Tag: Video

Edinburgh historian helps build new Assassin’s Creed video game

Dr Glaire Anderson, of Edinburgh College of Art, worked with game developers Ubisoft on Assassin’s Creed Mirage, the upcoming instalment in the Assassin’s Creed® franchise launching worldwide on October 12, 2023, which follows the early years of protagonist Basim Ibn Is’haq in the capital of the medieval Abbasid caliphate.

Dr Anderson provided expertise on medieval Islamic history, art, architecture, archaeology and civilisation to Ubisoft’s in-house history team, and contributed to a new educational feature, ‘History of Baghdad’, which offers players an interactive way to learn more about the game’s rich setting.

Stéphane Boudon, Creative Director for Assassin’s Creed Mirage at Ubisoft Bordeaux, said:

“The ‘History of Baghdad’ is our new historical codex feature – information that players can find in the world, telling them about the culture, tradition and daily life of 9th century Baghdad.

“In addition to providing intensive seminars on medieval Islamic Art to the Ubisoft in-house history team, Glaire and her students contributed directly to this feature, reviewing texts written by our in-house historian Raphaël Weyland, and suggesting illustrations from museum collections.”

Players can discover a total of sixty-six historical sites throughout the in-game world of Assassin’s Creed Mirage, each serving as a portal to insights about the era, divided into five categories: Art & Science; Beliefs and Daily Life; Court Life; Economy; and Government.

Dr Anderson was one of four key advisors on the development of Assassin’s Creed Mirage, alongside Dr Vanessa Van Renterghem, specialist of Abbasid Baghdad; Dr Ali Olomi, Scholar of Islamic History; and Dr Raphaël Weyland, expert of Islamic history. Museums contributing to the History of Baghdad feature include The David Collection, the Institut du monde arabe, The Khalili Collections, and Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design.

Dr Anderson, who specialises in the history of medieval Islamic art and architecture, originally began using video game engines during her research, to visualise historic environments and architecture. She said:

“I showed my work to my son, who was about 11 at the time, and he said, ‘Oh mom, if you’re interested in that kind of stuff you should check out Assassin’s Creed!’ I did, and I loved how they were visualising medieval Islamic monuments and urban environments. Then, when I learned they were engaging with museums and academics to enhance the educational aspects of their games, I reached out to Ubisoft’s head of world-building, historian Maxime Durand.

“The University’s commercialisation service, Edinburgh Innovations, helped me formalise the relationship.

“The impact on my work has been dramatic. Collaborating with Ubisoft has allowed me to bring my work out of the university and share it with a broader audience of people of all ages who play video games. I respect what Ubisoft have achieved and how they are helping people engage with history.”

She worked with two postgraduate researchers as part of the University of Edinburgh’s Digital Lab for Islamic Visual Culture & Collections, and was supported by grants from the Economic and Social Research Council and the Barakat Trust.

Dr Anderson added:

“I’ve taught approximately three or four thousand university students in the US and the UK about the architecture, art, and history of the caliphal period over the course of my career. That’s ordinary impact. Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed games have introduced millions of players of all ages around the globe to medieval Islamic art, architecture, and history. That’s extraordinary impact.”

Thierry Noël, Head of Ubisoft’s Humanities & Inspiration Department, said: “Assassin’s Creed always strives to be a gateway for players to discover more about the fascinating historical setting and eras it explores.

“With information curated by experts, “History of Baghdad” offers a research-based perspective over 9th century Baghdad and the Abbasid Empire, tackling pre-conceptions and clichés often associated with them. Our collaboration with esteemed partners and experts to bring this feature to life in Assassin’s Creed Mirage further highlights the commitment to authenticity and accuracy that is a hallmark of the series.”

Boom Launches AI Video Bar

Boom Collaboration has launched a powerful new ‘intelligent’ video bar, as the growing appeal of all-in-one devices continues to accelerate.

The US-based manufacturer has unveiled the Boom AURA, a stylish video bar with built-in AI functions designed to deliver superior meetings.

The Boom AURA offers 4K Ultra HD picture quality, 10x digital zoom and a wide 120 degree field of view. AI functions include highly responsive facial detection and sound source localization providing intelligent auto-framing and voice-tracking. 

Six digital array mics with six meters of pickup ensure crisp high fidelity audio and an optimal intuitive response. An 8MP CMOS sensor is combined with plug-and-play functionality and a standard three-year warranty

The all-in-one AURA delivers a smart professional user experience backed by intelligent hardware that makes for better meetings. Simply. That’s the view of Fredrik Hörnkvist who set-up Boom Collaboration with co-founder Holli Hulett in 2020.

Holy Grail

“There’s little doubt the popularity of video bars continues to rise as they provide a perfect solution especially for huddle rooms which are now an integral part of today’s hybrid work trends,” he explained.

“The AURA offers many exceptional features to create a complete conferencing solution combining stylish design with high performance and ease of use.”

The AURA joins the Boom UNO vertical video bar as part of an expanding portfolio, with further product developments in the pipeline.

However both Hörnkvist and Hulett insist video bars might not be the ‘holy grail’ of conferencing for every environment, especially very large rooms.

“Despite their growing popularity video bars have limitations especially in larger rooms where people might be sat a long way back,” Hulett highlighted. “PTZ cameras with optical zoom offer the ultimate visual performance and when paired with our GEMINI expandable wireless audio system, for example, it’s often a better experience.

“We have also just introduced the Boom GOJO multi-camera controller which makes it easy to add a new dimension to conference meetings and live events by utilising more than just one PTZ camera.”

She concluded: “Boom Collaboration provide solutions for all room types, from home workers to the biggest boardrooms – raising the bar in performance and convenience, whether that’s all-in-one or more powerful PTZ camera technologies. The popularity of bars and cameras remain high.”

Sky Live is the new interactive camera from Sky

Sky today unveils Sky Live, the clever entertainment device that will transform the way you use your TV. Exclusive to Sky Glass, the new interactive camera brings you exciting new ways to share your favourite TV with family and friends, work out, play and video call – all on your TV. Sky Live is now available to buy from €6 per month*.

Speaking about Sky Live, JD Buckley, CEO, Sky Ireland, said: “Following Sky Glass’ successful launch last August, we are thrilled to announce that we are transforming the home entertainment experience yet again with the launch of our new 4k interactive camera, Sky Live.

We are so excited to bring this innovative product to our Sky Glass customers as our new camera will change the way we interact with TV.  There’s a new way to chat, play, work out and share the greatest TV moments with family and friends. We hope our customers love it as much as we do.”

Fraser Stirling, Global Chief Product Officer, Sky, said: “We surprised everyone when we launched our streaming TV, Sky Glass. Now we’re doing it again. Sky Live makes your TV much more than just a TV, by introducing new entertainment experiences for the heart of your home.

“Get active with motion control games, work out with body tracking technology, video call on the big screen and watch TV with loved ones – even from afar. And this is just the start. With our powerful Entertainment OS ecosystem, it will keep getting better with every update.”  

Sky Live makes the big screen in your living room even smarter, more social, and more interactive. Key features include:

Watch Together when you’re not together

 

  • Enjoy TV together, even when you’re apart.
  • See and hear family and friends in their own homes alongside your favourite content on your TV screen, so you can celebrate Premier League goals together live, discuss the latest murder mystery from Poker Face and chat through every episode of And Just Like That, S2.
  • Working across live channels and Sky on demand content – the dedicated Watch Together button on screen lets you invite your family and friends to watch with you**.
  • And with Auto-Tracking, everyone will always be in shot and in focus. Plus, Sky Live’s background noise suppression technology means sound will be crystal-clear.

Workout with a personal trainer on your TV

  • With the exclusive Mvmnt fitness app, you can choose from over 130 interactive workouts, including a range of strength, mobility, Pilates and yoga classes for all abilities.
  • Built-in Body Tracking technology improves your technique by analysing your form, providing real-time feedback as you move and counting your reps.
  • Developed in partnership with WithU and qualified coaches, Mvmnt is exclusive to Sky Live for innovative and easy ways to work out from home on the big screen.
  • Download the Mvmnt companion mobile app so you can also get real-time feedback on your form directly to your mobile. Plus, you can plan your workouts, track your personal progress, and share to social media.

Play hands-free immersive games for the whole family

 

  • Use your body as the controller in fun active games like Starri, PAW Patrol PAWsome fitness and Fruit Ninja with Sky Live’s ground-breaking Motion Control technology, which uses AI-powered body tracking and gesture control. With more games like Peppa Pig coming soon.
  • Play solo at home, or challenge family and friends to join in a range of fun multiplayer games and experiences like Monopoly.
  • With VideoBooth you can capture short videos and photos on your Sky Glass. Immerse yourself in some of your favourite TV shows and films with AR filters for PAW Patrol, Trolls and more. Download your creations and share with your family, friends and on social media.
  • Also coming soon is the Stingray Karaoke app, allowing you to record, play back and easily share your best performances on social media.

Video Call on your TV

 

  • Make Zoom calls to family and friends from your sofa to any device.
  • Have better conversations and see people in HD, large as life and crystal-clear on the big screen – no more juggling iPads, laptops or mobiles.
  • Everyone will be in shot with Auto-Tracking and you can hear every word with the background noise suppression technology.
  • You can even switch from a call on your mobile to your TV if you’re signed into the same account on Sky Live. Just use your existing Zoom account and log in with your regular e-mail address and password.

Simple set up

Sky Live has been designed with the same simplicity and privacy credentials as Sky Glass. It’s easy to set up, with no remotes, headsets or controllers, and the magnetic base sits securely on top of your Sky Glass, with cables to connect to the TV. Giving you complete control over your privacy, there’s a dedicated button which lets you switch the camera and microphone on and off – when the front light is off, you know it’s completely off.

Pricing and availability

Sky Live is available to buy in Ireland from today (Thursday 22 June) at Sky.ie/SkyLive, in Sky retail stores or with our customer services.

Buy for €6 per month interest-free credit on a 48-month credit sale agreement, €12 per month on a 24-month credit sale agreement, or €301***.

Buy Sky Glass, Sky Ultimate TV and Sky Live from just €18.50 for 3 months

Developing for the future

Sky Live is the latest addition to the Sky TV Entertainment OS ecosystem, which includes Sky Glass. Sky Live will never stay the same; its software will continue to evolve, with new games, workouts, features and more to come in future releases.

As a platform Sky is looking forward to working with experience and app creators to bring new entertaining innovations to the big screen. We’re even opening our developer portal very soon.

For more, visit Sky.ie

Top 7 No Watermark Video Editors for PC in 2023

We’re going discuss the top 7 no-watermark video editors for PC in 2023. We’re going to mention their distinctive features and the pros of using each one. After reading this article, you should easily be able to choose the one that fits your needs.

1. Movavi Video Editor

This no-watermark video editor stands out with its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it a popular choice for beginners seeking a hassle-free video editing experience. Here are the pros of using it in comparison to other tools:

  • Built-in media content: It includes a library of royalty-free music tracks and sample videos to enhance and complement your projects.
  • Fast rendering and exporting: The software offers efficient rendering and exporting options, enabling users to save time during the final production process.
  • Audio editing and enhancement features: Alongside video editing, it allows users to edit and enhance audio tracks to achieve optimal audio quality. We don’t want sloppy audio in our videos.
  • Screen recording: It enables users to capture and record their screen activity, which is ideal for creating tutorials, demonstrations, or gameplay videos.
  • Automatic video creation: There’s a feature called The Montage Wizard which provides a quick and automated way to create professional-looking videos by guiding users through the editing process.   

2. Clideo

This edgy video-making tool features cloud-based functionality, allowing users to edit videos online without the need for software downloads or installations, making it accessible and convenient for users across various devices and systems. Other pros:

  • Online accessibility: It allows users to edit videos online from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for specific hardware or software installations. It’s an awesome feature.
  • Privacy and security: The developers value your privacy and ensure that your uploaded videos are not shared with any third parties, providing a secure environment for your editing projects.
  • Quick processing: The powerful cloud infrastructure enables fast processing times, allowing you to edit and save your videos efficiently. However, it depends on the length and complexity of the videos.

3. Kapwing

Another program that has a unique feature of collaborative video editing where it allows multiple users to work together on a video project simultaneously, making it ideal for teamwork and cooperative content creation. Other pros include:

  • Creative templates: The software features a library of pre-designed templates for quick and easy video creation. Something suitable for both professionals and beginners trying to make great videos.
  • Subtitle generation: It allows users to automatically generate subtitles for their videos or manually add and customize them. The possibility to customize subtitles is more than welcome in many cases.
  • Cloud storage: Similar to the previous one, it offers secure cloud storage for edited videos so you can easily access and share them.
  • Social media optimization: This video editor provides features that are tailored for social media platforms, including resizing, aspect ratio adjustments, and meme creation.

4.OpenShot video editor

This universal video editor is great because it’s available across all platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. It allows users to enjoy its features and capabilities regardless of the preferred platform. These are the pros of using it:

  • Keyframe animation: This feature empowers users to have precise control over animated elements, allowing them to create dynamic and customized visual effects.
  • Multi-track editing and timeline: It enables users to work with multiple audio and video tracks simultaneously, providing greater flexibility and control over the editing process.
  • Real-time preview: The software allows users to preview their edits in real-time, providing instant feedback on how changes impact the final result, enhancing the editing workflow and efficiency.

5. Animoto

As another video editor without watermark branding, it has intelligent video creation technology that automatically generates professional-quality videos by analyzing the content you choose, making it effortless to create polished videos with minimal effort or expertise. Other pros are:

  • Analytics and insights: It allows you to gain valuable insights into the performance of your videos with built-in analytics, helping you understand audience engagement. You can optimize your videos according to that.
  • Branding and customization: The software lets the users customize videos with their brands, logos, watermarks, colors, and fonts to maintain their brand consistency.
  • Drag and drop: The intuitive drag-and-drop interface allows us to easily arrange and edit our media files. It requires no technical expertise. It’s great for beginners.
  • Text and caption options: We can add text overlays, captions, and subtitles to our videos to convey messages, enhance storytelling, or provide context. This can be great for tutorials.

6. CyberLink PowerDirector

There’s one feature that sets this Windows PC video editor, its AI-powered style effects which utilize artificial intelligence algorithms to transform videos into stylized visual effects, giving them a distinct and artistic look not easily replicated by other editors:

  • 360-degree video editing: The editor allows us to edit and enhance immersive 360-degree videos with dedicated tools for trimming, adding effects, and creating dynamic perspectives.
  • Professional-grade color correction: It lets us utilize powerful color grading tools, including LUTs(Look-Up Tables), color wheels, and advanced adjustment controls for precise color manipulation.
  • Customizable design tools: The software allows the user to create custom titles, menus, and graphics with its built-in design tools and templates for a polished and professional look.
  • Dynamic video effects: There’s a possibility to access a wide range of visual effects, transitions, titles, and animated overlays to add flair and creativity to your videos. Most video editors have effects, but this one has great effects.

7. Shotcut

The final cross-platform video app on this list has a powerful and customizable filter system, which allows users to apply a wide variety of visual and audio effects to their videos, giving them extensive creative control over their projects. Here are the other pros of using it:

  • Native timeline editing with multitrack functionality: It enables users to create intricate and layered video compositions by stacking and arranging multiple video and audio elements, resulting in visually dynamic and immersive storytelling.
  • Hardware encoding and decoding for improved performance: The software leverages hardware encoding and decoding capabilities, utilizing the power of the user’s hardware to enhance performance and ensure smooth editing and playback of videos.
  • Wide selection of video and audio filters and effects: It provides a broad range of video and audio filters and effects, including color grading tools, transitions, visual effects, and audio effects, providing users with extensive creative options.
  • Customizable interface and keyboard shortcuts: The software allows users to customize the interface layout and create personalized keyboard shortcuts, optimizing the editing workflow based on individual preferences.

Conclusion

These 7 pieces of software are the top no-watermark video editors for PC available. They all have their distinctive unique features based on which you can choose your preferred one. Hopefully, we made your decision much easier for you.

Tech Review – PROSCREENCAST – SC01 Miracast Dongle For TV, 4k

ProScreenCast provides integrated solutions for wireless screen sharing and digital signage. This is a scalable solution with a significant return on investment, including reduced meeting downtime and IT maintenance. SC01 doesn’t need an app, and WiFi (When there is no WiFi, you can only project what your device has downloaded to the big screen), plug-n-play. Ideal for hotels, home theatres and meetings. Internal and guest presenters can easily share their screens in an instant, improving the overall work and learning experience, while increasing productivity and participation.

This is nothing new in the tech world but it offer users portability and more options than other screen cast devices out there and is multiplatform with no app required, you do however get a dashboard to work from to change the settings to your needs and of course you need the right equipment to handle it and things stand out in 4K as you will see in the video below.

 

Set-Up

Apple 

First connect the WiFi of the receiver to the mobile phone, the name is “ProScreenCast-xxxxxx”, and the password is 12345678.
Next, enter “192.168.203.1” or scan the QR code to search in the browser.
Finally, click “Resolution” and select “3840p / 2160p / 60p”. The device supports high bit rate 60Hz, and 30p and 60p can be selected as needed.

Android 

The first step is to click WIFI on the phone settings page to locate and connect the device SC01 (name: ProScreenCast-xxxxxx, password: 12345678).
The second step is to type 192.168.203.1 in the mobile / tablet browser.
The third step is to click “Resolution” and select “3840p / 2160p / 60p”. The device supports high bit rate 60Hz, and 30p and 60p can be selected as needed.

Note: to transmit 4K video, make sure your monitor, video source, and HDMI cable support 4K@60Hz (HDMI 2.0). You can adjust the output resolution by setting to match your monitor. At the same time, you can turn HDR on and off.
When you enter the IP address and see the WiFi settings page, you can first click the arrow icon in the upper left corner to exit the page, and then select the resolution settings.

Features

  • True 4K@60Hz With HDR: SC01 Miracast dongle builds with HDMI 2.0 and supports up to 4k and HDR color.
  • Low Latency: Support both 2.4G/5.8G dual bands, ensuring you have full WiFi coverage and optimal speed for streaming.
  • Wide Compatibility: Support Miracast, Airplay, and DLNA. Compatible with Android, macOS, iOS, Windows, and ChromeOS.
  • Easy To Setup, No App Required: 3 steps to connect, no need app. Seniors and children can also connect in 3 mins.
  • Small And Portable: Mirror your device on the screen anytime, anywhere
  • 🎁 10% OFF For Your First Order! (Code: ICAST)

BUY

Video Review

8 Interesting Facts About The Video Game Industry

Video games have come a long way since their invention in the late 1950s. They’ve revolutionized entertainment, kicked off enormous industries, and shaped generations of fans across multiple platforms. Today there are countless video game fans around the world, producing tons of revenue each year for publishers and creators alike. With such a huge following it can be hard to keep up with everything that is going on in the industry – but lucky for you we’ve put together nine interesting facts about the gaming industry! From rising stars within development houses to innovations helping cut down production times and costs – read on to find out more information that every gaming fan should know!

The global video game industry is worth over $140 Billion and is growing rapidly

Gaming enthusiasts, rejoice! The video game industry has now become a major player in the global market, with an estimated worth of the video game industry astounding $140 billion and counting. The growth of this industry is simply staggering, and it’s easy to understand why. With the advent of innovative technology and increasing accessibility, gaming has gone from a mere pastime to a full-fledged form of entertainment. Whether you prefer racing games or first-person shooters, virtual reality, or console gaming, there is something for everyone. It’s no wonder the industry is thriving and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. So grab your controller and get ready to immerse yourself in the exciting world of gaming.

Over 2.5 billion gamers are spread across the world, with the majority from Asia

Gaming has long been a favorite pastime for millions of people worldwide, with over 2.5 billion gamers spread across the globe. Interestingly, over half of these gamers hail from Asia, making it the largest gaming market in the world. With the rise of mobile gaming and the increased accessibility of consoles and PCs, the gaming industry has never been more popular. From fast-paced action games to thought-provoking puzzles and adventures, there’s a game out there for everyone. It’s fascinating to see how a simple hobby has become a multi-billion-dollar industry that continues to grow every year. Who knows what innovations and trends will emerge from this thriving community of gamers?

Mobile gaming accounts for more than 50% of all global gaming revenue

The rise of mobile gaming has taken the world by storm, accounting for more than half of all global gaming revenue. It’s no surprise, given the convenience and accessibility of gaming on the go. Gone are the days of needing a bulky console or computer to satisfy your gaming cravings. With mobile devices, players can easily access a wide range of games with just a few taps on their screens. Whether it’s a quick game during a morning commute or a longer session before bed, mobile gaming offers endless possibilities. As this industry continues to grow, it’s clear that we can expect even more exciting developments and innovations in the future.

Nintendo Switch is currently the most popular console on the market

Gaming enthusiasts worldwide have been raving about the Nintendo Switch, and it is expected that this innovative gaming console has quickly gained massive popularity. Nintendo Switch revolutionized the gaming industry with its versatile design that enables users to switch between handheld and docked modes with ease. The console’s portability and impressive gameplay make it a hit with both casual and hardcore gamers alike. Additionally, the console’s extensive library of exclusive games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey appeals to the nostalgia of its multigenerational fan base.


The average age of gamers is 36 years old

Gone are the days when video games were just a hobby for teenagers. Today, gamers come from all ages, and the average age might surprise you. According to recent studies, the typical gamer is 36 years old. This means that gaming is not just for the young anymore – it’s a form of entertainment that appeals to people of all ages. From nostalgic classics to innovative new titles, there’s something for everyone in the world of gaming. So if you’ve been hesitant to pick up a controller because you think you might be “too old,” think again!

Esports tournaments offer large prizes, with some reaching up to $30 million in total prize money

As the world of esports continues to grow at an exponential rate, so do the prizes offered at its tournaments. It’s not uncommon to see numbers in the millions of dollars when it comes to prize pools, with some tournaments even reaching a staggering $30 million. It’s no wonder that esports has become such a lucrative career path for many gamers, as they compete at the highest level for a chance to secure their share of the massive prize money on offer. Such large amounts are a testament to the increasing popularity and significance of esports in the modern world. The sky’s the limit when it comes to these high-stakes competitions, and it will be interesting to see what heights esports can reach in the future.

Video game streaming platforms are revolutionizing the industry

In recent years, the world of video games has undergone a major shift thanks to the rise of streaming platforms. With platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming, players can now broadcast their gameplay to an audience of millions, creating a new form of entertainment that has taken the industry by storm. These platforms have not only revolutionized the way people consume video games but have also provided a unique opportunity for aspiring gamers and creators to showcase their skills and build a following. In many ways, video game streaming platforms have opened up a whole new world of possibilities for the industry, allowing for greater transparency, accessibility, and collaboration among players, developers, and fans alike. This is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new era for video games.

Virtual reality gaming has seen tremendous growth in recent years and is expected to continue to grow

Virtual reality gaming has taken the world by storm in recent years, providing players with an immersive gaming experience like never before. With the use of advanced technology and realistic graphics, virtual reality games offer a whole new level of engagement and interactivity. Players can explore fantastical worlds, interact with characters and objects, and experience intense adrenaline rushes like never before. This form of gaming has seen rapid growth in recent years, with millions of players worldwide embracing this revolutionary gaming technology. And with continuous advancements in technology and the increasing availability of virtual reality hardware, virtual reality gaming is expected to continue its tremendous growth in the years to come.

In conclusion, the video game industry is an ever-growing and profitable powerhouse. With 2.5 billion people around the world playing games, it’s no wonder why the global gaming industry continues to grow at record speed and number. Mobile gaming accounts for more than half of all revenue generated by the industry, making it an integral part of success. The Nintendo Switch is currently leading console popularity charts, while Esports tournaments offer huge cash prizes for those that can reach the level of excellence necessary for such renown. And finally, virtual reality gaming has seen extraordinary advances in recent years and looks poised to continue its growth in the coming years. It doesn’t look like these numbers are slowing down anytime soon!

How Botox & Body Language Are Changing The Face Of Video Calls

The art of communication continues to evolve with personal appearance becoming ever more crucial on video calls, as participants compete to be seen and heard clearly.

That’s the view of Holli Hulett, Co-founder of global conferencing manufacturer Boom Collaboration, who says body language and eye contact can help build an instant bond in an increasingly virtual world.

She says the Covid pandemic triggered a huge ‘Zoom boom’ with more than a 40% rise in the popularity of minimal invasive procedures such as Botox and lip fillers, in some areas of the world – as millions more  people began embracing video calls for work and socialising.

“People are definitely becoming more self-conscious and aware of how they appear.

Other than looking in a mirror, many hadn’t really paid too much attention to themselves and certainly not on camera before,” she highlighted. 

“We’ve read widespread media reports how interest in neck and face work has leapt dramatically in recent years, which reflects what we’re seeing too. In areas of the UK and Europe there’s been a reported 30% rise in bookings year-on-year, compared to the US which has seen a 41% increase in treatments, with 5.5m procedures conducted in one year alone. The industry is estimated to be worth $4.4 billion with no sign of slowing down.”
This increase has also brought more attention to other appearance-related concerns that surface under bright webcam lights—such as excessive facial sweating, which can impact on-screen confidence. Individuals now exploring cosmetic enhancements are often simultaneously considering treatment options including Botox that target facial sweating as part of their self-care routine for video calls. This overlap has positioned non-invasive cosmetic and dermatological procedures as part of the modern “Zoom-ready” toolkit.

 

 

Human interaction

Maintaining face-to face eye contact is crucial for a rewarding and life-like call experience, Hulett says. “Body language is part of the overall call chemistry, with great hardware vs not so great hardware a vital component of overall success. Building a bond and rapport happens in many different ways. Being relaxed, happy and friendly goes a long way.

“So much human interaction happens through body language and facial expressions. A smile can light up a room and make someone happy without any words. Emotion is powerful. A meeting is an encounter between people, where we constantly read each other. First impressions count.

“It’s also important to be flexible as well as natural and adaptable to different scenarios whether that’s teaching, pitching or selling. Being able to adapt is very important on a video call. Some miss that when trying to create inclusivity and equality. This is particularly hard with a large group when everyone is split up into little square boxes on a screen.” 

Boom Collaboration’s own independent research based on discussions with channel partners and backed by various industry studies, shows:

 

  • Around half of people worry about how they look on video
  • Nearly 60% feel more self-aware. 
  • Almost everyone multitasks during meetings
  • Around 40% experience hardware or software issues such as picture and audio performance

Hulett began the business with co-founder Fredrik Hörnkvist in 2020, with Boom now embarking on a global expansion drive including the UK and Europe.

She advises: “To overcome some of the challenges we always suggest putting the camera at eye level on the same wall as the main display so that it’s natural and easy to engage directly with people. 

“We feel something like a 360 degree camera is actually counter intuitive to the way we communicate. Also because more people are using video calls now they want to look their best as they can physically see themselves in a different way on screen. 

“For me, if I’m conducting a big webinar for example, when I’m prepping my content I’m also prepping my appearance. I do pay special attention and take more time.”

Global economies

She added: “Quality equipment does make a significant difference. Quality really matters. It’s one of the many reasons we decided to produce a 4K PTZ camera early on. We believe this is where a lot of the platforms such as Teams will go next. In the future video calls will be conducted in 4K not HD. Raising the bar and raising the game in terms of quality will lead to a greater customer experience.”

Hulett notes how global economies still face many challenges with the most recent report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) showing world growth slowing to 2.9% in 2023, down from 3.4% last year. 

“Through these interesting, challenging and evolving times, from lockdowns to hybrid working, conferencing has been at the fulcrum of dramatic changes in daily and working life; how people interact and communicate, almost from anywhere. Choosing the right equipment is crucial. That could be plug-and-play or more powerful full room integrated systems.

“To survive an unstable economic climate, business leaders are looking to technology solutions that cut costs, amplify productivity, and accelerate ROI. Automation tools are widely considered ‘recession-proof’ because they reduce operating costs, increase efficiencies, and build the strong digital foundation organisations need to weather any storm.”

Smart appearance

The quality of audio and video plus user friendly technology all have to combine to create the ultimate life-like video call experience, according to Hulett who stated: “It doesn’t happen by chance.”

She concluded: “A video call has become part of daily working life for many people. It’s probably one of the biggest lasting legacies of the pandemic. There’s no going back. Jumping on a video call is now part of working culture. However it doesn’t matter how good the technology is. If it’s not being used on a regular basis in the right way then the whole investment and experience is undermined. It has to be reliable, easy to operate and effective.

“Being smart and professional is hugely important. Equally people need to be seen and heard clearly too.”

How Audio Visual Equipment Can Benefit Your Small Business

Businesses use all of the tools that can help them grow and improve. In today’s highly connected world, companies of all sizes may benefit from cutting-edge audio-video systems. However, a great number of businesses are lagging behind in these AV technology improvements, as budgets can be a major concern. AV is one of the best tools that can help your business with AV solutions in DC, MD, and VA. For businesses to be competitive, they should grow and adapt. As a result, we are going to discuss a number of ways that purchasing AV equipment might work to your advantage.

Audio-Video Solutions Are the Means of Communication 

Audiovisual equipment is essential for internal and external communication enhancement. Companies used to have systems in place enabling workers to talk to one another from various sections of the building. In today’s modern world, workers may keep in touch with the office no matter where they happen to be. A small company might utilize the technology for video conferencing to conduct meetings at an off-site location. Hence, you can all converse effectively without leaving the same room. Talk to audio-visual consultants about your business’s needs to determine which pieces of equipment will serve you best. Although these technologies are not inexpensive, significant consideration must be given to their selection.

Audio and Video Solutions for Security 

When it comes to protecting their assets, small companies need audio-visual solutions. Businesses may keep tabs on what goes on inside and outside the premises by installing closed-circuit television cameras. The use of CCTV may aid in preventing crime and providing proof in the event that it does occur. Many companies nowadays employ some kind of access control system to limit who may enter certain parts of the facility. For example, admission to the server room requires a unique ID card for each employee. Adhering to these protocols will ensure that your valuable resources (including data and hardware) remain safe.

Audio-Video Tech for the Marketing 

Audio-visual marketing tools are becoming more popular among small enterprises. Indeed, more and more of these are being put to use in advertising campaigns. More specifically, these tools are used as digital signs to promote sales or introduce new items. Customers may have what is called an “immersive experience” thanks to the use of video walls. As an example, companies are displaying product demonstrations on video walls. This may improve the customer experience by highlighting the value of the product to the consumer prior to purchase.

Engaging Lobby Experience with AV 

You will want to provide your customers and clients with a memorable first impression if the small company you own has a lobby. You are able to install electronic kiosks for wireless information and dynamic directories in addition to the traditional waiting areas that include televisions. You may each deliver video presentations of the firm to the visitors of your company on these large screens with the integrated audio components, and you can also play some music for the clients of your company. You need to keep in mind that you have the ability to generate a striking first impression that will remain in people’s minds for a significant amount of time.

Inspiring Meeting Spaces

Whole team involvement is essential for productive meetings. Nowadays, AV technologies are most useful for remote employees and dispersed teams since they are employed in collaboration to keep groups linked despite physical distance. You’ll need more than just a place to meet with prospective customers; you’ll also need the technology that will “wow” them with your presentation.

Video Conferencing Systems 

You should forget about daunting, never-ending phone calls that will take your precious time away and make you question your existence. However, with the rise of new technologies, all individuals can be gathered in the same room with just a couple of clicks. This is known as clown-based technology. The client-based meetings can take place through typical visual demonstrations, and all of the ideas can be shared in a much better and easier sense. Since cloud-based video conferencing is very scalable, this is the type of upgrade your business simply needs. 

Wireless Presentation Systems Installations 

This is a strategic solution to your technical troubles, and it enables you to connect and display the content from a wide range of devices on the screen within seconds. You will wonder if this system is wireless as well. Worry not, it is. This means that you will not have to be worried about the messy wires and the stuff cascading across one of your meeting rooms. Also, you will prevent any type of hazards that can be caused by the wires and will make your office much cleaner and neater.

Retail and Events 

Special events where products are sold or promoted with the help of visual equipment are one of the best ways for stores to get customers interested in their products in a way that is entertaining and doesn’t get in the way of regular shopping. Display/video walls are modern solutions for digital signage and can be used for advertising and raising brand awareness. Also, it uses the approach of delivering high-quality graphics through videos and animations, which are known as a pretty powerful weapon. 

Choose Your AV Supplier 

When you have made your decision on improving the technology you are using in your company and are responsible for AV transmission, it is high time for you to find the right equipment supplier to get you the equipment of the highest quality. For people who are looking for audio-visual solutions for the organization, it is best to talk to the AV consultants and see what kind of equipment would suit their needs, then act accordingly, you could also try audio video systems in London.

Businesses may greatly benefit from AV technology, and using these tools can put you in a very different position. To be more specific, these technologies have the potential to dramatically improve experiences such as video conferencing while also simplifying them considerably. Hence, if you have been contemplating implementing any of these technologies in your company, consider this your go-ahead to do so.

 

Five Video Games to Improve Concentration and Cognitive Function

Video games aren’t just for fun; they can also be incredibly beneficial to your brain health. From improving focus and concentration to increasing cognitive function, there are a variety of games that can give your brain the boost it needs. 

Utilising these games are becoming more commonplace these days for a variety of reasons. Improving concentration is so important for a number of factors, whether it be getting on with work from minute one in the office, to battling conditions such as alcoholism and drug addiction, which is becoming even more prominent in society. In fact, in many a rehab clinic you’ll actually find certain games are recommended to be played for this very reason.

But what are the five best games to play to improve your concentration and cognitive functionality?

1. Portal 2

Portal 2 is a puzzle-based game that requires you to think strategically and use problem-solving skills in order to complete levels. The game is designed to make you think ahead, plan your moves and think outside the box. It is a great way to exercise your cognitive skills and sharpen your concentration.

2. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild challenges players to explore a vast world with an open-ended format. Players must use their memory and focus to navigate the world, solve puzzles and complete quests. The game encourages strategic thinking and problem-solving, which can help improve concentration and cognitive function.

3. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a puzzle-based game that requires players to solve optical illusions and manipulate the environment. The game is designed to make you think critically and use problem-solving skills. It can help improve focus and concentration, as well as overall cognitive function.

4. Minecraft

Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows you to create and explore virtual worlds. It encourages creative thinking, problem-solving and strategizing, which can help improve concentration and focus. The game also helps develop spatial reasoning skills, which can be beneficial for improving cognitive function.

5. Peggle

Peggle is a classic puzzle game that requires players to clear a level by hitting specific targets. It is designed to test your reflexes and sharpen your focus. The game also requires players to think strategically and plan ahead, which can help improve cognitive function.