Author Archive: Gareth

Seasoned tech blogger. Host of the Tech Addicts podcast.

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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.

By February 24, 2016 Read More →

A look at energy labels, green packaging and energy saving monitors

aocCreating a sustainable workplace is becoming increasingly important for both professional and home users alike. Today, opting for energy-efficient, sustainably-produced technology is not only understood as being good for the planet, but also of benefit to users who can, for example, save ongoing electricity costs by choosing a monitor with low energy consumption. But considering the diverse certifications and eco-saving functions that currently exist in the various displays on the market, users often have trouble distinguishing the specific differences in eco-friendliness. To help make this task a little bit easier, AOC will this year present an overview of selected environmental certificates and eco-friendly monitor functions to assist users in their decision to make their workstation more sustainable.

EnergyStar 6.0 – Lower energy consumption
While there are several international and regional environmental certificates, users interested in exploring the sustainability of their current or future monitor will most likely come across the EnergyStar, TCO and EPEAT labels. The EnergyStar 6.0 certification mark hereby primarily provides information on the energy consumption and efficiency levels of a monitor. For example, it requires the display to automatically go into standby mode after a set period of non-usage. The label, which all current AOC monitors have been certified with, also specifies low energy consumption levels of less than 0.5 W for displays during standby. Purchasing a monitor that is certified with the most recent version, EnergyStar 6.0, thereby ensures a reduction in overall user energy needs and can potentially generate long-term cost savings.

TCO 6.0 and EPEAT – Ensuring sustainability throughout the lifecycle
Monitors labelled with TCO 6.0 and EPEAT fulfil a range of criteria that go beyond mere energy consumption levels. Both certificates require displays to be manufactured in a socially responsible manner using environmentally sound materials. Displays labelled with both certificates can be expected to enjoy a long lifetime. As such, they not only contribute to a reduction in electronic waste but also comprise a durable investment for their users. The TCO 6.0 label also ensures that displays numerous other requirements, such as high image quality standards as well as a diverse range of ergonomic adjustment options, which can promote user health benefits. Likewise, the EPEAT certificate requires monitors to be assessed in terms of their sustainability throughout their entire lifecycle, which is defined using a variety of both obligatory and optional criteria: e.g. is at least 90% recyclable packaging used. Depending on how many of these criteria a display meets, determines its Bronze, Silver or Gold rating.

Energy-saving functions
Most AOC monitors are not only fully certified with important labels but also incorporate additional features that help users work even more sustainably. In addition, some models boast an integrated zero power switch to allow users to shut down the monitor completely to save energy while away from the screen. All AOC displays include an Eco mode, which allows users to optimise energy consumption by adjusting the screen settings to different types of use, such as reading text or playing games. In terms of their power consumption, selected models of the Pro line use less than 0.1 W in standby mode. Moreover, the AOC e-Saver power management software enables users to set up a time period after which the monitor is shut down automatically to save energy.

By February 20, 2016 Read More →

Verus High Pro Shield Unboxing

vlcsnap-error490Mobilefun have sent over a high end cover for the Huawei Nexus 6P. This hard wearing case retails for around £23 and features the following:

Tough dual-layered hardshell body with sleek metallic bumper
Slim-fitting for optimum comfort and a natural grip
Air space built-in for added protection
Attractive two-tone design
Access to all features and ports
Fingerprint reader compatible
Designed specifically for the Nexus 6P

You can purchase one from Mobilefun for £22.99

By February 19, 2016 Read More →

Amazing ARCHOS Diamond 2 Note 6’’ 4G Octo-core £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. 

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By February 18, 2016 Read More →

Tidy ARCHOS Diamond 2 Plus package 4GB RAM – 64GB £199

aWith the ARCHOS 50 Diamond, ARCHOS imposed itself as a competitive challenger by offering compelling features for a more than democratic price. At Mobile World Congress 2016 in Barcelona, ARCHOS will repeat the feat with the ARCHOS Diamond 2 Plus.

“With this Diamond smartphone, we’ve decided to offer functionalities consistent with consumer demands” says Loïc Poirier, ARCHOS’s CEO. “We want to be first with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB Flash at £199 “

ARCHOS’ newest smartphone delivers the following features:

–          4GB RAM and 64GB Flash for extreme responsiveness and extensive storage

–          4G octo-core LTE cat 6 Helio P10 processor from Mediatek for ultra-powerful performance

–          Full HD 5.5” IPS screen with curved edges (2.5D) for extra wide viewing angles and brilliant colors,

–          Wide angle 8MP front camera with flash combined with its 20.7 MP (Sony sensor) back camera bring camera precision to a new level,

–          Micro USB Type-C connector for more powerful data transferring and fast charging,

–          Fingerprint sensor to 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

This newest generation of Diamond smartphones is the most high-end product offered by ARCHOS to date and will be available in May at £199. 

Posted in: News, Phones, Press Releases
By February 17, 2016 Read More →

Eggcellent drone PowerEgg unveiled by Powervision Robot

image006Powervision Robot Inc., a leader in robotics and big data best known for its industrial drones, announced their first consumer drone, the “PowerEgg,” today. The PowerEgg features an innovative egg shape which, in addition to being aesthetically different than the many X-shape four-axis drones currently on the market, makes it foldable and easy to transport. The lightweight PowerEgg can be easily folded and carried in a backpack and will be available in early Q2 of 2016.According to Powervision CEO Wally Zheng, “Powervision wanted to create a beautiful yet functional design for the PowerEgg.  We think the oval shape is not only clean and pure but also has the structural and functional benefits. 

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This simple yet vital design means that this is more than a flying robot but a work of art.” Although PowerEgg was developed for the mainstream consumer market to allow everyone to enjoy the drone flying experience, it still includes advanced technologies that rival industrial drones, including a 360-degree panoramic 4K HD camera on a 3-axis gimbal, real-time long range video transmission, advanced “optical flow” sensors for indoor navigation, as well as an intuitive and easy-to use-remote control,. The Powervision team spent over 18 months perfecting this one-of-a-kind product. Although extremely lightweight, it has a compact and revolutionary structural design.  The unique design includes larger propellers that required advancements to transform from the compact egg shape to the larger flight mode.  In addition, on the software side, Powervision used its extensive software expertise to make the drone easier to fly.  Currently, the average consumer drone requires at least 10 hours of flight time for consumers to learn how to use.  By using their extensive knowledge in design and user experience, Powervision is able to lower that significantly.  As Zheng explained, “We want flying a drone to be child’s play, something even a five-year-old can do.”

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Zheng believes that the entire drone industry is going through a transition from the easy to transport drones to a revolution in ease of use.  “With this next generation of drones, much like the Internet expanded access to information in the virtual world, drones 2.0 led by innovations like the PowerEgg can expand access to the physical world and bring together humans and machines in this journey.”

Posted in: Cameras, News, Press Releases
By February 17, 2016 Read More →

Kidigi USB Type-C Sync & Change Cradle Unboxing

vlcsnap-error430Desktop chargers are nothing new however with USB Type-C slipping onto the scene there are now folks looking for new peripherals to replace their ageing MicroUSB versions.

The Kidigi USB Type-C Sync & Change Cradle is a destop cradle for the Nexus 6P that combines all you would expect from you typical desktop cradle for £24.99.

 

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