Tag: system

DLX Pay & Air Transat in Action

Since going live with DLX Pay, Air Transat has rapidly transformed its payment operations – capturing 6.6% of failed transactions through intelligent, dynamic retry capabilities, successfully onboarded a new payment service provider (PSP) in time for go-live to demonstrate the platform’s agility, and proving DLX Pay’s scalability by processing over $400 million in transactions within the first three months of deployment.
Following the launch of DLX Pay in 2025, Air Transat became the first airline to sign up and go-live with it just months later. A modular, next-generation payment platform designed to improve payment performance and agility, it strengthens operational resilience and delivers greater control to airlines to ultimately enhance the end-to-end customer experience while increasing conversion and revenue opportunities.
The Challenge:
Like many airlines across the globe, Air Transat faced the complexity of managing payments across multiple markets, currencies, and payment methods. Combined with the need to integrate with numerous PSPs, typically at high costs, created a significant challenge. Legacy technology tends to lack the flexibility to quickly onboard new providers, leading to lengthy delivery cycles driving up costs. Additionally, Air Transat experienced limited retry capabilities for failed transactions, restricted visibility of controls and analytics, and a need to support local payment preferences while simultaneously maintaining robust fraud controls.
Solution & Results:
To tackle these challenges, Air Transat implemented DLX Pay for greater control over its payment processes which improved conversion rates, reduced costs, system stability and provided valuable insights through advanced reporting. DLX Pay proved its scalability from the outset, processing over US$400 million in the first 3 months.
  • Dynamic Retries Capturing Lost Revenue
DLX Pay introduced intelligent retry capabilities that were previously unavailable to Air Transat. Over the last three months, this functionality has automatically recovered 6.6% of declined sales by intelligently retrying soft declines from one PSP to be retried with an alternative. This capability works to prevent Air Transat from losing revenue due to failed transactions.
  • No Code Configuration
 With DLX Pay’s configurator and insights dashboard, Air Transat can identify suspected fraudulent activity and optimise fraud prevention and authentication through rule-based flows that trigger appropriate countermeasures. Air Transat can make changes in production via the self-service configuration portal without code changes.
  • Rapid Onboarding new PSPs for Faster Time to Market
With 50+ PSPs already available, DLX Pay drastically accelerates the onboarding of new payment methods and integrations. What previously took months now takes a matter of weeks, meaning reduced complexity and cost and the ability to confidently engage with new and innovative payment methods.
The rapid onboarding of new PSPs was proven at launch when DLX Pay was activated and, at the same time, the platform seamlessly added a new PSP in the background, which went live alongside DLX Pay.
  • More Actionable Insights, More Readily Available
Access to real-time insights in the DLX Pay Configurator, DLX Pay’s dedicated no-code dashboard, offers a consolidated view of payment performance across providers and markets. This enhanced visibility has shifted Air Transat’s approach to managing payments from a reactive function to a proactive, data-driven strategy leading to continuous optimisation and informed decision-making.
Additionally, Air Transat can use the DLX Pay Configurator to implement new payment routing rules or adjust existing ones without any development resources. Through the insight portal, Air Transat can easily identify fraudulent transactions and associated amounts. Likewise, the dashboard delivers data and analytics that are not available from PSPs alone, enabling deeper analysis and more effective troubleshooting.
Future Capabilities & Roadmap:
Building on the initial success, Air Transat and Datalex have a strong roadmap in place for the coming 12 months. Key areas of focus which can be achieved with minimal investment:
  • Adding further Forms of Payments and exploring new Payment Connectors
  • Evolving the usage of Dynamic Routing to further optimise costs
  • Driving down fraud levels using Dynamic Routing driven by insights
  • Exploring Network Tokens to improve authorisation rates
Conclusion
Activating DLX Pay has transformed Air Transat’s payment operations, driven improved performance and restored control of its payment ecosystem, all while reducing complexities and operational costs. With enhanced visibility, intelligent retry and routing capabilities, and the ability to rapidly onboard new PSPs, Air Transat is positioned to flexibly and continuously respond to evolving customer and market demands. The scalability and future-focus of DLX Pay means Air Transat can continue to deliver a seamless and secure customer experience while being at the forefront of payment innovations.
“DLX Pay has improved significantly the way we manage payments on Air Transat.com, giving us much greater control, flexibility, and visibility. Intelligent retry capabilities are helping us recover revenue that was previously lost, while the ability to rapidly onboard new PSPs enables us to optimise costs, increase conversion, and ultimately deliver a seamless booking experience for our passengers.” said Bamba Sissoko, CIO at Air Transat.
“We developed DLX Pay to address the challenges that airlines face on a day-to-day basis when it comes to payments. Seeing the immediate results achieved by Air Transat after go-live – from revenue recovered from successful retries to rapid scalability – demonstrates the power of an airline-specific payment orchestration platform to drive growth. DLX Pay empowers Air Transat with the control, agility, and insights required to elevate the customer experience and adapt quickly to market changes” said Jonathan Rockett, CEO of Datalex.

Bixdo W60 Pro At-Home Blue Light Whitening Toothbrush Review

The Bixdo W60 Blue Light Whitening Electric Toothbrush is a state of the art toothbrush you could say with blue light technology built into the head of the toothbrush itself and a first that I have seen other than those gum sheild type things you are left sitting in your mouth for long periods of time in your local dentist or as they call them here whitening treatment kits.

The toothbrush itself however is cool and comes on a nice stand and when charging gives off a super cool effect and an ambient light of sorts which would look nice on your bedside locker for example.

You get two brush heads in the box and your user guide the charging dock and cable which is USB-C, there is no app which I was slightly dissapointed with however there is a small screen on the bixdo W60 blue light whitening electric toothbrush., Also in the box you get a whitening guide for your teeeth if you are after those movie star or turkey teeth looks. Each to their own on that one.

There is a small display oin the front of the toothbrush and two buttons also there is a light at the bottom which is blue for charging and turns orange when brushing too fast or hard which is good and easy to see in the dark or in bright areas the sreen can be a hit and niss at times depending on the light in the room at time but other than that it is clear to read and easy to follow overall compared to others on the market.

This will not work overnight it must be added it will take time and there is several modes to use during your journey of getting whiter teeth which works great with their own toothpaste but regular whitening toothpaste will also work as I am usnig this now after using their own tube.

The modes are easy to switch between on your journey and overall this is a non complicated toothbrush to use which is nice to see and hopefully next time they do have an app as these give users a better push and programmes and alerts to keep you on your toes with a good brushing routine.

Features

01 – Convenient & Time-Saving: Whiten and brush in 3 minutes; no more extra whitening tools needed. Visible results in 14 days, up to 21 shades brighter

02 – Uses the same whitening science as in-office treatments: The same wavelength and energy 460nm blue light as in-office treatments to activate the PAP whitening ingredient to break down stains

03 – Gentle whitening for sensitive teeth: Gentler, costs less, and works fast

04 – Smart Brushing: Equipped with premium smart reminders found only in high-end brushes

 

Highlights:

  1. Professional Whitening Performance 

Visible whitening backed by third-party testing

  • Up to 402% increase in whitening in 28 days*

Based on a third-party clinical study with 32 participants using the bixdo Blue Light Whitening Toothbrush and bixdo Active Oxygen Whitening Toothpaste twice daily for 4 weeks. Whiteness and color uniformity were evaluated at multiple time points. Individual results may vary.

 

Up to 21 shades whiter in 2 weeks*

Equivalent to the result of a professional blue light whitening session.

Based on a 14-day third-party laboratory study using bovine teeth to simulate twice-daily use with bixdo W60 in whitening mode and bixdo Active Oxygen Whitening Toothpaste. Actual results may vary.

* Data derived from third-party clinical and laboratory testing.

  1.1 Professional Blue Light Whitening Technology 
    Professional-grade blue light brings clinic-level whitening home
  • 460nm Blue Light Wavelength

Optimized wavelength commonly used in professional whitening to activate whitening agents effectively.
  • 300 W/m² Light Intensity
Delivers stable, professional-level energy output to support effective 3D whitening.
  • Patented Energy Infusion System
Channels blue light directly to the brush head, reducing energy loss and maximizing whitening efficiency.
The system ensures high, stable blue light output, improving daily whitening speed and consistency.
  • Enhanced PAP Activation
Blue light activates PAP (Bixdo toothpaste) deep within the enamel, helping break down stains effectively while maintaining enamel integrity.
  1.2 Synergistic Whitening System: Blue Light + PAP Toothpaste + Specialized Filaments 
    (1) PAP Active Oxygen Whitening Toothpaste
All-in-One ACE Formula (4-in-1): Whitening · Brightening · Strengthening · Moisturizing
PAP Whitening Technology: Gentle, peroxide-free whitening suitable for sensitive teeth
2.7× whitening power without damaging enamel
Compared to traditional whitening toothpaste: Reduced sensitivity compared to traditional peroxide-based whitening; No enamel erosion; Targets stains both internally and externally; Gentle enough for daily use and sensitive teeth.

 

    (2) Multi-Filament Brush Head Design
Four filament types for effective yet gentle whitening
Tynex® Galaxy Filaments – Support deep, efficient cleaning
Tynex® Classic Filaments – Gentle care for sensitive teeth and gums
Perlon® Filaments – Efficiently transmit blue light to the tooth surface
Tynex® Indicator Filaments – Visual reminder for brush head replacement
    (3) Whitening Synergy Explained
PAP molecules gently target and break down stains
Blue light activates PAP, accelerating the whitening process
Faster, more effective whitening without increased sensitivity
  1.3 Targeted Removal of Multiple Stain Types 
Designed to reverse years of staining in daily use
Tested on 10 common stubborn stains (Black tea, coffee, red wine, chili oil, ketchup, soy sauce, curry, vinegar, grape juice, carrot juice)
Based on a stain-removal simulation using HAP blocks immersed in staining solutions for 24 hours, then brushed for 2 minutes with the bixdo Blue Light Toothbrush and Active Oxygen Whitening Toothpaste.

 

  1. Whitening with Deep Cleaning Power 

High-frequency sonic cleaning for daily oral hygiene

31,000 vibrations per minute (VPM)

Powerful sonic vibration technology delivers deep plaque removal while supporting whitening performance.

Balances whitening efficacy with everyday cleaning needs.

 

  1. Cost-Effective Alternative to Professional Whitening 

Comparable results at a significantly lower cost

Professional in-office whitening:

Typically $350–$1,200 per session

Often achieves ~12 shades whiter

bixdo Whitening Kit W60

Up to 21 shades whiter in 2 weeks*

One-time investment: $139.99

Offers professional-level whitening results with better long-term value.

  1. Smart, User-Guided Design 

Premium features typically found in high-end electric toothbrushes

  • 4 Smart Modes for Every Need

WHITEN+ for deep blue-light whitening

FAST for a quick 2-minute morning clean

DEEP for a 3-minute thorough cleanse

SOFT for sensitive teeth

  • Screen Display

Provides real-time guidance on brushing areas, AI monitoring, and smart reminders

  • Brushing Too-Fast Alert

The base light flashes orange if you’re brushing too fast and color-changing bristles remind you when it’s time

to replace the brush head, helping improve brushing technique and protect gums

 

 

  1. Reliable Quality and Long-Term Durability 
  • 180-Day Marathon Battery Life

Designed for extended use with minimal recharging

  • IPX7 Seamless Waterproof Design

Safe for daily bathroom use and easy cleaning

  • Travel-friendly Design

No charger needed for short trips. A one-touch travel lock keeps it safe in your bag, without any accidental power-on.

About Bixdo

Top 1 Best-Selling Whitening Electric Toothbrush on Tmall (China)

Over 40,000 units sold in just 3 months

Top 1 sales in the water flosser category in China

The only fast-growing brand in a declining market, outperforming the overall category trend

Winner of 35 international design awards, recognized for both performance and aesthetics

As a top oral-care brand, bixdo listens to users and works closely with leading dental experts —delivering innovation from cleaning power to user comfort.

BUY

Other toothbrush reviews

Video Review

Consumer Tech Traps: How Storage Scams Trick Users and How to Protect Your Devices

We’re all annoyed by storage alerts, but we still need them to keep our devices running smoothly. Smartphone and computer users see these notifications when space is running low. Most people quickly respond to avoid performance issues. This habit created an opportunity that scammers know how to exploit. 

One of the most common tactics is based on a fake “disk full” warning, which appears as a system-like notification or a browser pop-up. The alert imitates real operating system messages, so it’s difficult for most users to recognize it’s fake at first glance. If you engage, you’ll be redirected to a page that promotes a suspicious app presented as a quick fix.

These scams are designed to feel urgent and legitimate. The message pushes you to act immediately, warning you about potential data loss. To understand how storage scams trick users, you must recognize the subtle signs that show you’re not being offered a legitimate tool. Even cautious users can be misled into entering payment details, so everyone needs to improve their phishing awareness.

Why Storage Alerts Work as a Scamming Strategy

Storage warnings are designed to lead to immediate action. When a device is low on space, its performance degrades. Some apps may stop working properly, so the user feels they have to fix the issue as quickly as possible. This sense of urgency is exactly what makes the alerts effective, but also easy to imitate. 

Scammers take advantage of this user behavior. They create messages that look like official system notifications. The alerts copy the design, language, and structure of real operating systems, so they seem trustworthy at a glance. For users who aren’t deeply familiar with system settings, it’s not easy to distinguish between a legitimate and a fake warning. 

Real storage notifications come from system settings. Scam messages, on the other hand, are triggered through web browsers or redirects. Then how can they trick users? These fake messages are designed to look identical to system pop-ups. Many users never notice the difference. 

First Step to Protection: Learn How Storage Scams Trick Users 

When you understand how these fake alerts work, it will be easier for you to recognize them. Although the design varies, most of these scams follow a pattern. 

  • Fake system warning

The process starts with a pop-up or redirect that displays a message. It might be something like “Your disk is full” or “Storage critically low.” These alerts show up while browsing, clicking on ads, or visiting compromised websites. They look like system-level notifications, using familiar icons and phrases.  

  • Redirect to a fake solution

If you interact with the alert, you’ll be taken to a page that offers a quick fix. This may be shown as a cleaning tool or security utility. Yes; there are legitimate apps that can help you deal with storage. But they are never promoted through “low storage” alerts. Fake pages usually include progress bars, scan results, and warnings that make the situation seem serious. 

  • Installation or payment trap

At this stage, users are encouraged to download software or subscribe to a service. Sometimes the app is unnecessary, but harmless. But in some cases, it may track your activity or request payments for features that won’t solve any real issues. 

Trends and Statistics on Storage Scam Messages

Storage scams are a part of a general increase in online frauds. Recent data shows how quickly the problem is growing. According to the Federal Trade Commission, over $12.5 billion losses to fraud were reported in 2024. That’s a 25% increase compared to the previous year. A big part of these scams were through Internet services, and younger people reported losing money to fraud more frequently than older people.  

The FTC also reported that people lost $3 billion to online scams. We’re seeing a decline in frequency for the traditional methods, such as calls and emails. The fact that these scams are becoming more effective is concerning. Phishing and impersonation tactics are strong entry points. Scammers use believable messages that mimic trusted systems. 

Unfortunately, these scams are effective. The increase in the percentage of targets who lost money shows that the messages are convincing. Storage scams aren’t isolated incidents. They are a part of a larger system of phishing attacks that keep evolving. 

Signs of a Storage Scam

Raising awareness about the warning signs of storage scams is important for improving consumer tech security. These messages do look convincing, but there are a few clear indicators that something isn’t right:

  • The alerts look like system messages, but they appear in the browser. The real storage warnings come from your device’s operating system. They won’t show up from a web page or a pop-up. 
  • Aggressive and urgent prompts are always suspicious. Don’t trust messages like “immediate action required.” Their goal is to pressure you into clicking without thinking too much. 
  • Once you engage with the message, an unfamiliar app will be recommended. Real systems don’t push unknown software as a solution to storage issues. 
  • Fake tools produce too-good-to-be-true scan results. They claim to find dozens of issues in an instant, even before they perform a real scan. 
  • Unexpected redirects are a clear sign of a sign. If you’re taken to an external website that is nowhere near the official app store, don’t trust it. 
  • Any demand for payments or sensitive data is suspicious. 

Being able to recognize the signs of an online scam is the only way to reduce the risks. Stay alert and follow basic security practices, so you’ll avoid falling for these threats. 

OSRAM ROADsight Wireless Reversing Camera OWRCS4 Review

The OSRAM ROADsight Wireless Reversing Camera System OWRCS4 is a simple to use camera with a decent sized screen for your vehicle with a simple install process.

You have two wires to deal with one being a live that attaches to your reverse light and an earth but be sure to get your local mechanic to install for you if you are not able to do so yourself.

The main screen just plugs into your existing cigarette lighter port and will automatically connect to the rear camera once powered on is that simple.

This works on 12 and 24v vehicles and has a large 4.3 inch display with good clairty and easy viewing, there is three buttons on the rear of the screen one being the main menu key and two to cycle through the on screen menu which has brightness reverse image and set up,  however it may be possible to hardwire more to it by the looks of it but we are just revewing this on its reverse camera feature.

The main screen can be placed anyhwere in your vehicle and comes with a window suction cup and a dashboard mountm, the rear camera requires more work and has to be fitted but does come with a double sided pad if you want to mount inside your car for example it is IP67 rated so the choice is your we fitted ours over the reg plate beside existing light ports on the boot.

Overall the reverse camera works well and evn in the dark which is good giving you a clear picture of what is behind you keeping you and your vehicle safe from any knocks or bumps the rear camera can also be adjusred to your requirement.

From my usage the time the camera stays on for a short time or went off then came back on and was a hit and miss it may be car related issue however it does offer a great view of what is behind you

 

 

Features

  • Monitor up to two cameras (additional camera sold separately) with compact screen
  • Designed for easy installation, even on long vehicles and trailers, thanks to the 100 m range provided by the wireless cameras
  • Featuring a clear digital display, wide 110° field of view and on-screen parking guides for confident reversing in any environment
  • Compatible with both 12 V and 24 V vehicles making installation in cars, vans, trucks, and SUV’s possible
  • Bright and clear 4.3 inch display

BUY

Other Osram reviews

Video Review

Meet Shark ChillPill The Only 3-in-1 Personal Cooling System

SharkNinja, Inc. a global product design and technology company, announced the launch of Shark® ChillPill™, the only 3-in-1 personal cooling system designed to help you keep you cool, inside and out, whenever life heats up. ChillPill™ combines a high‑speed bladeless fan that accelerates air up to 25 feet per second*, a refreshing indoor-outdoor dry‑touch evaporative mister, and a cryo-inspired InstaChill™ direct‑contact cooling plate that lowers skin temperature by up to 16°F in seconds** for customizable cooling and instant relief.

Meet Shark® ChillPill™ — The Only 3-in-1 Personal Cooling System

While interest in portable fans has surged over the past decade1, consumers have been left with basic handheld options that break easily and offer little more than warm air circulation or dampness. Reimagining personal cooling, ChillPill™ creates an entirely new category of cool — designed for both the heat you expect and the heat you don’t.

A fashion-forward must-have that elevates any look, ChillPill™ keeps you cool in style. From sun-soaked beach days and outdoor concerts to crowded theme parks, summer travel, overheated commutes, getting ready under pressure, and packed sidelines, ChillPill™ delivers powerful, targeted relief whenever the heat rises. Indoors or on the move, it’s there for the stressful moments, the backseat of a bumpy car ride, heat that catches you off guard, and anytime you need instant cooling. Just click, twist into place, and chill.

“Personal cooling hasn’t evolved with the way people actually live,” said Neil Shah, Chief Commercial Officer at SharkNinja. “People have been stuck with underpowered handheld fans that deliver minimal relief and lack thoughtful design. That wasn’t good enough for us. We listened to our consumers and saw an opportunity to do more than improve the fan; we set out to reinvent personal cooling altogether.”

Capitalizing on deep expertise across Shark Home and Beauty, ChillPill™ pairs Shark’s category‑leading fan engineering with cryo‑inspired cooling innovations developed within Shark to actively help cool the body rather than just circulating air.

ChillPill™ comes with three interchangeable cooling attachments:

  • Powerful airflow delivers fast, cooling relief, with a high‑speed, bladeless fan that accelerates air up to 25 feet per second* with 10 adjustable speeds.
  • Indoor-outdoor evaporative dry-touch mist refreshes skin without leaving it wet, with continuous or interval misting options and up to 10 minutes of mist per tank fill.
  • InstaChill™ cooling plate delivers instant, contact‑based relief, lowering skin temperature by up to 16°F in seconds**.

“ChillPill™ is not just a fan,” Shah added. “It’s the first and only 3‑in‑1 personal cooling system that combines a high‑speed fan, dry‑touch mister, and a cryo‑cooling plate into a wearable design that fits seamlessly into everyday life. This is the epitome of Shark performance intentionally designed for comfort whenever and wherever you need it.”

ChillPill™ can be worn, clipped on, or twisted to set on a tabletop—whatever works best in the moment. With up to 11 hours of battery life on low speeds, or 1.5 hours at maximum airflow, it’s built to keep you comfortable throughout the day. It’s available in Carbon (Charcoal), Dragonfruit (Pink), Glacier (Blue), Haze (Purple), Iced Latte (Golden Brown), Matcha (Green), and Rose Gold, with a design that’s easy to wear. Optional accessories like a clamp for a bike or stroller, cross‑body and wrist straps, protective cases, and a non‑slip sleeve make it even easier to work into your daily routine.

Available today for $149.99, ChillPill™ launches exclusively on Amazon.com and will be coming to SharkNinja.com and other retailers starting on March 11. For more information or to purchase, visit SharkNinja.com.

See our cooler reviews

 

https://mms.businesswire.com/media/20260310395929/en/2741682/19/ChillPill_55_Second_Sizzle_1x1.mp4?_=1

Infineon Technologies opens new R&D Centre in Cork

Infineon Technologies AG: a global leader in power systems and IoT, has officially opened its new Cork office at City Gate Park, Mahon. The new office has capacity for growth as the Cork team expands. This is  part of a €60 million investment plan announced in 2024, by Infineon for its Irish operations.

This R&D hub will focus Infineon’s innovations in the Automotive and Consumer microelectronics space such as Battery Management, Motor Control and Touchscreens. Supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, the continued growth will include senior and junior positions as well as a strong contingent of local university graduates through the Infineon Ireland Graduate Program.

Minister for Enterprise Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD said: “I welcome Infineon Technologies’ continued commitment to Ireland, as well as today’s opening of their new Design Centre in Cork. This investment strengthens our position as a hub for cutting‑edge research and development in microelectronics and supports additional high‑quality jobs for both experienced engineers and new graduates. The expansion reflects Ireland’s strong talent base and our growing role in advancing innovation across the automotive and consumer technology sectors. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this centre will deliver for Cork, for Ireland’s technology ecosystem, and for the global transition toward digitalisation and decarbonisation.”

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and at the Department of Transport, Jerry Buttimer TD said: “This new centre reflects the increasingly international nature of research and development, where teams collaborate across borders to solve shared technological challenges. Infineon’s investment in Cork underlines Ireland’s role as a trusted partner in global innovation networks.”

The Infineon research teams in Ireland are focused on IP development for the automotive and consumer markets. The new hires will support the development of new technologies and products that help driving digitalisation and decarbonisation on a global scale.

“At Infineon, we are committed to actively driving decarbonisation and digitalisation. As a global semiconductor leader for the automotive industry, we are shaping the future of mobility with products and solutions to make cars clean, safe and smart,” said Thomas Mende, Senior Vice President of Development, Microcontroller Automotive at Infineon. “The strategic development of our research and development sector in Ireland is central to this mission with semiconductor-based system integration and artificial intelligence for highly connected and increasingly autonomous vehicles being among major trends. This new office enables us to strengthen our team even further with the high-calibre talent that Ireland has to offer.”

Positions in the new office have already been opened online and include roles in Analog Design, Digital Design, Architecture and Verification.

“Just over two years ago, Infineon announced a multimillion-euro investment in its Irish R&D activities, which will result in the addition of approximately 100 jobs across its sites in Dublin and Cork“ said Executive Director of IDA Ireland, Dónal Travers. “I am honoured to join the team here today in Cork to celebrate the progress that has been made since then. This investment not only enhances Ireland’s deep-tech landscape, Infineon is also a critical part of the South West’s recognised semiconductor cluster. I wish the company, and the teams here in Ireland, continued success“.

 

Nikon introduces the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens

Nikon introduces a new second-generation S-Line zoom, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II lens. With Nikon’s best AF system to date, redesigned S-Line optics, stronger image stabilisation, improved ergonomics, and a lighter build, this upgraded f/2.8 professional medium-telephoto zoom lens gives photographers and video shooters the edge in more situations than ever before.

Weighing in at a class-leading1 998 g,2 the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II offers a significant upgrade in terms of balance, agility, and stability. A full 362 g lighter than its predecessor, and 12 mm shorter, this new lens is more comfortable to handle when shooting handheld and video shooters using a Z camera on a gimbal will benefit from the balanced internal zoom, which keeps the centre of gravity consistent when changing focal lengths. The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II also boasts up to 6 stops3 of in-lens Vibration Reduction, which combines with the fast f/2.8 aperture to deliver every advantage in challenging conditions, and Synchro VR maximises stability at the centre and edges of the frame with compatible Z cameras.

Responsiveness gets a massive boost thanks to the speed and silence of the new AF system, which is equipped with Nikon’s Silky Swift voice coil motors: AF speed is up to 3.5x faster5 compared to the first generation of this lens, and 50% quieter, plus scan time at the telephoto end is reduced and focus tracking is more accurate when zooming. Precision has also improved significantly thanks to the all-new optical formula: with fewer elements used to greater effect, the streamlined optical design takes sharpness, bokeh, and anti-glare performance to new heights while also contributing to the overall reduction in lens weight.

Pro-grade weather sealing protects the lens, and ergonomic improvements include a removable tripod collar, an ARCA-SWISS tripod foot, and a de-clickable control ring.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager, Nikon Europe says: “We are excited to introduce another second-generation f/2.8 pro-grade zoom. With ergonomic improvements, a new optical design, a leap in AF performance, and a significant reduction in size and weight, you get a lens with class-leading features and capabilities to work with. It’s the kind of upgrade that can take your whole Z system to the next level of performance.”

Summary of key features: NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S II

Lightest in class1: weighing in at just 998 g,2 this next-gen S-Line lens is a full 362 g lighter than its predecessor, and 12 mm shorter.

More speed, more stability: a fast f/2.8 aperture and 6 stops3 of in-lens Vibration Reduction, plus Synchro VR for maximum stabilisation at the centre and edges of the frame with compatible Z cameras.

Next-level AF: the sheer velocity of Nikon’s Silky Swift voice coil motors and the precision of the multi-focusing system gives responsiveness a massive boost while significantly reducing noise and vibrations.

Next-gen S-Line optics: for maximum image quality and a lighter lens. Includes dual-sided aspherical lens elements, Super ED and SR glass, and Meso Amorphous and ARNEO coatings.

Smoother bokeh: rounded 11-blade aperture and advanced optics produce softer bokeh that’s better defined and smoothly graded for a more natural sense of depth.

Shorter minimum focus distance: of 0.38 m at 70mm, and 0.8 m at 200mm. Maximum magnification is 0.25x at 70mm, and 0.3x at 200mm.

Agile for video: the internal zoom lets you change focal lengths without needing to rebalance your rig, and balance is maintained if using heavy external accessories. Focus breathing is minimised for more natural-looking transitions.

De-clickable control ring: click on for tactile feedback. Click off for smooth, silent, stepless operation.

Pro-grade sealing: to keep dust, dirt, and moisture at bay.

Removable tripod collar: included, along with a protective collar. A bayonet design allows secure attachment to the lens.

HB-119 lens hood with filter window: there’s no need to remove this hood if working with rotating filters. Handy if using variable ND filters for video.

Roborock robotic vacuums launch in Ireland in Harvey Norman

Roborock, a global leader in home robotics engineered to simplify daily life, today officially announces its launch in the Republic of Ireland. Irish consumers can now experience Roborock’s cutting-edge robot vacuums and mops, exclusively available for purchase from leading retailer Harvey Norman both in-store and online.

Roborock’s highly anticipated entrance into the Irish market with the Saros Z70, Saros 10 and QV 35S, begins with pre-orders available from today and will officially go on sale on 18th February. Fear not we have several in for review so stay tuned for real hands on demos coming your way soon.

“Ireland represents a key strategic market for Roborock, vital to our continued momentum and expansion across Europe,” said Jin Yani, Country Manager of Roborock UK & Ireland. “There is strong demand among Irish consumers for smart home tech, and we are confident that our innovative and reliable range of robotic cleaners will both enhance and simplify their daily lives. Our partnership with Harvey Norman ensures that our advanced products are readily accessible to homes throughout the country.”

“As the leading retailer in robot vacuums in Ireland, we are beyond delighted to bring Roborock, exclusively, into our stores nationwide,” said Clare McGinty, Product and Marketing Manager Small Appliances, Harvey Norman. “Roborock are innovators in this space, bringing very exciting products to the market. We look forward to showcasing the unique features of Roborock vacuums to the Harvey Norman customer. Now available in all Harvey Norman stores nationwide, we encourage everyone to visit and speak to our specialist staff who can talk you through the Roborock robot vacuum range.

Roborock is renowned for pushing the boundaries of smart home cleaning, integrating advanced AI and robotics to deliver unparalleled performance. The initial Irish lineup available at Harvey Norman showcases Roborock’s commitment to innovation and diverse cleaning needs:

Roborock Saros Z70 (€1,299)

  • The Roborock Saros Z70 boasts the world’s first*mass-produced OmniGrip, a five-axis robotic arm that comes folded into the vacuum’s ultra-slim 7.98cm body. The OmniGrip is able to unfold, extend and twist both horizontally and vertically in its five axis to pick up and move away obstacles including socks, sandals and other light objects under 300g, with more to be supported in future software upgrades. Combined with its advanced navigation, powerful vacuuming, and a mopping system that scrubs floors clean, this AI-powered robot transforms into your very own innovative home assistant.

Roborock Saros 10 (€1,099, available in Black & White)

  • The Roborock Saros 10 is designed to clean everywhere, even those trickier spots. It features a smart RetractSense Navigation System that allows it to lower itself and glide under low furniture like sofas and beds. This ingenious design makes it incredibly slim – just 7.98cm tall. Plus, it boasts a powerful VibraRise 4.0 mopping system for sparkling floors, ensuring it’s a truly reliable, effective and must-have cleaning tool.

Roborock QV 35S (€499, available in Black & White)

  • The Roborock QV 35S delivers advanced performance at an affordable price-point. It features a comprehensive station that handles automatic dust collection and washes its mop. Its impressive 10,000 Pa suction lifts dust and particles from every floor type, from firm surfaces to soft rugs. And, thanks to Reactive Tech obstacle detection, it navigates gracefully around household furnishings and compact areas, while a distinctive anti-tangle side brush prevents strands and fibers from clogging.

Roborock and Real Madrid have teamed up under the theme of “The Greatest Meeting The Greatest”, which celebrates innovation and remarkable performance. Throughout the partnership, Roborock and Real Madrid will showcase the meaning of “Real Smart Cleaning” from the pitch, to the home. 

 

About Roborock 

Roborock is a leading smart cleaning brand renowned for its intelligent cleaning solutions. Having become the #1 best-selling robotic vacuum cleaner brand according to IDC*, Roborock enriches lives with its innovative line of robotic, cordless, wet/dry vacuum cleaners, robotic lawn mowers and washer-dryers. Rooted in a user-centric approach, our R&D-driven solutions cater to diverse cleaning needs in millions of homes across more than 170 countries and regions. Headquartered in Beijing and with 8strategic subsidiaries in key markets, including the United States, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Germany, and South Korea, Roborock is dedicated to elevating its market presence worldwide. As of 2026, Roborock serves more than 22 million households. For more information, visit https://uk.roborock.com/.

Other Vacuum reviews

League of Legends Ranking System and Distribution

It’s not easy to get from the starting rank to master tier or challenger in League of Legends, but not impossible. It makes sense to try and learn the lol ranking, but also divisions, league points and everything else. Many players use League of Legends Boost services to speed up the climb. That will allow you to improve your rank, slowly, as you face more opponents.

How the LoL Ranking System Works

If you want to understand the League of Legends ranking system, it’s more than just booting and trying to play ranked games. The ranked ladder is designed to match people with a very similar skillset. When you play in the competitive league, Riot Games will offer league points or LP. You earn LP when you win games, and if you get defeated, you will lose the LP in competitive play.

The amount of LP you have will automatically affect the match making rating or MMR. While the MMR of a player is hidden, it does affect who you get matched with. When you have a high MMR relative to your rank, you lose less LP and get more points if you win. Placement matches will help figure out the MMR, and then the way you play will adapt it.

The LP you lose or gain will differ based on the rank. If you are in the metal ranks, you will gain or lose 25 LP. For the ranks emerald or above, the amount of LP you lose or gain is 20. But remember that before you can add LP to the name, you have to get to level 30. If you’re not there yet, you can enjoy Draft or Quickplay, and then slowly progress to that level.

Every LoL Ranks and Tiers in Order

Right now, League of Legends has a ranking system that’s made out of 10 distinct tiers. Here’s the rank split system with each lol league and ranked league you need to know.

– Iron

– Bronze

– Silver

– Gold

– Platinum

– Emerald

– Diamond

– Master

– Grandmaster

– Challenger

One thing to note here is that from Iron to Diamond, every tier has four divisions. Those divisions are labeled using Roman Numerals, from IV being the lowest to I being the best. But if you are platinum iv, then you have new divisions to look forward to and higher tiers, once you get those ranked wins and rank rewards. Once you get past Diamond, though, there are no divisions.

Instead of that, they bring their own special rules to fit the higher stakes that come from a higher rank. Since competitive is split into Solo/Duo and Flex, each one of the two modes is kept separate, so you have ranks for each of them. Entering ranked play is exciting because you can move on to the next tier, play league in ranked matches, get past the gold tier and reach a new tier in your ranked climb.

What is League of Legends MMR?

MMR or matchmaking rating determines who you are getting matched with when playing the game. At its core, this is a hidden rating that will decide how much LP you earn or lose, but also who you are facing in these matches. The MMR is based on your current, but also previous performance. For a full breakdown of tiers, divisions, and how the system works, check out this LoL ranks system guide.

When you have a high MMR, you will be gaining more LP per win, and lose less LP when you are defeated. But when the MMR is low, you lose more points per defeat, and also gain less points if you win, too. Enter the promotion series that Riot Games introduced, and try getting past gold iv, the platinum rank and so on. You want to do more than three games, check the ranked tab for your progress and continue the Legends game rank up. Eventually, you get past the Diamond rank and start playing against some of the best League of Legends players, especially when you are over Diamond I, nine tiers and the lowest division in diamond.

How to Unlock Ranked Mode in LoL?

You can play QuickPlay or other modes, but you only unlock ranked after playing for a while. The requirements for unlocking ranked are as follows:

– You must reach level 30

– You need to unlock 20 champions in your account

– After you unlock ranked, you must do five placement matches

It’s fine if you lose a few matches. If you have the skill, you’ll end up climbing up shortly. And it’s all in good fun, because it brings a very interesting and rewarding experience.

Rank Distribution in LoL

Rank distribution is interesting because very few people reach the top ranks in the game.

– 19% of players are in Iron, with the same percentage being in Silver and Bronze.

– 17% have the gold rank

– 11% are in the Platinum tier

– Then, 8.4% are in the Emerald tier, with 2.7% being in the Diamond tier.

– 0.59% of players are ranked Master

– 0.067% are Grand Master

– 0.028% are in the Challenger tier

But reaching the highest ranks in the game is very hard. Plus, there are LP gains and losses to deal with, and the matchmaking rating will be affected based on your performance in the previous tier, too.

Entering the challenger rank is very difficult, unlike getting through the tiers iron rank and the placement games. The player skill level is much higher and you will encounter a losing streak, especially as you go past that one tier where you got stuck and enter a new league. Doing those five placement matches is crucial, but it could take you hundreds of hours to reach the challenger tier.

LoL Rank Decay

Rank decay is a system meant to prevent people from keeping top spots in ranked even if they don’t play. That means:

– If you are inactive for a longer time span, you will start losing 50 to LP a day.

– However, penalties are only affecting high ranks, such as diamond or above.

– You can prevent penalties simply by playing games, as that will show your account is still active. Doing so will postpone any LP losses.

If you’re ranked Diamond, you are banking 7 days per match, to a maximum of 28 days banked. They offer 28 days before the decay, and you lose 50 LP. If you’re ranked Master or above, a match will bank you a single day, and you can bank up to 14 days, which is also the number of initial days before decay. You will be losing 75 LP per day on decay. For more guides and ranked tips, visit https://eloboss.net.

When you deal with decay, you might find ranked players from previous divisions in your current rank. It’s difficult to improve your past performance, but as you reach the highest division like diamond ii, things can get better. Just make sure that you LP gain often and avoid losing points.

Quick Tips for Ranking Up in LoL

 

– Try to dominate your placement matches, as it will help you acquire more LP gains in the beginning.

– Play only 1-3 champions per role and try to master them, as it’s better than trying variety.

– Focus on a single role if you can, as it will improve the way you handle that role.

– Chase objectives, not kills and play around power spikes. That means knowing when your champ is very strong, usually after getting multiple items or reaching at least level 6.

– Review mistakes from your games and see where you can improve, as it will help immensely.

– If you have 2 losses already, take a break. Usually, taking a breather is the best idea, because it will help improve your play.

Conclusion

Getting the best rank in the game is tricky, it requires lots of attention and time. But you want to take advantage of the different benefits and tiers, assess the match quality and see how split points are shared. And of course, track the player’s MMR and become the best you can. Reaching master grandmaster and challenger is difficult and it requires hundreds of hours of play, but this is not impossible. Harness that, access free rewards, and continue playing, you will improve immensely.