Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Wireless Earbuds, Sound by Bose, Bluetooth Headphones, Premium Noise Cancelling, Up to 40 Hrs Battery, Sweat and Water Resistant, Microphone for iPhone Android – Plasma
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With New Year’s Eve approaching, Australians are keenly buying tickets for concerts, festivals, and sports events. Nevertheless, recent findings from PayPal Australia highlight that many fans are becoming victims of ticket scams, incurring an average loss of A$432 per event.
One in five Australians claims to have missed events because of counterfeit or undelivered tickets. Alarmingly, nearly 10% have been scammed multiple times, suggesting the use of sophisticated scam techniques.
Interestingly, younger Australians face greater risks of high-value losses. Approximately 15% of Gen Z and Millennial victims have indicated losses of A$750 or above, contrasting with older Australians who do not report such significant losses.
The appeal of lower-priced tickets continues to pose a major threat. About 18% of Gen Z individuals are willing to risk buying tickets at questionable prices.
Only 6% of scammed consumers managed to avert financial loss by utilizing payment methods that incorporate buyer protection. The majority of victims opted for payment options lacking any recourse, such as direct bank transfers.
Social media platforms are saturated with deceptive activities; yet half of Australians still buy tickets through these outlets. Scammers frequently employ fake digital ticket images or pose as genuine sellers to mislead buyers.
Utilizing secure payment solutions like PayPal, which provides Buyer Protection, can assist consumers in obtaining refunds if their tickets fail to arrive.
As the demand for New Year’s Eve events skyrockets, Australians are encouraged to stick to approved ticketing platforms. The secondary market carries greater risks, with scammers establishing fake websites that imitate official sellers.
Reporting suspicious ticket offers helps safeguard the community. Over half of Australians would report a dubious offer, contributing to the prevention of others falling prey to scams.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, Australians face the dual thrill of attending events and the risk associated with ticket scams. With substantial financial losses reported, particularly among younger Australians, it is crucial to emphasize the use of secure payment methods and reliance on official ticket platforms to mitigate the risk of fraud.
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Bluetooth Sports Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth 5.4 Headphones with 4 ENC Noise Cancelling Mic, 68 Hours Hi-Fi Stereo Deep Bass Wireless Earbuds, LED Display, IP7 Waterproof Earphones with Ear Hooks
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For many years, peripheral devices have relied on proprietary barrel connectors and fixed cables. The risk of electronic waste escalates when these cables fail, making devices non-functional. The new EU regulation mandates the use of USB-C standards, alongside replaceable cables. This facilitates easy cable replacement in case of damage, accommodating devices up to 240W, ranging from routers to gaming displays.
The shift to USB-C commenced with the Radio Equipment Directive. By late 2026, devices such as smartphones, tablets, and cameras will incorporate USB-C for charging. Laptops are expected to follow by April 2026. By 2028, wall chargers will also comply, ensuring a seamless transition, particularly in Australia, where companies like Apple and Samsung are already phasing out chargers with their products.
The European Commission predicts a 3% decrease in energy usage from chargers by 2035, resulting in significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. New energy efficiency criteria will ensure that chargers utilize less power when not in use. Financially, this is anticipated to yield savings of about €100 million yearly for consumers, which is roughly A$163 million.
With the USB-PD standard, devices and chargers will interact to guarantee the appropriate voltage and current, safeguarding against device damage while facilitating rapid charging. A new “Common Charger” insignia will assist consumers in easily identifying compliant products, providing straightforward information about power output.
Some detractors contend that enforcing USB-C could hinder innovation in future charging technologies. Nevertheless, proponents argue that the standard is flexible, noting the recent enhancement in USB-C’s power capacity from 100W to 240W.
“Establishing common chargers for our smartphones, laptops, and other everyday devices is a wise strategy that prioritizes consumers while minimizing energy waste and emissions.”Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, European Commission.
Australian consumers will gain advantages from EU regulations arising from worldwide standardisation efforts. By 2029, most new devices are expected to feature USB-C power inputs. This simplifies cable organisation and enables investment in high-quality, reusable chargers across different devices.
The transition to a universal charging ecosystem is unavoidable. Manufacturers have a deadline to adapt, and detachable cables will improve product durability. In Australia, this shift is already evident in new devices at JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman. As the 2028 deadline nears, GaN technology is anticipated to become the norm for efficient chargers.
For additional information, visit the EU’s common charging solution page.
The EU’s requirement for USB-C ports on power supplies by 2028 seeks to standardise charging protocols, lessen electronic waste, and enhance energy efficiency. With global consequences, the Australian market is set to follow, resulting in environmental advantages and substantial financial savings for consumers.
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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 FE Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Grey)
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Sony Pulse Explore Wireless Earbuds (White) /PS5
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AKG N5 Hybrid TWS Headphone, White
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In a pivotal initiative to protect the mental health of young users, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has introduced a new statute mandating social media platforms to display mental health warnings. This legislation focuses on platforms that incorporate features such as infinite scrolling, auto-play, and algorithmic feeds, which are believed to promote excessive usage and carry potential mental health consequences.
Governor Hochul drew parallels between these warnings and those present on tobacco products or plastic packaging, which convey risks like cancer or suffocation, respectively. The objective is to enhance awareness and lessen the adverse effects of social media usage, especially among younger demographics.
The law is relevant to actions taking place within New York, though it does not apply to users accessing platforms from outside the state. The state’s attorney general is authorized to pursue legal action against platforms that fail to comply, with civil fines of up to US$5000 for each infringement.
This initiative in New York is part of a wider movement of legislative attempts to address the impact of social media on youth. Australia has recently enacted a ban on social media for individuals under 16, with similar laws already in place in California and Minnesota. While major tech firms like TikTok, Snap, Meta, and Alphabet have yet to react, global apprehension regarding social media’s influence on mental health is steadily increasing.
New York’s legislation requires mental health disclosures on social media platforms featuring addictive elements to protect younger users. With the possibility of substantial penalties, this law signifies a rising awareness of the necessity to confront the mental health effects of social media on younger generations.
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JLab Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Bluetooth 5 Earbuds, Headphones for Working Out, IP66 Sweatproof, 15-Hour Battery Life, 55-Hour Charging Case, Music Controls, 3 EQ Sound Settings
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In a development that has reverberated throughout the gaming community, several notable members of FaZe Clan, one of the most prestigious gaming organizations in the world, have declared their exit. On December 25, 2026, creators Adapt, JasonTheWeen, Lacy, Silky, and StableRonaldo confirmed their departure, signifying a major change within the organization.
The exit seems to be a collective choice rather than a spontaneous decision. Speculation about internal conflict has been prevalent, especially after Richard “Banks” Bengtson resigned as CEO earlier this year. This leadership shift may have encouraged these creators to pursue greater independence and consider opportunities outside of FaZe Clan’s established structure.
Established in 2010, FaZe Clan gained recognition for its groundbreaking content and gaming skills, particularly in Call of Duty. The FaZe House emerged as a cultural icon, merging gaming with lifestyle content that struck a chord with millions. Over time, FaZe transformed into a lifestyle brand, collaborating with major entities like the NFL and Snoop Dogg.
The exit of Adapt, JasonTheWeen, and others represents a substantial loss in viewership, as these creators significantly contributed to FaZe’s streaming metrics. JasonTheWeen, in particular, was a force, attracting tens of thousands of viewers and amassing millions of viewing hours.
The future for these creators might involve forming a new “supergroup” that could rival FaZe’s supremacy in the gaming realm. With personal brands expanding beyond the limits of traditional organizations, there’s speculation about fresh, independent initiatives akin to Plaqueboymax’s “5$TAR” movement.
This crucial moment presents FaZe Clan with the need for a strategic reorganization. The organization must either attract new talent or modify its approach to continue appealing to a Gen Z audience that favors individual creators over established brands. The gaming house model is shifting, and 2026 holds promise for new trends in the creator economy.
The recent departure of pivotal content creators from FaZe Clan marks an important turning point for the organization. As these creators pursue fresh starts, FaZe must navigate this transformation to retain its impact in the gaming and entertainment sectors. The evolution of the creator economy continues to alter the landscape, necessitating flexibility and creativity.
For additional details, visit https://fazeclan.com
