Tag: tech

emporia Smart7.Lite and Smart.ME7 First Look

Each new 7 Series model – the Smart7.Lite, and Smart.ME7 – comes with a user-replaceable battery with a standby time of almost 10 days. The battery has been tested for at least 1,000 charging cycles and the charging capacity can be limited to 80 per cent to ensure longevity and we will be taking two of the models for a test over the coming weeks and will have a full review soon so check the unboxing below and if you need anything answered you know what to do..

In addition, spare parts for the 7 Series are guaranteed to be available for at least seven years, plus there is a guaranteed five-generation Android upgrade path. The three models will ship with Android 15, with an update to the newly announced Android 16 due in early 2026.

“Our customers are not mobile phone hoppers who buy a new smartphone every year or two, which is why we have designed the new 7 series with durability in mind”, explains emporia marketing director, Karin Schaumberger.

Security in mind

Thanks to NFC and a fingerprint sensor, users don’t have to worry when banking online or logging into digital government services. emporia also prioritizes the implementation of Android security patches; 7 Series smartphones will be automatically updated to the latest security level.

“Security is a key selling point for our customers, and there can be no compromises in this regard,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

With personal security in mind, 7 Series smartphones feature emporia’s signature ‘No Panic’ button – an external, directly accessible button so you can more easily call for help in an emergency. The button can alternatively be configured as a shortcut to a favourite function – for example, offering instant access to the Google Gemini voice assistant.

Enhanced usability

The new 7 Series can be used in standard Android mode or with the streamlined emporia interface, which makes it easier to find and use core functionality including calls, emails and favourite apps. The emporia Info Centre collates all notifications from multiple sources – from emails and WhatsApp messages to calendar or voicemail alerts – so you can catch up with a single glance.

Also on board is the new Flash Notification option, which means you’ll never miss a call or message again when your phone is on silent. Incoming calls and messages are signalled by both the screen and backlight flashing.

To help simplify things further still, the free emporiaCOACH app helps digital newcomers and switchers to quickly familiarise themselves with their smartphone.

Compact format

The 7 Series comes in a pocket-friendly 5.45in format; there will be no 6.6in option as in previous ranges.  Each model features a triple-lens camera plus selfie camera.

“The demand for more manageable smartphones remains strong, and the feedback from our customers is clear,” explains Karin Schaumberger.

Model differences – all about the extras

All new 7 Series models include the core functionality detailed above. The difference come in the extras supplied with each model.

Smart7.Lite  – £250/€250 The bestseller comes as standard with emporia’s patented Smartcover, which allows key functions to be used even while closed. It offers slimline protection for both screen and casing. It also comes with a handy docking cradle, which cuts cable-clutter when charging but also provides a nicely angled hands-free calling hub.

Smart7.Mini  – £200/€200 Comes with the docking cradle as standard, but not the Smartcover.

Smart.ME7 – £200/€200 Supports full Android mainstream; no extras supplied as standard.

Availability

The emporia 7 Series will be available to buy this month, from stockists including Amazon.

See our emporia reviews

First look video

FNTCASE Case Line up Review for the Google Pixel 10/ Pro

The Google Pixel 10 Series is the latest handsets to hit the market and of course you need protection and FTNCASE has you covered as always with a new range of cases and screen protection to save you an expensive bill should you drop your phone.

We have three of their latest cases in to showcase and there again is something for everyone here and of course affordable as it does be hard to find cases for Pixel devices in Bricks and mortar shops especially in Ireland.

Check the the video below for more and with the Pixel 10 Series now adopting Magnetic charging it is a win win for all no matter which of the phones you decide to get and FTNCASE has several options for you to check out.

FNTCASE for Google Pixel 10/ 10 Pro 6.3 Inch Phone Case: Magnetic Translucent Matte Shockproof Slim Phone Cover – Military Grade Drop Proof Hard Back Anti-Fingerprint Protective Case

  • Matte Texture & Superior Feel: The Google Pixel 10/ 10 Pro 6.3 inch Phone Case uses high-quality matte TPU and PC translucent material without covering the logo. The frosted surface provides a comfortable hand feel, and the nano-antioxidant layer can effectively prevent stains and scratches.
  • Strong Magnetic Attraction: Compatible with Magnetic chargers and other Qi Wireless chargers without signal interference. The Google Pixel 10/ 10 Pro phone case has 38 super N52 magnets built in. Its magnetic attraction reaches 2400 gf, which is almost 7X stronger than ordinary, so it won’t fall off, no matter how it shakes while charging.
  • Precise Process: Rigorously molded to the original phone, every port, lens, and side button opening has been measured and calibrated countless times, and each button is sensitive. It is thin enough to support wireless charging with the case on.
  • 10FT Military Grade Drop Protection: Our Google Pixel 10/ 10 Pro phone case backplane is made with rigid polycarbonate and flexible shockproof TPU bumpers around the edge and features 4 built-in corner Airbags to absorb impact, which can protect your phone from accidental drops, bumps, and scratches.
  • Wireless Charging: The Google Pixel 10/ 10 Pro 6.3 inch phone case works perfectly with the official magnetic accessory and supports wireless charging.

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Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL 6.8 inch Clear Phone Case: Magnetic Charging Shockproof Magsafe Support

  • Compatibility: For Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL (6.8 inches). Please carefully confirm your phone model before making a purchase. Precise cutouts and tactile buttons ensure quick access and response, and full access to all ports
  • Strong Magnetic: The built-in powerful N52 magnets with 2400 gf of holding force make it easy to attach all kinds of Magnetic Charging accessories like wireless car chargers, wireless chargers, battery packs, etc. Even if you vigorously shake your phone, it won’t easily fall off
  • Yellow Resistance: This Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/9 Pro XL phone case is made of anti-yellowing PC and TPU materials, making the Pixel 10 Pro XL/9 Pro XL case transparent for long periods and effectively resists sweat and stains, clearly showing the original color of your phone
  • Full Protection: This Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/9 Pro XL case provides double protection for the phone screen from cracks and scratches
  • Military Grade Full Body Protection: 4 Air-cushioned corners for added drop protection, which provide excellent cushioning impact from accidental bumps and drops. The raised lip design provides enhanced scratch protection for the screen and camera

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FNTCASE for Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL Case with Ring Holder Magnetic Kickstand Military Grade Shockproof Protective Rugged Cell Phone Cover

  • Built-In Magnetic Ring Kickstand: Equipped with a magnetic ring stand design, enabling wireless charging without removing the case. The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL Case with stand works perfectly both in vertical and horizontal positions. Convenient for reading, watching movies, playing games, browsing the web, and face-to-face chatting with friends.
  • Built-in Screen Protector: The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL Case Screen protectors with excellent light transmission and responsive touch performance provide easy and comfortable access to your phone’s features while preventing accidental scratches on your smartphone. The built-in screen protection design perfectly solves the trouble of putting on a screen protector for you.
  • Full Protection: The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL/ 9 Pro XL Case Raised TPU bezel of this phone cover helps safeguard your screen lifted and absorb impact from accidental drops. A tough screen protector and case provide complete protection for your phone.
  • Comfortable: The non-slip texture on both sides has a better grip, and matte edges reduce the adhesion of fingerprints and oil to ensure a visually clean appearance while enhancing the handheld touch to make the case not easy to slip from your hand

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Shuffle Wallet Review

The Shuffle Wallet is an RFID wallet with more capabilites at hand and is modular which means you can add pieces onto it if you require them which is kinda handy

The Shuffle Wallet is a solid wallet with an innovative mechanism offering up to 8 cards which is plenty for most the design is nice it looks tough and it is tough you could  fire this thing through a window. It comes in Titanium or Aluminium

It is on the larger side compared to my secrid for example however you will always know it is in your pocket unlike my secrid which is smaller and lighter and holds up to 6 cards at any one time.

There is a silicon pouch for NFC and additional accessories such as AirTag holders.

There is RFID blocking keeping your cards safe which is vital in today’s world as there is guys with RFID readers out there and this wallet gives you peace of mind.

Features

  • Effortless Access, Innovative Mechanism: Say goodbye to clumsy wallet fumbling; This wallet for men features a unique deck-of-cards opening mechanism that allows for quick and easy access to your cards with a simple flick, ensuring smooth transactions on the go
  • Accessories Sold Separately: Make your men’s wallet your own with our range of modular accessories; From the AirTag holder for easy tracking to the silicone pouch with an NFC chip for instant digital business card sharing, personalize your wallet to suit your needs and style
  • RFID-Blocking: The Shuffle Wallet for men features advanced RFID-blocking technology to protect your cards from electronic theft; The non-RFID blocking design is perfect for accessing key cards, subway passes, gym cards, hotel cards and more
  • Exceptional Service: Enjoy confidence in your purchase with our after-sales service； Whether you have questions,or need assistance, our dedicated team is here to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind every step of the way

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Video Review

Duex Max DS Portable Dual Screen Laptop Monitor Review

Not every creator edits in a cozy home studio. Some need to travel and they got the hotel rooms for their work. Sometimes the workplace is their car. Most YouTubers, vloggers, or content creators travel a lot. So, you know how tight laptop screens can get.

That’s where a portable extra screen changes the game. One simple add-on. And suddenly, you’re working faster anywhere. But not all portable screens are made equal. Some are clunky. Others dim out in sunlight. And a few? Just not worth the price.

This guide walks you through the best screens for creators who travel. Starting with one that hits all the right notes.

  1. Mobile Pixels Duex Max DS

A portable dual screen extender optimized for creators on the go. Whether you’re editing videos in a noisy café or reviewing footage on a train, this screen has your back. Designed with portability and functionality in mind, the Duex Max DS takes the hassle out of expanding your workspace.

Unlike other portable screens that require clamping or specific attachments, the Duex Max DS is sleek, simple, and easy to set up. Just unfold it, plug it in, and you’re ready to work. Its sturdy design ensures no wobble or balance issues, and its color-accurate display makes it a great choice for editing and creative work.

Why It’s First on the List:

  • Clean, simple design that doesn’t get in the way
  • No clamping or attachments needed
  • Solid, color-accurate display perfect for editing
  • Sturdy but lightweight, ideal for travel
  • Easy setup and portability

If you’re a creator who’s always on the move, the Mobile Pixels Duex Max DS makes your workflow smoother and faster, wherever you are.

This is a 14.1 inch screen which can slide either side has standalone settings on screen and can be used in multiple ways which makes is versatile and an excellent productivity tool everyone should have see our video review below for a full hands on.

Features

  • 14.1-inch 1080p FHD display
  • Only 1.8lbs for its size
  • Perfect for 14″ and larger laptops
  • Four viewing modes and eye-care mode
  • Plug and play via USB-C or Mini HDMI
  • Compatible with macOS/ Windows/ Nintendo Switch/ Samsung Dex

2. ASUS ZenScreen MB16AC

If you’ve seen this one, you already know it’s sleek. This option is ultra-thin. But don’t let the look fool you. It delivers the quality. USB-C connection. Clean HD screen. Works with both Mac and Windows without making a fuss. It also has blue light filtering. This helps on those long nights spent editing thumbnails or syncing audio.

Why creators like it:

  • Easy on the eyes, literally
  • No bulky cables
  • Ultra-portable
  • Doesn’t heat up
  • Just works

3. Lenovo ThinkVision M14

You barely feel it in your bag. That’s how light the M14 is. But it still brings a bright and vivid screen. It is perfect for editing reels or watching playback. This screen has dual USB-C ports. It means you can charge while you edit. You can tilt it. Stand it. Prop it. It works from tight spaces, even tray tables.

Why it’s worth your attention:

  • Super light
  • Bright enough for outdoor use
  • Clean resolution for video work
  • Great for quick edits
  • Charges while in use

4. SideTrak Solo

Sometimes, you need a bigger view. That’s where the SideTrak Solo steps in. This is full HD and supports HDR. It’s made for those moments when you’re stitching clips, balancing audio, or working with layers.

It has a matte screen too. So sunlight? No problem. It also plays well with most laptops, thanks to USB-C and HDMI inputs.

Good choice if you need:

  • Bigger screen real estate
  • Vivid display with HDR
  • Versatility in connection
  • No reflections or glare
  • Smooth multitasking

5. ViewSonic VG1655

If you’re starting out or just watching your gear budget, the VG1655 gets the job done. It falls within your budget. This option is light. It has dual speakers and still rocks a Full HD screen. You get USB-C and mini HDMI. Thus, it can be connected to most gear. It also comes with a cover that works like a stand.

Why it’s still a solid pick:

  • Affordable
  • Good audio and visuals
  • Reliable in daily use
  • Slim and light
  • Travel-friendly design

The Final Take

Portable screens aren’t just nice to have. For creators on the go, they’re necessary. They save time. They cut the frustration. And, they make the editing process smoother. Out of all the options, the Duex Max DS stands out. It doesn’t try too hard. It works well, looks clean, and fits real-life travel routines. So, set it up. Plug in. Get back to creating.

 

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Google Pixelsnap Case for Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro Review

The Google Pixelsnap Case for Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro is their latest and newest case on the market an it is about time too being compatible with Magnetic accessories ie Magsafe etc it has been a long time coming and now it is here we should applaud them.

Check out the latest on offer for the all new Google Pixel 10 series and stay tuned for more case reviews soon. You can check out the first look at the pixel 10 here

Protects from drops and scratches.

The case has been drop-tested for hundreds of hours to defend against everyday ‘oops’ moments. Raised edges guard the display, and there’s extra protection for Pixel’s iconic camera bar.

Snap into wireless charging and beyond.

Your Pixelsnap Case works with a variety of magnetic accessories – like chargers, grips and stands – that you can easily snap on and off.

This case is designed specifically for Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro, so charging capabilities, audio clarity and signal strength are unaffected. Recycled materials make up at least 42% of the case, so it’s made with you and the planet in mind.

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Video Review 

Find friends at Electric Picnic 2025 with new tech device

One of the biggest pet peeves at music festivals is losing your friends in the crowd. Large crowds, loud music, and misunderstood messages can cause that once in a lifetime moment that you want to enjoy with your bestie when your favourite artist comes out on stage to end up being a far less historic, solo experience.

That’s all about to change as some lucky Three+ loyalty programme customers attending Electric Picnic 2025 can now apply to pioneer an innovative new wearable tech, an Irish festival first, called the Three Friend Finder. ( Link to apply for the Three Friend Finder is here )

The Three Friend Finder, powered by Totem Labs, connects you to your friends who are also wearing the device using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) by guiding you to their location using a ring of pulsing lights and without the need for any mobile phone service, WIFI, or Bluetooth. Not only that, the lucky owners of the device will also be guided to some secret gigs and experiences taking place over the weekend of the festival.

Three Ireland, a long-standing major sponsor of Electric Picnic, has big plans again for this year’s festival, while, as usual, keeping festival goers connected all weekend with Three charging stations and reliable Wi-Fi  and making sure festival goers can share every unforgettable moment with your friends.

The Three Music Stage is back at Rankin’s Wood and is the main destination for discovering incredible new music. Once again, it will feature a host of Irish and international talent, promising to be a festival highlight.  Three+ members will also get exclusive fast-track entry to the silent disco and side-of-stage access.*

The legendary Three Charge & Chill area is back in the heart of the main arena and has become a sanctuary to recharge both phones and tired festival goers without missing any of the action.

A major highlight at Charge & Chill will be full sets by three emerging Irish artists Roe Byrne, Emily Doyle and Rebecca Lane who were chosen to perform out of over 500 TikTok artist entries as part of Three Ireland’s City Stages music project.

The Charge and Chill area also will include complimentary charging to ensure your phone is powered up all weekend, unrivalled views of the main stage from its dedicated viewing platform, exclusively for Three+ customers*. Also, stay tuned to Three Ireland’s social channels as the area will also host some last-minute surprise big name secret music performances.

Not only that, the company has this year introduced the Three+ Bus, a 52-seater bus that will travel on a daily return from Dublin to the festival grounds from Friday to Monday, and which is available on a discount to Three+ customers*.

Tanya Townsend, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Three Ireland, commented, “The organisers of Electric Picnic and Three have a similar ethos; to connect people through truly memorable moments and, of course, also to showcase and support the best of emerging Irish music artists. We are excited about the Three Music Stage line-up and in particular our three chosen City Stage artists who will perform sets at Charge and Chill and also sing with some yet to be announced globally renowned artists over the weekend. 

Tanya continued, “As a company that prides itself on pushing advanced technology, we are thrilled to also trial the Three Friend Finder at the festival, a device that helps you track your friend’s exact location without the need for mobile phone service, WIFI or Bluetooth. Who knows, perhaps this will become the must-have device for the 2026 festival season.”

*Exclusive to only Three+ customers. Show your Three+ account to avail the benefits. See full terms plus.three.ie

Groov-e launches new pet-tech range

Groov-e, a leading UK consumer tech brand, is giving pet owners a smarter, more convenient way to care for their furry friends, by introducing a brand-new range of automatic pet feeders. Designed to provide consistent feeding and hydration for those times when a dog or cat is home alone, Groov-e’s new pet tech line comprises a Smart Wi-Fi Pet Feeder, Automatic Pet Feeder, Automatic Wet Food Pet Feeder and Pet Water Fountain.

The new pet-tech range is ideal for dog or cat owners with busy schedules, whether they are out for the day, putting in extra hours at the office or planning a weekend away. These automatic pet feeders and water fountains give users peace of mind that their fur babies are keeping hydrated and not missing meals. Affordable, with prices starting at £24.99, all four products are available now from Groov-e.

 

Smart Wi-Fi Pet Feeder

Price: £59.99

Available from: Groov-e

The Smart Wi-Fi Pet Feeder is perfect for owners of cats and small dogs who want reliable, hands-free feeding routines. Ideal for dry food, users can easily schedule up to ten meals a day via the Tuya app. A voice recording function allows users to record a personal message, calling their pet and providing comfort when it’s time to eat. A 4L capacity and airtight storage keeps the food fresh and dual power options provide convenience and peace of mind. Plus, it’s easy to clean with a removable food tray.

 

Automatic Pet Feeder

Price: £49.99

Available from: Groov-e

The Automatic Pet Feeder allows pet owners to schedule up to six meals a day for their cat or small dog. It has a capacity of 4 litres and is ideal for dry food, keeping it fresh thanks to its airtight storage. A clear LED display and removable food tray make the Automatic Pet Feeder easy to use and clean. It runs on mains or battery for ultimate convenience.

 

Automatic Wet Food Pet Feeder

Price: £44.99

Available from: Groov-e

The Automatic Wet Food Pet Feeder is ideal for pets on wet or mixed diets, keeping food cool and fresh thanks to the included ice packs. Holding four portions with 240ml capacity per compartment, users can programme for meals to be delivered at set times during the day. Easy to clean and battery operated, the Automatic Wet Food Pet Feeder is perfect for owners who feed smaller meals during the day, work long days or are having a weekend away.

 

Pet Water Fountain

Price: £24.99

Available from: Groov-e

The Pet Water Fountain will keep water fresh and clean all day thanks to 24/7 ultra-quiet water flow and a 4-layer filtration system which removes hair and debris from the water. With a large two-litre BPA-free tank, easy-to-clean design and USB-A connectivity, it’s the perfect fuss-free hydration solution for any furry friends. An illuminated fill line in the bowl alerts users when water is running low.

See our Groov-e reviews

myFirst Camera 3 16MP Full HD Kids Digital Camera Review

The MyFirst Camera 3 16MP Full HD Kids Digital Camera is a fun simple to use kids camera to get them started in photography in their early years.

Presented again in a nice package this has all you need inside which is a lanyard strap a cover for the camera itself and includes a micro sd card which is a rare thing these days.

The cover is perfect to protect the camera at home or if on the go out with your child and will protect it if dropped also it does not interfere with the use of the camera.

The camera itself is small and robust with a nice texture to it with a flash, navigation buttons a shooter button and button to toggle between selfies and normal photos. The buttons are all tactile and work well and allow you to navigate through the controls which we go through in the full video review below.

There is a dual lens macro lens and selfie lens on board this camera and you can also take videos with this camera making it a fun gadget for younger kids, the pictures and videos are decent and can be transferred to your laptop via micro sd card and there you can see them in full format and print or share them.

Overall this is an excellent camera for kids to get started and learn photography, see the video for more below.

Features that Your Kids Will Love

  • Dual Lens
  • Macro Lens
  • Selfie Lens
  • Video Recording
  • HD Photos & Video
  • 16MP Camera
  • Photo Templates
  • Memory Up to 32GB

New Macro Lens

Your child can now take close up pics with the new macro lens in our camera! Perfect for those close-ups of lettuce and ladybugs.

Use the lens selector button to switch to a macro lens and see the little things in life. We’ve removed the bars to your child’s photographic creativity!

Quality Photos

With our 16MP camera, you’re assured of quality, high pixel images from your child’s perspective. Your child will take some fantastic HD photos and videos! Share the memories and see the beauty in your child’s eyes.

Selfie Lens

We know how difficult it is to take selfies without dropping your camera. So we’ve added a selfie lens above the screen. With a push of our lens selector button, take selfies with ease. Selfies made easy with myFirst Camera 3.

Durable and Powerful

We’re also throwing in a shockproof pouch. The pouch is made of high tensile strength polymers which resist drops, knocks, and bumps. With 1000mAh battery and supporting up to 32GB microSD card, you can be sure you and your child take plenty of photos and videos, anytime, anywhere! Sweet!

Preloaded Frames

Like its predecessors, our Camera 3 comes with preloaded frames to give your child insta-like photos! Your kid will be spoilt for choice when it comes to myFirst!

Box Contains:

  • MyFirst Camera 3
  • Adjustable Neck Lanyard
  • Designated Pouch (Detachable)
  • Decorative Stickers – 2 Stickers
  • Micro USB Charging Cable
  • Memory Card (Included)
  • User Manual

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Video Review

Tech Innovations to Elevate Fan Experience at Amgen Irish Open

The Amgen Irish Open 2025 returns to The K Club’s Palmer North Course from September 3rd to 7th, bringing with it not only world-class golf but also a cutting-edge line-up of technology and innovation experiences designed to engage fans of all ages.

Leading the way is The Academy, where visitors can step into an interactive coaching environment led by PGA professionals. Fans will be able to receive expert tips, analyse their swing, and learn from some of the game’s most respected coaches, making it the perfect stop for those looking to sharpen their skills or pick up a club for the first time.

Fans can also get into the swing of things at The Arcade which turns golf into an immersive digital experience. Visitors are offered a mix of virtual reality and golf gaming, delivering a next level experience ideal for young adults and anyone who wants to combine golf with cutting-edge entertainment.

Celebrity Pro Am

The technology attractions are just part of a wider programme at The K Club. The week begins with the Celebrity Pro-Am on Wednesday, September 3rd, featuring a line-up that includes rugby star Josh van der Flier, former Irish rugby internationals Johnny Sexton and Tommy Bowe, All-Ireland winners, Tipperary’s Ronan Maher and Kerry’s David and Paudie Clifford and lifestyle influencer Dearbhla Silke.

World-Class Golfers

Fans can watch Rory McIlroy fresh from his Grand Slam season and Masters victory, alongside Shane Lowry, Pádraig Harrington, Séamus Power, Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald, defending champion Rasmus Højgaard, 2016 Masters champion Danny Willett, 2018 Open winner Francesco Molinari, Venezuelan Jhonattan Vegas and American Ryan Gerard, will compete for the title, as they battle for one of European golf’s most prestigious titles.

Paul Gillmon, Tournament Director of the Amgen Irish Open, said:

“Fans can expect a lot more at this year’s Amgen Irish Open. We’re embracing innovation in a big way. From interactive coaching at The Academy to immersive experiences in The Arcade, we’re creating spaces where fans of all ages can engage with the game in exciting new ways. It’s all about enhancing the fan experience and making golf more accessible, interactive, and fun, whether you’re a lifelong player or just discovering the sport.”

Music

Off the course, the Village will keep the festival vibe going with live music headlined by The Stunning on Saturday night and Simple Things on Sunday evening, plus premium food and drink, family fun, and activations from top brands.

A limited number of General Admission and select Premium Experience options are available. To purchase tickets see tickets.europeantour.com.