Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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JBL Live Flex ANC True Wireless Stereo Earbuds, Silver
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SpaceX’s satellite internet service Starlink has transformed internet connectivity for many Australians, especially in isolated and rural regions. The newly introduced Starlink Mini in Australia aims to broaden this reach by providing a more budget-friendly and compact option.
Starlink Mini sets out to establish satellite internet as a feasible choice for more Australians with a cost-effective solution that does not sacrifice much on speed and quality. Here are the main specifications and pricing:
Starlink Mini is perfect for Australians who:
Although Starlink Mini presents many advantages, potential customers should consider several aspects:
The launch of Starlink Mini in Australia signifies a major advancement towards providing more affordable and accessible internet options everywhere. Nonetheless, the 50GB base plan may be inadequate for many, particularly for families. A more balanced data plan option, such as a new A$100 plan for 100GB, could better serve the preferences of most users.
SpaceX has introduced the Starlink Mini in Australia, presenting an economical satellite internet option with speeds up to 100Mbps for A$80 per month. The compact dish is portable, making it suitable for those in remote areas or needing flexible internet access. However, the 50GB data restriction may pose a challenge for some, yet the service offers a feasible alternative to conventional broadband choices.
The Starlink Mini service is available for A$80 per month, plus an upfront fee of A$799 for the dish.
Users can expect to receive download speeds ranging from 25-100 Mbps, which may vary based on network congestion and geographical location.
Absolutely, the Starlink Mini dish is designed to be smaller and lighter for convenient portability, making it suitable for activities like camping or road trips.
The primary plan offers 50GB of data per month. Any extra data will incur a charge of A$1.50 per GB. An unlimited data plan can also be subscribed to for A$174 per month.
Starlink Mini is particularly well-suited for individuals in rural or remote areas, those requiring a portable internet option, or anyone seeking a cost-effective high-speed internet solution.
Performance may be hindered by obstructions like trees and buildings. Network speeds can also fluctuate based on user traffic in the area.
While professional installation is advised for improved performance, those with technical know-how can opt for DIY installation.
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The increase in remote work represents a major transformation for businesses globally. “Even prior to the pandemic, there was a rise in flexible remote working,” stated Andy Linham, Principal Strategy Manager at Vodafone Business. “However, post-pandemic, this trend has escalated, especially among younger generations who appreciate the freedom to work from any location. While this flexibility enhances employee satisfaction and engagement, it also presents considerable risks.”
Linham pointed out the risks associated with accessing company data from public venues. “Whether in a hotel, café, or at the airport, the threat of data theft is considerable. Someone may easily glance at your screen and capture confidential information.”
Another significant development is the shift towards cloud-focussed infrastructures. “For at least a decade and a half, gradual cloud migration has been taking place,” Linham noted. “Currently, many operations for countless customers are hosted in the public cloud, meaning they lie beyond your immediate physical control. This trend renders traditional security measures inadequate and heightens dependence on cloud-based security frameworks.”
This change has fostered a “perfect storm” of challenges, such as a considerable shortage of security engineering skills and the relative ease of executing cyberattacks. “The availability of threats, coupled with a lack of trained experts, makes it a challenging period for network managers and security specialists,” Linham remarked.
To effectively address these issues, Vodafone’s Secure Connected Enterprise prioritizes flexibility and modularity. “Our solution is crafted to integrate seamlessly with current systems, whether by introducing a firewall on a cloud platform or evaluating the security requirements of the entire network,” explained Bhupinder Singh, President of Vodafone Business for Asia Pacific and the Middle East.
Linham also stressed the significance of user experience and DLP strategies. “Implementing single sign-on (SSO) is essential. It streamlines user access and bolsters security by allowing only authorized personnel to view sensitive information,” he stated. “DLP mechanisms are crucial to prevent unauthorized data transfers, which can often occur as simply as sharing sensitive details in an Amazon review.”
Singh presented compelling data to emphasize the value of secure internet solutions. “Remarkably, 70% of businesses investing in secure internet solutions reported significant boosts in remote work productivity and employee contentment,” Singh noted. Furthermore, Cisco indicated a 45% rise in operational efficiency for firms utilizing secure internet infrastructures.
“Adopting these solutions is also beneficial for compliance,” Singh added. “Around 82% of organizations saw improved compliance and decreased legal risks upon implementing secure internet solutions.”
“Utilizing top-notch secure technologies and collaborating with suitable technology providers is key to navigating the complexities of the modern digital environment.”
For further insights, register to view the on-demand webinar here.
The growth of remote working and cloud migration is creating substantial hurdles for contemporary enterprises, underscoring the need for robust data security. Vodafone’s Secure Connected Enterprise provides adaptable and modular solutions to confront these challenges, emphasizing user experience and DLP solutions. Investing in secure internet options not only enhances productivity and employee satisfaction but also improves compliance with regulations.
Remote work elevates security risks due to the regular access of corporate information from unprotected public venues, leading to increased possibilities of data theft and various cyber threats.
Cloud migration shifts data handling outside an organization’s direct oversight, making traditional security protocols less effective and heightening the dependence on cloud-centric security measures.
Vodafone’s Secure Connected Enterprise delivers adaptable and modular solutions that integrate with existing systems, prioritizing user experience and preventing data loss.
SSO facilitates user access while enhancing security by restricting sensitive information to authorized personnel, and DLP strategies mitigate unauthorized data transfers.
Secure internet solutions largely boost remote work productivity, staff satisfaction, and operational efficiencies, alongside improving regulatory compliance and lessening legal issues.
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Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 in-Ear with 4 Microphones, 2023 Wireless ENC Noise Reduction Earbuds with 40H Deep Bass, LED Display, IP7 Waterproof Earphones
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Apple’s highly profitable relationship with Google may be jeopardized after a US judge determined that the Alphabet-led company was managing an illegal monopoly. According to Morgan Stanley analysts, Google compensates Apple US$20 billion (AU$30.7 billion) per year, which constitutes roughly 36 percent of its search advertising revenue generated via the Safari browser.
A feasible approach for Google to dodge antitrust consequences could involve ending the deal that designates its search engine as the default on Apple devices. Analysts have projected that if this agreement is annulled, the iPhone manufacturer could endure a four-to-six percent decline in profits. The agreement is in place until at least September 2026, and Apple has the option to extend it independently for an additional two years, based on media reports from May referencing a document submitted by the US Department of Justice related to the antitrust case.
The “remedy” phase may be protracted, possibly leading to expected appeals to the US Court of Appeals, the District of Columbia Circuit, and even the US Supreme Court. This legal dispute could extend into 2026. “The most probable outcome at this point is a ruling that Google can no longer pay for default placement or that companies like Apple must actively encourage users to select their search engine instead of having it preset, allowing users to modify settings if they wish,” noted analysts from Evercore ISI.
Nevertheless, if the partnership crumbles, Apple has various alternatives, including offering users choices like Microsoft Bing or possibly introducing a new search service powered by OpenAI. Analysts concur that the verdict will expedite Apple’s transition towards AI-enhanced search functionalities, having recently announced plans to incorporate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its devices.
As part of a strategy to distance itself from exclusive agreements that may attract regulatory attention, the firm also stated it is negotiating with Google to integrate the Gemini chatbot and aims to introduce additional AI models. Furthermore, Apple is upgrading Siri with AI capabilities to improve its handling of tasks that have proven difficult previously, such as email composition and message interactions. While these initiatives are not projected to yield substantial revenue in the near term, they could help leverage emerging technologies.
Apple’s significant earnings from its arrangement with Google are threatened by a recent antitrust ruling. The decision could urge Apple to provide different search engine options and shift towards AI-augmented search services. Though this might present a short-term financial challenge, it could pave the way for new revenue possibilities through innovative AI technologies.
The ruling indicates that Google was maintaining an illegal monopoly by establishing its search engine as the default on multiple devices, restricting competition.
Google compensates Apple US$20 billion (AU$30.7 billion) each year to have its search engine set as default on Apple devices.
Analysts project that Apple could face a profit reduction of four to six percent if the arrangement with Google ceases.
Apple could present users with alternative search engines like Microsoft Bing or potentially create a new search offering powered by OpenAI.
The ruling is expected to hasten Apple’s transition to AI-supercharged search services, including the rollout of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and other AI models.
Apple is enhancing Siri with AI capabilities to better manage tasks such as writing emails and interacting with messages, offering more sophisticated functionalities.
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Wireless Earbuds for Kids,Bluetooth 5.0 in Ear Headphones with Cute Cartoon Design HiFi Stereo Earphones for Kids Children‘S Day Gift 36H Playtime Music with Built-in Mics Mini Portable Charging Case
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Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has revealed the appointment of Nathalie Moss as the acting Chief Information Officer (CIO), succeeding Andrew Cresp, who held the CIO position for more than four-and-a-half years. This change signifies a crucial step in the bank’s ongoing technology and transformation initiatives.
Moss has been a part of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank for four years, previously working as the Practice Lead for Lending Technology. During her time at the bank, she has been instrumental in rolling out the Bendigo Bank Broker lending platform, implementing a document management system that consolidates 15 million documents, and providing enterprise collateral management capabilities.
Before her tenure at Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Moss spent nearly seven years in various technology roles at National Australia Bank (NAB), contributing significant experience to her new position.
Andrew Cresp, who has now departed from the bank, also had a remarkable tenure. His previous experience includes a role at NAB and leading IT infrastructure initiatives at Insurance Australia Group (IAG). Cresp was a finalist in the Finance & Professional Services Technology Leader category at this year’s TechBest Benchmark Awards. His leadership facilitated considerable advancements in cloud transformation and application modernization at the bank.
The bank has been concentrating on technological evolution as a vital element of its strategy. During Cresp’s leadership, significant cloud migration projects were executed and generative AI was utilized to modernize applications. These initiatives have played a key role in enhancing the bank’s technological capabilities.
With Nathalie Moss now leading the way, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank is set to persist on its journey towards technological excellence. The bank’s dedication to innovation and transformation remains steadfast, and Moss’s expertise and leadership are anticipated to propel further advancements.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has announced Nathalie Moss as the acting CIO, succeeding Andrew Cresp. Moss’s extensive background in technology roles at NAB and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank positions her effectively to guide the bank’s continuing technology transformation efforts. The bank is committed to leveraging technology to enhance its operational capabilities and services.
Nathalie Moss has been designated as the acting CIO of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.
Nathalie Moss has been with Bendigo and Adelaide Bank for four years and has nearly seven years of experience in various technology roles at NAB.
Andrew Cresp spearheaded major initiatives in cloud transformation and application modernization. He also received recognition as a finalist in the Finance & Professional Services Technology Leader category at the TechBest Benchmark Awards.
With Nathalie Moss at the forefront, the bank aims to maintain its focus on technology and transformation, utilizing innovative solutions to improve its services and capabilities.
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OnePlus Nord Buds 2 True Wireless in Ear Earbuds with Mic, Up to 25dB ANC 12.4mm Dynamic Titanium Drivers, Playback: Up to 36hr case, 4-Mic Design, IP55 Rating, Fast Charging Lightning White
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Defunc True Talk Wireless Earbuds, White
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In the next five years, government operations could predominantly utilize agile microservices architectures, stated a prominent official from a Commonwealth agency at a recent assembly of peers.
“We are transitioning from a traditional tech framework to a collection of microservices,” Peter O’Halloran, chief digital officer of the Australian Digital Health Agency, conveyed during last month’s Tech in Gov conference in Canberra. This movement towards software systems built from targeted, manageable code segments is transforming governmental IT operations.
This trend is also visible in procurement activities. With dwindling budgets, escalating expectations, and cybersecurity concerns, Australian governments are searching for straightforward, ‘bite-sized’ technology solutions from nimble enterprises.
“The era of huge IT projects costing billions is over,” O’Halloran remarked. “Those days are behind us — and that’s likely a positive change.”
O’Halloran highlighted that it is essential for government to modernize its systems, especially as disruptors like artificial intelligence (AI) and increasing citizen demands press agencies amid shrinking IT budgets. “Government was among the first to digitize numerous processes … thus, we carry a substantial amount of tech debt,” he stated during a panel discussion launching TechBest’s Public Sector Tech Report.
His observations echoed findings from the TechBest report, which indicated that, despite Australia’s impressive fifth place in the OECD’s 2023 Digital Government Index, two decades of legacies now hinder its future transformation.
To address these challenges, the public sector, including ADHA, aims to “break down” its IT systems, gradually dismantling legacy, traditional setups while reusing the same microservices across various agencies, O’Halloran explained. “You keep utilizing that function for similar applications so that over time, you create a singular tool for functions like authentication or user management. And keep enhancing those so that each time you secure funding for a new system, you can integrate with pre-existing elements you’ve modernized.
“After five years, you might realize, ‘Wow, our traditional tech architecture is halved’.” He expressed that the “next four or five procurements” for ADHA are pivotal: “And we’ll continue this on an annual basis until we eliminate the outdated tech debt we carry.”
A significant outcome of this newfound IT awareness is that smaller, agile companies previously excluded from large-scale government IT contracts can now compete for projects. IT market analyst, Gartner, noted that Australian governments could allocate as much as $27 billion for IT this year — about 60 percent at the federal level — with an annual increase of approximately 10 percent, making it collectively Australia’s largest purchaser.
O’Halloran mentioned that agencies are now open to engaging smaller, innovative suppliers with expertise in specific technologies. “We are trying to expand our supply base – looking for small enterprises that provide innovation as well as larger firms with experience in diverse products,” he stated. “Our goal is to unite the sector, harnessing innovation from all.”
Natalie Legg, CEO of Canberra systems integrator A23 and a former senior project manager at Treasury, shared O’Halloran’s perspective. She proposed that increased opportunities for smaller Australian enterprises could be a silver lining amid tightening government budgets.
“Large projects typically lead to a shortlist of just five companies capable of executing them. And we’ve seen — we are aware — of the consequences that result from this.”
Legg articulated that government agency buyers should demand evidence of competency from their suppliers: “Who has successfully executed that ‘task’ previously?” She added, “We rarely question: ‘Did they accomplish the ‘task’ they were engaged to deliver? Is it the ‘Emperor’s New Clothes’; are people ignoring the naked project in the room?”
She advised agencies to, “invest in small, agile firms that excel in these specific tasks and make that their primary focus.”
Gartner highlights that the emerging technologies for government procurement include adaptive security, digital identity, digital platform responsiveness, programmatic data management — alongside AI. The latter is particularly relevant for government leaders, as AI offers enhanced service delivery through various applications like chatbots, apps, and improved cybersecurity, yet agencies need personnel with advanced skills to effectively implement it.
O’Halloran stated that ADHA is retraining individuals with hands-on healthcare experience for digital roles. “They may not become expert programmers [but] as business analysts, change facilitators, and service designers, they are exceptional; they grasp our environment,” O’Halloran expressed. “Hence, I’m aiming to avoid recruitment from other organizations and instead cultivate our workforce … through individuals making mid-career transitions.”
Marcus D’Castro praised the public sector for its proactive stance compared to private sector counterparts, as it braces for an AI-driven future. “One area that stands out is data management — the consolidation, optimization, access, security, governance of data,” mentioned D’Castro, general manager at Nomura Research Institute (NRI).
“The old adage, ‘garbage in, garbage out’ has never been more applicable — if you supply Generative AI poor data, expect poor results.” He elaborated that the public sector’s approach to archival management places it “in a favorable position” to capitalize on upcoming opportunities. “The technical aspects are relatively straightforward; preparing your data to be ready and accessible is the more challenging endeavor.”
The Australian government is strategically shifting from traditional IT systems to microservices-based architectures, motivated by the need for adaptability, financial constraints, and escalating cybersecurity challenges. This transformation allows smaller, agile firms to secure government contracts and fosters a more innovative IT atmosphere. Focus on emerging technologies like AI, adaptive security, and digital identity are essential for future government IT investments.
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