Blog - Page 14 of 202 - Techbest - Top Tech Reviews In Australia

BoM Continues Reliance on ‘Legacy’ Website with No Intentions to Retire

David Leane on November 28, 2025

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!

Revamping BoM’s Website and Dependence on Legacy Platform

Rapid Overview

BoM invested $96 million into a website revamp yet remains dependent on its legacy platform.
The old site will persist indefinitely to ensure access to vital data.
Increased costs and project delays have sparked political debates.
The refreshed site seeks to enhance the user experience while retaining key functions.

BoM’s Website Revamp: A Pricey Endeavor

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) recently wrapped up a hefty $96 million revamping of its online platforms. Even with this expenditure, the bureau still relies on its legacy website, reg.bom.gov.au, which will continue to operate indefinitely, particularly for emergency services and industry clients dependent on its essential data.

BoM persists with legacy site despite revamp

Political Context and Budget Surplus

Minister for Environment Murray Watt voiced concerns over BoM’s transition strategy. What was intended to be a unification and replacement of the current platforms has turned into a mere addition to the legacy site. The project’s financial plan surged from an initial $31 million pact with Accenture to $96.5 million, intensifying political scrutiny.

Functionality and User Interaction

A spokesperson for BoM indicated that the new site is designed to elevate the user experience for the general audience. Nevertheless, it does not supplant the fundamental functions of the legacy platform, which remains vital for supplying specialized data access to emergency services.

Conclusion

The Bureau of Meteorology’s expensive website enhancement has not removed the necessity for its legacy platform. While the new site intends to serve general users, the legacy site remains critical for essential data access. The venture has encountered budget overflow and political backlash, underscoring the complexities of digital evolution in public services.

Q: Why does BoM continue to depend on its legacy platform?

A: The legacy platform offers vital weather data to emergency services and industry sectors that need it, and its continued operation was always intended.

Q: What was the original budget for the BoM website revamp?

A: The original budget was $31 million, as per the agreement with Accenture, but it ultimately rose to $96.5 million.

Q: What enhancements does the new BoM website provide?

A: The new website aims to boost user experience for regular consumers with revamped pages and an upgraded interface.

Q: Has BoM established a timeline for phasing out the legacy platform?

A: No, there is not currently a timeline set for phasing out the legacy platform, and it will continue to function indefinitely.

Q: What are the primary elements of the BoM website revamp budget?

A: The budget encompasses $4.1 million for frontend redesign, $79.8 million for primary channel platform deployment, and $12.6 million for security and testing.

Q: How has BoM enhanced security in the new website?

A: The BoM has concentrated on mastering TLS website security as part of the new site’s creation, ensuring it is both secure and stable.

Skullcandy Dime Evo in-Ear Wireless Headphones Review

Matthew Miller on November 28, 2025

Skullcandy Dime Evo in-Ear Wireless Headphones, 36 Hours Battery Life, Micro, Compatible with iPhone, Android and Bluetooth Devices – Realtree Edge Colors Pink

NSW’s $969 Million Unified Digital Patient Record May Encounter Possible Cost Overruns

Nicholas Kinports on November 28, 2025

Quick Read

The Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) initiative in NSW is facing possible budget overruns.
This initiative relies on Epic Systems software, which was initially contracted for over $1 billion.
The business case was found to have underestimated the expenses related to system integration, according to the NSW Audit Office.
Cost estimates from the beginning were based on information that has become obsolete since the COVID-19 pandemic.
NSW Health aims to finalize the SDPR by 2028 across various health institutions.
Audits are scheduled for 2026-2027 to evaluate project effectiveness and governance.

NSW’s Digital Health Initiative at a Crossroads

NSW $969m single digital patient record project faces financial challenges

The ambitious initiative to establish a Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) in New South Wales is encountering potential budget overruns. The NSW Audit Office has indicated that the foundational business case might have underestimated the costs related to system integration.

Audit Findings and Financial Implications

The Audit Office has published a report highlighting flaws in the SDPR’s business case. The estimated costs for the project did not accurately account for the integration with existing legacy systems. This oversight is critical since the integration process is vital for the project’s success, and early signs indicate that these expenses may be significant.

In the absence of supported or sanctioned cost estimates, the SDPR initiative may face major financial difficulties, resulting in possible budget overruns and poor management.

Challenges and Adaptive Measures

Teresa Anderson, CEO of the SDPR Implementation Authority, remarked that the original business case was created during the chaotic COVID-19 period, which has evolved markedly. Global supply chain challenges and increasing operational expenses have added complexity to cost forecasts.

Even with these challenges, NSW Health remains focused on the project’s completion, enforcing stringent financial governance to effectively manage procurement and integration efforts.

Project Timeline and Future Plans

Since 2019, the SDPR initiative has been integral to NSW Health’s strategic framework. Following initial research and tendering processes, Epic Systems was selected to develop the SDPR in late 2022. By 2024, an authority was instituted to supervise deployment, and recruitment for technology professionals commenced.

Training for healthcare workers is currently underway, with a target for overall project finalization by 2028, encompassing a vast network of hospitals, pathology facilities, laboratories, and community health centres.

Summary

The SDPR initiative in NSW, aimed at enhancing healthcare data access throughout the state, faces budgetary obstacles due to underestimated integration costs. Despite ongoing challenges, NSW Health is committed to its realization, with comprehensive governance and forthcoming audits planned to secure project success.

Question and Answer Session

Q: What is the primary goal of the SDPR project?

A: The primary aim is to deliver a consolidated digital patient record system that enables healthcare teams to efficiently access real-time patient information across NSW.

Q: Why are there potential cost overruns in the SDPR project?

A: The potential budget overruns stem from underestimated system integration costs and outdated initial cost projections made during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Q: How is NSW Health responding to the financial challenges of the SDPR project?

A: NSW Health is enforcing strict financial governance and has plans for subsequent audits to effectively evaluate the project’s efficiency and oversight.

Q: When is the SDPR project expected to be completed?

A: The SDPR project is projected to be fully finalized by 2028, encompassing a diverse array of healthcare facilities throughout NSW.

Huawei FreeBuds 6 White Review

Matthew Miller on November 27, 2025

Huawei FreeBuds 6 White

New 2026 ANCAP Ratings to Significantly Depend on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Vanessa May on November 27, 2025

2026 ANCAP Ratings: Focus on Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies

Overview

ANCAP will refresh vehicle rating criteria starting in 2026, concentrating on advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS).
New guidelines aim to decrease deaths and serious injuries related to vehicles.
ADAS will be assessed under actual conditions, considering factors like weather and visibility.
Driver monitoring systems will receive recognition for offering non-intrusive, smart assistance.
Physical controls for key functions will be promoted to minimize driver distraction.
Electric vehicles must ensure that door handles and high-voltage systems are safe after a crash.
Increased focus will be directed towards the effectiveness of eCall systems for emergency responses.

Transforming Vehicle Safety with Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) is poised to transform vehicle safety benchmarks from 2026, highlighting advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS) to bolster the safety of new vehicles. This transformation signifies a major change in vehicle evaluations, centering around four fundamental safety phases—Safe Driving, Crash Avoidance, Crash Protection, and Post-Crash.

2026 ANCAP Ratings to Depend on Advanced Driver Systems

Key Updates Explained

Despite progress in vehicle safety and an increasing number of affordable 5-star rated vehicles, road fatalities remain a serious issue. The new ANCAP protocols are intended to tackle this challenge by integrating consumer insights and adapting to technological advancements, ensuring safety features perform reliably in real-world scenarios.

Innovative Evaluation for Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies

Real-World Assessment

ANCAP will conduct thorough testing of ADAS to verify that features such as Automatic Emergency Braking operate effectively in various situations—day or night, rain or shine. This method aims to ensure that crash avoidance technologies safeguard drivers in everyday circumstances, rather than only in controlled settings.

Enhancements to Driver Monitoring

A significant introduction is the “Driver State Link,” which rewards systems that assess driver engagement, distraction, and fatigue without issuing intrusive alerts. This initiative fosters a smooth driving experience, activating only when deemed necessary to avert potential incidents.

Lane Support Technologies

Beginning in 2026, ANCAP will favour lane support technologies that seamlessly integrate with the driver, preventing collisions without being obtrusive. The evaluation will take into account the system’s responsiveness and how easily drivers can counteract any corrections.

Simplicity in Design and Safety

Physical Interfaces

ANCAP will commend manufacturers that emphasize straightforward, accessible controls for critical functions, thereby reducing driver distraction and increasing safety. While voice controls provide a modern solution, the emphasis remains on tactile interfaces for quick, intuitive interaction.

Considerations for Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicle door handles, commonly found in EVs, must remain operational after a collision. Additionally, EVs should automatically disconnect their high-voltage battery following an accident and alert first responders, ensuring prompt and safe emergency actions.

Enhancing Post-Crash Safety

ANCAP will place a stronger focus on the efficacy of eCall systems, which automatically reach out to emergency services after an accident. Although adoption is increasing in Australia, New Zealand is lagging, leading ANCAP to advocate for wider implementation of this life-saving technology.

Conclusion

The 2026 modifications to ANCAP’s safety protocols signify a holistic approach to automotive safety, merging advanced technologies for a more secure driving landscape. By prioritizing real-world applicability and unobtrusive assistance, ANCAP aims to lessen road fatalities and elevate vehicle safety standards across Australia and New Zealand.

Questions & Answers

Q: What new emphasis areas will ANCAP’s 2026 protocols cover?

A: The new areas of emphasis include Safe Driving, Crash Avoidance, Crash Protection, and Post-Crash phases, with a focus on advanced driver assistance technologies (ADAS).

Q: How will ANCAP assess Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies?

A: ANCAP will evaluate ADAS under diverse real-world conditions, measuring their effectiveness in various weather and visibility contexts.

Q: What updates are expected for driver monitoring technologies?

A: Systems will be recognised for tracking driver engagement without intrusive alerts, promoting a seamless driving experience.

Q: What measures will be taken for electric vehicle safety?

A: EVs will need to maintain functional door handles post-crash and automatically isolate high-voltage batteries, enhancing safety during emergencies.

Q: How does the eCall system factor into ANCAP’s new protocols?

A: The eCall system, which communicates with emergency services after a crash, will be a central point for improving post-crash safety, with ANCAP encouraging wider adoption in New Zealand.

ATA calls on the federal government to publish an official roster of triple zero “compliant” devices.

wpengine on November 27, 2025

ATA requests federal government to disclose a public list of "compliant" devices for triple zero calls

Brief Overview

ATA calls on the government to make public a list of devices that can make dependable emergency calls.
Presently, compliance is optional and may miss several devices with problems.
Telecom providers are creating a private database for in-house purposes.
Recent failures in devices tied to deaths are sparking public and governmental alarm.

The Demand for a Public Device Registry

The Australian Telecommunications Alliance (ATA) is urging the federal government to set up a public registry of mobile phones that can securely make emergency calls, referred to as “triple zero” calls. This demand comes after a deadly outage on the Optus network led to a parliamentary investigation.

The Justification for a Public Registry

The ATA contends that the existing device compliance framework is inadequate. The Telecommunications Labelling Notice is voluntary, requiring manufacturers to self-report compliance without obligatory public sharing. The suggested public registry would serve as a dependable reference for both consumers and regulators to confirm device compliance and safety.

Ongoing Initiatives by Telecoms

In response to persistent rejection from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), telecommunications companies have begun to develop their own database. This internal system aims to monitor devices known to have emergency call issues, assisting telcos in fulfilling regulatory requirements. However, this database will not be accessible to the public.

Issues with Device Compliance

The challenge of testing for compliance is currently significant. With more than 40,000 different phone models in Australia, the existing systems only assess a small percentage. This implies that numerous devices that may have problems could escape regulatory oversight, particularly those entering through grey markets.

Government and Regulatory Reactions

The ACMA has tightened testing regulations for devices, especially concerning their ability to switch networks in emergencies. Nonetheless, public scrutiny and recent incidents have intensified demands for more thorough measures.

Recent Events and Public Anxiety

Recent news has connected defective handsets with several fatalities, raising public alarm. For example, certain older Samsung devices have been flagged as problematic, leading carriers to block these models if they are not updated or exchanged within a specified timeframe.

Conclusion

The ATA’s request for a public device registry underscores significant shortcomings in the current compliance framework. While telcos develop internal solutions, the urgency for a publicly available registry is highlighted by recent failures and deaths. The ongoing parliamentary inquiry and governmental actions will likely influence future regulatory directions.

Q: What is the necessity for a public register of compliant devices?

A: A public register would offer a trustworthy source of information for consumers and regulators, ensuring that devices can reliably make emergency calls and minimize the potential for failures.

Q: What are the existing issues with the voluntary compliance structure?

A: The voluntary structure depends on manufacturers self-reporting compliance, which may allow devices with problems to evade scrutiny, especially those entering from grey markets.

Q: How have recent failures affected public opinion?

A: Recent fatalities linked to device failures have heightened public concern and attention, leading governmental and regulatory bodies to rethink current practices.

Q: What measures are telecom companies taking to tackle these problems?

A: Telecom companies are establishing private databases to track non-compliant devices internally, although these will not be accessible to the public.

Q: What role does the ACMA have in ensuring device compliance?

A: The ACMA establishes technical standards and supervises the Telecommunications Labelling Notice, requiring manufacturers to declare device compliance, albeit currently on a voluntary basis.

Q: Are all problematic devices being adequately addressed by the current system?

A: No, only a limited number of devices are tested each year, leaving many problematic devices without resolution, particularly those from grey markets.

Q: What potential actions might the government undertake in the future?

A: The ongoing parliamentary inquiry and public demand may result in the creation of a public register and stricter compliance requirements.

QXQ 2025 Wireless Earbuds Review

Matthew Miller on November 27, 2025

QXQ 2025 New Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 5.4 Headphones HiFi Stereo with 4 ENC Mic, 40H Mini Ear Buds in-Ear Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Ultra Light Sport Earphones for TV Smart Phone Laptop Computer

CBA Names First Chief AI Officer

David Leane on November 27, 2025

CBA’s Progressive Move in AI Leadership

Overview

CBA announces the appointment of Ranil Boteju as its first Chief AI Officer, starting in early 2026.
Boteju previously held the position of Group Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Lloyds Banking Group.
This decision highlights CBA’s dedication to fostering AI development in a responsible and customer-oriented manner.
Richard Nesbitt will serve as the interim Chief AI Officer until Boteju begins his role.
CBA is engaged in an ongoing collaboration with OpenAI to investigate cutting-edge AI solutions.

Introduction of CBA’s First Chief AI Officer

In a calculated effort to enhance its AI potential, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has appointed Ranil Boteju as its first Chief AI Officer. Set to commence in early 2026, Boteju brings extensive expertise from his role at Lloyds Banking Group, where he held the title of Group Chief Data and Analytics Officer.

The Strategic Importance of AI for CBA

CBA CEO Matt Comyn highlighted the bank’s commitment to incorporating top-tier talent and technology in order to construct what he refers to as “tomorrow’s bank today.” Boteju’s appointment serves as a strong indicator of CBA’s strategy to utilize AI for delivering meaningful value to both clients and employees.

Responsible and Customer-Focused AI

The bank’s emphasis on responsible and customer-centric AI is apparent in this prominent hiring decision. CBA is strategically positioning itself to enhance its AI capabilities in ways that align with customer expectations and ethical principles.

Interim Leadership and Transition

In the lead-up to Boteju’s start date, Richard Nesbitt, who is the General Manager of AI and Advanced Analytics at CBA, will fulfill the role of acting Chief AI Officer. This phase of transition is vital for sustaining the progress of CBA’s AI projects.

CBA’s AI Initiatives and Partnerships

CBA has actively been embedding AI within its operations. Earlier this year, the bank revealed plans to implement AI in software delivery and coordination. Furthermore, CBA has initiated a multi-year partnership with OpenAI to explore progressive generative AI solutions, underscoring its commitment to leading AI innovations.

Recent Leadership Changes

The news of Boteju’s appointment coincides with other notable leadership changes at CBA, including the upcoming exit of Group CIO Gavin Munroe. These developments represent a transformative period for CBA as it continues to refine its technological and leadership directions.

Summary

Ranil Boteju’s appointment as CBA’s first Chief AI Officer signals a significant milestone in the bank’s AI approach. By prioritizing responsible AI and customer engagement, CBA aims to strengthen its technological foundation, supported by strategic partnerships and leadership changes.

Q&A Section

Q: Why is CBA appointing a Chief AI Officer at this time?

A: CBA is appointing a Chief AI Officer to reinforce its AI strategy and ensure advancements in AI technologies are responsible and customer-focused.

Q: What qualifications does Ranil Boteju bring to CBA?

A: Ranil Boteju has significant expertise in data and analytics, having worked as Group Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Lloyds Banking Group.

Q: What does the collaboration with OpenAI involve?

A: The collaboration with OpenAI is a multi-year partnership aimed at investigating advanced generative AI solutions to enhance CBA’s technological capabilities.

Q: Who is managing AI duties at CBA during the transition?

A: Richard Nesbitt, the General Manager of AI and Advanced Analytics at CBA, is currently acting as the Chief AI Officer until Ranil Boteju’s arrival.

Dewalt True Wireless Earbuds with Charging Case Review

Matthew Miller on November 26, 2025

Dewalt True Wireless Earbuds with Charging Case

Singapore requires Apple and Google to prevent government impersonation on messaging services.

Vanessa May on November 26, 2025

Singapore Takes Action Against Government Impersonation Scams

Quick Read

Singapore directs Apple and Google to prevent government impersonation on messaging services.
This initiative falls under the Online Criminal Harms Act aimed at fighting scams.
Google partners with the government to deploy preventative strategies.
Public urged to update messaging applications for enhanced protections.
Meta Platforms has also been cautioned to bolster security protocols.

Singapore’s Initiative Against Impersonation Scams

Singapore directs Apple, Google to avert government impersonation on messaging platforms

In a firm initiative to tackle impersonation scams, Singapore has mandated that Apple and Google guard against the spoofing of government entities on their messaging platforms. This measure, enacted under the Online Criminal Harms Act, seeks to shield citizens from increasingly sophisticated scams infiltrating Apple’s iMessage and Google Messages.

The Online Criminal Harms Act

The Online Criminal Harms Act grants Singapore’s authorities the power to act decisively against online scams. Recent findings have uncovered scammers masquerading as organizations like SingPost on widely-used messaging platforms. This act establishes a structure for proactive action to protect the public and uphold trust in digital communications.

Technology Companies’ Response

Google has reacted positively, expressing its dedication to collaborate with the government to implement these protective strategies. This partnership builds on Google’s ongoing anti-scam initiatives, including sophisticated spam filtering techniques. Although Apple has not provided an immediate comment, it is anticipated to comply with the directive, ensuring effective countermeasures against government impersonation on iMessage.

Enhancing Government and Tech Collaboration

The engagement of tech leaders like Apple and Google highlights the significance of cooperation between government entities and technology firms in addressing digital threats. By mandating these platforms to enhance their security frameworks, Singapore sets a benchmark for other countries confronting similar issues.

Public Safety and Awareness

Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs calls on the community to refresh their mobile applications to take advantage of the latest security features. This initiative focuses not only on technological compliance but also on promoting user awareness to remain alert against potential scams.

Summary

Singapore’s proactive stance on addressing government impersonation scams underscores the vital role that technology firms play in ensuring digital safety. By focusing on platforms like iMessage and Google Messages, the government seeks to safeguard its citizens from deceptive tactics that abuse digital communication.

Q&A

Q: What led Singapore to take this step?

A: The action was triggered by scams impersonating government bodies on iMessage and Google Messages, threatening public trust and safety.

Q: In what way does the Online Criminal Harms Act assist?

A: It offers a legal structure for Singapore to act promptly against online scams, empowering authorities to enforce protective actions.

Q: What actions must Apple and Google take?

A: They are required to stop accounts and group chats from using names that mimic “gov.sg” and eliminate such messages.

Q: How are users engaged in this effort?

A: Users are encouraged to update their messaging applications to receive the latest security improvements against scams.

Q: What is the impact on Meta Platforms?

A: Meta Platforms has been alerted to adopt further security measures such as facial recognition to thwart impersonation scams on Facebook.

Q: What advantages arise from government-tech collaboration?

A: It facilitates a comprehensive strategy for digital safety, utilizing the expertise and reach of technology firms to effectively counter online dangers.