Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Jabra Evolve2 Buds – True Wireless Earbuds – Active Noise Cancelling UC Cert – MultiSensor Voice for Crystal Clear Calls – USB C Stability Booster – Headphones with Mic – IP57 Rating 8hr Battery Life
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Launched in 2018, Anki’s Vector robot garnered attention for its distinctive abilities such as mobile app control, voice recognition, and facial detection. As a compact, mobile companion, Vector distinguished itself among smart home devices by providing more than mere stationary functionalities.
In a notable leap, Anki is set to unveil a Beta software update that incorporates ChatGPT into Vector. This enhancement utilizes OpenAI’s state-of-the-art language model, set to improve Vector’s conversational skills, allowing it to interpret and react to everyday English more efficiently.
Vector was originally crafted to be more than a playful gadget; it functioned as an Alexa-enabled device capable of interfacing with home IoT appliances. Through simple voice commands, users could manage various smart home tasks, highlighting the potential of a mobile robot that merges mobility with practical use.
A compelling upcoming feature is Vector’s multilingual capability. This development is especially important for Australia, which is noted for its cultural variety and multilingual residents. Vector’s ability to communicate in multiple languages will enhance its accessibility and utility for a wider demographic.
Anki’s Vector robot is poised to become smarter and more versatile with the forthcoming ChatGPT integration. This upgrade not only boosts its conversational skills but also increases its adaptability to a diverse user group through multilingual support. Vector remains a standout as a mobile, IoT-capable companion robot, providing valuable functionality in today’s smart home landscape.
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Northcott, a leading provider of disability services, is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its operations and improve accessibility for both employees and clients. During the recent Agentforce Summit in Sydney, Tara Ozturk, Northcott’s operational development manager, underscored the transformational capabilities AI can offer the organization.
Ozturk indicated that Northcott employees manage extensive amounts of client data, frequently needing to navigate through large volumes of documentation. The introduction of AI-driven summarization features is expected to optimize this process, equipping staff with vital information at crucial moments, thereby improving their effectiveness in supporting clients.
To bolster its AI efforts, Northcott has established Northcott Innovation (NI), a division focused on re-envisioning operational frameworks. One of NI’s key initiatives, Nest, is an online platform that connects individuals with disabilities to suitable housing solutions, demonstrating innovation’s role in enhancing accessibility.
Northcott is dedicated to engaging clients in the co-design of services that are significant to them. This collaborative approach guarantees that services are customized to meet distinct requirements, enabling clients to easily monitor expenditures and progress toward personal aspirations. This initiative showcases Northcott’s commitment to personalizing services for varied client needs.
The organization has also established a new product team aimed at refining preferred customer communication methods. By incorporating AI into these interactions, Northcott seeks to simplify staff responsibilities while offering clients real-time, personalized information. This initiative is likely to promote improved communication and service provision.
As Northcott advances its AI strategy, there will be a focus on cultivating internal capabilities, specifically in data literacy and quality. This skill enhancement is crucial for maximizing the advantages of AI and ensuring the organization’s ongoing success in serving its community.
Northcott is at the forefront of using AI to transform information management and service delivery. By prioritizing accessibility, customer participation, and internal skill enhancement, the organization is establishing a new benchmark in disability services. Through Northcott Innovation and thoughtful AI implementation, the outlook is bright for both staff and clients.
AI will simplify the management of customer information by condensing documents, enabling staff to quickly and effectively access critical data, thus enhancing their ability to assist clients.
Northcott Innovation (NI) is a division created to rethink and innovate operational methods. It seeks to employ AI and other technologies to enhance accessibility and service provision, illustrated by initiatives such as Nest.
Northcott promotes customer co-design, allowing clients to work together in developing services tailored to their preferences. This method ensures that services are personalized and effective for each individual client.
AI improves customer communications by providing real-time, tailored information, facilitating personalized service delivery by staff and allowing customers to interact with Northcott based on their preferences.
Northcott intends to concentrate on data literacy and quality as a part of its internal skills development strategy. This is pivotal for the successful implementation of AI solutions and effective data management.
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CMF by Nothing Buds Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds, 42dB Noise Cancelling Earphones, Dirac HD Audio, 35.5H Playtime, BT5.3, IP54, 4HD Mics Wireless Headphones for iPhone & Android Dark Grey
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Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is experiencing a substantial change with the formation of a ‘Group Technology’ section, targeting a more unified and strategic stance towards its service provision. This decision comes in the wake of Jason Tuendemann’s recent selection as the group chief technology officer following Kurt Brissett’s exit.
The organisation is actively searching for three vital roles: chief information security officer (CISO), chief data officer (CDO), and an executive director of strategy, architecture, and partnerships. These positions are intended to report directly to Tuendemann, which aligns with TfNSW’s goal for a unified leadership team.
The restructuring signifies part of a broader organisational overhaul including TfNSW’s inaugural enterprise-wide technology strategy. This strategy adopts a ‘digital-by-default’ approach to embed technology into its processes.
Additionally, the agency’s corporate plan for 2024-2025 includes initiatives for a robust data strategy. The newly appointed chief data officer will oversee the establishment of an enterprise data practice to ensure data reliability, security, and accessibility throughout its lifecycle.
The reorganisation also accentuates a strong focus on cybersecurity, with the CISO charged with leading initiatives to safeguard TfNSW’s digital framework. The previous CISO, Murray Taylor, held the position from September 2021 until May 2024, and was succeeded by Natasha Scott, who moved to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
TfNSW’s updated operational framework illustrates its commitment to acknowledging the strategic role of data, security, and technology as pivotal in shaping the future of transportation, with the goal of delivering enhanced real-time value to passengers and users.
Transport for NSW is strategically transforming its technology division by forming a centralised ‘Group Technology’ unit. With new leadership, the division will concentrate on a digital-by-default strategy, extensive data plans, and strengthened cybersecurity initiatives. This evolution aims to improve service delivery and provide immediate value to NSW’s transportation users.
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Push Play Active Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating, 34 Hrs Battery, Secure-Fit Over-Ear Hanger, Sweat Water Resistant, Microphone for iPhone Android – Black/Orange
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Tesla has officially rolled out its Full Self Driving (FSD) function in unsupervised mode, marking a crucial milestone in the autonomous vehicles landscape. Elon Musk stated that multiple Model Ys have been operating autonomously for several days, navigating the streets of Austin, Texas, without any issues.
For almost a decade, Tesla has led the charge in autonomous vehicle development. The recent ‘We Robot’ event highlighted autonomous rides for the public, paving the way for unsupervised FSD. Clips have surfaced showing Teslas independently moving from production facilities to parking lots in controlled environments.
Recent evaluations on public roads in Austin have shown Tesla’s Model Ys functioning without drivers or overseers, achieving zero incidents. This achievement, accomplished before the planned June launch of the Robotaxi service, underscores the effectiveness of Tesla’s camera-only computer vision system.
The launch of a driverless Robotaxi service is poised to transform the transportation industry. With low production costs and reduced operational expenses, Tesla’s offering could significantly challenge established competitors such as traditional taxis, Uber, and Waymo.
Local community members have taken and shared photographs of the Robotaxis in operation, reflecting Tesla’s developments. With the initial customer delivery from factory to user expected shortly, attention is now shifting to broadening the service to additional areas and clientele.
Tesla’s introduction of unsupervised Full Self Driving technology represents a critical juncture in automotive advancement. With successful trials in Austin and an upcoming Robotaxi debut, Tesla is establishing new benchmarks in autonomous driving. The wider implications of this technology on the economy and transportation sector will unfold as it expands.
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As Australia advances with bold housing initiatives, council planning systems frequently find themselves in a gridlock, depending on antiquated spreadsheets and manual procedures. Statutory planners, well-educated and experienced, discover their skills underutilised as they deal with administrative tasks. Enter Objective Build, a pioneering platform launched at the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) Congress, aimed at modernising and optimising the planning process for councils across Australia.
Statutory planners are essential to urban development, integrating aspects like growth, sustainability, and heritage. However, they encounter obstacles such as tedious administrative duties, rising volumes of development applications, and a lack of qualified personnel. Public dissatisfaction is also increasing due to perceived application processing delays. Objective Build alleviates this by automating routine tasks, enabling planners to concentrate on their primary responsibilities.
In contrast to conventional systems repurposed for planning, Objective Build is specifically created for the requisites of council planning teams. It enhances the decision-making process by supplying relevant planning precedents and context, allowing for more consistent outcomes. The platform additionally provides team leaders with real-time visibility, enhancing management and reducing burnout.
With Australia’s housing aspirations on the line, the effective processing of development applications is critical. Objective Build tackles this by fostering greater effectiveness among current planners, instead of relying on a surge in workforce numbers. By enhancing public trust and aiding planners, the platform guarantees that councils can efficiently fulfil the increasing housing demands.
Objective Build is poised to reshape the planning environment for Australian councils by automating everyday tasks, thereby permitting planners to engage in strategic and meaningful work. The platform is distinctly crafted for the planning industry, assisting councils in meeting housing targets while building public trust.
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Bluetooth Headphones, In-Ear Headphones, Wireless Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Headphones with 4 Mics, 2023 ENC Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds, 48H Deep Bass, IP7 Waterproof Earphones, LED Display, USB-C
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Solar Victoria has recently revealed the closure of its home battery loan initiative, a move that many homeowners find disappointing just as a new federal rebate program is about to launch. This initiative previously offered interest-free loans up to A$8,800 over a four-year period, greatly alleviating the initial expenses of home battery systems.
Homeowners aiming to upgrade their solar installations with battery storage could have profited from combining both state and federal incentives. For example, the usual installation cost of a Tesla Powerwall 3, around A$15,000, could have been substantially decreased with these incentives. However, the end of the state initiative means this option is now unavailable.
The Commonwealth Government’s Affordable Homes Batteries Initiative is expected to launch on July 1. This program intends to make battery storage more accessible, supporting Australia’s dedication to renewable energy and diminished emissions.
Since August 2018, the Victorian Solar Homes Initiative has played a crucial role in assisting over 360,000 households with solar installations. This aligns with Victoria’s ambitious strategy to attain net-zero emissions by 2045, with renewable energy targets established at 65% by 2030 and 95% by 2035.
The termination of Victoria’s home battery loan initiative represents a major transformation in the framework of solar energy incentives in Australia. While the forthcoming federal rebates set to begin in July present fresh prospects, the sudden cessation of the state initiative leaves numerous homeowners uncertain. This action highlights the continuous evolution of Australia’s energy policies and the commitment to a sustainable future.
