Category: TECH & GADGETS

Huawei Freebuds Pro 2 are bang on

Updated: 22/09/2022

Looking for decent noise-cancelling wireless earbuds? Then look no further than the recently released HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2. With 55 per cent of people preferring wireless earbuds for outdoor usage, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 make the perfect companion whether exercising, on the daily commute or taking calls on the go when you do not want to be bothered by pesky cables. Available in three aesthetic colours to suit any style – cool ‘Silver Blue’, edgy ‘Silver Frost’, and elegant ‘Ceramic White’ – HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 are exquisitely designed to ensure the earbuds fit firmly in the ears. The three different silicone ear tip sizes, coupled with Tip fit test, also allows you to customise for optimal comfort. HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 have been co-engineered with Devialet for listeners to experience high-fidelity sound like never before. Enabling you to hear all the timbres, bass, and crystal sound quality, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 boast a unique ‘Ultra-hearing True Sound Dual Driver’ sound system, intelligently coordinating two drivers, making them work in perfect cohesion for outstanding audio performance. Equipped with ‘Triple Adaptive EQ’ technology, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 can automatically tune audio according to the ear canal structure, wearing posture and volume level for personalised sound in real-time. HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2 are equipped with advanced active noise cancellation, enabled by advanced innovations. Additionally, there is the new Pure Voice call noise cancellation technology that brings clear, quiet calls, is based on a 4-Mic Call Noise Cancellation system, combined with a Huawei-exclusive deep neural network (DNN) noise… Read More

Category: TECH & GADGETS

Tags: earbuds, freebuds, huawei, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 2

Accessorise with Stranger Things x CASETiFY’s latest drop

by Emi Berry

Updated: 18/07/2022

Stranger Things fans get excited! Why? CASETiFY has released a second collection of Netflix’s Stranger Things lifestyle and tech accessories including iPhone, AirPods and AirPods Pro cases, AirTag holders, MagSafe wallets, Apple watch bands, grip stands, and a Nintendo Switch carrying case. Accessories start from $38 AUD. After a limited-edition release in 2020, CASETiFY is debuting a second collection with Netflix’s Stranger Things 4 which is currently streaming globally on Netflix. The limited-edition products are inspired by journeys back to Hawkins, Indiana and embrace new locations circa 1986 – about the time when Kate Bush’s ‘Running Up That Hill’ could be heard on high rotation over the radio. Fans are invited to join Eleven and the rest of the gang as they navigate the complexities of high school with designs spotlighting the Hellfire Club, the Hawkins High Tigers, the gang’s favourite pizza joint Surfer Boy Pizza, and the all-new Demobat on CASETiFY’s best-selling Impact and Ultra Impact cases. The new release will also pay homage to the hit series with cases featuring the Upside Down and both classic and flaming iterations of the iconic Stranger Things logo, retailing for $62 AUD and up. The Stranger Things x CASETiFY collection is available online and in CASETiFY Studio locations, with products shipping to more than 100+ countries. To score the limited edition designs before they’re gone, visit casetify.com and download the CASETiFY Co-Lab app (available now in the App Store).

Category: LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Casetify, phone cases, stranger things, tech needs

Going away in summer? 7 tips to be cyber-safe on travels

by James Banham

Posted: 17/07/2022

As the summer season is underway, people are increasingly taking holidays. Whether holidaymakers have chosen the beach, the countryside, the mountains, or an urban setting, one thing is certain: no one is immune to having their devices stolen or even hacked while they are away from home. Cybersecurity experts at NordVPN provide travelers with seven tips for a cybersecure holiday. Back up your data “My whole life is on my phone” — if this phrase sounds like something you would say, remember to make sure you have your phone’s contents backed up before you leave. After all, no one is safe from losing their phone or having it stolen. This also applies to the SD cards of your cameras. 2. Safe payment methods Instead of your main bank card, use a separate prepaid debit card abroad. This card can be topped up with any amount you want. That way, if your card details are stolen, you won’t lose all the money you store there. 3. Take a portable charger with you Don’t go out without your portable charger or a charging cable. Why not? Simply because charging stations can be a playground for cybercriminals. A USB/lightning cable can be modified by a malicious person, like in this demo made by a hacker in 2019. 4. Avoid public Wi-Fi It is always a good idea to use mobile data while traveling because it is encrypted. However, if you have no choice and need to use public Wi-Fi, don’t forget to use a VPN. This tool will… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS, TRAVEL

The best ideas on how contingent workforce can improve business agility

by THE F

Updated: 26/08/2022

Business agility is extremely important in today’s day and age. This principle helps businesses stay afloat, as they successfully adapt to the market changes and fluctuations. One of the easiest ways to make sure that your business is agile is using a contingent workforce, especially for work that doesn’t require strict commitment. However, finding the best people might be tricky, especially if the talent pool and/or the industry itself are already too saturated. So for that reason, here are some tips and ideas that will improve your business agility through proper contingent workforce application and management. It’s all about the job ad Employing remote workers means that seeing them face-to-face is quite unlikely. Therefore, you should make sure to post a job ad that will be clear, concise, and easy to understand. In return, that will ensure the best candidates. Also, if the business is hiring remotely, that means that the number of applications will be higher, and in that case, a well-written job ad will help you find the right people. If that’s not enough to sell the concept of agility and how to write it up, then check out this post. The selection process plays an enormous role The selection process exists to ensure that only the best candidates get the job. This process is also demanding, which is why it’s essential to have an effective, yet easy selection process. An extensive and prolonged way that includes multiple rounds and interviews might seem practical, but in reality, it’s too time-consuming. Therefore, a simple task… Read More

Category: TECH & GADGETS

Huawei launches new wearables in response to healthier lifestyles

by Emi Berry

Updated: 20/06/2022

For many of us, the pandemic has changed the way we think about our health and physical activity, pivoting towards a healthier way of life. Recent findings have revealed Australians have had a rethink about their behaviours towards their health, with four in 10 Aussies claiming they are prioritising their health now more than they did before COVID-19. In response to this health trend, Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) has announced its newest wearables to its globally renowned portfolio offering a seamless combination of sleek designs and health-tracking benefits, which will be available in Australia from June 18. Recent statistics show nearly three-quarters (72.8%) of people over 15 years of age don’t meet the Australian Government’s physical activity guidelines. Nearly half of employed people aged 18 to 64 years described their workday as mostly sedentary. With the launch of Huawei’s new wearables, now is the perfect time to kickstart the health journey with the brand’s newest products that are made with the best in cutting-edge technology boasting a range of features; from blood pressure monitoring to a built-in animated fitness coach. The four new wearables include: HUAWEI WATCH D is an innovative wrist-type blood pressure monitoring device – a significant breakthrough in technology. It also has an array of other health-tracking features. RRP: $799. Launch offer: 18 June 2022 – 17 July 2022: $150 retail gift card when purchased from Bing Lee, JB HI-FI, Mobileciti and Huawei Authorised Experience Stores. Customers can choose from $150 retail gift card or gift with the purchase of HUAWEI… Read More

Category: HEALTH & FITNESS, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Band 7, Best fitness watch, Fitness tracker, Huawai watch, huawei, huawei australia, Huawei fitness tracker, Huawei fitness watch, huawei technologies, huawei wearables, watch D, watch fit 2, Watch GT3 Pro

Acer’s helping the planet with digital art by Andy Thomas

7.8MB The Three Sisters Acer x Andy Thomas Aspire Vero 2

by James Banham

Posted: 05/03/2022

Acer has got a new computer: fully post-consumer recyclable plastic (PCR) integration into the laptop device. It’s purposeful, sustainable design saves around 21% in CO2 emissions and is made to be easily repaired, upgraded and recycled. It’s all a part of their new effort to be more green, after they released a report, the Acer Plastic Pandemic Report – which reveals over half the adult population (55%) are unaware of the severity of the plastic pandemic that we are facing and nearly 6 in 10 (58%) people do not understand the difference between virgin plastics and recycled plastics. The shocking reality is over 3.4 million tonnes of plastics are used in Australia every year, with less than 10% being recycled or reprocessed for re-use. The impact that plastic waste has on our environment is devastating – most ends up in landfill or our oceans, contributing to climate change, contaminating our soil, and negatively affecting our natural landscapes and wildlife. We spoke to digital artist Andy Thomas about some work he’s created using the new tech… You recently collaborated with Acer on the release of their new ‘Green PC’ the Aspire Vero, tell usmore about the collaboration? The collaboration between myself and Acer was a really great fit. I have always been interested innature and recreating nature with my computers and 3D software. There was a real serendipity withthis project on multiple levels which was super satisfying and fun. I had a blast creating this workfrom start to finish. What inspired the LIFECYCLES series? The inspiration for the LIFECYCLES series… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Acer, Acer's helping the planet with digital art by Andy Thomas, Andy Thomas

Turns out aromatherapy’s still a thing – but you need the right gear

by James Banham

Posted: 19/02/2022

After the last moment in history we all endured, there’d be no surprises if you’re a bit stressed, tense, anxious, generally in need of a chill. And before turning to the bottle, or staying the tried-and-true path of the yogis, why not try aromatherapy? Renowned around the Western world as being an aid in relaxation and decompression, aromatherapy harnesses the power of the olfactory to alleviate tension and promote feelings of peace, serenity and a worldly disconnection. In Essence knows this and their latest range of 360 Diffusers are all about making those dreams of a life without pressure a reality. Australian owned and designed, the portable and rechargeable diffusers can be placed in any room – ours lives next to the bath – when you’re in need of some full-on, scented zen. As the name would suggest, aromas are dispersed all around the touch-pad, ambient lit piece of tech, offering a complete room takeover of relaxation. And now the only question is, which scents will really do it for you? Find out more about the In Essence 260 Diffuser at the website.

Category: LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Aromatherapy, In Essence, Turns out aromatherapy's still a thing but you need the right gear

Skullcandy’s New Skull- iQ Earbuds have one big advantage over AirPods

by James Banham

Updated: 28/11/2022

If ever you wanted an in-ear music experience that didn’t suck, then listen-up. Skullcandy’s all-new, intuitive voice-driven platform, Skull-iQ Smart Feature Technology is providing users with the ability to go completely hands-free, Skull-iQ debuts on both the Push Active Sport True Wireless and Grind True Wireless Earbuds. Unlike earbuds with Siri and Google Assistant built-in, the Hey Skullcandy command works entirely offline and alongside ANY phone operating system. As long as the earbuds are connected to a phone and paired with the Skullcandy companion app, the ‘Hey Skullcandy’ command works even without an active data/Wi-Fi connection. So for the iPhone users out there, you can officially kiss your AirPods goodbye. Or even if you’re yet to make your way into the world of wireless, voice activated sound and musical ecstasy, then these make for a good kick-off. Push Active is for those seeking an adventure-ready, durable fit, designed specifically for high-intensity activities. Push Active True Wireless Sport Earbuds are the ultimate audio partner, offering flexible over-ear hooks and water/sweat resistance. Alternatively, the Grind, aptly named, is your go-to for everyday errands and work-life routine. Grind True Wireless Earbuds are your strong and stable in-ear solution to doing it all, water/sweat/dust resistant with a truly premium sound. For more and to get yourself a pair, head to the Skullcandy website

Category: LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Skullcandy's New Skull-iQ Earbuds have one big advantage over AirPods

NFTs, cars and how a vehicle designer’s combining the two + WIN your own NFT

by James Banham

Posted: 23/01/2022

Before about a year ago, the term ‘NFT’ had almost never been head before. But combine the highest recorded price of Bitcoin ever, the emergence of countless trading platforms for Crypto and the emergence of equally as countless artists and designers discovering what it means to create and sell NFTs, there’s been a BOOM in activity in the space. But what is it and why should you care? NFTs (non-fungible tokens) are pieces of digital collateral that can really be anything (such as drawings, music, your brain downloaded and turned into an AI), but a lot of the current excitement is around using the tech to sell digital art. The Verge explains what they are and how they work really well. They matter because of a few different reasons, but none so much as that they’re fast becoming a new store of value and collectible item, namely in art. Which is where Mike Turner comes into it. He’s the designer we’re referring to in the headline and his speciality is cars – or we should say Crypto-Carz specifically. A vehicle designer with over 25 years’ experience, Mike has started producing clunky-but-cute stylised CAD versions of iconic road and race cars – inspired by early Low Poly (low polygon count) video game graphics from his youth. His work is light-hearted Automotive escapism – but harnesses the same professional skills and techniques he uses daily as a professional designer and digital image creator. What he create comes from the heart – inspired by vehicles, eras and legends… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: cars and how a vehicle designer's combining the two WIN your own NFT, Crypto Carz, Crypto Carz NFT, Mike Turner NFTs, NFTs, THE F Mike Turner, What is a NFT, Win a NFT, Win car NFT

Go investment: The rise of on-the-go investment apps

by THE F

Updated: 28/11/2022

No longer do you need to engage a traditional broker to invest your money. Thanks to technology and everything going digital – and the rise of increasingly intelligent apps – it has never been easier to get your foot in the door. Many of the apps available use algorithms to help with the investments, which generally results in less fees and can still assist you in creating an individualised strategy that is low maintenance. So what are the options? Micro-investing apps Micro-investing apps, such as Raiz and Spaceship Voyager, can be used either by people who want to invest a lump sum of money, or by those who prefer to use it as a piggy bank. Both apps give you the option to round-up purchases to the nearest, meaning if you spend $2.40 using your allocated spending account, the app will invest 60 cents for you in your chosen portfolio. Micro-investing apps are great because people can dip their toe into the investing world for as little as $5, whereas many other investment platforms or brokers will require a minimum spend. Your money then gets invested with everyone else’s money, however, you can decide whether you would like to put your money onto modest/safe investments or higher risk/higher reward ones. Micro-investing apps are a great low fuss strategy that especially suits people who are not great at saving. It is also surprisingly effective over time when all of a sudden you have a fair bit of money in there. Another factor that increases traders’ satisfaction is the opportunity to improve their skills within a platform. For instance, a broker… Read More

Category: FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Australian Stock Exchange, Invest ASX, Invest on phone, Stake, The rise of on-the-go investment apps

ARTS & CULTURE

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.