Name: Sonictrek Quietmix ANC Headphones
Brand: Sonictrek
Price: 199.99 aud

Insignia Financial Reveals Ambitious New Cybersecurity Plan for a New Beginning

David Leane on July 9, 2024

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Insignia Financial Introduces New Cybersecurity Initiative | TechBest

Insignia Financial Unveils New Cybersecurity Plan

Quick Read

Insignia Financial embarks on a new chapter in cyber security investment.
An ASX-listed superannuation fund is looking for a new head of cyber security.
Allocated budget and operational framework for the new cybersecurity strategy.
The existing cyber team is crucial in protecting assets.

Insignia Financial, a superannuation fund listed on the ASX, is making substantial progress in its cyber security initiatives by allocating resources to a thorough upgrade of technology and procedures. This ambitious action marks the onset of a renewed dedication to enhanced security and resilience within the company.

New Cyber Security Leadership

Insignia Financial is seeking a new head of cyber security strategy and governance as part of its forward-thinking approach. The chosen candidate will be responsible for designing the company’s cyber security framework, with the support of a dedicated budget and an approved operating model.

The job listing emphasizes this position as a chance for a new beginning, allowing the incoming leader to influence the future direction of cyber security at Insignia Financial.

Existing Cybersecurity Framework

Appointed as the general manager of cyber security in October, James Ng is currently spearheading the overall strategy. His leadership ensures that the cyber team plays a crucial role in protecting the organisation’s information assets and reducing cyber risks.

Insignia Financial plans 'fresh start' for cyber strategy

A New Beginning for Cyber Resilience

The newly appointed head of cyber security will play a crucial role in developing a strong framework that enhances resilience against cyber threats. This position involves not only upholding current standards but also advancing the company’s abilities to tackle future challenges.

The company’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to upholding the highest standards of security and safeguarding its members’ information and assets.

Summary

Insignia Financial’s commitment to a new wave of cybersecurity signifies a major advancement in boosting resilience and defense. By recruiting fresh leadership and designating specific resources, the firm is well-prepared to tackle and surmount upcoming cyber threats adeptly.

What is the primary objective of Insignia Financial’s newly implemented cyber strategy?

The primary objective is to enhance security and resilience by updating the organization’s technology and procedures.

Who is currently heading the cyber strategy at Insignia Financial?

James Ng, the general manager of cybersecurity, has been leading the overall strategy since October.

What kind of support will be available to the new head of cybersecurity?

A: The new leader will receive a specific budget and an authorized operating model, allowing them to establish a strong cybersecurity structure.

Why has Insignia Financial decided to invest in this new strategy?

The goal of the investment is to enhance resilience against cyber threats and to protect the organization’s information assets effectively.

Q: In what ways does this approach advantage the members of Insignia Financial?

By strengthening the security framework, the company guarantees improved safeguarding of members’ data and assets against possible cyber threats.

Where can an individual submit an application for the role of head of cyber security?

Interested candidates can apply via job portals like Seek by looking up CISO positions or visit TechBest for the latest information.

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Stake Obtains New Australian Financial Services License

David Leane on July 6, 2024

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Stake Obtains New Australian Financial Services License

Stake, a widely-used trading application that became well-known as Australians looked for affordable methods to invest in U.S. firms like Tesla (TSLA), is excited to reveal a significant achievement.

Beginning on July 29, 2024, Stake will begin operating under its very own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL). This marks an exciting advancement in its mission to assist Australians in managing and expanding their wealth.

Quick Read

Stake will begin operating under its own Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) starting July 29, 2024.
Change from serving as an authorized representative of Sanlam Private Wealth Pty Ltd and Airwallex Pty Ltd.
There are no significant changes for customers; funds will be entrusted to Stakeshop AFSL Pty Ltd.
Revised Terms and Conditions and Financial Services Guide taking effect on July 29, 2024.

What is an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL)?

An AFSL is a license issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) that permits the holder to operate a financial services business within Australia.

To secure an AFSL, firms are required to prove they adhere to rigorous standards in aspects like financial resources, compliance, and internal training.

What Has Been Stake’s Mode of Operation So Far?

So far, Stake has offered financial services as an authorized representative of Sanlam Private Wealth Pty Ltd and Airwallex Pty Ltd, both of which possess their own AFSLs.

Starting Monday, July 29, Stake will begin providing services as an authorised representative of Stakeshop AFSL Pty Ltd (AFSL no. 548196), another entity within the Stake group of companies.

Stake Secures New Australian Financial Services License

What Are the Implications for Stake Users?

For the majority of users, moving to Stake’s own Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) will be straightforward. However, there will be an alteration in the way AUD customer funds are managed. By legal requirement, all customer funds must be held in trust by an AFSL holder, usually at a bank.

At present, the AUD funds belonging to Stake customers are held in trust by Sanlam with an authorised deposit-taking institution (ADI). After the transition, these funds will be managed in trust by Stakeshop AFSL Pty Ltd, in a new account with the same ADI.

Customers will still have their individual account numbers and BSBs, enabling them to handle their finances as they normally do.

Where can you find additional information?

Stake has revised its Terms and Conditions along with the Financial Services Guide, with these changes set to be enforced starting July 29, 2024. Customers with inquiries or needing additional information are advised to reach out to Stake directly.

This change highlights Stake’s dedication to offering strong and dependable financial services, thereby reinforcing its status as a top trading platform for Australian investors.

Additional details can be found at https://hellostake.com/au/legal/financial-services-guide-from-29-july-2024.

If you’re not currently a Stake customer, you can sign up through our referral link – https://hellostake.com/r/jasonc456

Summary

Obtaining its own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) is a major achievement for the Stake trading app. This development improves Stake’s capability to independently deliver financial services and assures the secure management of customer funds. The transition is designed to be smooth for users, with no major adjustments to their accounts or how the platform operates. This advancement reinforces Stake’s dedication to offering dependable financial services.

Q: What does AFSL stand for?

A:

A licence known as the Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL), issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), permits companies to operate financial services businesses within Australia. This licence enforces strict standards across various domains like financial resources, regulatory compliance, and internal training.

Before acquiring its own Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), how did Stake function?

A:

Prior to acquiring its own Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), Stake functioned as an authorised representative of Sanlam Private Wealth Pty Ltd and Airwallex Pty Ltd, both of which possessed their own AFSLs. Consequently, Stake delivered financial services under the regulatory framework of these firms.

Will this transition result in any changes for customers?

A:

The switch to Stake’s own AFSL will be mostly smooth for customers. The main difference will be in the management of AUD customer funds. These funds will now be held in trust by Stakeshop AFSL Pty Ltd at the same authorized deposit-taking institution (ADI), ensuring ongoing consistency.

Where can customers look for further details regarding these updates?

A:

Customers can obtain additional details in Stake’s revised Terms and Conditions and Financial Services Guide, which will be effective from July 29, 2024. For any questions or more information, they may reach out to Stake directly. More information can be found on Stake’s Legal Information Page.

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ADHA Reveals Strategic Plan to Enhance Adoption of Healthcare Identifiers

David Leane on July 3, 2024

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ADHA Reveals Strategic Plan to Promote Healthcare Identifier Implementation

Quick Read

The ADHA has unveiled a five-year plan to boost the implementation of healthcare identifiers.
Since 2010, healthcare identifiers have been utilized, but their application remains inconsistent across different sectors.
The plan focuses on addressing problems such as delays in data retrieval, incorrect identification, and obsolete technical standards.
The effort is included in the Connecting Australian Healthcare – National Healthcare Interoperability Plan for 2023-2028.
The strategy will utilize artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to optimize data quality and performance.
My Health Record will be updated with new legal requirements for providers of diagnostic imaging and pathology services.

The ADHA’s New Five-Year Plan: Essential Information

Peter O’Halloran from the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA).

Overview of Healthcare Identifiers

Unique Healthcare Identifiers (HI) were introduced in Australia in 2010 to distinctly identify patients, healthcare professionals, and organizations within the health system. However, their implementation across health, disability, and aged care sectors has been inconsistent, limiting their potential advantages.

The Necessity for an Updated Roadmap

Per the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA), the inconsistent utilization of healthcare identifiers has resulted in various problems, such as delays in accessing patient data, risks of incorrect identification, and privacy issues. Furthermore, the existing technical specifications and standards do not facilitate real-time usage and do not provide cost-efficiencies to all levels of the Australian government.

Converting HIS into a System with Interoperability

To tackle these challenges, the ADHA has introduced a new five-year plan focused on evolving the Healthcare Identifier Service (HIS) into an integrated and interoperable health network. This evolution will allow healthcare providers to utilize identifiers when inputting information into My Health Record and other healthcare systems.

Primary Goals of the Roadmap

The plan highlights multiple primary goals:

Enhancing the precision and quality of HIS data.
Improving functionality and increasing awareness of the service outside of healthcare.
Utilizing artificial intelligence for sophisticated analytics and efficient integration of patient data.

Peter O’Halloran’s Vision

Peter O’Halloran, the Chief Digital Officer at ADHA, highlighted that healthcare identifiers are crucial for ensuring safe, secure, and smooth information exchange within the nation’s healthcare system in almost real-time. He stressed their importance in the advancement of digital health, stating that they will enable Australian healthcare consumers to receive continuous care.

The National Plan for Healthcare Interoperability

The roadmap is included in the extensive Connecting Australian Healthcare – National Healthcare Interoperability Plan for 2023-2028. This initiative seeks to support data quality and ensure interoperability among different health and care services.

Government Programs and Legal Mandates

Following this roadmap, the government revealed last year that My Health Record would be revamped and updated. This update involves imposing legal requirements on diagnostic imaging and pathology providers to upload their reports to My Health Record by year’s end.

Summary

The ADHA has introduced a new five-year plan designed to boost the use of healthcare identifiers throughout Australia’s healthcare system. The initiative targets existing problems like outdated technical standards and inconsistent implementation, aiming to establish a more cohesive and interoperable health environment. By utilizing AI and advanced analytics, the plan ensures better data quality, functionality, and awareness. In alignment with wider governmental initiatives, My Health Record is also scheduled for major enhancements.

Frequently Asked Questions: Essential Information

Q: What are healthcare IDs?

A:

Healthcare identifiers are distinct numbers allocated to patients, healthcare providers, and organizations within the Australian health system to ensure precise identification and data handling.

Q: What is the reason for requiring a new roadmap?

A:

The inconsistent application of healthcare identifiers currently results in problems such as delays in data retrieval, risk of misidentification, and reliance on outdated technical standards that do not support real-time usage.

Q: What are the primary goals of the new roadmap?

A:

The plan seeks to enhance data quality and accuracy, improve functionality and raise awareness of Health Information Systems (HIS) beyond the healthcare sector, and utilize artificial intelligence for sophisticated analytics.

Q: How does this align with the overall National Healthcare Interoperability Plan?

A:

The roadmap is included in the Connecting Australian Healthcare – National Healthcare Interoperability Plan 2023-2028, with the goal of improving data quality and interoperability among diverse health and care services.

Q: What modifications are being implemented to My Health Record?

A:

The My Health Record system is scheduled for reconstruction and modernization. By the close of this year, diagnostic imaging and pathology providers will be legally required to upload reports to the system.

What advantages will this roadmap provide for patients?

A:

Enhancing the utilization of healthcare identifiers will result in more precise identification, decreased delays in data retrieval, and improved privacy safeguards, thereby supporting consistent patient care across different healthcare settings.

Nokia Unveils Ambitious AU$3.6 Billion Offer to Acquire Infinera

David Leane on June 30, 2024

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Nokia’s AU$3.6 Billion Offer for Infinera: A Tactical Decision in the Age of AI

Quick Read

Nokia reveals a AU$3.6 billion offer for the American optical networking equipment manufacturer Infinera.
The goal of the acquisition is to take advantage of the rapidly growing market for AI-powered data centers.
The agreement would position Nokia as the second largest supplier in the optical networking sector.
The acquisition is anticipated to result in €200 million in cost savings by the next year.
Nokia shares increase by four percent, reflecting shareholder optimism.

Nokia’s Strategic Initiative to Harness the AI Trend

Nokia has unveiled an ambitious AU$3.6 billion proposal to purchase the US-based optical networking equipment manufacturer Infinera. This strategic action places the Finnish telecom leader in a prime position to capitalize on the substantial investments flowing into data centres, spurred by the growth of artificial intelligence (AI).

Positioning in the Market and Competitive Advantage

Through this acquisition, Nokia intends to overtake Ciena and become the second-largest provider in the optical networking industry, capturing a 20% market share. This strategy positions Nokia just behind Huawei, which enjoys a dominant market presence due to the limited competition from Western companies in China.

Exploration of Alternatives in Light of Decreasing 5G Sales

Telecom equipment manufacturers, such as Nokia, are experiencing a decrease in sales for 5G products. Diversification into burgeoning sectors like AI has become strategically essential. By acquiring Infinera, Nokia can broaden its product range to cater to major tech firms like Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft, which are significantly investing in new data centers to enable AI initiatives.

Optimal Timing

“This is an excellent time for a deal like this, as it coincides with the anticipated market recovery,” Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark stated in an interview with Reuters. “AI is fueling major investments in data centers… a major advantage of this acquisition is that it greatly enhances our presence in the data center sector,” he added.

Technological Harmonies and Cost Reductions

The acquisition is projected to result in cost savings of €200 million ($320.7 million) by the next year. While the purchase multiple may appear high given Infinera’s inconsistent growth, realizing these synergies will validate the investment. Infinera’s expertise in intra-data center communications complements Nokia’s extensive market reach, making this a mutually advantageous deal.

Summary

Nokia’s AU$3.6 billion acquisition proposal for Infinera represents a crucial strategic endeavor to leverage the AI-induced surge in data center investments. This purchase places Nokia as a strong competitor in the optical networking industry, coming in just behind Huawei. The acquisition not only broadens Nokia’s market presence amid decreasing 5G sales but also paves the way for technological synergies and potential cost reductions.

Q&A Section

Why is Nokia purchasing Infinera?

Nokia seeks to leverage the increasing investments in data centers spurred by AI, expand its market presence despite falling 5G sales, and solidify its standing in the optical networking sector.

Q: What advantages will this acquisition bring to Nokia?

The acquisition is anticipated to position Nokia as the second largest provider in the optical networking sector, enhance its presence in data centers, and result in substantial cost savings of €200 million by the following year.

Q: What are the financial details of the agreement?

Nokia plans to pay 70 percent of the AU$3.6 billion acquisition price in cash, while the remaining 30 percent will be paid in stock. The transaction is expected to be finalized next year, with anticipated cost savings of €200 million.

What effect will this have on Nokia’s stock?

Nokia shares increased by four percent after the announcement, signaling shareholder confidence in the potential advantages of the deal.

Q: In what ways does Infinera enhance Nokia’s current operations?

Infinera holds a significant position in intra data center communications. This complements Nokia’s broader market presence in Europe and Asia, rendering the transaction mutually beneficial.

Are any layoffs anticipated as a result of the acquisition?

It is premature to discuss possible layoffs since the main emphasis right now is on realizing synergies and cost reductions from the acquisition.

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OPPO Australia Introduces Reno12 Smartphones and Luxurious Watch X

David Leane on June 28, 2024

OPPO Australia is introducing its new Reno12 Series mid-range smartphones and Watch X with an attractive launch promotion from June 27 to July 25, 2024.

Orders for the Reno12 Pro come with a complimentary OPPO Watch X (valued at $699).
Purchasing a Reno12 entitles you to a complimentary OPPO Pad Neo worth $449.

OPPO Australia Introduces Reno12 Smartphones and Luxurious Watch X - techAU

Naturally, AI is highlighted as the trending term for 2024. OPPO stated that these gadgets signify their dedication to integrating AI functionality into mid-range smartphones and broadening their product ecosystem in Australia. The firm mentioned that AI characteristics might differ according to local regulations and necessitate an internet connection.

Quick Read

Pre-orders for the Reno12 Pro include a complimentary OPPO Watch X, which is valued at $699.
Pre-orders for the Reno12 come with a complimentary OPPO Pad Neo worth $449.
The Reno12 Series features a 6.7-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
Both models are equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Energy processor.
AI functionalities encompass AI Eraser and AI Studio.
The Watch X offers a battery life of up to 100 hours in Smart Mode and is certified with MIL-STD-810H standards.

Reno12 Series Specifications

The latest Reno12 Series is available in two different models:

Models: Reno12 priced at $799 and Reno12 Pro priced at $999
Screen: 6.7-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 1.07 billion colors
Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Energy, 4nm
Battery: 5,000mAh with 80W SUPERVOOC rapid charging
Camera: The primary camera features a Sony LYT-600 sensor; the Reno12 Pro includes an additional 50MP telephoto camera and a 50MP front-facing camera for selfies.
Design: “Wavy Water Pattern” on the back panel
Colors: Reno12 – Astro Silver, Black Brown; Reno12 Pro – Nebula Silver, Nebula Black

AI Features

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a significant emphasis for OPPO in the Reno12 Series. The AI functionalities encompass:

AI Eraser: Eliminates undesired elements from images.
AI Studio: Generates digital avatars and artistic representations
Enhancements for group photos: Eye-opening and facial detail improvement

OPPO Watch X Specifications

The OPPO Watch X provides premium features:

Price: $699
Operating System: Wear OS version 4
Battery: Lasts up to 100 hours in Smart Mode and up to 12 days in Power Saver Mode.
Charging: VOOC Flash Charge for Watch (Full charge in 60 minutes)
GPS: Dual-frequency
Durability: Certified with MIL-STD-810H, IP68 for dust resistance, and 5ATM for water resistance
Processor: Dual-engine design (Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 and BES2700 MCU)

Services Australia Announces New Access to Veterans’ Services via myGov App

David Leane on June 28, 2024

Veteran Services Now Available on the myGov App, Announces Services Australia

Services Australia has recently enhanced the myGov app to include veteran services, thanks to a substantial funding increase in the federal budget. This addition aims to provide veterans with a more streamlined and efficient way to access crucial services.

Improved Digital Access for Veterans

In collaboration with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), around 300,000 former military personnel can now access their veteran cards digitally via myGov’s digital wallet. These cards enable access to funded treatments for medical and mental health conditions, injuries, and other support services.

Comprehensive Service Management

The integration includes more than just digital wallets. DVA’s MyService platform, enabling veterans to apply for and manage pensions as well as submit health claims, is now accessible through myGov. This consolidated platform ensures veterans can manage all their service needs in one place.

Simplified Digital Wallet

Veteran cards—both white and gold—will be displayed alongside other essential services such as Medicare, Centrelink, and international COVID-19 vaccination certificates within the myGov app. This integrated approach simplifies the access and management of various government services.

Official Statements and Funding Details

During a recent doorstop interview, Minister for Veteran Affairs Matt Keogh described the integration as a “significant change” and noted that 250,000 veteran cardholders have already linked MyService to myGov.

The recent federal budget has allocated $580 million over four years for maintaining and developing myGov, which translates to about $145 million annually. This funding aims to provide ongoing stability and development for a key component of national service delivery infrastructure.

National Digital ID Initiative

Additionally, $288.1 million has been allocated for the rollout of a national digital ID. Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten highlighted the progress made recently but did not provide a specific timeline for when digital IDs would be integrated into myGov.

Summary

The recent updates to the myGov app mark a major advancement in providing streamlined digital services for veterans. The integration of veteran services into the app, supported by substantial federal funding, aims to simplify access to vital healthcare and pension management for former military personnel. Future developments may include the addition of a national digital ID, further increasing the app’s utility.

Q&A Session

1. What is the purpose of integrating veteran services into myGov?

The integration aims to provide veterans with easier and more efficient access to essential services such as healthcare, pension management, and support for injuries and mental health conditions.

2. How many veterans will benefit from this integration?

Approximately 300,000 former military personnel stand to benefit from this integration.

3. What services are available through the new integration?

Veterans can access their veteran cards digitally through myGov’s digital wallet and use DVA’s MyService platform to apply for and manage pensions and submit health claims.

4. How does this integration simplify service access for veterans?

By consolidating multiple services into a single platform, veterans can manage their healthcare and pension needs more efficiently without needing to navigate multiple websites or applications.

5. What other services are available through the myGov app?

Besides veteran services, myGov also provides access to Medicare, Centrelink, and international COVID-19 vaccination certificates.

6. What is the significance of the $580 million funding?

This funding ensures ongoing development and maintenance of the myGov platform, ensuring it remains a stable and essential element of national service delivery infrastructure.

7. What is the national digital ID initiative?

The national digital ID initiative aims to create a unified digital identity system that simplifies access to various government services. A funding of $288.1 million has been allocated for this rollout.

8. When will the national digital ID be integrated into myGov?

While significant progress has been made, there is currently no specific timeline for when the national digital ID will be integrated into myGov.

For more information on these updates and other tech news, visit [TechBest](https://techbest.com.au).

Sonictrek Quietmix ANC Headphones Review – Solid Noise Canceling At Half The Price Of Bose

David Leane on June 20, 2024

Where value is concerned, Sonictrek offer a best in class experience at half the price of competent competitors. The latest Quietmix model includes added battery life, comfort, and – of course – outstanding active noise canceling tech that eliminates sounds whilst enjoying your favourite content. That’s why Sonictrek earn our Editor’s Choice in value over ear ANC.

Sonictrek Quietmix Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones: $199.99 at Mifo.com.au →

Also found for $249.99 at Sonictrek.com.au

VIEW AT MIFO ►

Introduction

The Sonictrek QuietMix headphones are designed for audio enthusiasts looking for quality noise cancellation without the premium price tag. Competing with brands like Bose and Sony, these headphones aim to deliver superior sound and noise-cancelling capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

Constructed with a mix of high-quality plastics and metals, the headphones boast durability and a sleek look. They feature plush ear pads designed for extended wear, providing comfort even during long listening sessions. While available in limited colors, their design is modern and appealing to a broad audience.

Active Noise Cancellation Technology

The Sonictrek QuietMix utilizes SmartQ noise cancellation technology to significantly reduce ambient noise. This feature allows for an immersive listening experience, particularly in noisy environments like airplanes or busy offices. Comparatively, they perform well against other headphones in the same price range, though some high-end models may offer more advanced noise cancellation.

Sound Quality

These headphones offer a balanced sound profile, with clear highs, detailed mids, and robust bass. They handle a variety of music genres well, making them versatile for different listeners’ tastes. The sound quality is comparable to more expensive models, providing a rich auditory experience.

Battery Life and Charging

With up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge with active noise cancellation enabled, the QuietMix headphones are ideal for long flights or commutes. They support fast charging, offering several hours of playtime after just a few minutes of charging, which is convenient for travelers.

Connectivity and Controls

Bluetooth connectivity is robust, with a stable connection up to 30 feet from the paired device. The on-headphone controls are intuitive, allowing for easy management of volume, tracks, and calls without needing to reach for your device. Compatibility is broad, supporting a wide range of smartphones, tablets, and computers.

User Experience

Feedback from users is generally positive, with many appreciating the combination of effective noise cancellation, sound quality, and affordability. Some users have noted the bulkiness of the headphones as a downside, but this is often overlooked due to the headphones’ overall performance and comfort.

Value Proposition

When compared to high-end models, the QuietMix headphones offer a compelling value. They deliver many of the same features and quality as more expensive headphones at a fraction of the price. This makes them an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers who do not want to compromise on quality.

Conclusion

The Sonictrek QuietMix headphones are recommended for anyone looking for effective noise cancellation and high-quality audio without breaking the bank. They are particularly suited for travelers and office workers who can benefit from their noise-cancelling capabilities.

FAQs

How does the noise cancellation compare to Bose or Sony?
- While not as advanced as the leading models from Bose or Sony, the QuietMix’s noise cancellation is highly effective for the price.
Can the headphones be used without battery power?
- Yes, they can still function without battery power, but active noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity require battery power.
Are they suitable for making calls?
- Yes, they come equipped with a built-in microphone that allows for clear call quality.

VIEW AT MIFO ►

Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Watch Review: Designed for Life and Style

David Leane on February 24, 2023

The Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Watch is a feature-packed GPS running watch designed for runners. This allows the users to track their performance and improve their training and so much more. We’ll dive into the various aspects of this running watch to help you decide if it’s the right watch for you.

This article is updated for the Australian market regularly to include price changes and product updates.

Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Watch, Black: $599.85 at Amazon.com.au →

VIEW AT AMAZON ►

Garmin Forerunner 245 GPS Running Watch Review — The Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, GPS running watch has a sleek and stylish design, with a circular watch face and a comfortable silicone strap

Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, GPS Running Watch: Design and Features

This smartwatch by Gamin has a sleek and stylish design, with a circular watch face and a comfortable silicone strap. The watch is lightweight and doesn’t feel bulky on the wrist, making it ideal for long runs. The display on the watch is easy to read, even in the sun’s brightness, as well as being water-resistant up to 50 meters. The Garmin Forerunner 245 comes with a range of features designed to help runners track and improve their performance. This watch includes built-in GPS, which accurately tracks distance, pace, and location. The watch also comes with a wrist-bassed heart rate monitor. The Garmin Forerunner 245 can store up to 500 songs and connects to Bluetooth headphones while supporting Spotify.

Connectivity and Battery Life:

The Garmin Forerunner 245 offers a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+. The connectivity options allow the user to connect to sensors and other devices. While having the watch connected to your smartphone you will be able to receive notifications including texts, emails, and more. The Gamin Forerunner has a battery life of up to 7 days in the smartwatch mode and up to 6 hours in GPS mode with music. While this isn’t the longest battery life on the market, it’s still sufficient for most runners’ needs.

PRO: Features

Battery Life: Up to 7 days in smartwatch mode.
Tracking: This watch can accurately track the distance, pace and location.
Wrist-based Heart Rate Monitor: This monitor provides accurate heart rate data.

PRO: Connectivity

Notifications: You can get smartphone notifications on the watch.
Spotify: Spotify is one of the supported music streaming services.
Storing Music: This smartwatch allows the user to download up to 500 songs.

CON: Price

Price: The price of the watch is high but it comes with lots of features that other watches don’t have.
Battery: Only 6 hours with GPS and music running.
Basic Screen: The screen that is on the watch is just a classic LCD screen.

TECHBEST DEAL FINDER SUMMARY

Where to buy the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, GPS Running Watch in Australia

Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 245 Music, GPS Running Watch is an excellent choice for runners who want a feature-packed watch. While it’s not the cheapest running watch on the market, it’s accurate tracking, music storage, and connectivity features make it a great investment for serious runners who want to improve their training and performance.

BEST VALUE LINK

Please use the above link if you intend to make a purchase. You’ll get the lowest price, and help support our Australia-based staff of writers, editors, and photographers.

► $599.85 at Amazon.com.au – free 2-day delivery for Prime members

If you enjoyed reading our product review, please consider sharing our content on your preferred social media platforms. TechBest provides the latest gadget reviews, deals, and news from our Australia editorial desk.

Bose Smart Soundbar 700 Review: Premium Sound Quality with Built-in Alexa Voice Control

David Leane on February 20, 2023

Even being a little pricey, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 still beats the competitors. This soundbar has a sleek and stylish look that delivers an exceptional audio performance with advanced features. As well as compatible with just about any tv, laptop, tablet or smartphone, this soundbar is user-friendly.

This article is updated for the Australian market regularly to include price changes and product updates.

Bose Smart Soundbar 700: $854.05 at Amazon.com.au →

VIEW AT AMAZON ►

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 has a slim and elegant design, featuring a tempered glass top and a metal grille.

Bose Smart Soundbar 700 Review: Design and Sound Quality

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 has a sleek design that has a length of 0.97 Meters, making it suitable for most TV setups. The design features a tempered glass top and a metal grill that covers the front and sides of the soundbar, making the soundbar feel sturdy and well-constructed. This soundbar delivers exceptional audio performance, with a clear and balanced sound. The soundbar features a custom eight-microphone array that picks up voice commands accurately in noisy environments. It also supports Dolby Digital and DTS sound formats to ensure the consumer has an immersive audio performance.

Advanced Features and Connectivity

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is equipped with advanced smart features making it easy to use and control. Bose had an app called “Bose Music” that allows the user to control the soundbar and access a range of features within the app. The soundbar paired with the app allows the user to have personalized presets and the ability to connect to multiple devices at once. Bose includes a universal remote to control your TV and other devices, eliminating the need for multiple remotes. This sound bar offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, optical audio input, and Ethernet. It also supports voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

PRO: User-Friendly

Easy setup: This is a plug-and-go device
Wide range of connectivity: Having such a wide range of connectivity the user won’t have a problem connecting to the device
Includes voice assistants: The device uses Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

PRO: Features

Eight-microphone array: This allows the device to accurately pick up on voice commands in a noisy environment
App controlled: Bose has a mobile app that allows users to use this soundbar and create presets and completely controls the soundbar using the app
Standard warranty: Bose includes a 1-year warranty

CON: Pricey

Lacking sub-bass
Heavy: This product weighs in at 4.76 kg
Relatively pricey

Bose Smart Soundbar 700 Review: Very user-friendly and easy to use

TECHBEST DEAL FINDER SUMMARY

Where to buy the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 in Australia

Overall, the Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is an excellent choice for those looking for a premium soundbar that delivers a great audio performance and comes packed with advanced features. While the soundbar is a bit pricey the soundbar’s build quality, design, and smart features make it worth the investment for tech enthusiasts alike.

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Please use the above link if you intend to make a purchase. You’ll get the lowest price, and help support our Australia-based staff of writers, editors, and photographers.

► $854.05 at Amazon.com.au – free 2-day delivery for Prime members

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JBL Flip 6 Review: Bigger Sound, Longer Battery, Similar Design Flaws

David Leane on November 21, 2022

The latest addition to JBL’s iconic Flip speaker series include a number of enhancements that increase enjoyability of the product. Unfortunately, some lingering design flaws from older models (and a few new ones) hamper an otherwise excellent waterproof Bluetooth speaker.

This article is updated for the Australian market regularly to include price changes and product updates.

JBL Flip 6 Review: $169.00 at Amazon.com.au →

VIEW AT AMAZON ►

The Flip 6 adds fun to the party, but also frustration

If you can put up with minor design flaws, the Flip 6 may be the speaker for you. While expensive, the Flip will do the job for parties or social gatherings.

PRO: JBL deliver a product that works straight out of the box

The Flip 6 turns on and pairs easily. Thankfully JBL have included multi-point Bluetooth and extended 13 hour battery life (9 hours real world use) in their latest model
Devices will need to be in pairing mode in order to find the Flip 6, but should not have issues after connecting
Up to 2 devices can connect simultaneously though only one device can transmit at a time

PRO: Big sound and bass for raucous parties

The sound profile of the Flip 6 is loud and distortion free and medium volume levels
Rumbling bass is a lot of fun, and using multiple speakers amplifies the effect
There may be some distortion when listening to podcasts, as bass can drown out vocals

CON: Odd design decisions lead to some annoyances

The Flip 6 has a cylindric shape, and rolls around too easily
Small rubberized feet are inbuilt, but ultimately ineffective in stabilising the wireless speaker
Fabric begins to fray around the edges, as the tapered design begins wearing down the material after several uses

JBL Flip 6 review Australia — The JBL Flip 6 rolls around too easily, and speaker fabric begins to wear around the edges after a just few uses

CON: Expensive for a Bluetooth speaker, there are be better values in Australia

Though the Flip 6 provides a good experience, it is expensive compared to competitor products
Bluetooth speakers have come down in price, and added new features such as power bank capabilities and smart speaker tech
Don’t expect all the bells and whistles from JBL on the Flip 6

TECHBEST DEAL FINDER SUMMARY

Where to buy the JBL Flip 6 Bluetooth speaker in Australia

The sixth installment of the Flip series Bluetooth speaker has powerful sound, and works well for a beach day or backyard barbecue. Australian buyers need be aware, some design flaws call into question durability. JBL are not an Australian company, and so support is handled overseas for Aussie customers. If you are ready to consider a nearly $200 price point for a wireless speaker, JBL may be a good choice.

BEST VALUE LINK

Please use the above link if you intend to make a purchase. You’ll get the lowest price, and help support our Australia-based staff of writers, editors, and photographers.

► $160.00 at Amazon.com.au – free 2-day delivery

If you enjoyed reading our JBL Flip 6 review, please consider sharing our content on your preferred social media platforms. TechBest provides the latest gadget reviews, deals, and news from our Australia editorial desk.