Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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sajawass Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth 5.3 Headphones, Noise Cancelling Earbuds with 75 Hours Playtime, LED Power Display, IPX7 Waterproof Earbuds in-Ear Headphones for Sports/Training
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Tesla’s FSD (Full Self-Driving) v14.x is undergoing its most extensive evaluation to date. Tesla owner David Moss is embarking on a cross-country drive across the United States without human assistance. His endeavor is more than just a journey; it marks a pivotal moment in the realm of self-driving.
This expedition acts as a demonstration for Tesla’s future Robotaxi service, slated for launch in early 2026. Successfully completing this drive could be transformative, highlighting the software’s capability to traverse various roads and conditions.
Beginning in Hollywood, California, David’s journey extends approximately 4,500 kilometers to a beach along the Atlantic Ocean. The voyage is projected to last 45 to 50 hours, factoring in charging pauses.
The journey commenced at the Tesla Diner in Los Angeles, where David activated the FSD software. The initial phase through the heavy traffic of Los Angeles set the groundwork for the challenges to come.
The vehicle showcased its durability by maintaining lane precision amid the high temperatures and heat distortion of the Mojave Desert.
Upon entering Arizona, the vehicle navigated intricate interchanges effortlessly, reflecting the software’s advancements.
The FSD system adeptly managed steep inclines and twisting roads, displaying enhanced regenerative braking and decision-making abilities.
While moving through Texas, the system skillfully handled high-speed restrictions and large semi-trucks, providing a more comfortable driving experience.
The upgraded vision encoder excelled in low-light situations, identifying road hazards and responding to human signals.
As the journey approached its conclusion, the vehicle sustained its performance, leading to a flawless arrival at the Atlantic Ocean.
With the Full Self-Driving Capability now available in Australia, the successful completion of this expedition could signify the dawn of autonomous long-distance travel in the country. The technology stands on the cusp of revolutionizing our approach to road travel.
David Moss’s expedition using Tesla’s FSD v14 represents a significant advancement toward achieving complete autonomous driving. The journey not only underscores the software’s potential but also lays the groundwork for future innovations in autonomous travel, including in Australia.
The expedition provides a crucial evaluation of Tesla’s FSD capabilities, essential for the imminent Robotaxi service.
The system dealt with complex interchanges, high-speed traffic, night journeys, and real-time detours, demonstrating its resilience.
It lays the foundation for autonomous driving in Australia, offering a preview of the future of road travel without human involvement.
Notable advancements encompass improved lane management, immediate obstacle detection, and enhanced night vision functionalities.
The journey spanned roughly 4,500 kilometers and was estimated to last 45 to 50 hours, inclusive of charging intermissions.
The success of this mission suggests that fully autonomous, long-distance travel is imminent, potentially transforming road transport.
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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.
