Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Belkin Soundform Motion True Wireless Bluetooth Headphones – White
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Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation – Bluetooth Headphones – Peony
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The January 2026 security update from Microsoft unintentionally caused issues with authentication and power management across multiple Windows versions, most notably affecting Windows 11 version 23H2. While intended to bolster security, this update resulted in unforeseen problems for users.
The problematic update influenced users running on Windows client versions 10, 11 23H2, 11 24H2, 11 25H2, along with Windows Server 2019, 2022, and 2026. Users faced challenges such as sign-in problems during Remote Desktop sessions and unexpected device reboots instead of shutdowns or hibernation.
At present, users can manually download and implement the patches, as they haven’t been assimilated into Microsoft’s standard Windows Update process yet. Users are recommended to apply these fixes manually to rectify the issues.
Microsoft intends to integrate these fixes into their monthly Patch Tuesday security update session, planned for February 10th at 10am US Pacific Time (5am AEDT). This will provide a smoother update procedure for users worldwide.
Microsoft’s January 2026 security update led to notable issues for Windows users, especially those utilizing Windows 11 version 23H2. Although manual patches are currently accessible, the forthcoming Patch Tuesday will present a more thorough resolution.
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OPPO Enco Air2 Pro True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds ETE21&ETE22, White, Gray
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The Department of Industry, Science and Resources in Australia is undertaking a thorough assessment of its enterprise resource planning (ERP) framework, coinciding with the mid-year renewal of its contract with TechnologyOne. This move is crucial as the department readies for the contract’s expiration in August 2026, igniting discussions regarding possible changes and enhancements to their existing ERP infrastructure.
The federal department currently utilizes software from six distinct vendors to oversee its ERP functions, concentrating mainly on internal finance and HR. The suite comprises TechnologyOne, Expense8, Aurion, Accendre (for HireRoad and eLearning), IBM Planning Analytics (TM1), and BluePrism for robotic process automation.
Considering the intricacy and essential nature of ERP systems, the department is expected to retain its primary enterprise software platform. Instead, the assessment intends to investigate opportunities for integrating native components to replace certain ancillary systems, likely diminishing the number of vendors and simplifying skillset demands.
A representative of the department refrained from divulging specific details about the assessment, citing an “open market approach.” Nevertheless, they assured that current ERP systems are maintained under enterprise arrangements.
The Department of Industry’s ERP assessment signifies a strategic initiative to possibly streamline its vendor landscape and improve system integration. With the TechnologyOne contract nearing renewal, the department is ready to make informed decisions that could result in more efficient operations.
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Compact soft and hard coolers serve as an entry-level solution for portable cooling, ranging from $20 to $50. These affordable alternatives are appropriate for short-term cooling demands, such as during commutes. However, their limited insulation restricts their effectiveness in maintaining low temperatures, particularly in Australian summers when temperatures surpass 35-40 degrees.
Deciding between conventional ice and reusable ice bricks showcases clear advantages. Reusable ice bricks reduce the recurring expense of buying ice and eliminate the issue of meltwater buildup. Various brands utilize different materials, with some better at maintaining frozen states for longer durations, although detailed performance metrics remain proprietary.
The Decathlon Quechua Fresh Compact is available at $140 and boasts a distinctive self-inflating design. It compresses to half its size when not utilized, preserving cold temperatures for up to 22 hours using ice packs. Features include adjustable straps, handles, and compartments, though it lacks waterproofing without an additional liner.
With a price tag of $325, the Dometic Recon 16L cooler delivers top-notch unpowered cooling through its modular construction. It has a capacity of 16 litres and features two-inch thick insulation for effective temperature maintenance. Its dual-opening lid and vibrant exterior improve usability and visibility.
The thickness of insulation plays a crucial role in cooling efficiency and capacity. The Decathlon cooler employs polyurethane and polyethylene foam, while the Dometic Recon presents thicker walls for extended performance. High-quality rotomoulded coolers ensure prolonged ice retention, albeit at a premium price.
Dividers within coolers promote organized storage, keeping regularly accessed items within reach while preserving internal temperatures. They also mitigate transit damage by isolating smaller items from larger ones.
Classic 12-volt coolers, ranging from $100 to $500, typically operate 15-20 degrees below ambient temperatures. While adequate for moderate climates, they can falter in intense heat, affecting food safety.
Electric vehicles feature vehicle-to-load technology, enabling 240-volt powered cooling solutions. Compressor-equipped units ensure reliable performance in extreme temperatures, although they may come with a higher price tag.
There is a growing presence of built-in refrigeration systems in electric vehicles, transitioning from aftermarket to factory-installed configurations. This trend responds to consumer preferences while utilizing the electrical capabilities of contemporary vehicles.
The Kia EV5 GT-Line features a rear sliding 4L storage compartment equipped with heating and cooling functions, providing added comfort for passengers. This attribute sets it apart as a premium model with advanced amenities.
The GAC Aion V includes a 6.6-litre refrigerator located in the centre console armrest, serving both as a refrigerator and warming compartment. Its energy-efficient design facilitates day trips without requiring extra coolers.
Numerous electric vehicles come equipped with camping or utility modes, allowing systems to run while parked without significant battery drain. This feature permits overnight usage of 240-volt fridges, providing an edge compared to traditional vehicles.
Determining the best cooling solution relies on intended usage, financial constraints, and vehicle capabilities. From economical soft coolers to luxury refrigeration systems, the Australian market presents a variety of choices to meet diverse demands.
The advancement of cooling solutions for vehicles, particularly electric ones, provides a broad spectrum of options from cost-effective to high-end powered systems. The selection between conventional and innovative solutions hinges on individual preferences, budget, and vehicle capabilities.
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Fairphone Fairbuds True Wireless Earbuds (Active Noise Cancellation, Replaceable Battery, Bluetooth 5.3) White
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A troubling incident has led to a breach of the Department of Education’s database, impacting all Victorian government schools and their students. This breach required an extensive password reset just as the new academic year was about to commence. The breached database included critical information such as student names, school-issued email IDs, encrypted passwords, school names, and year levels.
Although the Department of Education has verified the breach, the particulars of how the hacker gained access to the database remain unknown. The department has since undertaken containment actions and forensic evaluations. Alerts from at least one school have indicated that immediate measures were enacted to reset all student passwords, ensuring the provision of new access credentials upon their return.
The Victorian Department of Education has pinpointed the breach’s entry route and has put protective measures in place, such as temporarily suspending certain systems to avert further breaches. There are ongoing efforts in partnership with cybersecurity specialists and government bodies to minimize any disruption to students as they start the 2026 academic year.
The breach of the Victorian Department of Education’s database is a significant concern that impacts many students and schools. While there has been no public data release, the prompt response, including a mass password reset and consultations with experts, seeks to enhance security and prevent future breaches.
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Recently, Microsoft’s Copilot, an AI-based assistant, was discovered to possess a critical security weakness dubbed Reprompt. This flaw was detected by the data security company Varonis and has since been corrected by Microsoft. The defect permitted potential attackers to extract sensitive user information via a specifically designed single-click prompt injection.
Reprompt enabled attackers to deceive users into clicking a link that seemed authentic but redirected to Microsoft’s Copilot through a web browser. This link contained a specially formatted ?q= parameter with a pre-filled AI prompt, referred to as Parameter 2 Prompt (P2P) injection. After the user’s authenticated Copilot session loaded, the AI would start communicating with a server controlled by the attacker, allowing data extraction such as conversation history, location details, file access history, and more.
Once initiated, the attack could remain effective even if the user closed the Copilot chat window, as the session-level context was leveraged. The attack could bypass detection by client-side tools, since the payload was sent through later AI responses. Varonis noted that no additional user actions or plugins were necessary after the initial click, and there was no restriction on the types of data that could be extracted.
Although no Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) index number has been assigned to Reprompt, and there haven’t been any exploit reports, Varonis recommends that users stay cautious. This includes examining links, particularly those that open AI tools or prefilled prompts, and being cautious about AI requests for personal details. Users should terminate sessions and report any unusual activities promptly.
Microsoft has promptly addressed a critical security vulnerability in its Copilot AI, which could have enabled attackers to access sensitive user information via a single-click exploit. The flaw, identified by Varonis and termed Reprompt, underscores the importance of being alert when engaging with AI tools. Users are advised to be mindful of links and prefilled prompts to safeguard their online security.
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Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro Graphite Headphones (Import Version)
