Author Archive: Gareth

Seasoned tech blogger. Host of the Tech Addicts podcast.

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By March 15, 2016 Read More →

What Gigabyte has in store at DSE 2016 in Las Vegas

brixGigabyte will be presenting its Gigabyte Brix BXi7G3-760, a compact barebone PC kit and a power house when it comes to handling high quality content over multiple interfaces. Featuring an Intel® 4th generation Core™ i7 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760 graphics card, this very compact but highly potent PC is capable of handling three simultaneous displays, supports 4K resolution, and features the connectivity required to give its users the flexibility necessary in various applications such as digital displays. Also present at the show will be the BXi7-5775 featuring Intel Iris Pro 6200 technology which greatly boosts overall performance in 3D applications, the newly launched BXi7H-6500 designed with the latest Intel® 6th generation Core™ i7- 6500U, the BACE-3000, a fanless and low-power unit, as well as the Gigabyte Bear Ridge , a small form factor industrial computer with all the features and flexibility required to be a perfect IoT gateway solution, bridging unconnected legacy systems with their modern counterparts.

 

A New Motherboard for the IPC Industry

The Industrial PC industry represents a major source of growth and innovation. With the challenges that the modern global economy faces, companies need to be as efficient as possible. Like Big Data, Industrial PCs promise a new era of corporate efficiencies and innovation – which is why many of the world’s largest companies are investing in them.

 

Along with the Brix , Gigabyte will be unveiling the Q170TN, a newly designed motherboard with IPCs in mind. Built to Gigabyte’s UltraDurable™ quality standards, this motherboard is designed to last in the harshest of conditions and supports the latest generation of Intel processors for best performance. The Q170TN is capable of handling up to three digital displays with native 4K support, so you won’t have to compromise on display quality. Sporting 2 horizontally aligned SO-DIMMS slots for DDR4 RAM support, the Q170TN is also equipped with a DC-in port and an ATX12V 4-pin power connector (or optional Phoenix connector), offering an optimal design that will help you fit this motherboard in tight environments – making it a highly versatile component that can be easily integrated in various applications such as factory control panels, agriculture automation, vending machines or POS, to name a few.

 

Virtual Reality, Interactive Display and Commercial Display Solutions

In addition, Gigabyte will also be presenting its trusted system integrator solutions to display how Gigabyte can innovate with you.

 

In partnership with AVADirect Custom Computers which specializes in the design, engineering, and production of customized high-performance computer systems, Gigabyte  will be showcasing a live demo of its Z170N-Gaming 5 mini-ITX motherboard paired with an Oculus headset, grabbing the essence of the VR experience and bringing computing to a new dimension.

 

Four Winds Interactive (FWI) creates powerful communication tools that solves wayfinding challenges, enhances safety, increases sales, improves experiences, and more. Working together, Gigabyte and FWI were able to create a system running to get 4K content produced by Four Winds Interactive on massive 84-inch interactive display. Powered by a Gigabyte Brix BXi7G3-760, the system is able to present content such as local artwork, meeting room schedules or event promotions in an appealing way. Stop by our booth to have a look and feel of this innovative system.

 

And to complete our SI showcase, Instore Screen develops and assembles customized and branded commercial grade displays to fit any unique digital signage. Fully customized digital signage developed by Instore Screen will be showcased using Gigabyte’s Brix and Gigabyte Bear Ridge gateway system.

By March 14, 2016 Read More →

LG Stylus 2 first smartphone to support DAB+

lgLG Electronics (LG) today unveiled the world’s first smartphone to feature DAB+, the de facto standard for digital radio broadcasting. LG introduced its newest smartphone at Radiodays Europe 2016 in Paris, the world’s largest radio conference. Consumers in Australia, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom will be the first to receive the LG Stylus 2 with DAB+.

 

As the world’s first smartphone with DAB+, the LG Stylus 2 features a DAB+ chipset and an exclusive app that allows customers to enjoy digital radio broadcasts out of the box. A technical interface also enables broadcasters to develop their own tailored apps in which internet services complement broadcasted radio.

 

Users will be able to access more radio channels with DAB+ than traditional FM. Unlike regular radio apps that stream large amounts of data, DAB+ radio provides excellent audio quality for free, as it uses no data.

 

DAB+ is expected to replace FM analog radio and already reaches over 500 million people in 40 countries around the world. LG collaborated with the International DMB Advancement Group (IDAG) to include DAB+ technology in the new LG Stylus 2.

 

“We are taking a proactive approach towards the fast-paced technological shift to digital broadcasting with DAB+, in order to deliver a new paradigm of experiences through the smartphone,” said Juno Cho, president and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “With its large 5.7-inch screen, 1 watt speaker and 3,000mAh removable battery, the LG Stylus 2 is the perfect device to enjoy rich, multimedia content.”

 

“We are proud to help introduce a game-changing smartphone with an innovative company like LG. The combination of broadcasting and the internet opens up a vast array of possibilities for the future,” said Gunnar Garfors, president of IDAG. “Consumers get new functionalities and media companies reach new audiences with more broadcasted free-to-air radio.”

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By March 11, 2016 Read More →

Dolcer Aluminum Bluetooth Speaker Unboxing

vlcsnap-error991The Powerbank is really becoming the focus of ingenuity for some manufacturers. Adding in other lumps of technology to reduce the need for quite so many objects in your bag is always a great idea. So what if someone added a portable Bluetooth speaker to your powerbank? This is what Dolcer is doing for you.

Tunes on the go and if your phones battery is getting a little low then you can grab a quick burst of juice from the speaker to keep it ticking over. Inside the durable aluminium surround the Dolcer has just that, a 5200mAh battery that promises to keep playing for around 32 hours, alongside two 3W speakers ready to propel your’s phones audio onto the unsuspecting public.

Check out the unboxing and a review will be up in the coming weeks.

  • 32 hours ultra long playtime
  • 5200mAh lithium battery enables
  • Battery status indicator 
  • 2x 3W full range HD speakers 
  • Bluetooth 4.0
  • 3.5mm audio cable
  • Micro USB charging cable

 

By March 9, 2016 Read More →

iKlips DUO Campaign on launches Indiegogo

iklipAdam Elements, a leading smart lifestyle solutions brand, is excited to announce the launch of its iKlips DUO campaign on Indiegogo. The iKlips DUO is the latest version of the iKlips, which was successfully launched on Indiegogo in the previous year. Following in its footsteps, the new iKlips DUO revolutionises the way in which you manage your device and content on the go. The DUO is not only faster and more robust, but also comes with the intuitive iKlips 2.0 app that allows you to organise your files, share them across all your devices and use them on the go as you like it. With the new iKlips DUO, it’s iOS your way.

 

iKlips DUO – the best made better
If you became attached to iKlips the first time round, you will love what we have in store with the new iKlips DUO. It is a design that has been perfected to be more practical, with a redesigned body to fit even more iPhone and iPad cases and a silicone body sleeve for added protection. Losing connector caps is now a thing of the past. Available in four vivid colours and four storage capacities, iKlips DUO provides you with the necessary extra storage to keep your photos, music and games organised on the go. Like the first iKlips, the new iKlips DUO is also produced with top-quality and super high-speed MLC flash memory for iPhone, iPad, and iPad Pro – the fastest flash memory type for iOS devices. In addition to enabling greater speeds, it also provides greater stability and a longer lifespan. And with its gorgeous high-grade aluminium body, you will want to use it as often as possible. It is gorgeous to hold and use.

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iKlips 2.0 – the DUO’s other half
iKlips 2.0 is the other half of what makes iKlips DUO even better. It is an intuitive app that makes using your iKlips DUO an even easier experience, featuring 3D Touch support, multi-select, Split View, password protection, Drop To, and even integration with Apple’s Music app to access your iTunes purchases. Now all your music, photos, videos, work projects, Adobe files, and all your other creations can be securely shared between devices – iPhone, iPad, iPad Pro, Mac, and PC. Having the ability to organise, store more and share on the go with friends, family, and colleagues gives you the power to do more. iKlips 2.0 is the way you want to manage your device – easily.

iKlips DUO on Indiegogo
Last year, iKlips was launched in Indiegogo and reached 425% of its initial funding goal by April 2015. This year, Adam Elements plans to repeat this success with the launch of its iKlips DUO campaign. In the hope to reach more people, a successful Indiegogo campaign will help to bring iKlips DUO to the market quicker and cheaper and determine whether to commit iKlips DUO to mass production. Once this goal is reached, more people will be able to enjoy the benefit that it brings to managing content on the go.

If you are curious about the campaign, we invite you to have a look yourself: https://goo.gl/sbwRFI

Posted in: Accessories, News
By March 9, 2016 Read More →

AOC launches the new 75 Series

aocWith their new 75 Series, AOC presents a new selection of energy-efficient 16:9 widescreen monitors for its professional customers. The stylish, comprehensively certified displays will be available in various sizes ranging from 18.5″ to 27″ (47 cm to 69 cm) at its largest, making the monitors suitable for different working environments. Users can select between a variety of high quality panels (IPS, TN) and will also benefit from the integrated Flicker-Free technology, ensuring comfortable viewing even during long periods of working. The 75 Series thus caters to various needs, making it an ideal addition to workplaces of all kinds.

Functional and sleek design
All monitors in the 75 Series come in an elegant, clean design in matte black and, with VESA wall mount compatibility that makes it possible to easily attach the displays to a wall, thus allowing for a versatile usage across different office settings. The monitors can consequently be utilised for public presentations, but also cut a fine figure at the workplace. Furthermore, each display comprises integrated stereo loudspeakers, meaning that users do not need to add extra clutter to their workstation.

High quality panels and enhanced connectivity
All monitors boast high quality panels (IPS, TN) and, excluding the E975SWDA and the Q2775PQU, also come with Full HD resolution. Particularly the I and Q models of the series impress with their IPS-panels, enabling colour uniform images and wide viewing angles. A highlight of the series is the Q2775PQU, which offers QHD resolution (2560 x 1440 pixels) and thus enables users to enjoy particularly crisp, detailed images as well as a more spacious desktop. It also allows for superior multitasking, being able to display four application windows with 720p resolution each at the same time. All models – with the exception of the 18.5″ model E975SWDA, which does not have HDMI – comprise VGA, DVI and HDMI inputs for connecting a variety of either digital or analogue sources. The higher models further encompass DisplayPort and USB 3.0, with the latter allowing users to easily connect USB peripherals. A fast charge USB port also empowers them to charge their mobile devices’ internal batteries extra-fast using the monitor. The main digital connection cables (DVI and DisplayPort) are included, so that users can get right to work.

Energy-efficient and ergonomically friendly
In a modern working environment, energy-efficient technology is of upmost importance to businesses who are interested in operating in a sustainable and cost-saving way. AOC’s new monitors of the 75 Series shine with their low energy consumption levels and are fully certified with a variety of ecolabels (e.g. EPA 6.0, TCO 6.0, EPEAT Gold). A hard power switch helps save even more energy when the displays are not in use. Another important aspect next to energy-efficiency is user health. An ergonomically friendly workplace is important to keep employees healthy and comfortable. All displays within the 75 Series are thus equipped with an array of ergonomic options that allow users to adjust the monitors to their individual needs. All 75P models are hereby fitted with height-adjustment, pivot, swivel and tilt functions. Each monitor’s usability is further increased by the integrated Flicker-Free technology that reduces flickering effects, which can frequently lead to the occurrence of eyestrain after long usage periods, particularly during office work.

The following models of the new AOC 75 Series will be available in March 2016:

With IPS panel:
I2475PXQU
I2775PQU
Q2775PQU

With TN panel:
E975SWDA
E2275SWJ
E2275PWJ
E2275PWQU
E2475SWJ
E2475PWJ
E2775SJ

These three IPS models will be available in June 2016:
I2275PWQU
I2375PQU
I2475PQU

For pricing information

By March 7, 2016 Read More →

Asus Zenbook UX305C Unboxing

 

vlcsnap-error363Asus have sent over their latest Zenbook model, the UX305C. This super slim laptop is designed to work with the demands of a desktop whilst being ultra portable and uber stylish.

The Zenbook boasts an amazing array of specs including:

13.3-Inch QHD Display.
900MHz dual-core Intel Core m3-6Y30 (Turbo up to 2.2GHz) Processor
256 GB Solid State Drive.
8 GB RAM.
Equipped with dual-band WiFi 802.11N.
Bluetooth 4.0.
Windows 10.

All harboured inside a an ultra-slim, all-aluminium body.

 

By March 2, 2016 Read More →

AOC showcases current product highlights at CeBIT 2016

aaDuring this year’s CeBIT, display specialist AOC invites you to take a look at its recent product innovations designed for B2C, B2B and gaming users alike. The manufacturer will showcase its diverse product line-up, including the recently released C3583FQ curved gaming monitor or 32″ widescreen 4K UHD display U3277PQU, at the booth of IT distributor api at Planet Reseller in hall 15 between 14 and 18 March 2016.

 

Immersive gaming experience
With its 2000 mm radius, the AOC C3583FQ is more curved than other conventional curved monitors and thus provides users with a fully immersive experience for games, streams, movies and more. It boasts an extremely fast refresh rate of 160 Hz, Adaptive-Sync technology (compatible with FreeSync™, with a 45 to 160 Hz range out of the box) and Wide Full HD resolution (2560 x 1080 pixels). Users can enjoy an ultra-smooth gaming experience without image tearing, stuttering, input lag or blur and further benefit from up-to-date connectivity standards including two HDMI (MHL) as well as DisplayPort inputs.

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Large high-resolution display with rich features
The AOC U3277PQU boasts a 4K UHD resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is four times as much as a standard Full HD panel, therefore rendering photos, texts, videos, games and other content considerably sharper and more detailed. Intelligent features such as Picture-in-Picture or Picture-by-Picture allow users to view images from two different sources at the same time. High brightness levels, wide viewing angles and 100% coverage of the SRGB colour gamut (8-bit+FRC, 1 billion colours) create brilliant images that are appealing for home users and designers alike.

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Stunning pictures and smooth image reproduction
A stunning Quad HD resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels and ample screen real-estate of 25″ make the AOC Q2577PWQ interesting for all professionals who rely on razor-sharp images. The display’s short response time of just 5 ms ensures fluid image reproduction, enabling players and movie fans to enjoy clear images even during fast-paced scenes. Features such as the integrated Flicker-FREE technology, which reduces eye-strain during long working periods, various ergonomic adjustment options and up-to-date connectivity turn the display into a versatile companion for every workspace.

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Eye-catcher with excellent image quality
The AOC I2481FXH’s asymmetric metal stand and borderless frame turns the 23.8″ (60.5 cm) display into a real eye-catcher that furthermore impresses with brilliant images and wide viewing angles. The monitor features an IPS panel with the Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and includes features such as Flicker-FREE technology to improve users’ viewing experiences. It can be connected to various devices thanks to its two HDMI connectors and VGA socket.

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Professional monitors for every use: the 75 Series
The AOC I2475PXQU (23.8”) and I2775PQU (27”) provide a glimpse of the new 75 series of professional monitors that AOC is releasing this year. Both monitors boast modern connectivity (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 3.0) and diverse ergonomic features that make them especially suitable for professional users. The showcased models feature an integrated IPS panel with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels, integrated speakers and are comprehensively certified.

By February 28, 2016 Read More →

Archos 55 Platinum Unboxing

vlcsnap-error892Archos have sent over their latest budget offering and for the tidy price of £85 we are seeing a phone that might surprise.

  • Screen Size – 5.5 inches
  • Resolution – 1280 x 720 pixels
  • Colors 16M
  • Pixel Density – 294 ppi
  • Processor – Quad-core 1.3GHz SC7731
  • GPU – Mali 400
  • RAM – 1GB
  • Storage – 8GB MicroSD up to 32GB
  • Camera – 13 MP & 2MP
  • 2G Network -GSM 850 / 1800 MHz
  • 3G Network – WCDMA 900/2100 MHz
  • Max DL 21Mbps / UL 5.76Mbps
  • Dimensions – 144 x 72.6 x 8.7 mm
  • Weight – 146 gms
  • Available Colors – Black, Blue
Posted in: Phones, Videos/Unboxings
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By February 24, 2016 Read More →

ARCHOS Diamond 2 Note 6’’ 4G Octo-core 2K £249

ad2ARCHOS, the French electronics brand will unveil a new smartphone in the Diamond line during Mobile World Congress in Barcelona from February 22nd to February 25th 2016 which should shake up the mobile market.

To please all users, the ARCHOS Diamond 2 Note is packed with a long list of robust features including:

–          6” IPS borderless screen combined with a 2K resolution!

–          optimized screen to body ratio : 6’’ LCD in the form factor of a standard 5.5’ smartphone 

–          3GB RAM and 32GB of internal storage for limitless content

–          4G octo-core Helio X10 CPU from Mediatek

–          3600 mAh for extend battery life

–          Fast charge for an 80% charge in just 45 minutes, a definite time gain,

–          Remote control and smart PA sound system

–          16MP back camera with 4K Video recording and 8MP wide angle 84° BSI sensor F2.2 front camera for breathtaking images and videos,

–          A fingerprint sensor that provides more security to the users’ data and faster access to apps

–          Stock Android 6.0 Marshmallow software: boosted with features such as Google Now on Tap, case-by-case app permissions, and Doze to monitor battery usage.

Available in May, the ARCHOS Diamond 2 Note’s retail price will be £249.  For more information, about ARCHOS products visit booth 1G29 Hall 1 at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona or www.archos.com

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By February 24, 2016 Read More →

ALCATEL PLUS 10 2-in-1 LTE Windows 10 device

asIncreasing its offering of Windows devices, ALCATEL announced the launch of its PLUS 10 2-in-1 device, running on the latest Windows 10 operating system.

“PLUS 10 is ALCATEL’s first 2-in-1 device with Windows 10, and we’re very proud of all the functionality we’ve built into it,” said Vittorio Di Mauro, General Manager of Smart Connectivity at ALCATEL. “PLUS 10 goes everywhere I go – the house, the office, even the park! It’s a fun product that sparks a lot of conversation (and jealousy).”

“We are excited to welcome ALCATEL to the Windows ecosystem and add their innovative LTE 2-in-1 tablet to our Windows device portfolio. The PLUS 10’s unique features, combined with Windows 10, provide the optimal balance between productivity and entertainment from wherever you go,” said Peter Han, Vice President, Worldwide OEM Marketing, Microsoft Corp.

3 Modes, 1 Irresistible Price
Mobile office: With its compatible 4G/Wi-Fi-connected keyboard, PLUS 10 offers a complete mobile desktop experience. It can be used in laptop mode to type documents or create spreadsheets, and in dock mode to display presentations or slides. With its multiple ports — rare to see in this device category — PLUS 10 further shows its hard-working sensibility, by enabling connections to a hard drive, mouse, USB key, secondary screen and more.

In addition, PLUS 10 has a default memory of 32 GB that can be ramped up with an external SD card for extra space for holding pictures, videos etc.

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Entertainment center: PLUS 10 can be used in dock mode to view videos or movies. To top it off, the dual front speakers, with immersive 3D sound, coupled with the high-resolution (1280 x 800) IPS screen technology, make film watching and gaming an extra pleasure.

Travel companion: Exceptionally convenient to carry, PLUS 10 is compact and 40 percent lighter than an average laptop. When used in tablet mode, without the keyboard, it is even more portable and is an ideal companion for travel or commutes, to browse the Web, play games or serve as an e-book reader.

Powerful Battery, Wi-Fi Hotspot and Cameras Add Functionality
PLUS 10 is equipped with a double battery. The tablet and 4G LTE keyboard offer a total of 8,410 mAh, which lasts a full 8-hour working or playing day. The unique, connected 4G LTE cat 4 (150Mbps) keyboard works double-time to serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 15 users.

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To complete PLUS 10’s long list of functionalities, it has both a front and rear-facing camera, with front flash which is ideal for video calls.

Availability
PLUS 10 will be offered in several different finishes and in an elegant, subdued palette of colors: metallic silver, matte white, matte volcano black and a unique warm gray leather finish, which is silky to the touch.

PLUS 10 will be available for sale in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa in June 2016.

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