Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Belkin SOUNDFORM Play True Wireless Earbuds, Wireless Earphones with 3 EQ Presets, IPX5 Sweat and Water Resistant, 38 Hours Play Time for iPhone, Galaxy, Pixel and More, Blue, Small
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Microsoft’s Edge browser, built on the open-source Chromium framework, signifies a major advancement from the now-retired Internet Explorer (IE). Even though IE officially reached end-of-life status in June 2022, its legacy mode continues to function within Edge to accommodate older technologies that certain sites depend on, such as Microsoft ActiveX and Adobe Flash.
Legacy IE mode in Edge remains an attractive target for cybercriminals due to its inadequate architecture when compared to contemporary browsers. In recent times, cybercriminals have deployed social engineering strategies to take advantage of vulnerabilities in IE mode, notably a zero-day exploit in the Chakra JavaScript engine, which allows them to perform remote code execution and possibly gain total control over a user’s device.
In response to these security challenges, Microsoft’s Edge security team has removed major entry points for enabling IE mode, including the toolbar button and context menu. Users are now required to activate IE mode on a per-site basis, enhancing security by minimizing unintentional activation.
Though these modifications signify a positive advancement in securing Edge, uncertainties linger regarding the complete resolution of the Chakra vulnerability. Organizations that depend on IE mode must remain alert and ensure they implement any forthcoming updates from Microsoft to safeguard their networks.
Microsoft’s modifications to Edge’s legacy IE mode are intended to improve browser security by curtailing automatic access to this vulnerable feature. While this initiative fortifies defenses against recent exploit tactics, ongoing diligence and updates are essential for users dependent on IE mode for compatibility purposes.
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The Gozney Dome (Gen 2) eclipses the size of a typical mailbox delivery. Weighing between 90-100kg, it necessitates careful transport, ideally in a vehicle like a Ford Ranger. This oven serves as a permanent installation in a backyard, paired with a durable metal stand featuring wheels for easy relocation. The stand’s collapsible wooden sides provide space-efficient storage, while the oven’s domed structure and digital interface indicate a serious cooking device.
During three testing sessions, the Gozney Dome (Gen 2) showcased remarkable temperature management, quickly reaching 400 degrees Celsius. A standout feature is its ability to cook two pizzas at once, though attention is needed for heat distribution. Rotating the pizzas ensures uniform cooking, delivering the desired crispy crust while preventing burnt toppings.
The oven includes a detachable digital screen with a USB-C charging port. The flame control starts easily with a AAA battery, and optional wood or charcoal fuels provide flexibility. The design incorporates side tables for additional storage, enhancing the cooking experience for users.
The array of included accessories is extensive, ranging from a stand to pizza peels and cutters. The Dome Mantel and Arch enhance its usability, while the professional-grade pizza cutter adds refinement. Each accessory elevates the cooking experience, making it both enjoyable and effective.
Available in Bone and Off Black, the Dome (Gen 2) is set to launch on October 15th, with delivery anticipated within 28-30 days. With a price of A$2,999.00, it caters to serious cooks and hosts, providing durability and quality that warrant the investment.
Following extensive use, the Gozney Dome (Gen 2) stands out for its design, performance, and included accessories. While the price may be a consideration for some, the oven offers culinary enjoyment and fosters a newfound appreciation for outdoor cooking.
The Gozney Dome (Gen 2) pizza oven is an excellent choice for home chefs, featuring a generous cooking area, a variety of fuel options, and an elegant design. Its sturdy build and thoughtful accessories make it a worthwhile investment for any outdoor kitchen, though its premium pricing reflects its exceptional quality and versatility.
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In a remarkable development in the data infrastructure space, Fivetran and dbt Labs have declared their intention to merge. This combination is expected to generate a powerful organization with projected annual revenue close to US$600 million (approximately $920 million AUD). The arrangement is structured as a complete stock exchange, with the market determining the valuation, as noted by Fivetran CEO George Fraser.
Fivetran’s last valuation was US$5.6 billion in September 2021, while dbt Labs secured a valuation of US$4.2 billion during its Series D round in February 2022. Both firms have common investors such as Andreessen Horowitz, showcasing their robust market stance. After the merger, George Fraser will remain CEO and dbt Labs CEO Tristan Handy will assume the position of co-founder and president.
This merger represents a significant consolidation within the data tooling landscape, as organizations seek to augment their infrastructure for AI functionalities. The emphasis is placed on open infrastructure and interoperability, essential for businesses that want to effectively utilize their data in AI contexts.
Based in Oakland, California, Fivetran specializes in automated data transfer, facilitating the flow of data into central data repositories. In contrast, dbt Labs, located in Philadelphia, provides dbt, an open-source tool aimed at data transformation and preparation. Fraser estimates that a large portion of Fivetran’s customer base already employs dbt’s solutions, highlighting the alignment between their services.
The newly established company plans to uphold dbt Core, the widely-used open-source variant of dbt Labs’ software, according to its existing licensing agreement. The merger aims to build a comprehensive platform that addresses enterprises’ data requirements, paving the way for possible public listing opportunities, even though an IPO is not in the immediate plans.
The merger of Fivetran and dbt Labs signifies a crucial moment in the data infrastructure landscape, aspiring to improve AI-driven data solutions through their collective expertise. With a commitment to open infrastructure and interoperability, the newly formed entity is ideally situated to tackle the evolving demands of contemporary enterprises.
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OpenRock S2 Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth 6.0, Non-Blocking Earphones, 0.2 oz (7 g), Ultra Lightweight Design, High Resolution / LDAC Compatible, IPX5 Waterproof, One-Touch Shooting, Over Ear
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Australia is preparing to be the first country globally to impose a prohibition on social media for individuals below 16 years. This significant initiative, motivated by increasing worries over social media’s effects on youth mental health, is part of the Online Safety Amendment ratified in November 2024. The law requires social media firms to close accounts of minors by December 10.
Google has expressed notable apprehensions concerning the enforceability of this regulation. At a parliamentary inquiry on online safety policies, Rachel Lord, YouTube’s senior government affairs manager in Australia, emphasized the risk of “unintended consequences” and questioned the law’s capacity to improve online safety for minors. Google believes that although the law is well-meant, it might not fulfill its intended goals.
Instead of needing direct age verification, the Australian legislation instructs social media platforms to utilize artificial intelligence and behavioral analytics to infer users’ ages. This strategy poses distinct challenges and raises concerns about the dependability and precision of such inferred information. Google contends that genuinely effective laws should bolster industry initiatives to safeguard children online without hindering their access.
Previously exempted from the law due to its educational significance, YouTube has now been incorporated following grievances from other technology firms. Google argues that YouTube functions as a video-sharing platform, not a social media site, complicating its inclusion in the new regulations. This differentiation is vital as it affects how the platform will handle compliance and enforce age restrictions.
Google supports a balanced strategy that merges effective legislation with empowering parents and children through safety resources. Instead of entirely restricting access, the emphasis should be on providing guardians with the necessary tools to manage their children’s online activities. As the world observes Australia’s execution of this law, its consequences may shape international policy on online safety.
Australia’s innovative law to limit social media access for those under 16 has ignited substantial discussion. While aspiring to shield young users, the law’s dependence on AI for age estimation and its broader ramifications remain contentious. As technology companies like Google navigate these complexities, global attention turns to the law’s effects on digital safety and governance.
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Rulefiss Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth Headphones Sport, 2024 Bluetooth 5.3 Earbuds 14.2mm Driver Stereo Over Ear Buds, 48Hrs Earphones with Earhook, Noise Cancelling Mic, IP7 Waterproof for Android iOS
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Qantas Airways has confirmed that customer information taken during a cyber incident in July has been exposed by cybercriminals. This incident stands as one of the largest in Australia, impacting over a million customers whose sensitive data such as phone numbers, birthdates, and residential addresses were accessed. Furthermore, an extra four million customers had their names and email information breached.
This cyber incident is the most notable since the 2022 breaches affecting Optus and Medibank, which resulted in the implementation of compulsory cyber resilience regulations in Australia. Qantas reported that the data was taken through a third-party service, generally identified as Salesforce, with cybercriminals utilizing social engineering methods to obtain access.
Qantas is joining forces with specialized cybersecurity professionals to determine what information was part of the exposure. The airline has also secured a court order to avert any further access to or publication of the compromised data by third parties.
The hacking group Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters is responsible for the data exposure, which transpired after the group imposed a ransom deadline that was not fulfilled. This group is recognized for employing advanced cyber tactics to infiltrate corporate networks.
The Qantas data leak serves as a significant reminder of the weaknesses inherent in digital systems and the necessity for strong cybersecurity practices. As investigations proceed, both customers and businesses are encouraged to stay alert and revise security measures to safeguard sensitive data.
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Baseus Eli Sport 1 Open-Ear TWS Earbuds- Open-Ear Design, 16.2mm Large Driver, TWS & Around-The-Neck Option, 30H Battery Life – Perfect for Workouts, Running, and Commutes (Black)
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Macquarie Bank has revealed its intentions to adopt Google’s newly introduced business AI platform, Gemini Enterprise, positioning itself as the first significant Australian bank to make this move. This effort is in line with the bank’s steadfast commitment to utilise Google’s cloud solutions, a partnership that has strengthened since 2019.
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Gemini Enterprise, which debuted in the US, signifies Google’s latest initiative in AI designed to enable the development of AI agents within large organizations. The platform’s no-code, application-neutral design allows companies to enhance productivity via intuitive interfaces.
With the aim of embedding AI into everyday operations within six months, Macquarie Bank has achieved 99% of its workforce completing a generative AI training program. Furthermore, 3,000 employees have participated in presentations of Gemini Enterprise, highlighting the bank’s dedication to equipping its personnel for this tech transition.
Although Macquarie Bank has not revealed the exact expenses related to the implementation of Gemini Enterprise, there are indications of a price starting at $US30 per seat per month. Targeted at smaller enterprises, Gemini Business is offered at $US21 per user per month.
Macquarie Bank possesses ambitious objectives to create over 30 AI-enhanced products and services by 2025. These efforts are intended to provide improved customer features, a seamless experience, and more dependable services, ultimately leading to greater customer interaction.
Macquarie Bank’s alliance with Google Gemini signifies a major advancement in AI integration within the Australian banking landscape. By harnessing Gemini Enterprise, the bank aims to elevate productivity, streamline processes, and enhance customer experiences.
