drop in penetration from 65% of respondents in 2021 to 59%.

Just 26% now say they share a video streaming service with someone from outside their household, down from 37% in 2023. This comes amid a clampdown on password sharing by Netflix, which introduced new rules and now effectively only allow users to regularly stream from one main location.

Younger subscribers are more likely to share accounts with people outside their households with 39% of those aged 18-24 doing so and 44% of those aged 25-34.

27% of those surveyed cancelled a video streaming subscription in the last 12 months. Unsurprisingly cost was the main reason for doing so jumping from 24% to 31%, followed by lack of usage at 29%, down 4 percentage points on 2023.

Fake news on the rise

 71% of respondents to the survey said they’d been exposed to online information designed to deliberately mislead. A total of 53% said they had more regularly found material online that was subsequently proven to be fake. This is up from 46% in 2023.

Television remains the most popular choice for news consumption in Ireland with more than half the population (57%) preferring it for updates. This trend is particularly strong among older demographics with 83% of those aged 65-75 choosing TV over other mediums.

The most popular method of staying up to date for the 18-24 (67%) and 25-34 (57%) age group is social media, which is cited by just 24% of the 55-64 and 11% of 65-75 age groups.

Overall, 40% say they like to get their news from radio, 39% use news websites or apps, and 38% use social media. Only 14% cite print as a preferred source.

Interestingly, more than half (58%) of 18–34-year-olds have made a purchase through social media in the last year. 22% of 18–24-year-olds and 29% of 25-34 year olds have bought something through a brand advert or a sponsored post.

John Kehoe, partner, Audit & Assurance, Deloitte Ireland said: “Our digital consumer trends survey shows that smartphones have become the most essential device, surpassing laptops (81%) and tablets (61%) in accessibility and consistent use across all ages. They are replacing physical wallets and remain the preferred tool for banking, shopping, browsing and gaming. However, recent innovations have been incremental rather than groundbreaking. Generative AI could change this by making smartphones more personalised and intuitive. Despite their benefits, concerns about excessive use persist – 47% use phones during meals, and many delay sleep to stay online. As smartphones shape daily life, it’s important to balance convenience with mindful usage.”

Commenting on the rise of fake news revealed in the report, Lorraine Griffin, partner and Chair of Deloitte Ireland, Tax & Legal, said:

“Our research highlights the increasing exposure to misinformation, particularly online. As news consumption shifts towards social media, and almost three in four respondents in our survey encountering intentionally misleading content, the need for media literacy and critical thinking has never been greater. Education remains key in empowering individuals to navigate digital spaces responsibly, ensuring access to information is accompanied with the skills to assess its accuracy.”

What Are the Advantages of a 4K Smart TV?

Should you consider a TV update, you know about “4K Smart TV.” Though that seems impressive, what mainly justifies your expenditure? This essay rationally separates the advantages to assist in deciding the best course of action for your home.

Perfect Image Quality Clear Crystal

Most people referring to 4K TVs talk about their ultra-high-density resolution. These 3840 x 2160 pixel screens have four times the detail of a regular full HD TV. Returning to regular HD is challenging once you have seen the difference, since this upgrade greatly improves the viewing experience.

The end effect is… a more vivid, realistic image. Colors flash, and minute elements are more clear. On larger screens, where conventional resolutions could seem grainy, this is especially obvious. Imagine viewing a nature documentary in which every strand of fur on a lion or ripple on the surface of the water is clearly seen. Whether your viewing is of action-packed films or wildlife documentaries, the clarity is rather amazing.

Upscaling technology improves even older shows and DVDs on these TVs. On a 4K screen, this function sharpens and polishes lower-resolution content, significantly enhancing its appearance. When you revisit your favorite 90s sitcom, for example, you will find better lines and a cleaner presentation, revitalizing your beloved classics.

Improved Hue and Contrast

Many 4K TVs come with other technologies, including HDR (High Dynamic Range). That relates to you as well. Simply said, your viewing experience may be much enhanced by your screen’s more natural and lifelike colors.

Enhanced Color Spectrum and Contrast

Aside from a larger spectrum of colors, HDR improves contrast between light and dark areas. This creates terrific vistas even as it hides data in the shadows. Imagine seeing a scene set in a darkly lit cave; you could now see minute elements like the feel of pebbles or glints of light bouncing off moist surfaces. While sunset is vibrant and warm, with a mix of flaming colors and subdued purples that feel more genuine, dark scenes offer depth and richness.

Practical Benefits Across Content

This function goes beyond simple cinematic color accuracy. Streaming shows, gaming, and browsing your holiday pictures on a large screen also find great use. HDR gives movies and TV shows a better visual narrative, which makes the action feel like you are part of it.

Flawless Connectivity and Streaming

A “smart” TV beats superior pictures. Its capacity to run programs and link to the internet is clever. Direct access to well-known streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime comes directly from your television via a 4K Smart TV.

Optimization for Streaming Services

Usually, these sources have a lot of 4K video available, therefore you are optimizing your screen. Specifically meant to shine on 4K televisions, shows like Stranger Things or The Mandalorian have detailed visual effects that become more immersive. Here none of any twisted cables or devices are required. Many 4K Smart TVs also include voice commands, simplifying channel switching, setting adjustment, or program search. “Play the latest episode of The Crown” will get you going without requiring a remote.

Seamless Content Sharing

Smart TVs also usually include built-in capability to cast material from your tablet or smartphone. This function effortlessly enables you to share images, movies, or even presentations on the big screen. It makes presenting a PowerPoint of your trip experiences simpler and more enjoyable for organizing a party.

Experience Playing an Immersion Game

Most gamers consider a 4K Smart TV to be practically necessary. Modern game consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 give unmatched images when matched with these TVs, meant to maximize 4K quality.

Superior Graphics and Features

Better images, usually better performance, and smoother gameplay follow from this. On a 4K display, games like Elden Ring or Horizon Forbidden West highlight wonderfully realistic landscapes, rich character designs, and finely realized textures. Faster refresh rates on some TVs also help to cut lag and increase the enjoyment of fast-paced games, such as first-person shooters or racing titles, where every millisecond matters.

Advanced Gaming Capabilities

Furthermore, advanced gaming capabilities such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) are supported by 4 K Smart TVs. These characteristics guarantee seamless frame transitions and lower input delay, therefore providing competitive game participants with an advantage. Whether you’re exploring open-world adventures or facing online rivals, the immersive gaming experience on a 4K Smart TV is unparalleled.

Slick Design and Space Conservation

The long-gone era of big TVs is behind us. Most 4K Smart TVs are little, beautiful, lightweight machines. They hardly occupy too much space and fit rather beautifully in contemporary houses. Indeed, their elegant designs sometimes take the right stage in living areas.

Compact and Stylish Design

Some models even provide practically endless wall-mounting choices or designs. They are ideal for minimalist homes, where little is more. Some models’ almost bezel-less designs produce a “picture-on—wall” impression that effortlessly fits your home décor. These TVs offer a big-screen experience without the bulk for compact houses or flats where space is a luxury.

Subtle Accessories

Even the accompanying stands and accessories are made to be understated so the TV blends naturally into your environment. This combination of utility and beauty transforms an ugly TV into a showcase item, enhancing the look of your living space.

Longevity and Energy Consumption

4K Smart TVs not only appear better but also are more efficient. LED and OLED technologies help them to use less energy than previous versions. This is a major benefit for environmentally concerned consumers trying to lower their energy footprint.

Durability and Cost Efficiency

This makes homeowners striving to cut their energy consumption a better option. A 4K Smart TV is a reasonably priced investment since, over time, the energy savings can mount up. Furthermore, their better build points to their intended survival, therefore you won’t have to replace your TV very soon. Extended warranties, which many companies now provide, help consumers even more to be confident of their durability.

Availability of Smart Characteristics

Watching movies or shows on a 4K Smart TV provides more than entertainment. You might check the weather, search the internet, or even link your smart house appliances. Some types work fairly neatly with devices like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Integration with Smart Homes

Would you like to lower the thermostat or cut the lights without leaving your sofa? Ask your TV just like you would. Done correctly, it is convenient. Modern smart TVs’ advanced artificial intelligence capabilities also allow them to suggest material depending on your viewing behavior, therefore assuring you never run out of things to see.

Personalized User Experience

These TVs also allow multi-user profiles, enabling everyone in the family to have a customized experience. Everyone has fast access to their preferred material, from children’s cartoons to sports highlights.

It really Excellent Value for the Money

Four years ago, 4K Smart TVs were considered a luxury. These days, they are far more reasonably priced. Reduced pricing brought about by brand competitiveness has increased the audience who can use them.

Affordable and Worthwhile

Given their features and lifetime, you are most definitely getting great value. Even mid-range models today show exceptional performance and include features traditionally only in pricier versions. These TVs’ low cost makes them available to a larger spectrum of buyers, therefore assuring that more people may take advantage of 4K technology.

Long-term Value

Furthermore, considering their innovative features, durability, and energy economy helps one to clearly see the long-term value of a 4K Smart TV. Fantastic quality is not something you must go broke for; this is enjoyment made available.

Flexibility for All Your Needs

A 4K Smart TV finds applications elsewhere other than essential TV viewing. Perfect family movie evenings, fierce game sessions, or online meetings would all fit here.

Multipurpose Usability

Screen mirroring lets you directly cast movies, presentations, and pictures from your laptop or smartphone. This adaptability makes it ideal for any family member and hence a great addition to any house. Professionals working from home, for example, might use the TV as a second screen for presentations or video calls, while children might enjoy their educational apps on a big display.

Fitness and Beyond

Fitness aficionados who can stream yoga lessons or workout videos and follow along on a large screen also fit under this versatility. This function converts your living room into a multifarious area fit for your way of life.

Wall Mounting a 4K TV

Wall mounting a 4K TV is an excellent way to enhance your viewing experience and maximize space. Here are some essential considerations for a successful installation:

  • Choose the Right Mount: Ensure the wall mount is compatible with your TV’s size and weight. Look for VESA compliance, as this standard ensures a secure fit.
  • Select the Best Wall Location: Pick a wall that minimizes glare and provides an optimal viewing angle. Measure the height to ensure the screen aligns with your eye level when seated.
  • Cable Management: Use cable covers or in-wall solutions to keep cords organized and hidden. This not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures safety.
  • Proper Tools and Safety: Gather necessary tools like a drill, level, and stud finder. Mounting the TV onto studs provides secure support. If unsure, consider hiring a professional installer.
  • Accessibility: Ensure the mounted TV is accessible for connections and adjustments. Swivel or tilting mounts provide flexibility for different viewing positions.

Wall mounting your 4K TV transforms your living space into a sleek, modern entertainment hub while improving safety by keeping the screen out of reach of children or pets.

Final Thoughts

Getting a 4K Smart TV has many advantages, from amazing visuals to clever tools that streamline your life. Beautiful, flexible, and well-built, they are meant to provide tech aficionados as well as entertainment junkies an immersive experience.

A 4K Smart TV delivers great value whether you purchase your first flat-screen or upgrade from an older model. It goes beyond just following trends here. It’s about increasing your appreciation of the chosen games, movies, and more. Investing in a 4K Smart TV is never a better time, given its sophisticated features and reasonable price.