Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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!
Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 Smart Earbuds with Bluetooth 5.4, Crystal-Clear Sound, Comfortable Design, 30-Hour Battery Life, Adaptive ANC, LE Audio and Auracast – White Silver
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!
Tech leader Microsoft is navigating economic challenges by showcasing remarkable performance in its cloud computing sector, Azure. The company registered a 33% year-on-year revenue rise for Azure in its third fiscal quarter, surpassing analyst forecasts of 29.7%, as reported by Visible Alpha.
This revenue boost has alleviated investor concerns regarding a potential decline in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) services amid broader economic uncertainties. The impressive results propelled Microsoft’s market capitalization by over US$200 billion (A$313 billion), reinforcing confidence in its long-term strategies in cloud and AI.
A significant takeaway from the results highlights AI’s rising role in Azure’s growth trajectory. AI services accounted for 16 percentage points of Azure’s revenue increase, a rise from 13 points in the preceding quarter. This trend signifies an increasing dependence of enterprise clients on AI solutions.
Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI, the developers of ChatGPT, is crucial to this momentum. Although the company refrained from providing the specifics regarding the OpenAI contract’s value, it affirmed that the agreement substantially enhanced commercial bookings, which increased by 18% during the quarter.
Looking forward, Microsoft has projected cloud computing revenue growth of 34% to 35% in the fourth fiscal quarter (Q4 FY24), aiming for total revenues between US$28.75 billion and US$29.05 billion. These estimates significantly surpass analyst expectations and reveal robust demand for both AI and non-AI cloud services.
Chief Financial Officer Amy Hood highlighted that while AI has been a strong contributor, the standout performer this quarter was Microsoft’s non-AI cloud segment. She mentioned that the company managed to provide AI capabilities sooner than anticipated to some customers, resulting in a slight uplift.
Microsoft’s approach is bolstered by aggressive investments in its infrastructure. In the third quarter, the company’s capital expenditures soared 53% to US$21.4 billion. However, a transition is occurring—allocating less to long-lasting assets like data centre edifices, and more to shorter-lived ones such as CPUs and GPUs.
Jonathan Neilson, Microsoft’s VP of Investor Relations, clarified that this pivot enables Microsoft to rapidly deploy hardware and quickly start recognising revenue. This aligns with the company’s strategy to lead in the AI race by investing in chips from industry frontrunners like Intel, AMD, and Nvidia.
Recent concerns arose following reports that Microsoft had concluded some data centre lease arrangements, prompting speculation about potential overcapacity. CEO Satya Nadella addressed these concerns, indicating that Microsoft has always dynamically adjusted its data centre strategies, and the current scrutiny from analysts represents a new phenomenon rather than a change in practice.
In essence, the company’s capability to reallocate and optimize resources is regarded as a competitive strength, enabling it to scale according to real-time demands in AI and cloud computing. Microsoft has reaffirmed its position that it remains constrained in AI capacity, thus the ongoing commitment to infrastructure expansion.
The consequences of Microsoft’s growth in AI and cloud services extend beyond its own financial outcomes. Analysts at JP Morgan estimate that spending on data centres by major tech companies could contribute 10 to 20 basis points to US GDP growth from 2025 to 2026. This underscores the macroeconomic significance of cloud infrastructure spending.
Firms like Nvidia, which provide essential chips for AI applications, stand to gain immensely from sustained industry momentum. However, any downturn could pose serious risks to the broader tech ecosystem and economic outlook.
Microsoft’s stronger-than-expected results in Azure cloud services highlight strong demand for both AI and conventional cloud infrastructure. With AI playing an increasingly crucial role in revenue generation, strategic hardware investments, and an adaptable data centre strategy, Microsoft is well-positioned for significant growth. As it gears up for fiscal 2026, the company continues to be a barometer for global cloud and AI expenditure health.
Azure’s expansion is driven by heightened enterprise adoption of AI services, traditional cloud services, and a major deal with OpenAI. AI alone contributed 16 percentage points to the reported 33% growth in Q3 FY24.
Microsoft has raised capital expenditures by 53% to US$21.4 billion, prioritizing shorter-lived assets such as AI chips (CPUs and GPUs) over long-term assets like data centre structures. This approach facilitates quicker deployment and revenue realisation.
Microsoft predicts 34% to 35% growth in cloud revenue for the upcoming quarter, surpassing analyst forecasts. Ongoing investments in AI and hybrid cloud infrastructure create a strong outlook, although broader economic conditions remain a factor.
AI is becoming an increasingly vital aspect of Azure’s services, contributing substantially to revenue growth. Microsoft is enhancing its AI infrastructure and capabilities to meet demand through partnerships with OpenAI and investments in tailored hardware.
Some analysts interpreted the end of data centre leases as an indication of overcapacity or diminished demand. However, Microsoft clarified that it regularly refines its data centre strategy and continues to be capacity-constrained in AI services.
Azure’s 33% growth surpassed Google Cloud’s 28% growth in the same period. Both companies benefit from AI demand, but Microsoft’s enterprise partnerships and hybrid cloud offerings give it a competitive advantage.
Investments by major tech firms in cloud and AI infrastructure, spearheaded by Microsoft, are anticipated to contribute to broader economic growth. JP Morgan forecasts this could add as much as 20 basis points to US GDP between 2025 and 2026.
Australian companies can expect enhanced AI capabilities, better cloud infrastructure, and faster service delivery through Microsoft Azure. The company’s global development and infrastructure investments provide advantages to local enterprise clients looking for scalable, intelligent solutions.
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!
JBL Wave Flex, JBL Deep Bass Sound, Comfortable fit, Up to 32 (8h + 24h) total hours of battery life with speed charging, Stay aware of your surrounding, Hands-free calls with VoiceAware, Black
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!
The 2025 federal election yielded a definitive result: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor Party will remain in power. Central to the campaign was a clear divergence in energy philosophies — one anchored in renewables, the other in nuclear energy.
Labor’s agenda, focused on relief from rising living costs and expanding clean energy, resonated with Australians concerned about expensive and unreliable energy alternatives. Conversely, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s nuclear vision failed to persuade a doubtful voter base, confirming nuclear energy as a non-viable option in Australia’s near-term landscape.
Dutton’s initiative sought to rejuvenate Australia’s energy framework by building seven nuclear power facilities across five states. The project included small modular reactors (SMRs) by 2035 and larger plants by 2037, aiming for a cumulative capacity of 14 gigawatts by 2050. The policy promised savings and energy reliability, particularly as coal facilities go offline.
While the Coalition projected a $331 billion expenditure for the nuclear development — considerably lower than Labor’s $594 billion renewable strategy — critics quickly dismissed the assertion. Independent analysis from CSIRO and AEMO estimated nuclear energy costs ranging from $145 to $238 per megawatt-hour, compared to significantly lower rates for solar and wind.
In contrast, the Coalition’s own projections optimistically claimed costs of $30 per megawatt-hour — a figure many energy economists regarded as unrealistic considering global trends in nuclear expenses.
Australia’s federal prohibition on nuclear energy, established in 1998, would necessitate bipartisan consensus to amend — a nearly impossible task given the opposition from Labor, the Greens, and several critical independents. State-level prohibitions persist in Queensland, Victoria, and other regions, complicating any nuclear expansion.
Even leaders within the Liberal Party, like Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and Victoria’s Brad Battin, expressed their disapproval of nuclear power — underscoring its political unpopularity even among Coalition members.
Despite international discussions regarding nuclear energy’s contribution to decarbonisation, Australian public sentiment remains predominantly negative. Polls during the campaign indicated only 35% of Australians supported nuclear energy, a figure that declined further when voters were informed of Dutton’s specific policy details.
Dutton’s intention to prolong the operational lives of coal plants while waiting for nuclear reactors to become operational posed significant climate risks. The Climate Change Authority projected that the strategy could result in up to 2 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions by 2050 — undermining Australia’s net-zero commitment and broader climate obligations.
Dutton’s choice to refrain from campaigning in electorates earmarked for nuclear facilities allowed Labor to dominate the narrative. Energy Minister Chris Bowen labeled nuclear the “Voldemort policy” — a term for the policy that cannot be mentioned — capitalizing on its unpopularity. Labor’s portrayal of nuclear as a threat to Medicare and educational financing proved politically effective.
The Albanese administration reports that the share of renewables in the national grid has surged by 25% since 2022. In 2024 alone, over 330,000 rooftop solar systems were installed. These milestones served as proof of the viability and scalability of renewable energy options.
Labor’s Clean Energy Future strategy entails substantial investments in wind, solar, battery storage, and pumped hydro projects. Offshore wind initiatives covering 30,000 km² are already in progress. These projects are backed by the CSIRO and AEMO, both of whom champion a renewables-led shift as the most economical pathway forward.
With coal plants set for closure by 2035, the government must ensure sufficient energy storage and transmission networks to uphold grid reliability and affordability for households.
The Australian voters have sent a clear signal: nuclear energy will not be part of the country’s impending future. Labor’s strong emphasis on renewables, financial relief, and climate pledges secured the support of voters cautious of the dangers and expenses associated with nuclear power. For now, Australia will pursue its energy future through solar, wind, and storage solutions—keeping nuclear energy firmly off the table.
Labor prevailed thanks to its emphasis on financial relief, investment in renewable energy, and robust leadership from Anthony Albanese. The party effectively positioned itself as the stable and forward-thinking option, while the Coalition’s nuclear energy plan was perceived as risky and costly.
The Coalition suggested constructing seven nuclear reactors at the locations of decommissioned coal facilities, aiming for 14 gigawatts of capacity by 2050. This included small modular reactors by 2035 and larger facilities by 2037, at a projected cost of $331 billion.
The proposal collapsed due to legal obstacles, high expenses, insufficient public endorsement, environmental risks, and errors in campaigning. Polls indicated limited voter support, with numerous state leaders, including some from the Liberal Party, expressing opposition to the idea.
Yes, nuclear energy is banned at the federal level under regulations established in the 1990s. Most states also enforce their own prohibitions. Overturning these laws would demand widespread political support, which is currently absent.
Labor seeks to achieve 82% renewable energy in the grid by 2030 and aim for net-zero emissions by 2050. The strategy encompasses investments in solar, wind, hydro, battery storage, and grid infrastructure to replace retiring coal facilities.
Only about 35% of Australians were in favor of nuclear energy. Support diminished further as voters educated themselves about the Coalition’s plan, particularly concerning costs and timelines.
Independent analyses have indicated that nuclear energy is considerably more expensive than renewables. Projects in other nations have faced delays and budget overruns, prompting worries about viability and financial risk for taxpayers.
Australia will persist in its transition toward a renewable energy framework. The focus will continue on expanding wind and solar capacities, enhancing storage solutions, and updating transmission networks to ensure reliability and sustainability.
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!
Microsoft’s recent quarterly results have communicated a definitive signal to investors: Azure continues to thrive. The tech behemoth’s cloud sector witnessed a revenue increase of a notable 33% for the quarter concluding on 31 March, exceeding analyst anticipations of 29.7%. This performance occurs amid widespread market unpredictability, ranging from AI investment slowdowns to the repercussions of US tariffs on global technology expenditures.
Artificial Intelligence remains a significant factor in Azure’s growth, contributing 16 percentage points to the 33% increase. This marks an increase from 13 points in the previous quarter, underscoring heightened enterprise adoption of AI technologies. However, Microsoft CFO Amy Hood was prompt to indicate that Azure’s remarkable quarter was chiefly propelled by its non-AI offerings. She remarked that the true advantage stemmed from early supply deliveries to clients, rather than solely from AI capability advancements.
AI services indeed form a part of the overall equation. Microsoft’s longstanding collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has led to a new Azure agreement that significantly boosted commercial bookings by 18%. Although Microsoft refrained from disclosing the contract’s financial impact, the agreement emphasizes Azure’s crucial role in facilitating cutting-edge AI developments.
Prior to the earnings announcement, a number of analysts flagged concerns regarding Microsoft’s cancellation of specific data centre leases — which many interpreted as an indication of overcapacity or diminished demand. Nevertheless, CEO Satya Nadella clarified that Microsoft frequently modifies its infrastructure strategies, and the recent scrutiny of these decisions may have been exaggerated.
“The forecasts were skeptical initially, allowing them the room to exceed expectations significantly,” noted Dan Morgan, a senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust. The unexpectedly robust figures contributed to a surge in Microsoft’s stock, enhancing its market capitalization by over US$200 billion (A$313 billion).
Microsoft reported a quarterly revenue of US$70.1 billion, showing a year-over-year increase of 13%. Earnings per share stood at US$3.46, surpassing expectations of US$3.22. The Intelligent Cloud division — inclusive of Azure — generated US$26.8 billion of the overall revenue.
Capital expenditure soared by 53% to US$21.4 billion, but Microsoft is realigning its investment strategy. The firm is transitioning from long-lasting assets such as data centre facilities to shorter-lived assets like CPUs and GPUs. These investments in chips enable Microsoft to expedite service deployment and recognize revenue more rapidly. This approach resonates with statements from Microsoft’s VP of investor relations, Jonathan Neilson, who highlighted the significance of chip deployment in revenue generation.
Microsoft’s aggressive move into AI infrastructure carries broader ramifications. A slowdown in AI investments by major tech companies could have cascading effects on the global tech supply chain, affecting chip manufacturers such as Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. JP Morgan economists project that data centre expenditures could contribute between 10 and 20 basis points to US GDP growth in 2025–2026.
For Australian tech startups and IT leaders, Microsoft’s optimistic outlook indicates that cloud services — especially hybrid models and AI workloads — will retain strategic importance. The ongoing expansion of Azure in Australia also highlights the necessity of cloud readiness, data sovereignty, and AI integration for staying competitive.
In spite of market concerns regarding AI saturation, data centre lease cancellations, and trade policy influences, Microsoft has posted a stellar quarter. Azure cloud services increased by 33%, exceeding expectations owing to both AI and conventional cloud solutions. The company’s future forecast remains robust, anticipating growth of 34–35% in Q4. Strategic pivots towards chip investments and the rapid deployment of AI infrastructure position Microsoft to sustain its leadership in cloud computing well into 2025 and beyond.
Although AI contributed 16 percentage points, the bulk of Azure’s expansion stemmed from its traditional cloud services. Timely customer deliveries and robust commercial bookings, including a notable agreement with OpenAI, were also critical contributors.
Investor confidence surged in the wake of the results, with Microsoft’s market valuation increasing by over US$200 billion (A$313 billion). The strong performance eased concerns regarding cloud demand and economic challenges.
Microsoft is shifting its investment strategy from long-term infrastructure like buildings to shorter-lived assets such as AI chips. This approach facilitates quicker revenue recognition and addresses rising demand for AI services.
Microsoft’s Azure has surpassed many expectations, aligning with strong cloud performance from Google. This positions it competitively against Amazon Web Services (AWS), particularly in AI-integrated cloud solutions.
Azure’s ongoing growth indicates persistent investment opportunities for Australian businesses. It reinforces the need for cloud adaptation, AI workflow integration, and alliances with international cloud providers to sustain technological competitiveness.
Yes, Microsoft has recognized constraints regarding AI infrastructure capacity. This awareness has prompted significant capital investments in chips and scalable AI-ready data centre frameworks.
While trade tariffs remain a consideration, Microsoft’s results indicate that enterprise cloud spending has yet to be impacted. Robust advertising metrics from firms like Meta further suggest stable business investment patterns.
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!
Noise Buds N1 in-Ear Truly Wireless Earbuds with Chrome Finish, 40H of Playtime, Quad Mic with ENC, Ultra Low Latency(up to 40 ms), Instacharge(10 min=120 min), BT v5.3(Carbon Black)
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!
CMF by Nothing Buds 2 Wireless Earbuds, 48dB Hybrid ANC, Dirac Opteo Hi-Fi Sound, Ultra Bass 2.0, 6 HD Mics with Clear Voice 3.0, IP55 Waterproof, Bluetooth Earphones with Dual Connection, Orange
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!
Virgin Australia has undertaken a major step in digital innovation by implementing Confluent Kafka to enable real-time data processing throughout its operations. The airline is enhancing customer-oriented services like live flight notifications, baggage tracking, and automated passenger recovery by transitioning from outdated batch processing systems to Kafka’s event streaming technology.
At the center of this evolution is the Flight State Engine (FSE), a real-time data conduit that acts as the definitive source for flight status. By aggregating data from multiple internal and third-party sources, FSE processes and organizes information in real-time — essential due to intermittent connectivity at certain regional airports across Australia. This system guarantees precise and timely flight updates for passengers as well as operational personnel.
The FSE was originally developed on Oracle’s now-defunct SOA platform and has been migrated to Kafka technology. This transition enhances reliability and scalability while aligning with Virgin’s initiative towards cloud-native frameworks.
New functionalities in the Virgin Australia mobile application, including the “Journey Tracker” and baggage tracking, now leverage event streams. The Journey Tracker provides passengers with immediate updates on gate alterations, delays, and other pertinent flight details. Simultaneously, real-time baggage tracking informs users when their luggage is loaded onto the plane and when it’s ready for collection at the carousel — with notifications precisely timed to alert users when to approach the baggage area.
Flight cancellations are no longer synonymous with lengthy lines or customer service delays. Virgin Australia has introduced an Automated Passenger Recovery (APR) solution, which utilizes Kafka to identify disruptions and automatically rebook impacted passengers. Notifications are sent through the app, allowing passengers to accept new bookings or consider alternatives — all in real-time.
Kafka is also streamlining backend operations such as the generation of passenger manifests. Virgin reports that this process now operates up to 40 seconds faster, which aids in reducing turnaround times and expedites flight departures. In aviation, every second matters, and this enhancement contributes to improved punctuality and customer satisfaction.
Kafka’s cloud-native functionality is empowering Virgin Australia to accommodate emerging use cases like real-time analytics. The analytics team is beginning to utilize Kafka to access transactional data that was previously confined to various systems, unlocking new possibilities for data-informed decision-making.
Virgin Australia’s adoption of Confluent Kafka exemplifies how cutting-edge data streaming technologies are transforming the airline sector. From real-time updates and baggage tracking to automated flight rebooking, Kafka is assisting Virgin in providing an enriched, real-time customer experience while enhancing operational flexibility. As the airline continues to develop its digital ecosystem, Kafka is set to play an increasingly vital role in data-driven innovation.
Confluent Kafka is a distributed event streaming platform that facilitates real-time data processing. Virgin Australia employs it to supersede outdated batch processing infrastructures, allowing for live updates and quicker operational responses.
The FSE is a Kafka-driven data pipeline that consolidates, purifies, and organizes flight data from multiple sources. It delivers an authoritative perspective on flight status for both passengers and personnel.
The application incorporates real-time features like Journey Tracker and baggage tracking. These services provide immediate updates to passengers regarding gate adjustments, delays, and baggage conditions utilizing Kafka event streams.
APR is a Kafka-driven system that identifies flight cancellations and automatically rebooks impacted travelers. Passengers receive alerts and can either accept the new itinerary or modify the options through the app.
Kafka decreases the time required to produce passenger manifests and optimizes the flow of data between systems. This results in expedited flight preparation and better on-time performance.
Absolutely, Kafka supports cloud-native structures and real-time analytics, enabling Virgin Australia to expand its digital offerings and merge additional use cases such as predictive insights.
Kafka is capable of processing data from systems with unreliable internet connections, such as those in remote airports, ensuring that passengers continue to receive accurate and timely updates regardless of their location.
Considering the evident advantages in improving passenger experiences and operational efficiency, it is probable that other airlines will implement similar real-time data streaming technologies soon.
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!
The newest offering from Withings, an international front-runner in connected health technology, has arrived in Australia. The ScanWatch Nova Brilliant Edition is a hybrid smartwatch that effortlessly combines traditional watch aesthetics with innovative medical-grade health tracking features. It caters to Australians looking for both elegance and functionality in their wearable technology.
This edition enhances the ScanWatch Nova series with two opulent options: titanium silver and a captivating bicolour silver and gold. The 39mm watch face is suitable for smaller wrists while preserving a streamlined, minimalistic design. A prominent feature is the fluted rotating bezel, complemented by box-shaped sapphire glass for outstanding durability.
The ScanWatch Nova Brilliant is tailored for all-day wear — whether you’re in the office, at the gym, or embarking on weekend pursuits. With its water resistance up to 50 metres (5ATM), it’s ideal for swimming and general water exposure.
The included 5-link stainless steel band offers a luxurious feel, while the additional fluorinated rubber (FKM) band ensures comfort and versatility during workouts. The gold variant comes with a distinctive two-tone wristband that adds opulence, while the titanium bezel of the silver version boosts durability without adding excess weight.
Beneath its refined surface, the ScanWatch Nova Brilliant Edition features a range of medical-grade sensors and health monitoring capabilities designed to provide a thorough overview of your wellness.
A highlight of the device is its capability to conduct an electrocardiogram (ECG) on demand. By merely touching the side of the bezel for half a minute, users can identify signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib), one of the prevalent heart rhythm disorders. Results are instantly accessible via the Withings app and can be shared with healthcare professionals for further analysis.
According to Withings, its products have identified over 2 million AFib instances worldwide since 2020, emphasizing the role of wearables in preventive healthcare.
The ScanWatch Nova Brilliant features continuous monitoring of body temperature using state-of-the-art heat flux and temperature sensors. This empowers users to recognize early signs of illness or track their recovery after exercise. The temperature information is clearly presented in the Withings app, allowing users to observe trends and irregularities over time.
Keeping track of blood oxygen levels is crucial for evaluating respiratory health and athletic performance. The ScanWatch Nova Brilliant measures SpO2 levels and tracks nighttime breathing irregularities — a valuable feature for detecting signs of sleep apnea or other breathing problems.
The watch emphasizes sleep health. It offers a Sleep Quality Score and monitors sleep phases, duration, depth, and interruptions. Users receive tailored recommendations for improving sleep hygiene directly within the Withings app.
Whether you’re walking, cycling, or working out, the watch automatically recognizes over 40 different activities. It records steps, calories burned, elevation, and even maps your exercise routes with connected GPS. It also estimates VO2 Max — a vital indicator of cardiovascular fitness — providing insights on how your body utilizes oxygen during physical activity.
Australians can now acquire the ScanWatch Nova Brilliant Edition for A$799.99. It’s available through major retailers including JB Hi-Fi and Amazon Australia.
Each purchase includes both a 5-link metal bracelet and a sporty FKM wristband, allowing users to effortlessly switch styles based on the occasion.
The Withings ScanWatch Nova Brilliant Edition signifies the new era of hybrid smartwatches for Australians. With its elegant design, premium materials, and an array of medical-grade health tracking options, it stands as one of the most advanced wearables available. Whether your focus is monitoring heart health, enhancing sleep quality, or enjoying sophistication, this watch provides an excellent combination of aesthetics and practicality.
The Nova Brilliant Edition is notable for its hybrid design, fusing a traditional analogue appearance with sophisticated medical-grade sensors. It features ECG, SpO2, temperature tracking, and sleep monitoring, all while maintaining a high-end look that is suitable for all-day usage.
Yes, the watch is water-resistant to 50 metres (5ATM), making it suitable for swimming and aquatic activities.
While the watch can operate independently for basic tracking, complete access to health statistics, ECG readings, and GPS route mapping requires synchronization with the Withings app on a smartphone.
The ECG function is clinically validated for detecting atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. It provides results in merely 30 seconds and has been assessed by medical experts worldwide.
The ScanWatch Nova Brilliant features an outstanding battery life of up to 30 days on a single charge, depending on how it is used.
The Nova Brilliant Edition is available in a 39mm size in both titanium silver and bicolour silver and gold variations.
The watch can be found online and in-store at JB Hi-Fi and Amazon Australia for A$799.99.
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!
The University of Sydney has initiated a significant project to transform its contract management system, tackling persistent challenges related to compliance, complexity, and administrative workload. With tens of thousands of contracts processed each year, the university’s legal team, although small, required a scalable and user-friendly approach to ensure control and effectiveness.
A primary objective was to enhance the comprehensibility and accessibility of contracts for personnel outside the legal areas. “We’ve completely reimagined the design of the contracts to be much easier to comprehend and implement,” stated Deborah Hook, Director of Legal Operations at the university. This initiative was fueled by the goal of enabling various departments to manage low-risk contracts autonomously while preserving legal compliance.
Instead of adopting entirely new systems, the university opted to enhance its current digital setup. Tools already in place included:
However, the challenge was to integrate these separate tools into a unified workflow. This gap was filled by Nintex Workflow Cloud.
The university initiated a trial of Nintex Workflow Cloud, a no-code automation platform, to connect its different tools. This development allowed for the creation of automated processes linking ServiceNow, DocuSign, and Microsoft 365, facilitating a seamless contract lifecycle.
“We opted to pilot Nintex Workflow Cloud to provide a framework for us to consolidate these elements,” Hook mentioned. The university embraced a design thinking approach, collaborating swiftly with end-users to ensure the tools aligned with practical requirements.
The revised processes have received unanimous acclaim from staff members. The academic community, in particular, has highlighted the enhanced user experience and improved contract formats. Consequently, the legal operations department is currently facing a backlog of 16 more contract types that need redesigning.
“We’ve been overwhelmed with requests to create additional contract types,” Hook said. “Many teams are eager to collaborate with us.”
In a gesture that emphasizes the university’s dedication to collaboration and transparency, the newly crafted contract templates will be made available under a Creative Commons Zero licence. This allows them to be freely utilized by other universities and organizations looking to enhance their own contract procedures.
The University of Sydney has made remarkable progress in modernizing its contract management system through a blend of design thinking, automation, and the strategic application of existing tools. By leveraging platforms such as Nintex Workflow Cloud and prioritizing user-focused design, the university has minimized administrative pressures, boosted compliance, and fostered a more empowering environment for both academic and administrative personnel. With further contract types planned and open access to templates, this initiative sets a new standard for innovation in the legal operations of higher education.
The university handles tens of thousands of contracts each year with a relatively small legal team. The previous system imposed administrative difficulties and compliance challenges, leading to a comprehensive redesign aimed at simplifying contracts, enhancing accessibility, and facilitating management.
The university employed existing tools such as ServiceNow (for tracking requests), DocuSign (for electronic signatures), and Microsoft 365. To harmonize these tools and automate workflows, they introduced Nintex Workflow Cloud, a no-code platform.
A no-code platform like Nintex enables users to create automated workflows and applications without requiring traditional coding skills. This functionality allowed the university to rapidly develop integrated solutions using internal resources, reducing dependence on IT or third-party vendors.
Design thinking is a user-centric problem-solving methodology. The university engaged relevant stakeholders, quickly prototyped solutions, and adjusted based on feedback. This process ensured the final system met the daily operational needs of its users.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly favorable, particularly from academic staff. The streamlined contracts and user-friendly workflows have simplified their tasks, with numerous teams now seeking similar solutions for other contract types.
Yes, the enhanced contract types will be released under a Creative Commons Zero licence, making them available to the wider educational and organisational sector for their use.
Initially, six contract types are being upgraded in 2024. However, due to increased interest, there is now a backlog of 16 other contract types pending transformation.
Key insights include optimizing existing resources before pursuing new solutions, adopting no-code platforms for speedier development, applying design thinking for user-focused outcomes, and sharing successful innovations for collective benefit.
