Cool Things Collection

Category: Tech

  • Latest Ways to Get More Likes On Instagram

    Latest Ways to Get More Likes On Instagram

    From being a position of adorable selfies, nourishment, and individual stories, Instagram has changed into a primary internet based life stage that is presently used to advance organisations, brands, and items or for the craftsmen it has become the spot to grandstand their gifts and inventiveness and to arrive at most of the individuals.

    In this advanced systems administration period 2019 and up and coming year 2020, everybody is in the line to utilise Instagram accurately with the best methodologies. Nobody needs to pass up on the opportunity of getting twofold taps on their Instagram post. On the off chance that you are additionally attempting to get viral on the system, yet not getting the preferences the same number of as you need, keep perusing the article and get familiar with the rules to get more likes on your substance.

    Ads data and protection

    I have arranged all the significant perspectives, stunts, and bits of knowledge you have to know to get more likes on Instagram!

    I have additionally incorporated some significant realities and measurements about Instagram (2019-2020). Along these lines, without getting into a profound conversation or sitting around idly, how about we get directly into the details and information!

    With around 1billion (2019) month to month dynamic clients (MAU), Instagram is hoping toward the enormous achievement. According to the reports, the Instagram client base is becoming quicker, and numerous reports anticipated that the system would grow 4% more as thinks about the current measurements in 2020.

    There are 89% of clients situated outside the U.S, implies 110 million clients are from the United States. It is a colossal worth; however, most clients. Tallying the incentive at the leading five nations, will you show the accompanying qualities?

    So now, with this information, you have a clear picture at the top of the priority list that how much exertion you need to put into turning into a mindful record holder before billion of clients.

     

    Thinking about in what manner will you dazzle billion of clients one after another?

     

    Great Quality Photos

     

    Displaying your great quality picture needn’t bother with a superior technique or colossal arranging, neither a DSLR nor a billion dollars shoot, it just requires a decent idea with significant impacts that you can include from your thoughts.

    At any rate, you can ensure that the picture or video you are sharing on Instagram must comprise of good reliable quality and picture impacts. In any event, the image or a video you are sharing on Instagram speaks to your idea carefully that you need to impart to the watchers.

    Ordinary photographs are typically more tastefully satisfying that implies you can get more likes on such photos and recordings.

    According to the exploration and different articles, it is discovered that 50 billion photographs have been shared on Instagram up to this point. Furthermore, 100 million recordings and photographs get transferred every day. Among this number, 4.2 billion posts get likes for each day, which implies on the off chance that you need to go under 4.2 billion individuals, at that point, you must be sufficiently able to make quality pictures for your Instagram posts.

     

    Quality Filters

    Be that as it may, it may be an entertaining idea, yet it makes a difference. Utilising robust and high channel applications can assist with boosting “likes” on your Instagram post. You can likewise organise a consistency of channels that can give a visual character on your Instagram account.

    This would make your photographs in a split second recognisable on your devotees’ feeds and get you increasingly reliable preferences. Pick a channel that could go best with your photos and give a one of a kind look to your picture.

    Among 50 billion photographs posted on Instagram consistently, around 18% of clients use channels on their pictures to make them appealing and determined.

    Nonetheless, it is about recognition and taste; a significant number of the individuals don’t lean toward pictures with channels as they feel that the impact is counterfeit, however, then again, some individuals don’t post photos without a chain.

    Here is a rundown of Instagram channels according to their use information:

    Rundown of Instagram channels according to their use information

     

    Use Hashtags

    You may be utilising neighbourhood hashtags or well-known hashtags both work adequately to arrive at the potential clients close to you. Search for the rundown of drifting hashtags and use them in your Instagram subtitle. Hashtags help you to get found by different clients, and your photographs are bound to get like. Utilise great hashtags that will furnish you the opportunity to associate with more individuals of similar interests. This can assist you in getting more Instagram followers and likes.

    What’s more, according to the examination, 66.6% of Instagram posts contain around a couple of hashtags, which implies just 33.3% of Instagram posts don’t include hashtags.

    The significant factor to know is that hashtags are a substantial distinct advantage on Instagram–however, the stunt was begun by Twitter. It turned out to be progressively ideal on Instagram. In this way, guarantee to utilise hashtags on your post, yet additionally ensure that you don’t cross the breaking point as it could make your substance malicious.

    Note: Around 40% of tweets contain hashtags.”

    Additionally Read: How to Use Instagram Hashtags for Huge Exposure – Expert Tips

    Know the best time when your intended interest group is dynamic on Instagram. Posting an incredible picture in the night won’t help you to get likes. Things work better if they are done at the correct time. Look at the best time to share a post on Instagram-

    Post in the middle of 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Try not to post too soon in the first part of the day.

    Post your photographs and recordings after supper time.

    Uncommon events like Valentine’s Day or Christmas are a decent time to post.

    Abstain from posting photographs on Friday and Saturday night.

    Label Location

    Labelling an area in your post makes it simple for individuals to find your photographs and recordings. Individuals see posts more that are tagged with a space that implies you have a decent opportunity to get more likes on your posts. Labelling an area should be possible with a couple of straightforward advances

    At that point, scan for your area.

    Select the area and post the photograph or video.

    Watchers love to tap on the area as it shows all the photographs and video for that place that by and giant lift watchers’ enthusiasm on your posts.

     

    Advance Your Posts

    Exploiting Instagram Ads to advance your presents will help you to contact more individuals. Instagram Ads empowers you to pick the objective individuals who will see your promotions. If you are focusing on the right crowd and exhibiting you’re connecting with content; you will get a decent number of supporters, which implies more likes.

    In any case, for this, you have to share your posts on other social sites and connection your Instagram with another medium like Facebook to arrive at the most extreme number of the crowd at once, which will get you more likes.

     

    Be Consistent

    Keeping up a predictable column of your posts and substance can go far as it would assist watchers with discovering your posts without any problem. Posting consistently implies you are effectively captivating your adherents, which causes your presents to continue a level up. Followers hope to see something new every time they look over their feeds, and if you are giving a progression of pictures and recordings, you are not, at this point, away from likes.

     

    Sharing Stories

    In 2016, Instagram propelled Stories that empowers clients to click pictures, include channels, and fill various layers of hues and impacts in posts. The element got so well known in a couple of years, and now 500 million individuals use Instagram Stories consistently.

    What’s more, 62% of individuals state that they have gotten increasingly keen on any brand or business soon after observing them in the Stories segment.

    So if you are passing up this significant component, at that point, I should state that you are feeling the loss of many things on Instagram. This way, post in any event one time a day on Stories and demonstrate your essence to your crowd and Followers.

    Utilise these procedures and tips to broaden the scope of Followers, which implies more likes on Instagram. Try not to hang tight for long, start today and appreciate the twofold taps on your Instagram posts!

  • 10 stats that highlights consumer culture in Britain

    10 stats that highlights consumer culture in Britain

    Here in Britain more than ever before is a growing ‘need it now’ culture with anytime-anywhere convenience. A new study by promotional products retailer 4imprint reveals the true extent to which Britain has become an impatient nation. We are a society that revels in instant gratification. Our food is fast, our Internet is high speed, and our shipping is next day. With a few taps and swipes of your mobile you can get what you want, when you want it. Next time you are waiting in line for your coffee, look around to see how many people are using their handhelds, checking e-mails or texting on smart phones, ordering some shopping or streaming a movie on their tablet. Technology and gadgets has propelled us forwards and as more and more devices and apps deliver instant gratification, the more it sets a new standard for our expectations as the consumer. It’s not our fault, the consumers. Being always-connected via our mobile phones and tablets, the nature of today’s world means that consumers expect to get things faster than ever before. We didn’t set out to expect everything whenever, wherever. But new technologies such as geo-location, mobile, social and always-on connectivity empowered us to get access to information and services on-demand. For better or for worse, this has influenced our behaviour beyond the point of no return.

    We all know companies such as Amazon and their paid prime service offering free one or two day delivery, but many businesses in Britain have stepped up to the demand of us the consumer by offering express type services for quick delivery of products and services. For example, promotional products retailer 4imprint.co.uk has a one day express service for people with tight deadlines to meet.

    Here are headline stats from the research study that 4imprint conducted.

    • 84% of UK adults class themselves as impatient
    • Nearly 3 quarters (73%) admit they have become less patient in recent years
    • 41% said nothing is more frustrating than wasted time
    • 18% said they are so used to getting things instantly from the internet they often expect it in every aspect of life
    • 3 in 10 admit they binge watch boxsets because they don’t want to wait to find out what happens next
    • 34% cross the road before the green man appears
    • A quarter say they will hang up the phone if they are on hold for more than five minutes
    • 24% will walk out of a shop or restaurant if there aren’t enough staff/all the staff are busy, or the menu hasn’t come quick enough
    • 21% get frustrated if someone doesn’t text you back immediately
    • 18% never read to the end of articles

    ‘Now’ is the new normal. How many of these stats relate to you and how many surprise you? drop your comments below. Personally, most of these stats apply to me and none of these stats surprise me at all and if you’ve got to this this part of my article and are still reading, thank for for your time ; )

  • Loupedeck CT Photo & Video Editing Tool

    Loupedeck CT Photo & Video Editing Tool

    Loupedeck CT is a really cool creative editing tool for photographers, videographers who use Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, After Effects, Audition, Ableton® Live™ etc. If you’re a professional photographer, retoucher or video editor and find yourself doing the same editing tasks for hours at a time, the Loupedeck CT could be for you.

    This is the third generation console from Loupedeck after the original Loupedeck and Loupedeck+ photo editing consoles, Loupedeck CT is a smaller and much sleeker console than the other two consoles. The original Loupedeck console featured only physical knobs, dials, buttons, and sliders. Now this new Loupedeck CT console features customisable new touch interfaces as you can see in the video below and is compatible with a wide range of software used across industries such as photo, video, design, and music.

    The new Loupedeck CT is about the size of an open hand and can more easily be tucked into your camera backpack for on-the-go photo editing. It comes with its own carrying case and the USB cable can be removed. Build-wise, the Loupedeck CT features an aluminium cover and dials, LED backlighting, and machine-quality ball bearings.

    Here’s an 8-minute video that shows how the console is customised and used:

    Everything you need to know about Loupedeck CT can be found here: https://loupedeck.com/en/products/loupedeck-ct

     

  • Technological Wars: Which Gadget Seems to Be the Most Durable Nowadays? 

    Technological Wars: Which Gadget Seems to Be the Most Durable Nowadays? 

    With a new gadget release happening every other day, it is tricky to settle on the best model. It is ever more challenging not to question your decision when the next model is launched.  But if you are looking for a long-lasting gadget that can stride through the trends and deliver the best results for a considerable duration of time, then this list will satisfy your curiosity. Gadgets have become an everyday accessory, essential for almost all age groups. Whether you are a professional developing new technologies or a student depending on online resources, a gadget certainly is a necessary tool.  It is no longer a question of whether a tablet is better than a laptop or a smartphone wins the race. With each item offering specific features most suited for its purpose, it is about finding the right model in each category. In this article, we present the most durable gadgets that will stand the test of time. 

     

    CAT S61 Smartphone 

    The flagship models of Cat smartphones is famed for its rugged nature. In 2019, the latest model, CAT S61, is proving to be the most durable phone of the year. Its weight is 259 g, and its dimensions are 162 x 77 x 13mm. 

    The phone is designed to withstand high-pressure water jets and comes with IP69 and MIL Spec 810G certifications. The casing has a sufficient amount of rubber and polycarbonate to provide high shock-absorbency and a metal frame as a support structure.

    The phone comes with Android 8.0, a 5,2-inch 1080p screen, and 4 GB RAM. 

    CAT S61 Smartphone 
    CAT S61 Smartphone

     

    Blackview BV9700 Pro, Smartphone

    Blackview is not as famous as CAT when it comes to robust phones, but the company has released its fair share of exceptional items as well.

    The recent high-end line is the BV9700 Pro that comes with a built-in air quality detector and a heart rate monitor. It also includes an optional night vision camera. 

    The phone comes with Android Pie 9.0, which is pretty impressive for a rugged smartphone. It is not only the build that makes this product stand out but the number of features and the extended battery life. 

    Blackview BV9700 Pro
    Blackview BV9700 Pro

     

    HP ProBook x360 11 G1 EE, Notebook 

    For what looks like a regular laptop at first glance, the HP ProBook x360 is a great choice if durability is the priority. 

    The model is the best option available for everyday use. The laptop can withstand liquid, knocks, and a little wear and tear much better in comparison to other models. 

    The spill-resistant keyboard and the Corning Gorilla glass display adds another layer of attractive features. Moreover, it is a notebook which you can use as both a laptop and a tablet, giving it bonus points. 

    HP ProBook x360 11 G1 EE
    HP ProBook x360 11 G1 EE

     

    Lenovo ThinkPad 11e, Laptop

    When it comes to laptops, people tend to lean towards options that are light and portable rather than the bulky models. Hence adding Lenovo ThinkPad 11e to the list is justified. 

    Similar to the HP model, Lenovo has also put some effort into the excellent construction of the gadget. 

    Humidity, high and low pressure, and solar radiation are no threats to this gadget. It is also one of the most affordable models with high durability, and a bargain with a commendable processing power for an everyday device. 

    Lenovo ThinkPad 11e
    Lenovo ThinkPad 11e

     

     

    Panasonic Toughbook  CF-33

    Another 2 in 1 gadget that has claimed to be the best in terms of durability is Panasonic Toughbook CF-33. It comes with a detachable keyboard enabling the functionality of both a laptop and a tablet. 

    The only drawback we’ve noticed would be the battery time. However, extended batteries can solve this problem if durability takes priority for the user. 

    Panasonic Toughbook  CF-33
    Panasonic Toughbook  CF-33

     

    Getac F110, Tablet

    A tablet might be one device that is put to the test of durability more often than you would think. If a Windows tablet is what you are seeking, then Getac F110 seems to be the best choice one can make. 

    The device can resist temperature ups and falls, moisture, and all of this come with a massive structure. 

    The latest version of the model is equipped with 6th generation Intel Core Processors making it a top option for high-speed programs and a dual battery system. 

    It also engages the LumiBond 2.0 touchscreen technology making it efficient whether you use fingers, gloves, or digital pens to operate the device.

    Getac F110
    Getac F110

     

    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active, Tablet

    Android tablets take a backseat for durability, and Samsung Galaxy Tab Active 2 is the best of the bunch. Though not necessarily prepared with millitart0grade protection, it can still work against dust and water intrusion. The battery life of 8 to 10 hours is another addition, along with its support for replaceable batteries. 

    The device has an outstanding build quality with ampler CPU, RAM, and plenty of other features. There is also the recent Pro version with a bigger display and a pen, making note-taking and drawing an easier task. 

    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active, Tablet
    Samsung Galaxy Tab Active, Tablet

     

    Sony MDR V6, Headphones

    A list of gadgets simply would not be complete without headphones. 

    The V6s headphones model is lightweight and comfortable, perfect for long hours of use. 

    The audio quality is also quite impressive with a Circum-Aural design that can provide sufficient noise cancellation. It is also foldable, making these particular headphones convenient to carry around. Though constructed of plastic, they are sturdy and not easily breakable. 

    Sony MDR V6, Headphones
    Sony MDR V6, Headphones

     

    Wrapping Up

    The durability of any gadget is determined by a variety of factors. It is not only about the structure and material. Design and possibilities of use also matter. 

    Whichever model you choose, it is also highly recommended to ensure that you purchase one with a guarantee. Look for a reputable brand that is confident about its products and make sure to try it before you spend money on it.

  • Cool iPhone Case – Urban Armor Gear

    Cool iPhone Case – Urban Armor Gear

    I feature products on Cool Things Collection that I genuinely love and use daily and my iPhone case from Urban Armor Gear is one of those products. Urban Armor Gear (UAG) make rugged, lightweight, mobile phone cases that are drop tested to US Military Specs. The phone case I have is for the iPhone 8 and it’s perfect, it’s really tough whilst being lightweight and protects the iPhone better than any other case I’ve owned. I’ve dropped my iPhone a number of times by accident and can vouch for this iPhone case. I bought mine having watched this following video testing out the case in a variety of environments in New Zealand.

    Visit the Urban Armor Gear website to view their latest products at urbanarmorgear.com

     

     

  • What We Can Expect From The Future Of Streaming

    What We Can Expect From The Future Of Streaming

    While it is quite clear that streaming platforms have revolutionised the way we absorb our entertainment, many may be wondering what the future may bring. As things are continually adapting and developing, we could almost assume that impressive high tech solutions are virtually always on the brink of discovery. As with any product or technology, we have learned to expect changes over time. Here is what we could expect from the future of streaming entertainment.

     

    Elevated Competition

    It may be somewhat obvious that it is only a matter of time before competition starts to flood the popular market of streaming. While Netflix may currently be the leader of streaming platforms currently, there is almost no doubt that time will bring a surge in competitors. However, this factor will bring about other changes as well, such as a surge in subscription rates as more and more customers will show a willingness to pay more for the essential entertainment services. In addition to this, more competition will also add to the already vast range of choice. As competitors will attempt to rise above and stand out logically, each will attempt to offer as much choice as possible.

     

    Improved Hybrid Technology

    As the rise of competition may also bring with it many complimentary offerings from varying service providers, we may also be able to look forward to improved technology that will meet the demands of consumers. Competitors will essentially resort to improving the services we receive with complimentary packages and pleasingly interactive content. Perhaps we may even see models that are able to interact with games while internet packages and other features could also be part of the future of streaming. Turning your room into the ultimate entertainment hub will likely be a whole different ball game as you may require a lot fewer devices as you would today.

     

    A Renaissance Of Entertainment

    Existing platforms have already realised that investing in original content is a foolproof method of maintaining the edge on the market. Original content is also a lead way to secure access to some of the best entertainment around. This aspect will substantially increase the level of quality consumers are receiving, and as competition increases, we will likely experience a lot more of this. Searching for the best horror movies on competitive platforms, which will essentially provide significantly higher options in comparison to platforms that do not invest in original quality content.

     

    The Potential Rebirth Of Traditional TV

    Cable TV may currently seem like a thing of the past as streaming services have posed a notable threat. However, despite the recent and drastic decline in cable TV, we should not yet bid it farewell just yet as we should rather expect cable companies to become impressively competitive in searching for effective methods of gaining popularity once again, which means that as a result of streaming, we may be offered incredibly alluring packages and charming content selections from cable companies to lure us back in.

     

  • Physical Media and 4k Blu-Ray

    Physical Media and 4k Blu-Ray

    The Motion Picture Association of America reported a significant drop in physical media sales over the past five years in its annual entertainment report. According to the statistic, which was obtained by IHS Markit and DEG, DVD and Blu-Ray dropped from a massive $25.2 billion in 2014 to only $13.1 in 2018. That is a drop of almost 50%. Do not expect other emerging quality formats and 8K Blu-Rays to turn the tide either.

    Forbes market data showed that DVD designs still account for 57.9% of physical media transactions, and only 5.3 percent of 4K Blu-Rays. You would expect apocalyptic financials for movie production and distribution companies. However, while there are losers in this trend, the overall industry surprisingly grew over the same duration. Home entertainment splurging increased by 16% thanks to surges in user spending on digital video streams from players such as Hulu, Amazon, and Netflix.

     

    The Benefits of Physical Media in the age of Online Streaming

    For numerous businesses, supplying material on physical gadgets like the USB thumbnail drive is demonstrating to be an untapped, notable dividend center. However, for businesses that peddle with proprietary material such as educational, tutelage, and software materials, offering a physical gadget that can be discerned, nudged, and possessed is still valuable. Complementing DL’s with physical media backups can be a remunerative income source, specifically for businesses that take profit of on-demand services.

     

    1. The Demise of CD and DVD

    Physical media is convenient if the material is substantial, the end-user has zero or limited internet connectivity or if consumers are behind on their technical knowledge. While online streaming is fleeting, a physical output used over time can have an abiding impersonation. Offering digital download only eradicates a prime branding chance.

     

    1. USB Flash Drives

    A USB thumb drive is the ultimate physical gadget for supplying material that can be played off numerous rostrums. A single drive can store a virtual collection of digital material. The drive can hold up to 128 GB compared to a typical DVD which stores up to 4.7 GB. Technologically-advanced providers can program the drive to protect it from malicious tampering or pirating of their content.

    For instance, write security means the user cannot remove, delete, add, or alter a file from the USB drive. Meanwhile, copy security enables a business to share its cognitive assets without threat of illegal distribution, duplication, or risk of the internet. Users can retrieve material from the USB drive with this level of protection, but cannot copy, publish, capture screenshots or supply the content without permit.

     

    1. Customised Packaging

    Personalised, creative packaging adds a powerful branding aspect apart from the computing benefits of the drives.

     

    1. On-demand Transactions

    On-demand transactions, as the tag suggests, refers to a device that is designed upon order disposition, although some applications may need clutching a small consignment of stock. This significantly decreases any upfront costs. Companies can tie into current e-commerce engines to digitalise the process of order fulfilment with surveillance, in addition to duplicating the material to the USB flash drive.

     

    The Benefits of 4K Blu-Ray

    If you are a fan of ultra-high-definition pictures when watching your favourite movies or TV shows, you should consider renting a 4K Blu-Ray disc. Renting Blu-Ray is the best way to ensure you get only the best quality, similar to what you would get if you visited a cinema. When you rent 4k Blu-Ray films, you get the chance to recreate the cinema-style feel in your home.

    There are a few benefits associated with the purchase of 4K Blu-Ray.

    • You get high quality data and longer playtimes. A 4K Blu-ray disc can hold up to 50GB of saved data. This translates to 4.5hrs or continuous HD images or, 26hours of SD data.
    • 4k Blu-Ray discs are scratch-resistant. There is nothing worse than a scratched CD or DVD that causes your movie or TV show to skip, jump, or pause when playing. When you choose to rent or purchase Blu-Ray, you are less likely to have your movie experience cut short by a faulty disc.

    The 4K Blu-Ray option also edges out online streaming. This is especially in an age where internet connectivity in some areas is not the best. Instead of waiting for your content to buff and play, a Blu-Ray disc can give you continuous streaming in better picture quality and sound.

     

    Conclusion

    Even with the noise about market value statistics and market trends, it is becoming blatantly clear where the priorities of movie studios lie. With the DVD not quite measuring up to 4K Blu-Ray option, you cannot get better quality than Blu-Ray, at least not in the current market.

  • Fujifilm UK Discount Code

    Fujifilm UK Discount Code

    I bought a refurbished Fujifilm X-t20 today from Fujifilm refurb website in the UK which has some fantastic offers on Fuji cameras and lenses – usually around 25% off. After the purchase, they gave me a link to share with friends that provides a 5% discount on any order from the Fujifilm online store. Apparently I will also get a 5% discount on my next purchase, so it’s a win-win for everyone. If you do use Fujifilm cameras, or are a new customer and wanting to buy one and are located in the UK, check out their website and get your  5% off Fujifilm discount code here

    Fujifilm refurbished products come with the same full box contents as a brand new product, including a full 12 month warranty covering any failure that occurs due to a manufacturing defect, exactly the same warranty as buying new! They are supplied in a generic refurbished box much like the one seen here.

  • RAMBleed: Impacts for Data Security

    RAMBleed: Impacts for Data Security

    Data has become a valuable commodity.  Many organisations collect vast amounts of sensitive data about their consumers as part of their core business model – some of this is used internally, while other data is sold to third parties as part of the organisation’s revenue model. Regardless of the type and purpose of the data collected, organisations need to be able to keep the data safe.  Data protection is an important priority for any organisation, and many deploy data security solutions to help ensure that data is not inappropriately viewed or misused. However, new attack vectors have been created that can reduce or negate the effectiveness of organisations’ data security solutions.  Chip vulnerabilities like Spectre leak data at a level not visible to software-based solutions.  Other attack vectors like Rowhammer target how memory is stored in DRAM.

    Based on the Rowhammer attack, a new vulnerability called RAMBleed has recently been discovered.  Unlike Rowhammer, RAMBleed reads sensitive data from memory instead of blindly modifying it, making it a significant threat to organisational data security.

     

    What is RAMBleed?

    RAMBleed is an attack designed to use properties of DRAM to read data from memory locations not under the control of the attacker.  The design of RAMBleed means that traditional process memory isolation does not protect the target memory.

    The RAMBleed vulnerability is based upon the Rowhammer attack.  Unlike RAMBleed, Rowhammer is designed to change the values of memory that the attacker does not control.  As DRAM becomes more compact, the potential for adjacent memory cells to affect one another grows.  Each bit in DRAM is stored as an electrical charge, meaning that the charge (and therefore the value of the bit) may flip based upon changes in the charge of adjacent bits.  Rowhammer takes advantage of this by repeatedly flipping (hammering) the value of bits in rows above and below the target bit.  This enables the attacker to flip the target bit, destroying the integrity of the target data.

    One of the important principles of Rowhammer is that the target bit is more likely to flip if its value differs from the bits located directly above and below it.  RAMBleed takes advantage of this to read the values of sensitive data.  Using memory massaging techniques, the RAMBleed attack places a row of attacker-controlled memory between two rows of victim-controlled data.  Then, the attacker performs a Rowhammer attack on their own memory and watches to see if it will flip.  If it flips easily, the resulting value is probably the value of the victim’s data.  Using this method, the researchers who discovered RAMBleed created a demo where they could read sensitive data like OpenSSH secret keys.

    The effectiveness of the RAMBleed attack depends on two things: the ability of the attacker to organise memory on the target device and their ability to perform the Rowhammer attack.  For their proof of concept, the researchers devised a way to abuse multiple aspects of the Linux system to organise memory the way that they wanted.  Researchers around the world have also expanded the Rowhammer attack, demonstrating that it can be effectively applied and exploited in a variety of contexts.  This means that the RAMBleed vulnerability is a significant threat to organisational data security.

     

    Impacts of RAMBleed

    RAMBleed is mainly a threat to data confidentiality in multi-tenant environments.  The RAMBleed attack allows an attacker to read data adjacent to memory already under their control.  If they have control over the target memory, then they don’t need the attack, so the attack is most dangerous in environments where a user has access to some memory and not that adjacent to it.

    One example of a multitenant environment where RAMBleed can be a significant threat to data security is in cloud computing.  Many cloud deployments are on multi-tenant cloud servers, meaning that the server’s memory and resources are shared among multiple customers.  Under these circumstances, a malicious cloud user may use the RAMBleed vulnerability to read data from processes using memory adjacent to it.  Since organisations are increasingly using the cloud for core business purposes and sensitive data processing, this vulnerability could have a significant negative impact on an organisation’s data security.

    But RAMBleed isn’t only an effective attack vector against cloud computing.  Malicious processes within a computer’s memory space can also use RAMBleed to read data from other processes on the machine.  Many computers isolate process memory, but RAMBleed bypasses these protections.  As a result, the combination of Rowhammer and RAMBleed means that malware can both modify and read memory of processes using adjacent memory spaces.

     

    Securing Your Data

    The RAMBleed vulnerability poses a significant threat to enterprise data security.  If an attacker can run a malicious process on a vulnerable target machine and manipulate the memory space of the machine to place their memory segments next to memory segments of interest, they can extract the data in these segments.  Running a malicious process on a target machine is nothing new (it’s the definition of malware), and the researchers have demonstrated the ability to manipulate a computer’s memory space, making this a viable attack vector.

    Many users of multi-tenant cloud services rely on software-level isolation for privacy protection; however, RAMBleed bypasses these protections.  To protect themselves, organisations need to deploy an enterprise-scale data protection solution that ensures that all sensitive data is stored in an encrypted form and that encryption keys are properly protected in a location immune to these attacks.  This minimises the probability of a successful attack using RAMBleed since data is protected whenever possible.

     

  • InsurTech Is The Future Of The Insurance Industry

    InsurTech Is The Future Of The Insurance Industry

    The insurance industry may be a very old profession, but, like the many industries in the developed world, in the last few years it has been undergoing a revolution. Industry specific software and technology has been changing the way companies relate to their clients – and those old established companies either adapt to the new ways of working or get left behind as brokers adopt new InsurTech focused models of business.

    What Is InsurTech?

    Like many new words that seem to appear suddenly and quickly become everyday vernacular, InsurTech (used interchangeably as insurtech depending on who is writing the word) is simply a catchy way to say “Insurance Technology”. That is, the software and technology that has been designed specifically to work within the different arms of the insurance industry, as well as forming modular systems that work together. For a startup software business, a software company insurance is necessary to cover any costs from damages that may arise from unforeseen events.

    Insurtech has really only been around since 2010 but is making sweeping changes within the industry. One of the key focuses on both the companies that are engaging software developers to build systems for them, and the startups that have built new businesses based around their insurtech software is customer service.

    Of course, as with any start up or new technology, there have been difficulties in insurtech gaining enough financing to really shake up the insurance industries, but initial hurdles seem to have been mostly overcome, and customers are now starting to see the benefits of an insurance industry with new life and new focus.

    The Advantage InsurTech offers to Customers

    As a customer you may have noticed advertising for insurance products aimed at particular consumer groups including drivers under 25yrs with a clean driving record and women over 75years who are in great health. This is because using insurance technology the insurance companies are able to use datamining of big data (see here) to create highly specific groups of people that don’t fit into the normal actuarial tables.

    Traditionally male drivers under the age of 25 years have been considered a very high risk according to the actuarial tables that insurance companies use to set policies, meaning that in order to not loose money when insuring young drivers, companies have set broad policies that cover all drivers under this age. With the introduction of insurtech they are able to policies that represent a better risk assessment. What this means is that many drivers with an excellent driving record, are driving safe cars, and always have their vehicle parked undercover, are able to be offered a better premium than they would have if they remain grouped as a young, inexperienced, accident prone under 25-year-old driver.

    Equally there has been a number of advertisements targeted at health insurance for women over 75 years of age, who are fitter and healthier than at any other time in history. This means that insurtech datamining has been able to provide risk assessments which allow cheaper premiums to be offered to members of this group.

    The Advantage InsurTech offers to Brokers

    One of the biggest advantages that the development of specialist software designed for the insurance industry is increasing automation and customer management on the go. Not only is good insurance software able to ensure that your customers are getting the best deal on their policy, but you as a broker, are able to make sure that there are no boxes left unticked. It does no good to your reputation if you have signed your client up for a policy that won’t ever be paid out because you forgot to ask the right questions.

    One of the problems of using software to run policies in the past has been trying to keep up with changes in legislation, as well as policy updates and differing offers from the different insurance companies. However, modern insurance specific software is designed with this in mind, so is able to be easily updated, and in some cases even automated. Meaning that you can be assured you are always giving your clients the right, and most up to date, information.

    With so much fearmongering around about how automation will kill jobs, there is sometimes a resistance to introducing these systems in the insurance office. However, automation doesn’t mean the end of brokers, it means the end of having to do all the repetitive jobs that you don’t need nor want to be doing. The calculations for complex underwriting will be easier and back office accounting can happen without you needing to have reminders in your calendar.

    However, one of the keys to automation is the ability to customise it to fit your needs. Not only so that you aren’t having to wade through redundant menus to get to the information that you need, but by increasing the efficiency of staff you help to improve customer service – and happy customers are repeat customers. Being able to speak to the company that is designing InsurTech for you means that you will be more likely to ask for features that fit better with the way your products work. https://fintechnz.org.nz/2019/04/11/most-insurtechs-want-to-improve-customer-experience/

    InsurTech On The Go

    Of course, one of the challenges to the insurance industry is the advent of mobile technology and a gig economy. People expect to be able to sort their entire life while sitting on their phone, sipping coffee in a café. Few people are willing to spend hours on the telephone getting their insurance sorted, or even spend 30 minutes on a desktop working their way through an online form – no matter how easy your company thinks it is to fill out.

    Insurance brokers need to ensure that any technology they implement is able to fit the changing needs of their customers. If you are a face to face broker who is on the road meeting your clients, you need to be able to work with a modular system that will allow you to bring the office to your clients. If you want clients to be able to renew or update their polices, you need to ensure that there is an effective, and very secure, system in place that will allow them to do so using mobile technology.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Drone Real Estate Photography: 4 tips to getting the shot

    Drone Real Estate Photography: 4 tips to getting the shot

    Real estate marketing is one of the most challenging tasks for agents and home sellers. Now that it has become more common for buyers to search for properties online, it can be tough to grab buyers’ attention or make a good first impression with the traditional ground-level real estate photography. Thanks to advancement in technology, real estate photographers can now capture stunning aerial photos of homes with the help of drones. Aerial photography captures spectacular views of homes while highlighting the scale and beauty in a way that makes your home sell faster.

    In fact, according to MLS statistics, listings that incorporated aerial photos sold 68% faster compared to those that used standard photos. In this post, you’ll learn handy tips on how to shoot stunning real estate photos with your drone.

    1. Practice Before Taking Aerial Shots

    For your posting to stand out in an overcrowded market place, you’ll need to include striking photos of the entire property captured from above. Aerial shots pose a challenge to many photographers because, at times, it can be hard to figure out the exact height from the housetop that the drone needs to be for it to capture great photos without overexposing the background. To avoid mistakes when taking aerial photographs, try practicing in an open area until you’re well acquainted with your drone. For instance, you can try taking multiple shots while positioning the drone at different heights, then determine the sweet spot for stunning aerial photos.

    Check out Real Estate Photography 2019: The Ultimate Guide for Agents who Know Image Matters for more information on how to shoot great listing images.

     

    2. Use a Powerful Drone Camera

    It may seem obvious but the type of drone you use can have a huge impact on your photos. For best results, find a drone that sports a 4K resolution camera. Your drone should also have a wide angle lens, optical zoom, and a mechanical shutter or related technology to handle motion and eliminate shutter distortion.

     

    3. Choose the Right Time of the Day

    Timing is also very important when taking photos. Here are some tips to help you get perfect shots with your drone:

    • Shoot top-down photos at noon to avoid casting shadows on the house
    • When shooting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, watch out for the drone shadow. It can ruin your photos.
    • For best shots, make maximum use of natural lighting

    4. Adjust Your Camera Settings

    Top drones from reputable companies such as DJI come with nearly similar camera settings that you can tweak to get better shots. Here are some tips to help you take nice-looking photos:

    • Change aspect ratio to 3:2 (if your drone allows it) to take photos at the maximum resolution.
    • Shoot your photos in RAW. These file sizes are larger and will give you more flexibility when editing.
    • Use autofocus. Manual focus can be confusing especially if you’re a beginner.

    Also, most brands offer proprietary flying apps that connect to your drone and can simplify a lot of things for you. It’s good to try out these apps as they can help you improve your drone photography skills.

    What other tips do you know for enhancing drone real estate photography? Share with us in the comments section below.

  • How The Jewellery Industry Is Using Laser Technology

    How The Jewellery Industry Is Using Laser Technology

    The creation of jewellery is an ancient practice, originating in the earliest civilisations and evolving over the millennia to include a wider variety of designs and materials. Today the industry marries traditional techniques with modern technologies to allow for incredible works of art to be developed, generating consistent sales growth as a result.

    Lasers are now a common feature of the jewellery manufacturing process, but unless you are familiar with the systems involved and the benefits they bring, this might sound counterintuitive. So how is this technology being harnessed and why is it so relevant to jewellery in particular?

     

    Personalisation

    Jewellery is often given as a gift on special occasions, in which case the gesture in its own right might be enough to signify the importance of a relationship or bond between two people. However, with the help of laser engraving it is possible to turn an already meaningful piece into something entirely bespoke and unique. Whether you want to leave a personal message indelibly etched on the surface of a ring, or instead choose a one-of-a-kind pattern design to serve the same purpose, the precision and versatility of laser technology makes this much easier than ever before. For more information on the advantages of using laser technology to personalise jewellery, check out this page. In the past, incredibly skilled workers would have to carry out engraving by hand. This was not only challenging, but costly and could cause unwanted damage to the precious metals. Laser systems have no such downsides and are quicker, cheaper and more effective than any human equivalent.

     

    Welding

    Lasers can do much more than simply mark the surface of jewellery for the purposes of customisation; they can also be used as a key part of the manufacturing process. Most notably it is possible to use lasers to weld two or more pieces of metal together to create some truly jaw-dropping rings, bracelets, necklaces and other popular types of jewellery. As with the etching process, using laser welding systems in this context makes sense because it does not rely on massive amounts of heat to create the bond and lessens the likelihood of errors occurring when the jewellery is being produced. Laser welding is used not only by boutique jewellery brands, but also by mainstream manufacturers. It can even be harnessed to repair damaged jewellery, which is good news for those who want to keep increasingly valuable antique pieces looking their best.

     

    Cutting

    The computer-controlled accuracy of laser cutting machines is well suited to the creation of jewellery. Plenty of different materials can be tackled with precision, including classic options like gold and silver as well as modern alternatives like titanium.

    This kind of laser technology is most commonly used to form the often intricate shapes of charms and pendants, and as with engraving it is possible to leverage entirely original designs. Getting one-off jewellery pieces is now far more accessible thanks to the rise of laser technology and it will continue to leave its mark on the industry for centuries to come.

     

  • 10 Cool Tech Products You’ll Want In Your Home

    10 Cool Tech Products You’ll Want In Your Home

    The speed at which consumer technology is advancing these days is nothing short of extraordinary. Borderline terrifying, some might say. Nevertheless, each year is bringing to light its own simply spectacular tech products you can’t help but want in your own home. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be this way inclined, chances are you won’t be able to resist some of the following:

     

    1. Nest Smoke Detector

    Starting off with the ultimate in fire safety, this brilliant smoke detector not only doubles as a carbon monoxide indicator, but also links directly to your phone to let you know when and where there’s a problem.

    1. Nest Thermostat

    Soon to be the new standard across most UK homes, smart thermostats like these allow you to control your home’s temperature directly from your smartphone or tablet PC. Keep an eye on your thermostat from anywhere and waste no more heat while away from the home.

    1. iKettle

    What’s the purpose of the kettle you can control from your phone? It’s easy really – set it boiling without having to get up and have it ready to make your morning coffee the very second you get out of bed in the morning!

    1. Philips Hue Starter Kit

    These are great – advanced lights that can be not only turned on and off using an app, but also let you play with the brightness, the colour and their synchronisation in general. If you want your lights to flash every time you get phone notifications, now you can!

    1. Curved Slim Electric Radiator

    Bring additional, incredibly effective and highly efficient heating into the home, without having to mess about with any plumbing. These beautiful curved slimline electric radiators are as easy to mount as a picture frame and do a fantastic job heating the home cheaply and stylishly.

    You can buy this curved electric radiator from bestelectricradiators.co.uk

    1. Logi Circle

    Designed mostly for entertainment purposes, though also useful for security. Simply position the unit anywhere in your chosen room of the home and feel free to access it anytime via a live video link directly to your device. You can even talk through it, if you choose to do so.

    1. iRobot Roomba 620

    These things just keep getting better and better – why bother vacuuming the home where there is a perfectly capable robot available to do it for you?

    1. Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator

    This smart refrigerator from Samsung is nothing short of nuts, but in the most positive way possible. Along with keeping food nice and cold, it also has a massive 21.5-inch touchscreen that not only serves as an entertainment centre, but even has cameras to help you keep an eye on what’s in the fridge, without even having to open the door!

    Find a retailer via samsung.com that sells this Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator

    1. SkyBell HD WiFi Video Doorbell

    All the benefits of an incredibly high quality video doorbell system, without any of the messy installation work. It can be set up in seconds and produces a picture that is nothing short of outstanding.

    1. Roku Ultra

    Last but not least, if you already have a 4K TV in the home, you need the necessary kit to make the most of it. For the time being at least, the Roku Ultra is that piece of kit!

  • 10 Cool Gadgets Perfect For Xmas Gifts

    10 Cool Gadgets Perfect For Xmas Gifts

    Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without some cool tech gadgets to muck about with and so here at Cool Things Collection we’ve handpicked 10 of the hottest tech gifts this Christmas.

     

    1  Hubsan X4 Micro Quadcopter With Camera

    We love drones, but if you don’t want to shell out hundreds of pounds for one with a camera and just want one for fun and whizz around the house etc then the Hubsan X4 LED edition in our opinion can’t be beaten. It features a whole host of new improvements to its previous model and it maybe small, but micro’s quadcopter’s performance is amazing both indoors and outdoors (wind dependant of course). A cool addition for any budding drone aviators out there.

    Hubsan X4 Micro Quadcopter With Camera

     

    Buy here from Amazon 

    2. DJI Spark Drone

    Aerial drones are the must have gadget of 2017 and with drones getting better and better but the prices getting cheaper, you can now get the awesome DJI Spark for just £449!

    Buy here from Amazon

    3. Vaping Starter Kit

    One of the UK’s biggest vaping retailers, Vape Club have starter kits available to buy which will make for the perfect present to a loved one quitting cigarettes for their New Years resolutions. Shop for Vape pens on Amazon. 

    4.    Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 i-Type Camera

    Now going a bit vintage, the Polaroid OneStep 2 analog instant camera has a super cool clean, contemporary design and comes with easy point-and-shoot usability that makes photography a joy.

    Polaroid Originals OneStep 2 i-Type Camera

    Buy here from Amazon

     

    5.    AK70 MKII by Astell & Kern

    Astell & Kern, the godfathers of the most powerful portable music players on the planet have announced the MKII version of its award-winning AK70. Exquisitely crafted from a single block of aluminium, the two-tone black player’s sweeping angular accents provide class-leading styling to match its performance. This is quite possibly the most sophisticated, highest-performance portable player under £600 on the market right now.

    AK70 MKII by Astell & Kern

    Buy here from Amazon

     

     

    6. Nintendo Switch

    After the Wii U proved about as good as a chocolate teapot, the anticipation for this new offering from Nintendo was being watched with low expectation. But this new way of gaming has provided a super offering for kids of all ages something different to the PS4 and the Xbox. Hope you’ve all been good for Santa as this is an excellent value console that’s sure to be hot property this festive season.

    Nintendo Switch

    Buy here from Amazon

    7. Savisto Vintage Retro Hot Air Popcorn Maker with 6 Popcorn Boxes

    This classic red and white retro popcorn maker is a super little gadget and a lot of fun. It make perfect movie style popcorn for your annual movie binger on Elf and Santa claus the movie. No need for extra calories either, as the popcorn is cooked to perfection with no need for oil or butter. It’s a win win all round.

    Savisto Vintage Retro Hot Air Popcorn Maker with 6 Popcorn Boxes

    Buy here from Amazon

     

    8. Sphero

    Sphero is an app-enabled ball that does it all. Intelligent and well-rounded, Sphero lets you play, learn, and explore. Create obstacle courses, upgrade family game night with multiplayer fun, or learn to program with its free SPRK lessons. This virtually unstoppable companion is waterproof, pet-proof, and ready for any adventure. It’s time to upgrade your play this festive season.

    Buy here from Amazon

     

     

    9. Toy Robot

    You can assemble this very cool little fella with ease this Christmas morning with this Lego-like kit, each fully mobile and equipped with an infra-red sensor to help it detect and interact with its environment. Best of all, it can then be programmed using the child-friendly block-programming app, opening limitless opportunities. This little guy will provide hours of entertainment for all the family.

    Toy Robot

    Buy from Amazon

     

     

    10.  Interative Screen Projector

    This impressive appliance is an early iteration of what might well become a common household gadget of the future: a projector that turns any surface into an interactive touch screen. Back to the future will never be viewed the same way again. Epic, but not cheap!

    Interative Screen Projector

    Buy here from Amazon

     

     

  • The Best Apps To Help You Make Money

    The Best Apps To Help You Make Money

    It’s amazing what resources we currently have at our fingertips. In just a few taps we’re able to connect with friends from around the world, browse breaking news, and if you’re feeling particularly savy you can even start earning some extra cash. There are so many apps which can help you to start making money. Some involve more work than others – it all depends how much time you have to put into them.  Have a read below and get inspired to start increasing your income.

     

    Depop

    Clothing apps such as Depop can be such a resourceful tool. Not only do they help save you money, but it gives you a chance to sort out your wardrobe at the same time. Depop is a user-friendly, fashionable app. It’s like thrift shopping, but all from the comfort of your own home. So you can have a clear out and make some cash at the same time. What’s not to love? Even better, when it comes to sending out your packages, with Parcel2Go you can save additional money on your postage fees. It’s a win win.

     

    Etsy

    With Etsy, you can begin to make a profit from your hobbies. It is an online marketplace bursting with homemade goods. It has everything you can think of: from sock animals to jewellery inspired by pieces of literature, with plenty more as well. If you like creating, this can be a great place to start selling your work. It can be anything you like: from knitting to painting to homemade beauty products. Explore your passions and you may be pleasantly surprised when you start making a profit from them.

     

     

    Job Spotter

    According to Which Job Spotter is a great app for earning you a bit of extra money. How does it work? All you have to do is take pictures of job advertisements you see and upload them to the app. You collect points as you go, so the more uploads you do the more points you get. Spotting ads for a small business gives you more points than an advert for a large company. The app was created by Indeed and the photos you upload will be browsed by people looking for work.

     

    Ebay

    This is easily the most well-known app on this list and for very good reason: it’s the biggest online marketplace. You can sell literally anything you like on there. You no longer have to go to your local car boot sale to shift your knick knacks, you can do it simply by using your smartphone. If you’ve been meaning to have a clear-out, you may as well try make some money from it. Ebay may not be as creative as some of the other apps that make up this list, but it gets the job done. There are so many potential buyers out there, so what’s stopping you from becoming a seller?

     

  • 10 Cool Car Accessories For 2018

    10 Cool Car Accessories For 2018

    Right now, it’s quick and easy to buy pretty much anything and everything you can think of for your car online. There’s never been a wider range of cool car accessories available to suit all preferences and pockets across the board. Gadgets vary in terms of use from the sublime to the well and truly ridiculous. But if looking to pick up something seriously cool for 2018, we’d highly recommend starting out with any of the following:

     

    1. Bestek Jump Starter

    The Bestek Jump Starter scores maximum cool points because it completely rules out the embarrassment of getting stuck in a bind at the worst possible time.  Perhaps the single best device on the market right now for those inevitable occasional breakdowns.

    Bestek Jump Starter
    Bestek Jump Starter

     

     

    1. A Quality Car Bra

    The perfect combination of style and protection for the front end of your ride, front end bras for cars are available to suit just about every make and model of vehicle on the market these days. A real 2018 must-have.

     

     

    car bra
    car bra

     

    1. The Ztylus Stinger

    One of the most important safety accessories to launch in recent years, this little beauty has been designed to cut through your seatbelt and quickly break windows, if you find yourself stuck in your vehicle following an accident.

     

    1. Custom Windshield Shades

    A custom fit windshield shade delivers coolness in two ways – physical and figurative. Why settle for generic when there are so many awesome custom designs to choose from?

    Custom Windshield Shades
    Custom Windshield Shades

     

    1. Fobo Tire Plus

    Safety-conscious types who also value their gadgets will get a real kick out of this tiny little work of art. The Fobo connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth and provides you with real-time updates on your car’s tire pressures.

     

    1. Tile Mate

    An absolute must for anyone who constantly and consistently loses their keys, this is a simple yet ingenious keychain accessory that uses a mobile app to locate lost keys.

     

     

    1. Vantrue 

    If looking for the kind of dashboard camera that goes beyond the usual generic garbage, the Vantrue kicks all the boxes with a super-wide-angle lens combined with 1080p adds up to one of the best cams of its kind on the market right now.

     

    1. Escort Max 360

    The perfect early warning system for anyone out to detect speed traps as far in advance as possible. Just ensure that the Escort Max 360 is in fact legal to use in your own jurisdiction.

     

    1. Park-Zone PZ-1600

    If you need a quality reverse parking sensor that don’t want to spend a fortune, the Park-Zone PZ-1600 has your name written all over it. Despite costing less than $25.00, it gets the job done with unbeatable reliability and precision.

     

    1. The Handpresso

    Last but not least, the delightfully unnecessary and ostentatious nature of the Handpresso is what makes it a must-have gadget for 2018. After all, who can put a price on the ability to make an outstanding cup of coffee, without ever having to leave the comfort of their car?

     

  • Mobile Gaming and The Simulation Genre – A Perfect Couple?

    Mobile Gaming and The Simulation Genre – A Perfect Couple?

    Here at cool things collection we love all things games/play related, especially gaming and here’s an eye opening statistic for you – by the end of 2017, the mobile gaming industry is expected to have generated more than $40.6 million in revenue. What’s more, it was found that gamers played an average of 3.6 mobile games a month in the US alone back in early 2016 and with that figure projected to rise even further, it’s no wonder that game developers are striking whilst the iron is hot and branching out into as many areas as possible. Over the last few years, mobile developers have set about claiming the sim genre and have done so with a great deal of success. Despite the apparent complexity of such titles, sim games are often turn-based or at the very least slow paced and coupled with the cutting edge graphics now widely available on most mobile devices, mobile gaming and the simulation genre are a match made in heaven.

     

    Business and Property Simulators

    1. Egg. Inc

    Egg. Inc is perhaps the quintessential business simulator. If you haven’t already guessed by the title, your job is merely to produce eggs, but you’ll also need to handle the business and production side of the farm too. From hatching chickens to hiring and firing employees, the game is perhaps a little more laid back and slow paced than other simulation games but it’s still a lot of fun, especially if you opt to fly drones around your farm or build robots to help with the day to day running of your business. It’s certainly more thrilling than popping down to your local Waitrose and purchasing a few free range eggs for your morning omelette anyway. Plus, you get to work with chickens. How often can you say that?

    Egg. Inc
    Egg. Inc

    2. Castle Builder II

    Castle Builder II, players are required to choose from a selection of three avatars who each have their own individual storyline whilst battling across 15 kingdoms in an attempt to seize as much control of the landscape as possible.

    Castle Builder II
    Castle Builder II

     

     

    3. Tiny Tower

    Tiny Toweris a particular favourite amongst retro gamers due to the fact that its graphics are similar to those that you’d see on a Nintendo-era video game. Nevertheless, the game is addictive in its own right due to its challenging, fast-paced gameplay in which you need to have your wits about you in order to succeed. Essentially, you’re building a tower block level by level and then managing the companies and people (or “bitizens”, as they’re known) that inhabit it.

    Tiny Tower
    Tiny Tower

     

     

    4. Transport Tycoon

    Released to critical acclaim back in 1994, Transport Tycoon is a perfect example of a game which has been totally rejuvenated by the increasing popularity of mobile gaming. Original designer Chris Sawyer re-released the game for mobile devices back in 2014 on the games 20th anniversary and Transport Tycoon has since gone from strength to strength. It’s fair to say that the idea of transporting products and people around the world doesn’t seem like the most appealing prospect on the surface but delve a little deeper and you will find just why people have been hooked on the game for the best part of 20 years. For those who remember the original game, the graphics also provide a nostalgic feel which will take you back to all those misspent hours trying to re-route your frigate.

    Transport Tycoon
    Transport Tycoon

     

    Adventure Simulators/RPGs

    1. My Oasis

    My Oasis is a game which doesn’t solely on gameplay but it nevertheless contains enough elements to be classed as a simulation game on the Google App Store. One thing is for sure, however – it is without a doubt the perfect game for anyone wanting to simply chill out after a hard day. Users are simply invited to relax and interact with their organically expanding environment whilst being serenaded by a wide array of soothing music. If you’re into fast-paced gameplay then this certainly isn’t the game for you but if it’s kicking back and relaxing that you’re after then you could certainly do a lot worse.

    My Oasis
    My Oasis

     

     

    2. Flight Simulator X

    Often cited as the one of the most complete simulation experiences, Flight Simulator X allows you to get into the cockpit fly away from all of your troubles. Of course, it does indeed help if you have a pre-existing passion for planes but at the same time, the game helps to satisfy that inner wanderlust which burns deep inside the large majority of us. It’s also important to remember that by learning the inner workings of a plane, there’s a chance to save the day Bruce Willis style if you’re required to take the “wheel” after an incident occurs on a plane you’ve boarded – just don’t mention your lack of a pilots license.

    Flight Simulator X
    Flight Simulator X

     

    3. Fallout Shelter

    Fallout Shelter is an adventure simulator in which the user is required to create a thriving community of individuals whilst exploring the baron wasteland in typical Fallout fashion. Bethesda’s Fallout gaming franchise has been one of the most successful in recent memory, with Fallout 4 selling around 13.51 million units alone since its release in November 2015. Despite the fact that Fallout Shelter came out in the same year as Fallout 4, the game still remains one of the most complete simulation experiences around and has been consistently praised for containing all the quirkiness and idiosyncrasies associated with the Fallout franchise whilst still managing to provide fun and exciting gameplay.

     

     

    Mobile Gaming Is Here To Stay

    There’s little doubt that the recent advancements in technology have greatly benefited the gaming world. The convenience associated with playing games from your mobile device has lead to a massive surge in demand for games which are easily transferrable onto the small screen. With approximately 77% of Americans owning at least one smartphone, game developers are tapping into an area of the market with endless potential and their recent assault on the simulation genre is only the beginning.

     

     

  • 4 Useful Apps to Clean Junk Files from a Mac

    4 Useful Apps to Clean Junk Files from a Mac

    Businesses often opt to use Macs due to their performance, reliability and the fact that they tend to require very little maintenance. While Macs certainly have those advantages, they do still require some maintenance – particularly when it comes to cleaning out unnecessary junk files from their storage.

    Every Mac will invariably accumulate junk files over the time in the form of duplicates, old logs, cache files, trash bins, and so on. If these files are not removed periodically, they will eventually pile up and cause a shortage of free space, or affect performance levels. Needless to say attempting to manually remove junk files is unfeasible, which is why there are apps that automate the process and are colloquially referred to as Mac cleaners.

    If you want to keep your Macs in good condition, it is important you find one of these cleaners to help you out – and there are a couple that stand out:

     

    CleanMyMac

    Overall CleanMyMac is a modern-looking yet simple app that will let you easily clean junk files from your Mac and also help uninstall apps as well as optimize it in other ways. It does have one big drawback however in that it doesn’t detect duplicate files, and if you want that functionality you’ll need a separate app. At $39.95 for the full version it is reasonably priced however.

    CleanMyMac

     

    CCleaner

    Compared to most other Mac cleaners, CCleaner looks relatively dated and its interface can be a bit clunky. On top of that its features are fairly basic and it is likely to find much less junk than most other cleaners. Despite this it is a fairly popular app, and can act quite well as a basic cleaner that is priced on the cheap side at $24.95.

    CCleaner
    CCleaner

     

     

    Movavi Mac Cleaner

    In terms of features, Movavi Mac Cleaner matches or exceeds other cleaners while still adopting an intuitive approach. Its scans will detect all types of junk files, and it has a variety of other tools to free up disk space and optimize Macs. With its Uninstaller you can cleanly remove unwanted apps, and it also has a Shredder to safely delete confidential files along with an Antivirus and Firewall. On top of that it has a wide selection of support options, and at $39.95 it a very reasonably priced Mac cleaning software.

    Movavi Mac Cleaner
    Movavi Mac Cleaner

     

     

    MacBooster

    The comprehensive features of MacBooster are similar to Movavi Mac Cleaner, and will give you the ability to thoroughly scan your Mac for junk, uninstall unwanted apps, and optimize your Mac in several other ways. It has an intuitive interface, however it does not have the some key support options such as a live chat. Additionally at $59.95 it is significantly more expensive than other cleaners.

    MacBooster-
    MacBooster-

     

     

    All of the cleaners listed above will help you to clean junk files from your Mac, and you should definitely consider using one of them on a regular basis. Depending on the features as well as the price point you should be able to find an app that fits well, and will ensure your Mac doesn’t get cluttered with too much junk.

     

  • 5 unbelievable creations made from a Raspberry Pi

    5 unbelievable creations made from a Raspberry Pi

    Since the first version of the Raspberry Pi broke cover in 2012, it’s fair to say that this tiny little computer has made waves with avid programmers and makers around the world. That’s reflected in the sheer range of amazing projects that have been created down the years, and which have a Raspberry Pi at their heart. Below, we’ve picked out just five of the most astounding ones that you might want to try…or might not be able to, so bizarre are some of them.

     

    1. Erica the Rhino

    This University of Southampton project packs all kinds of electronics into a life-sized rhinoceros, with various Raspberry Pi units contained inside, connected to the likes of motorised eyes and ears and lights and speakers that respond to visitors.

    Erica the Rhino

    As the ‘Erica the Rhino’ website reveals, the cyber rhino provides a Wi-Fi network enabling those with smartphones to interact with it – it even reads tweets made about it and makes rhino sounds.

     

    1. ‘Super Nintendo’ replica

    The Raspberry Pi has certainly satisfied many people’s wish to rustle up imitations of the classic gaming consoles on which they loved to play in their youth. There are a lot of projects that we could cite here from across the web, with some makers clearly greater sticklers for accuracy than others.

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    If you ask us, we love the Raspberry Pi compatible USB gamepadoffers. While not an official Nintendo product, it closely resembles the controller of the legendary early ‘90s ‘SNES’ games console.

     

    1. Picrowave

    Yes, you really can use a Raspberry Pi to cook a raspberry pie, thanks to the Picrowave.

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    All is explained on the website of developer Nathan Broadbent, who took apart his existing microwave, redesigned the touchpad and introduced such functions as voice control, a web-based interface for remote access and a barcode scanner to access an online cooking times database.

     

    1. Zero-powered smartphone

    The Raspberry Pi’s modest dimensions have long inspired people to attempt to create ‘homemade’ smartphones, and the ‘ZeroPhone’ may be one of the most impressive such projects of recent times.

    ZeroPhone - a Raspberry Pi smartphone

    As its name suggests, it is a handset based on the especially affordable Raspberry Pi Zero, and which has been built to be easy to assemble, repair and make apps for. It only costs about $50 in parts, and you can find complete instructions on the Hackaday website.

     

    1. Film-to-digital transfer system

    Arguably one of the best things about the Raspberry Pi is the way it has helped to bring old and new technologies together. A low-cost film transfer system for the conversion of old reels into digital footage – courtesy of maker Joe Herman – is one of the most exciting recent examples of that. It’s called the Pi Film Capture, and hooks the Raspberry Pi Zero and Camera module to a Super-8 cinema projector. It functions by capturing a still image of each frame with a step motor, with FFmpeg then being used to process and stitch the images back together.

    Film-to-digital transfer system

    What other weird and wacky Raspberry Pi projects have you taken on yourself or come across mention of online? We’re all ears! Feel free to share your thoughts on this article below for the benefit of other Raspberry Pi programmers, makers and enthusiasts.

  • How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Cyber Crime

    How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Cyber Crime

    The internet is an adult’s playground. Think of all the possibilities! You can stay in touch with your friends, plan events, catch up on the latest news, play games, shop for pretty much anything you could imagine, check out what your favorite celebrities are up to and so much more. It’s not surprising that most Americans will spend at least two hours online every day and that the world’s best selling tech products are smartphones, laptops, and tablets. But it’s not all fun and games. In order to enjoy your experience of the internet to the fullest, you have to be careful and take a few steps to ensure that you are completely protected online. Here are a few tips to keep you safe and sound while you surf the web.

    Cyber Crime

     

    Control Content

    The internet is full of brilliant things. But, considering almost anyone can have access to it, there’s a lot of negative stuff out there too! So protect yourself from coming into contact with illicit or even illegal sites. Control the content that you see with content blockers. These can filter sites and prevent you from straying into the dark side of the web. While a brilliant option for adults, we suggest that this is essential if you share your devices with younger internet users (such as children and teens).

     

    Never Share Your Personal Details

    No matter who emails you, contacts you on social media or messages through any other site, it is important that you are careful with your personal details. Never pass on things like your address, car registration details, phone number, passwords, bank details or card details with any unverified source. This could open you up to identity theft, fraud or even having further crimes committed in your name.

     

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    Have an Alternative Address

    If you do need a physical address to give to people online (perhaps you run your own business), then take a look at physicaladdress.com as this company provide you with a physical address and will scan any documentation that is directed towards you. They will then email it to you. Simple, right? This way, you will never have any need to give anyone online your personal home address.

     

    Keep Your Social Media Private

    Most social media networks have the option of making your profiles private. This means that only people you approve will be able to see the content that you post. Take advantage of this. Certain content is better kept private to ensure your personal safety and well-being. Remember, if your content is publicly available, it’s easy for people to repost your images to sites that you might not necessarily approve of.

    Visa-Mastercard

     

    Only Use Secure Payment Methods

    If you’re purchasing goods online, try to only use sites that have secure payment options. Opt for payment methods like Paypal. These ensure that you have a guarantee. If your product doesn’t arrive or you are unsatisfied with it, you will receive a refund or exchange. You don’t want to pay for goods only to be left disappointed with lighter pockets.

     

     

  • 6 Uses of EEG Headsets

    6 Uses of EEG Headsets

    The use of EEG headsets, where you can control something with your mind or have someone see how your brains works, might seem like a gadget straight out of a science fiction film, yet EEG is fast becoming a common method in everything from gaming to marketing. Here are just some of its uses:

    To Gain Mobility

    For people who were born without a limb, or have lost a limb in later life, prosthetics have been mainly used for aesthetic purposes. However, new advances in EEG and prosthetic technology has now shown that it’s possible for these prosthetics to be controlled by the mind, and function in a practical way. The development of this technology could allow people to have fully functional prosthetic arms and legs in the not too far distant future.

     

    To Make Music

    In 2013, Smirnoff’s Project Mindtunes sought to break through the barriers of music-making that disabled musicians endure. The project saw DJ Fresh team up with three disabled musicians connected to EEG headsets. The brain waves captured by the headsets were then translated into music in order to create a complete track. The Mindtunes single can be bought on iTunes where it is raising money for charity.

    To Play Video Games

    EEG, along with VR, is said to be the future of video gaming. The idea being that gamers are able to control the movements in the game with just their thoughts. There are already a few EEG games on the market including Dagaz and FlappyMind.

     

    Neuromarketing

    Using EEG in a company’s marketing is a particularly smart move for a business, as although it may seem an excessive route, it may actually save marketing costs. Beer giants Heineken recently created a new TV advert and decided to test the advert on a focus group in both the traditional way and also using EEG. The traditional focus group suggested that the advert didn’t get the brand’s message across – something that would have resulted in paying for a totally new advert and concept. However, the EEG group showed that the advert actually did evoke the right feelings in those who watched it, showing that neuromarketing could possibly be the future of marketing focus groups.

     

    Behaviour Studies

    How people behave and react to certain situations is an incredibly interesting subject, and with the use of EEG headsets scientists are now able to map our brain to see how different people react in certain situations. One such study, called Your Brain on Poker, used EEG to examine the different processes during a poker match between expert players and amateur players. Here the study showed that an expert player would react far more logically and be less emotionally upset if a play went bad. In comparison, amateur players were more likely to base decisions led by emotion.

     

    Clinical Studies

    As many as one in four people in the UK are suffering from a mental illness such as depression or anxiety, yet at the moment the main treatment for the illnesses is to prescribe a medication. New research, however, is looking at treating mental illness using music. Much like a certain song can evoke happiness or sadness when we hear it, scientists are using EEG headsets to quantify why music causes these emotions in our minds. In the future it may be possible to receive music therapy rather than medication for mental illness.

     

  • Are You Hanging On To Old Tech?

    Are You Hanging On To Old Tech?

    Do you have some old tech lying around your home? That might be a computer with Windows 98 or a phone when they really were as heavy as bricks? Maybe, the tech is still fairly new but in this digital age you’ve updated already and even the modern is starting to look old. If that sounds all too familiar, here are some great ideas for how to use this tech.

     

    Set Up A Retro Room

    Depending on the tech you have and the space in your home, you might want to think about setting up a room for your retro technology. Who knows, you might still have a console that plays pong. The first true video game for the masses!

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    eBay Is Your Friend

    You might find that you can sell your old tech for a nice little profit online. Did you know that there are people looking for Pokemon cartridges in mint condition. So, if you were bought the games but they were never played you might want to think about listing them. Some rare cartridges have sold for thousands.

    EBAY

     

    Pass It On

    These days kids expect to receive the latest iPhone and the newest gadgets from their parents. If they’ve been naughty then teach them a lesson and send them back to the stone age by replacing their latest smartphone with a Nokia 3310 – basic but one of the best phones back in the day – so good in fact they’ve brought the Nokia 3310 back. Who knows, they might think it’s vintage and cool anyway.

    noikia3310

     

     

    Be Green

    Or if it really is time to get rid of that old tech don’t just throw it away. Make sure you’re recycling it and doing some good for the planet. You can find out more in the following infographic.

     

  • 5 Of The Greatest US Sport Innovations

    5 Of The Greatest US Sport Innovations

    The US sports scene has been developing rapidly ever since the 1950s when the 24 second shot clock was introduced in the NBA. It’s hard to imagine basketball today without this iconic piece of technology. The sports industry has benefitted from the impressive developments in technology over the past 60 years, leading to some of these important sports innovations.

     

    Instant Replay

    It’s hard to imagine watching any sporting event today without the luxury of being able to see a great goal or tackle played back to you with instant replay. This was introduced over 30 years ago and was first used in a 1986 NFL game between the Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns. The instant replay was used virtually straight away in only the third play of the game!

    Above The Net Camera

    You might be thinking that this is such a simple piece of technology but this was definitely an important development for the National Hockey League. Having cameras above the net allows officials to see whether the puck definitely passed the line and has actually resulted in a change in the outcome of many games.

     

    Precision Time Sensors

    This is definitely one of the most complex and impressive developments US sport has seen. The NBA introduced a sensor which was added to the referee’s whistle to make the clock stop automatically whenever the whistle is blown. This means more precise decisions can be made on whether a shot was made in time or not. The referee can always restart the clock by pressing a button on his waist belt. Very impressive technology.

     

    The Headset

    Anyone keeping up with the NFL over the past couple of years will have noticed the headsets worn by coaches on the sidelines and in the press box. Since they can all see different views of the game, they use the headsets to communicate with each other, suggesting different tactics and ways to get ahead. The quarterback also has a speaker in his helmet so he can take advice from coaches and relay it to his team. Quite a clever piece of kit.

     

    Player Tracking

    A more recent development for the NBA came in 2013 with player tracking. All pro players are now tracked on court during games to provide statistics on distance covered, steals and touches per game. Most of the stats are available to the general public for fans who want to understand more about the logistics of the game.

    These innovations have really changed the face of US sports, allowing for much more precise decisions and a better viewing experience for fans. Technology is still evolving all the time so there’s sure to be many more to come.

     

  • How Businesses in the Cultural Sector Can Make the Most of Tech

    How Businesses in the Cultural Sector Can Make the Most of Tech

    If you’re running a company in the cultural sector, making sure that you are at the cutting edge is key. How can you bring arts and culture to people in a dynamic and refreshing way if you haven’t yet dragged your company into this century and embraced tech possibilities? You wouldn’t be the first person to be overwhelmed by technological changes. But pretending that your cultural business can operate as if the last couple of decades haven’t happened is not something to be proud of.

    That leaves the question of how you can make sure that your business makes the most of tech and everything it has to offer. Starting from nothing gives you a good platform that you can launch off from. Don’t be daunted by the task that lies ahead of you and your team. Instead, you should be excited about the future and everything that could arise for your business going forward. To get you started on the right kind of path, here are ten ways in which businesses in the cultural sector can make the most of technology.

     

    Data and Analytics

    Data and analytics are two things that go hand in hand, and they can provide your company with a real boost in the world of business. Data can help you learn a lot more about your business and how it is performing. This can then be used to help you make decisions about the future of your company. You might want to change how you do things based on what you find out from the data you gather. Many companies do this these days. It makes sense to know as much about your business and how it works as possible. It can shine a light on flaws and problems that might need to be addressed.

     

     

    Streamlining Repetitive Processes

    If there are some tasks that your business has to take care of that are pretty repetitive, then it might be better to streamline of even automate them. It’s something that more and more companies are now thinking of doing, and you don’t want your business to be left behind as this happens. When you streamline simple things, you can ensure that your business is more productive. And you should be able to ensure that the efficiency of your business improves as well. Both of those things are important, and they shouldn’t be ignored. You might even be able to cut down on your wage bill if there are some things that can be automated. For cultural companies with slim profit margins, that’s a big deal.

     

    Get Support to Prevent Unprofessional Disasters

    Having the right support in place to back up your business when something goes wrong is important. Many businesses in this sector fail to plan for the worst. This can be because of cost-saving measures and the need to keep overheads low. But think about the money that will have to be spent if something goes badly wrong. For a start, you will need to have the right insurance options in place. And you will also have to make sure that you have good IT and tech support. Sometimes, having your computer system crash can be the most disastrous thing of all. Find the right technology partner that can help you out with this kind of thing. That way, you will be able to keep your business ticking over and on the right tracks throughout the year.

     

    Make Inter-Departmental Communication Faster and More Casual

    Communication in the workplace is something that you should definitely pay attention to if you want to succeed. There are so many ways in which your business can fail and fall apart if the people in it are failing to communicate with one another effectively. Inter-departmental communication needs to be fast, and can often do with being a bit more casual as well. When communication is smooth, things get done more quickly, and you won’t have to worry about slow productivity levels. You can use things like apps and instant messaging services to get messages from A to B in a large workplace without much fuss at all. It’s something that’s certainly worth considering.

     

    Track Money Using the Best Software

    Tracking the money that your business spends is very important indeed. You can’t expect your business to get ahead and stay ahead if you don’t look after the money that’s get spent. Overspending and poor money management are all too common problems in this sector. People who focus on the art and culture are often not the best people at balancing the accounts. Well, now you can get more help without incurring the extra cost of hiring an accountant to do the work for you. There are all kinds of great accounting software packages out there to make your life that little bit easier. You can download these and start using them easily enough.

     

    Hit Young Audiences with Modern Marketing Methods

    If your business wants to reach a young audience, as many cultural sector businesses do, you will need to embrace modern marketing methods. This means using technology, software and techniques that might be foreign to you. But you can’t reach those people and get them through your doors unless you have a marketing strategy that works for them. It might mean creating videos that can be posted online to promote your business. Many cultural businesses fail because they don’t appeal to a younger market. Remember, they are the future of your business. And if you don’t attract them, your business simply won’t have a future at all. That’s not what you want it to come to, so start hitting young audiences with modern marketing methods.

     

    Create a Setting for Art to Thrive with Clarity

    Many art forms that are dealt with in the cultural sector rely on presentation. Sometimes, that presentation can be enhanced by improving the technology that you have at your disposal. For example, you will only find that the best musical acts want to perform at your music venue if you have good audio equipment set up for them to use. Artists want their music to be delivered and received with clarity, and that’s what you need to allow to happen. The same applies to lots of other art forms as well, so whichever your business focuses on, be sure to use technology to your advantage when it comes to delivery.

     

    Go Global with Arts and Culture Experts Around the World

    More so than any other industry, the cultural sector has to be global and diverse. This is always what the industry has been about. And thanks to new technology, it’s never been easier for you to go global and communicate with people all over the world. There are experts and people who run other cultural businesses and organisations all over the world. Being able to collaborate with them and build new bridges is really important. By using conference calling, you can have video chats with people on the other side of the world like it was the most simple and natural thing in the world. These days, it could hardly be simpler. So, make the most of this and collaborate with more people globally.

     

    Create Intuitive and Easy to Use Booking Systems

    Many cultural businesses deal with bookings and things of that nature. Whether you run a music venue or a theatre, you will need people to buy tickets from you. These days, this is done by using an online booking system. There are good booking systems and bad ones out there. Being able to tell the difference and ensure that yours is one of the best is vital. It needs to be intuitive, meaning that your potential customers can make bookings swiftly and easily without wondering what they’re supposed to be doing. You should also integrate an app that allows for bookings on the go. If you can do that, you will give your customers more ways in which they can buy from you, and that’s vital.

     

    Don’t Complicate Things with Tech for the Sake of It

    Last, but not least, it’s important to say that technology doesn’t have to be the be all and end all. Yes, I’ve spent a long time telling you how and why technology can improve your business. But that doesn’t mean that you should overcomplicate matters and make them more difficult just because you want to apply tech to them. There are some areas where it just doesn’t make sense. It’s up to you to make the call regarding which situations demand technology and which don’t. You should assess each and every situation and judge them on a case by case basis.

    As you now know, there are so many great ways in which you can make your business more tech-savvy while improving the things you want to do best. The cultural sector is known for pushing forward and trying new things, so it makes sense to give some of the tips mentioned above a try. The rewards will make them more than worth the effort.

  • Apps that make the inconvenient, convenient

    Apps that make the inconvenient, convenient

    Nowadays, the internet is everyone’s go-to for everything, whether it’s catching up on the latest news, or grabbing that coat you’ve been after for months while it’s still in the sale, we’re using the internet more now than ever before and that’s not something that’s likely to change. With handheld convenience comes a lack of patience which means we are increasingly intolerant of things that get in the way of us doing whatever it is we really want to do. So, with these great apps, you’ll save yourself a lot of time which means there’s more time to spend doing things you actually want to do.

    Uber – This app has revolutionised the way people use taxis. It has made hailing a cab much easier and much cheaper. No one wants to have to stand and wait around for public transport, it’s just inconvenient. However, Uber takes the inconvenience out of public transport, you book your taxi on your phone, you get up-to-date information on your car’s position and estimated arrival time (usually down to the minute) which means you don’t need to take any time out of your day to wait around. In the UK, Uber is your only option for this kind of app, but there are calls for Lyft (an Uber rival in the US) to also be introduced.

    pexels-photoBanking Apps – These are fast becoming the most popular way for customers to interact with their bank. Forget the days of actually having to visit the bank to pay a bill or transfer money, now it can all be done through an app which is super convenient and means you can spend more time doing what’s important.

    hungryhouse – If you’ve left work late and have to make a choice between making dinner or going to the gym, the hungryhouse app could be your best friend, allowing you the time to do both. There’s no need to ruin the diet either, with plenty of organic and vegetarian dishes available as well as a wide range of salads and soups.

    Mealime – Food shopping is something you can’t avoid completely but as well as individual supermarket apps that’ll deliver your groceries to the door, this app should also save you time and money. No more trolley rage, queuing or impulse buying, simply input the foods that you want to eat and this app will provide you with thirty minute recipes which feature your chosen foods and grocery lists for the ingredients, so you can plan out your meals for a week but only purchase exactly what you need.

    Headspace – A definite downside of a busy life can be the levels of stress it creates. This app is intended to increase mindfulness, focus and positivity by teaching you to practice meditation in ten minutes a day. It even tracks your progress so that you can see yourself improve.

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    Office Yoga- Fitness at Work – Don’t have time to get across town to that yoga class? Practise yoga from the comfort of your desk and in doing so, relieve the pains and strains caused by sitting at it and make exercise extra convenient.

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    Cozi Family Organiser – A must for the digital family. No more notes stuck to the fridge, no more missed swimming lessons. This app collates all your family’s activities and turns them into a colour coded digital calendar. It even sends weekly emails to your family members with a list of the week’s events.

    Cozi Family Organiser

     

     

  • Why Your Company Should Start Using Videocasting as a Marketing Tool

    Why Your Company Should Start Using Videocasting as a Marketing Tool

    Most people take current technology for granted. After all, the ability to call anyone, anywhere, at any time without additional costs was only developed in recent years. But if you’re a savvy businessperson, you know that you can take this technology one step further in terms of profits. These days, many brands have begun turning to video-casting in order to advertise their products and services to consumers. But why is that, exactly? What are the benefits to using this technology as a marketing tool in today’s digital age? Well, wonder no more, dear reader, and keep reading to find out the pros to video-casting from a marketing perspective.

     

    You Can Reach a Wider Audience Globally

    In the old days of marketing, you had to choose wisely when it came to your marketing channels. You had to figure out which medium your target market would be most likely to look at: television, magazines, or radio. Getting an advertising spot back in the day cost a huge amount of money that many start-ups just could not afford. Live events were even costlier, since that meant booking a prime time slot on popular shows. The thing with these types of marketing strategies, however, was that they were sorely limited and depended heavily on geographic location. If you wanted to market to somebody in another continent, you’d have to jump through so many hoops just to earn a spot. Even then, there was a high chance that your target market might even miss your announcement. However, with videocasting, your audience doesn’t even have to live in the same timezone as you. All they have to do is boot up the web conferencing app and log in from wherever they desire. They can even attend your event from any device of their choice, whether it’s a smartphone, a tablet, a desktop computer, or even a laptop.

     

    You Can Save a Lot of Time and Money

    According to Chron, the costs of business travel are nothing to sneeze at, even if you’re holding a one-time conference. Even just a few days of hopping from one country to another can cost you thousands of dollars. Factor in your transportation expenses, your board and lodging, and your food allowance, and your budget can quickly spiral out of control. That’s just for one trip! Most people wind up having to take multiple trips a year. If your company sends out multiple people to these meetings on a regular basis, you could be sending a ton of money down the drain. Instead, why not invest in a large scale videocasting solution like BlueJeans to save your people the effort? There are no hotel rooms to reserve and no overpriced venues to book. All you’ve got to do is start a conference and send out invites to everybody who may want to attend.

     

    You Can Engage More People with Interactive Videocasting

    You may be wondering why you should go the extra mile with an interactive videocast instead of simply recording a high-quality video and posting it online. While videos do have a lot of value in today’s marketing landscape, interactive video provides the audiences with a way to engage with you in real time. Because advertising has become so commonplace, many consumers feel like no company is genuinely caring about their needs any more. But if you allow yourself an easy way for your audience to interact with you, they get to see a more human side of you beyond the brand name or logo. You can let them ask you all sorts of questions that concern them about your offering, all while giving them an actual human face to connect with your brand. By allowing your audience to see your facial expressions and body language, this medium allows you to form a more intimate bond with them, according to Mashable. This will lead to better memorability, and may even result in new, loyal consumers.

     

    Take Advantage of Interactive Videocasting Now!

    Though it may cost your company a pretty penny in the beginning, all of these marketing benefits will make your investment pay off relatively quickly. What more if you start thinking of other creative ways to make sure of your videocasting solution within your business operations? Keep an eye out for all sorts of ways you could integrate web conference systems into your daily work day, and you’ll be surprised just how much more productive and profitable your business will become.

  • 4 Must Have Items For A Cool Living Space

    4 Must Have Items For A Cool Living Space

    Do you feel as if your living space need a bit of a refresh? If so you probably in need of some inspiration. It’s not there aren’t some amazing things out there. It’s just that sometimes we can be swamped with awesome items that would make our home better. Luckily we have a selection of items that would elevate anyone’s home into a seriously cool living space.

    1. Freestanding Bath

    First of all, what self-respecting on trend homeowner would choose to be without a glorious thing like a freestanding bath? These can transform a mundane bathroom into a place of luxury and relaxation.

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    Some are fitted flush to the floor, while others stand on ornate legs to give you more of a vintage feel. Many are double ended so you can sit in them whether way without worry about having your back to the taps.

    You can also get roll top freestanding baths. These not only look great but help you from splashing water all over your nice clean bathroom too.

     

    2. VR Headset

    So the future has arrived, and it’s in the form of the VR headset. While it might seem like only the tech heads and computer nerds will benefit from such a device, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Two of the most popular VR headsets currently are Oculus Rift and Playstation VR.

    Oculus Rift

    4 years ago, Oculus Rift was only a Kickstarter campaign! In four years, Oculus Rift can almost be single handedly be thanked for making VR accessible to the general consumer.

    Oculus Rift is now widely available online such as Amazon

     

    Playstation VR

    The Oculus Rift headsets aren’t the coolest looking VR headsets but the PlayStation VR on the other hand, looks like an expensive bit of tech that you’d be happy to have on your shelf.

    PlayStation VR could be very popular this Christmas 2016 and available from many stores currently whilst stocks last.


    In fact VR has mass appeal. People of all ages can enjoy the immersive game play, and there is a range of titles out that will suit both younger and older players. Don’t forget that as the technology becomes better that you will be able to use them for watching movies and even video calling too. Get in on the action early and get familiar with the virtual world as soon as you can.

    3. Home Hub

    Home hubs are the next big thing in house gadgets. We are just starting to see more fully functional ones come onto the market. The idea is that you can control every part of your home through one central device.

    That means you can switch the kettle on while you are in the bath. Or, turn the thermostat up if you are heading home in the rain on a cold day. You can even switch the washing machine on if you have left the house in a rush and forgot to do it.

    Of course for them to work properly you need to have an internet connection and your devices need to be smart enabled. This means you can connect to them through the hub and control them from that point.

    Most hubs are mobile ready too. So you can use your device as the point of access from any control that you wish to carry out.

    4. Pop Corn Machine

    For something fun and light-hearted, why not try an electric popcorn machine? This is a nifty little home gadget that can make movie nights even more pleasant. You can get some smaller versions that sit on your kitchen counter top.

    Or try a large cinema style version for that full movie experience.

    Team them up with some popcorn flavourings, and your home cinema will definitely be the coolest place to watch a movie in, outside the real thing!

  • Cool Gadgets To Boost Your Sport Routines

    Cool Gadgets To Boost Your Sport Routines

    A lot of people don’t really feel the need to introduce technology to their exercise routine. After all, there are many out there who like to exercise in order to get away from all this technology! They’re sick of sitting around on their computers or smartphones. They’ve seen enough websites and YouTube videos for the day. They just want to get out there and get their blood pumping. Why introduce gadgets to the equation? But gadgets can definitely give your exercise routine a boost. Here are some great examples.

     

    Underwater Music

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    Music is one of the greatest additions to exercise I can think of. There are certainly plenty of technophobes out there who still want to use an mp3 player when they’re going out for a run. It helps you keep motivated. It keeps things fun. It can give you that extra push if you decide to keep going until the end of the track. But swimmers aren’t too lucky in this regard. After all, your music device and earphones can’t exactly join you in the depths. Right? Well, there are now special goggles that allow you to listen to music as you exercise in the water called Finis Neptune. Cool! 

     

    Robot Assistance

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    So you’ve tired out all your usual exercise buddies. Or maybe they’re just too busy to help you out. Or maybe you don’t even have any exercise buddies because everyone around you is a little lazy. But you need to train, and you need some help doing it. What are you to do? Well, you an actually get the assistance of a robot for several sports. Table tennis robots are one of the best examples. After all, sometimes practicing against a wall simply isn’t enough!

     

    Smart Ball

     

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    The Internet of Things is pretty cool, right? That’s the technology that’s allowing everyday objects to connect to your devices. (Usually in order to record cool information!) It’s beginning to find itself in more and more objects all the time. Well, now you can get it in a soccer ball. You can get a “smart ball” that’s Bluetooth-enabled and works with an app on your smartphone. It’s a training device that allows you to follow certain tutorials, improve your strikes and spins, and record personal bests. An undeniably amazing idea for soccer enthusiasts.

     

    Ultimate Exercise Bike

    There are loads of people out there who are looking for a good exercise bike. Well, if you’re looking for one that will wow everyone around you, then look no further. You can get exercise bikes that are absolutely loaded with technology. There’s one that comes connected to a 21.5” HD touch screen and includes awesome WiFi capabilities. The screen can be used to record your progress and set yourself tasks. It can also be used for entertainment purposes if you’re feeling like the exercise itself is a little too boring for you.

     

    Fitness bracelet

    Okay, so maybe you’ve already heard of fitness bracelets such as FitBit and have dismissed them already. But seriously, these things can be so useful. They’re not only useful for recording exercise information. They can monitor your vitals throughout the day, which can help you get even more crucial info for tweaking your routine.

     

  • Award winning Optic cycling helmet has genius drop-down visor

    Award winning Optic cycling helmet has genius drop-down visor

    Cycling here in the UK is statistically safer than gardening but there are

    22,000 cyclist casualties in England every year.

    Anything that can potentially help cycling to be safer here in the UK is a great thing. We featured the collar airbag last year and this year we want to showcase an award winning concept cycling helmet called optic from UK based DCA Design which was winner of this year’s Red Dot “Best of the Best” concept award in the mobility category. This amazing cycling integrates a cool drop-down visor into a bike helmet giving cyclists even more necessary information to make decisions quickly and safely. More than a shield for the eyes, the visor integrates information from front and rear cameras offering up a 360-degree view to the user. There’s also additional navigation tools and journey statistics. Altogether, making the Optic cycling helmet unlike any other helmet available to buy today.

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    Images courtesy of DCA Design

     

    The coolest feature apart from the drop-down optical display is the rear camera which captures a full 180 degree vantage which minimises cyclists’ largest blind stop allowing eyes to be focussed to the road ahead. Obstacles are laid out before riders while the bigger picture map remains easily accessible. There are also plenty of cycling statistic tools out there right now, but none that integrate distance, speed and heart rate into such an extensive road monitoring system. Flash memory data storage and a BlueTooth card allow all information to be recorded—either for analysis or reviewing any potential incidents that happened along the way.

     

    Should wearing a cycling helmet be law?

    Cycling is statistically safer than gardening and yet it doesn’t feel like it when you’re cycling next to a lorry or car that gets too close at a busy junction. Should the UK make wearing a helmet whilst cycling compulsory? this topic has been hotly debated and UK cyclists are currently not required to wear a helmet whilst cycling. This list details countries when it is illegal to ride a bike without a helmet. There tons of research you can read online about the advantages and disadvantages of making cycling helmets compulsory such as Bike helmet laws ‘do not prevent head injuries’ but one thing is for certain – cycling helmets alone aren’t going to help make cycling safer.

    Chris Boardman talks about this here on britishcycling.org.uk and the reasons why he didn’t wear a helmet on a BBC breakfast show. He draws attention to this video below from the Netherlands for an insight into why helmets aren’t the answer to keeping people on bikes safe. This video if from Utrecht in the Netherlands where helmet use is less than 0.5% and who have an incredible safety record and some of the lowest casualty rate of anywhere in the world.

     

    However countries that have tried to bring in compulsory helmet laws such as Australia and New Zealand have actually seen a 30% to 50% drop in the number of people cycling!

    Given that the health benefits of cycling outweigh the risks by around 20:1 (one recent study put it at 77:1), it can be shown that only a very small reduction in cycle use is needed for helmet promotion (let alone helmet laws) to shorten more lives than helmets themselves could possibly save, regardless of how effective helmets might be. When less than 2% of people in the UK cycle regularly, bringing in a law that would actually put more people off would be a serious step back.

    Law changes won’t fix the problem of cycling safety here in the UK and it sounds like it would only make things worse, but the Optic helmet from DCA Design is absolutely a step in the right direction by using technology to help cyclists make decisions quickly and safely.

     

     

     

  • 4 videos which will convince you DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable drone

    4 videos which will convince you DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable drone

    If there is one video that convinced us that the DJI Mavic Pro looks like the best portable drone to buy right now it is this video. We compared the DJI Mavic Pro and the GoPro Karma in this post based on specs and it’s close but the Mavic Pro won for us. Here are 3 other videos that showcase the Mavic Pro

    Video 2

    Casey Neistat also got his hands on the DJI Mavic Pro in this video

     

    Video 3

    DJI MAVIC vs. PHANTOM 4 vs. GOPRO KARMA side by side comparison in 4k by Casey Neistat again

     

    Video 4

    This is the official promo video of the Mavic Pro from DJI