Blog - Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia

OnePlus Buds Pro 2 Bluetooth Truly Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Spatial Audio Review

Matthew Miller on February 10, 2026

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission which is paid directly to our Australia-based writers, editors, and support staff. Thank you for your support!

OnePlus Buds Pro 2 Bluetooth Truly Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Spatial Audio Dynamic Head Tracking,co-Created with Dynaudio,Upto 48dB Adaptive Noise Cancellation,Upto 40Hrs Battery (Obsidian Black)

Mysterious Optus Mobile Disruption Impacts More Than 100,000 Users

Vanessa May on February 10, 2026

Optus Mobile Service Disruption Affects Australian Users

Quick Overview

Optus mobile service disruption affects more than 100,000 users.
Impact is not confined to specific regions or device types.
Possibly associated with issues related to network equipment.
Optus is collaborating with Ericsson to fix the disruption.
Triple Zero emergency calls are not impacted by the disruption.
Investigation into Optus network disruptions is ongoing.

Understanding the Optus Disruption

Mysterious Optus mobile issue affects over 100,000 users

Extent and Effect

Optus is facing a large-scale mobile service disruption impacting more than 100,000 users. Early estimates indicated up to 220,000 users were affected, but this figure has now been adjusted to about 115,000, with the problem appearing to lessen. This disruption does not seem to be limited to any particular geographical zone or type of device, making it a challenging situation for the telecommunications provider.

Identifying the Cause and Customer Guidance

The exact cause of the disruption is still unknown, although a problem with network equipment is suspected. Users encountering ‘No Service’ or ‘SOS’ notifications are recommended to reboot their devices to possibly restore functionality. Optus is working alongside its partner, Ericsson, to rectify the situation, and there has been a noticeable decrease in affected users.

Emergency Services Remain Operational

In spite of the interruption, Optus assures that the capability to make Triple Zero emergency calls remains intact. This assurance is significant as there is an ongoing parliamentary inquiry into the Optus network, which includes a critical outage from last September that was associated with fatalities. The findings of this inquiry, initially expected soon, have been rescheduled to March 30 at the request of the chair.

Conclusion

The recent disruption of Optus mobile services has resulted in considerable inconvenience for over 100,000 users across Australia. While the precise cause is still being investigated, the telecom company is actively engaged with Ericsson to address the problem. In the meantime, customers can be reassured that emergency services are still reachable, and further inquiries into the reliability of the Optus network continue.

FAQ Section

Q: How many users were impacted by the Optus disruption?

A: More than 100,000 users were impacted, although the initial count was reported as high as 220,000.

Q: What actions should users take if they face service problems?

A: Users are encouraged to restart their phone if they see ‘No Service’ or ‘SOS’ on their screens.

Q: Is the disruption limited to certain geographic locations or devices?

A: No, the disruption is not restricted to any specific area or type of device.

Q: Are emergency call services affected by the disruption?

A: No, Optus has confirmed that the disruption does not influence Triple Zero emergency calls.

Q: What is thought to be causing the disruption?

A: A network equipment issue is suspected to be the cause, although this has not been confirmed.

Q: Who is Optus collaborating with to resolve the situation?

A: Optus is partnering with Ericsson to tackle and solve the disruption.

JLab JBuds Air True Wireless Signature Bluetooth Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on February 9, 2026

JLab JBuds Air True Wireless Signature Bluetooth Earbuds + Charging Case, Black, IP55 Sweat Resistance, Bluetooth 5.0 Connection, 3 EQ Sound Settings Signature, Balanced, Bass Boost

Teenager Sustains Two Fractured Legs in Unlawful E-Bike Collision in Melbourne

Vanessa May on February 9, 2026

Brief Overview

A 17-year-old sustained severe injuries in a prohibited e-bike collision in Melbourne.
The e-bike, a Surron Ultra Bee X HP, was not legal for road use, and the rider lacked a license.
Legal repercussions and financial responsibilities await the young rider.
Victoria enforces stringent laws concerning e-bikes on public thoroughfares.
Riders are advised to confirm legality and utilize safety equipment to avert accidents.

The Accident

On 9 February 2026, a 17-year-old operating an unauthorized electric motorbike crashed into a vehicle in Altona North, Melbourne. While trying to overtake stopped traffic, the teenager was thrown off his bike when a car turned in his path. He incurred two fractured legs and a dislocated shoulder. This event, regrettably, emphasizes the risks associated with non-compliant e-bikes on public streets.

Legal and Financial Ramifications

The teenager faces serious legal complications, including possible civil lawsuits for damages, as he was unlicensed and operating an unregistered bike. The repair costs for the involved vehicle might exceed A$20,000, creating a burdensome financial obligation. Courts could impose wage deductions or property seizures to resolve these claims.

E-Bike Rules in Victoria

Victoria permits e-bikes on public roads if they meet certain criteria. Pedelecs are limited to a motor power of 250 watts, offering assistance solely while pedaling, and cease assistance at 25 km/h. Throttle-based models must not surpass 200 watts. Bikes exceeding these specifications are categorized as motor vehicles, necessitating registration and licensing.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Riding an illegal e-bike may result in fines exceeding $1,000 for using an unregistered vehicle and about $500 for violating public transport regulations. Victoria Police encourage purchasers to confirm legality prior to buying high-powered e-bikes.

Safety and Accountability

The increase of electric mobility should not compromise safety. Riders are urged to understand local laws and wear suitable safety equipment, including helmets and protective attire, to prevent severe injuries. E-bikes are not toys and must be ridden responsibly on public roads.

Conclusion

The recent incident involving a young individual on an illegal e-bike in Melbourne highlights the importance of adhering to local regulations and safety measures. The situation serves as a vital reminder of the dangers and duties linked with electric mobility, encouraging riders to prioritize safety and compliance.

Q: What are the legal standards for e-bikes in Victoria?

A: E-bikes must have a maximum motor power of 250 watts for pedelecs and 200 watts for throttle-controlled models, along with speed restrictions for motor assistance.

Q: What penalties are imposed for operating an illegal e-bike?

A: Penalties can exceed $1,000 for unregistered vehicle operation and about $500 for breaching public transport regulations.

Q: Who is responsible for damages in a crash involving an illegal e-bike?

A: Typically, the unlicensed rider bears personal liability for any civil claims arising from the accident.

Q: Why is wearing safety gear essential when riding e-bikes?

A: Proper safety equipment, including helmets and protective clothing, can significantly reduce the risk of severe injuries in the event of an accident.

Q: How can one ensure that an e-bike is legal for road use?

A: Check the bike’s compliance with local legislation and consult authorities such as VicRoads prior to making a purchase.

For additional details, visit https://transport.vic.gov.au/getting-around/bicycles/electric-bikes

Defective Security Certificate Results in Six-Hour Senate Website Downtime

David Leane on February 9, 2026

Quick Overview

A six-hour interruption of the Senate website resulted from an expired security certificate.
The certificate was not documented and was tied to a former staff member.
Since October of last year, APH.gov.au has experienced three additional outages.
DPS has encountered various cybersecurity threats, such as phishing and malware attacks.

Outage of Senate Website Due to Security Certificate Expiration

Expired certificate leads to issues with Senate website

Outage Details

The Australian Senate’s live web service, referred to as ‘Dynamic Red’, faced a notable outage due to an expired security certificate. This incident persisted for six hours, hindering the capability of legislators, journalists, and the public to monitor Senate proceedings in real-time.

Origin and Action Taken

The expired certificate was from a vendor not commonly utilized by the Department of Parliamentary Services (DPS) and was linked to a previous employee. The absence of documentation and oversight regarding the certificate resulted in delays in pinpointing and rectifying the problem.

Prior Outages and Cybersecurity Issues

Beyond this event, the APH.gov.au site has encountered three earlier outages since October of the previous year. These disruptions were attributed to elements such as the YisouSpider web crawler and various technical dependencies.

DPS has also been tackling notable cybersecurity threats, thwarting over 7000 phishing attempts and probing several cyber alerts.

Conclusion

The recent outage of the Senate website underscores the essential nature of managing security certificates and upholding strong cybersecurity protocols. As digital services gain prominence, ensuring their dependability and security is crucial for government functions.

Q: What led to the Senate website outage?

A: The outage was caused by an expired security certificate, which was undocumented and associated with a former employee.

Q: What was the duration of the outage?

A: The outage persisted for six hours, affecting real-time monitoring of Senate activities.

Q: Have there been any past issues with the website?

A: Indeed, there were three additional outages since October of last year, resulting from issues like the YisouSpider web crawler.

Q: How is DPS managing cybersecurity threats?

A: DPS has prevented over 7000 phishing attempts and remains active in investigating cyber alerts to safeguard its digital services.

Everyday Raycon Wireless Earbuds with Microphone Review

Matthew Miller on February 9, 2026

The Everyday Raycon Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds with Microphone- Stereo Sound in-Ear Bluetooth Headset True Wireless Earbuds 32 Hours Playtime (Matte Black)

Management Retreats: Fostering Essential Leadership Conversations

Nicholas Webb on February 9, 2026

Executive Retreats: An Innovative Take on Leadership Conversations

Quick Overview

Exclusive retreats aimed at senior technology executives in Australia.
Emphasis on small, selective groups for thorough discussions.
Initial retreat in March 2026, concentrating on security leadership.
Subjects include burnout, wellness, and contemporary security team management.
Following retreat in May 2026, centered on data and AI leadership.

TechBest Executive Retreats: Facilitating Leadership Discussions that Matter

Recognizing the Importance of Executive Retreats

Senior technology leaders encounter increasing responsibilities and heightened accountability, frequently with limited opportunities to pause and reflect. As conferences grow in size, the possibilities for close-knit, peer-level conversations decrease. TechBest’s Executive Retreat series responds to this by hosting exclusive events designed for impactful engagement.

Security Leaders Edition: March 2026

The first Security Leaders Edition, taking place on 19–20 March 2026 at Château Élan, Hunter Valley, is a significant occasion for senior technology and security leaders. This retreat offers an engaging overnight experience focused on resilience, wellness, and the broader demands of contemporary security leadership.

Key Topics

Burnout & Wellness: Approaches to recognize and address executive burnout, ensuring sustainable performance while supporting wellness.
Leading Contemporary Security Teams: Perspectives on developing and sustaining high-achieving security teams in a shifting threat environment, emphasizing leadership skills beyond technical expertise.

Data & AI Leaders Edition: May 2026

The series advances with the Data & AI Leaders Edition scheduled for 28–29 May 2026. This retreat redirects attention to leadership amidst rapid progress in data and AI technologies, exploring strategic choices, governance, and the ethical obligations of leaders.

The Influence of Executive Retreats

TechBest aspires to enhance Australia’s technology leadership community by offering high-value, meaningful retreats. These events create environments for openness, clarity, and authentic connection, tackling the complex challenges leaders encounter.

Recap

TechBest’s Executive Retreats present a distinctive chance for senior leaders to engage in significant discussions, customized for the intricacies of today’s technology arena. These retreats are an essential resource for leaders aiming to adeptly navigate the shifting responsibilities of their roles.

Q&A Section

Q: Who is eligible to participate in TechBest’s Executive Retreats?

A: The retreats cater to senior leaders from end-user organizations, specifically targeting those pursuing comprehensive, peer-level discussions.

Q: What subjects will be addressed in the Security Leaders Edition?

A: Major subjects include managing executive burnout and guiding high-achieving security teams in evolving threat scenarios.

Q: What is the format of the retreats?

A: Each retreat consists of small, curated groups with private discussions tailored to certain leadership contexts.

Q: How can I sign up for the retreats?

A: Interested participants can sign up by visiting the TechBest website for further details.

Q: What will the Data & AI Leaders Edition focus on?

A: This retreat will center on leadership challenges concerning data and AI, encompassing strategic decision-making and governance.

Q: What benefits do these retreats provide to attendees?

A: Attendees gain valuable insights, best practices, and opportunities to connect with peers dealing with similar leadership challenges.

JBL Vibe Beam 2 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on February 8, 2026

JBL Vibe Beam 2 – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds Pure Bass Sound & Smart Ambient Technology, 4mics for Crisp, Clear Calls, up to 40Hrs of Playback, IP54 Dust & Water Resistant (Blue)

Stream for a Cause: Game On Cancer Day 2026 Aims for A$50,000 for Essential Research

David Leane on February 8, 2026

Quick Read

Game On Cancer Day will take place on February 8, 2026, with a target of raising A$50,000.
Renowned Australian creators such as ZacSpeaksGiant and LounaTuna will take part.
The initiative benefits vital cancer research through Cure Cancer.
Participants can win valuable tech prizes by supporting the fundraiser.
The live broadcast will originate from Lowkii’s studio in Sydney on Twitch and TikTok.

Bringing Together the Gaming Community for a Purpose

The Australian gaming community is again demonstrating that its influence extends beyond the digital realm. Game On Cancer Day is scheduled for February 8, 2026, uniting top Australian creators to gather funds for important cancer research. Organized by Cure Cancer, this one-day event highlights the strength of digital communities in facilitating real-world impact.

A Star-Studded Cast

This year’s occasion showcases distinguished creators including ZacSpeaksGiant, LounaTuna, TRASH, and the Can It Co-Op? duo, Galaxy and NorZZa. The event will be streamed live from Lowkii’s production facility in Sydney, ensuring superior quality broadcasts for all viewers. Other participants comprise Teegstah, the Thumb Cramps podcast duo, Alexandra Lynne, and JustEllieWillDo, collectively aiming for the A$50,000 fundraising target.

Game On Cancer Day 2026 aims to raise A$50,000

More than Just Gaming

Game On Cancer Day offers much more than gaming entertainment. The event itinerary is packed with collaborative challenges, giveaways, and guest appearances to sustain the excitement. It will be available on Twitch and TikTok, boosting viewer interaction and engagement.

“Game On Cancer Day is about showcasing what can be achieved when creators and communities unite,”Spokesperson, Cure Cancer.

Amazing Prizes for Kind Contributions

To encourage donations, the event presents various tech prizes. Featured items include a PC Case Gear Phantom 9070XT Gaming PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S. Additional rewards consist of gaming accessories and digital bonuses like Bethesda and Ubisoft game codes.

Advancing the Future of Cancer Research

Cure Cancer has a longstanding tradition of supporting early-career researchers in innovative areas such as immunotherapy. The Game On Cancer community has played a crucial role in this, raising over A$2.3M so far. These contributions ensure the sustainability of groundbreaking research.

“Every contribution and every moment shared aids in funding the future generation of cancer researchers – and that effect reaches far beyond a single day.”Spokesperson, Cure Cancer.

How to Get Involved

To support the cause, watch the live streams on February 8 and donate through the official Tiltify page. Even if financial contribution isn’t possible, promoting the event on social media or joining the Discord community can help expand the initiative’s reach. Given the Australian gaming community’s history, achieving the A$50,000 goal is definitely attainable.

🚨 IT’S ON 🚨Game On Cancer Day is back – and this year… it’s stacked.📅 Feb 8
🕛 10am AEDT
📍 Live over at @BackPocketVids Twitch
💜 $50K for cancer researchFrom consoles to custom PCs, we’re teaming up with some unreal partners and creators to make every milestone… pic.twitter.com/HbugQZBPZB— Game On Cancer® 🔜 #GOCD (@GameOn_Cancer) February 2, 2026

Conclusion

Game On Cancer Day 2026 represents a crucial event that unites the Australian gaming community to back vital cancer research. With a fundraising goal of A$50,000, this project not only promises entertainment but also contributes to a cause that has the potential to transform countless lives.

Q: What is Game On Cancer Day?

A: Game On Cancer Day is a yearly fundraiser organized by Cure Cancer to support cancer research, engaging the gaming community to hit a monetary target.

Q: How can I watch and take part in the event?

A: You can watch the event live on Twitch and TikTok. Participation involves donating through the official Tiltify page and interacting with the online community.

Q: Who are the main participants?

A: Key participants include ZacSpeaksGiant, LounaTuna, TRASH, and others from the Australian gaming scene.

Q: What rewards are available for contributors?

A: Contributors can win a variety of tech prizes, including a Phantom 9070XT Gaming PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S, and a range of gaming accessories and digital prizes.

Q: How will the money raised be utilized?

A: The funds collected will support early-career researchers in innovative cancer research sectors, ensuring the continuation of advanced work.

Q: What is the fundraising objective for 2026?

A: The fundraising objective for Game On Cancer Day 2026 is A$50,000.

Q: How can I promote the event if I can’t contribute financially?

A: You can promote the event by sharing it on social media and joining the Discord community to amplify the message.

Q: Where can I find additional information?

A: Visit Cure Cancer’s official website for more details about the event.

ANZ Leverages Agentforce to Improve New CRM Platform

David Leane on February 8, 2026

ANZ Utilizes Agentforce to Transform CRM

Quick Overview

ANZ is the pioneering bank in the APAC region to deploy Agentforce extensively.
Agentforce boosts the Salesforce CRM by automating processes and improving workflows.
The updated system integrates data from 20 different platforms into one centralized dashboard.
Instant account summaries are anticipated to save bankers a month of work each year.
ANZ is committing resources to digital transformation to enact a customer-centric strategy.
ANZ Plus’s digital-first offering is projected to be available for the majority of SMEs by the end of 2027.

ANZ Adopts Agentforce for CRM Improvement

The ANZ Banking Group has made a remarkable advancement in digital innovation by incorporating Agentforce, Salesforce’s AI-powered platform, into its customer relationship management (CRM) system. This venture positions ANZ as the first bank in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region to implement this technology on a large scale.

ANZ implements Agentforce to upgrade CRM capabilities

Transforming Banking Operations

Through Agentforce, ANZ seeks to elevate its CRM functionalities beyond mere information retrieval. The AI platform will take over complex tasks and refine workflows, enabling bankers to effectively manage opportunity leads, visualize customer insights, and prioritize daily tasks.

Integrated Data Management

The Salesforce CRM rollout is crafted to unify data from 20 various platforms into a single, user-friendly dashboard. This incorporation is expected to facilitate real-time account summaries, potentially freeing up bankers the equivalent of one month’s work per year.

Improving Customer Engagement

A newly designed chat interface will streamline the process of locating and retrieving customer information, making interactions more insightful. The actions and results produced by the system will continuously evolve based on user input, ensuring it adapts to user requirements.

Strategic Commitments and Future Outlook

As stated by Clare Morgan, ANZ’s Group Executive for Business and Private Banking, the investment in CRM and Agentforce is part of a larger mission to enhance frontline operations and maintain a customer-centric focus. ANZ is also hastening its digital development plan, with an aim to unveil the ANZ Plus interface for small to medium enterprises by late 2027.

ANZ Plus: A Digital-First Initiative

ANZ Plus signifies the bank’s commitment to a digital-first strategy, which has been in the works since 2019. This platform is a key priority for ANZ’s new CEO, Nuno Matos, as the bank aims to transition a larger number of customers to this innovative digital experience.

Conclusion

ANZ’s merger of Agentforce with its Salesforce CRM represents a significant leap forward in its digital transition. By automating processes and centralizing data, the bank aims to substantially improve operational efficiency and customer engagement. With a steadfast commitment to a customer-first strategy, ANZ’s ongoing investments reflect a strong dedication to advancing digital banking solutions within Australia.

Q: What is Agentforce?

A: Agentforce is Salesforce’s AI-powered platform aimed at automating and simplifying intricate tasks, thereby enhancing CRM functionalities.

Q: In what ways will Agentforce assist ANZ’s bankers?

A: ANZ’s bankers will gain from automated workflows, instantaneous account summaries, and improved customer insights, boosting efficiency and saving time.

Q: What does ANZ Plus entail?

A: ANZ Plus is the bank’s digital-first approach focused on delivering a streamlined and advanced banking platform for customers, especially small to medium enterprises.

Q: When is ANZ Plus expected to be available for SMEs?

A: ANZ Plus is anticipated to be launched for most small to medium enterprises by late 2027.

Q: How does the upgraded CRM system improve data management?

A: The new CRM system integrates data from 20 platforms into a single dashboard, offering real-time insights and simplifying data management.

Q: What characterizes ANZ’s customer-centric strategy?

A: ANZ’s customer-centric strategy focuses on investing in digital advancements and technologies that enhance customer service and streamline banking operations.