Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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OPPO Enco Air2 Pro True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds ETE21&ETE22, White, Gray
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The Department of Industry, Science and Resources in Australia is undertaking a thorough assessment of its enterprise resource planning (ERP) framework, coinciding with the mid-year renewal of its contract with TechnologyOne. This move is crucial as the department readies for the contract’s expiration in August 2026, igniting discussions regarding possible changes and enhancements to their existing ERP infrastructure.
The federal department currently utilizes software from six distinct vendors to oversee its ERP functions, concentrating mainly on internal finance and HR. The suite comprises TechnologyOne, Expense8, Aurion, Accendre (for HireRoad and eLearning), IBM Planning Analytics (TM1), and BluePrism for robotic process automation.
Considering the intricacy and essential nature of ERP systems, the department is expected to retain its primary enterprise software platform. Instead, the assessment intends to investigate opportunities for integrating native components to replace certain ancillary systems, likely diminishing the number of vendors and simplifying skillset demands.
A representative of the department refrained from divulging specific details about the assessment, citing an “open market approach.” Nevertheless, they assured that current ERP systems are maintained under enterprise arrangements.
The Department of Industry’s ERP assessment signifies a strategic initiative to possibly streamline its vendor landscape and improve system integration. With the TechnologyOne contract nearing renewal, the department is ready to make informed decisions that could result in more efficient operations.
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Compact soft and hard coolers serve as an entry-level solution for portable cooling, ranging from $20 to $50. These affordable alternatives are appropriate for short-term cooling demands, such as during commutes. However, their limited insulation restricts their effectiveness in maintaining low temperatures, particularly in Australian summers when temperatures surpass 35-40 degrees.
Deciding between conventional ice and reusable ice bricks showcases clear advantages. Reusable ice bricks reduce the recurring expense of buying ice and eliminate the issue of meltwater buildup. Various brands utilize different materials, with some better at maintaining frozen states for longer durations, although detailed performance metrics remain proprietary.
The Decathlon Quechua Fresh Compact is available at $140 and boasts a distinctive self-inflating design. It compresses to half its size when not utilized, preserving cold temperatures for up to 22 hours using ice packs. Features include adjustable straps, handles, and compartments, though it lacks waterproofing without an additional liner.
With a price tag of $325, the Dometic Recon 16L cooler delivers top-notch unpowered cooling through its modular construction. It has a capacity of 16 litres and features two-inch thick insulation for effective temperature maintenance. Its dual-opening lid and vibrant exterior improve usability and visibility.
The thickness of insulation plays a crucial role in cooling efficiency and capacity. The Decathlon cooler employs polyurethane and polyethylene foam, while the Dometic Recon presents thicker walls for extended performance. High-quality rotomoulded coolers ensure prolonged ice retention, albeit at a premium price.
Dividers within coolers promote organized storage, keeping regularly accessed items within reach while preserving internal temperatures. They also mitigate transit damage by isolating smaller items from larger ones.
Classic 12-volt coolers, ranging from $100 to $500, typically operate 15-20 degrees below ambient temperatures. While adequate for moderate climates, they can falter in intense heat, affecting food safety.
Electric vehicles feature vehicle-to-load technology, enabling 240-volt powered cooling solutions. Compressor-equipped units ensure reliable performance in extreme temperatures, although they may come with a higher price tag.
There is a growing presence of built-in refrigeration systems in electric vehicles, transitioning from aftermarket to factory-installed configurations. This trend responds to consumer preferences while utilizing the electrical capabilities of contemporary vehicles.
The Kia EV5 GT-Line features a rear sliding 4L storage compartment equipped with heating and cooling functions, providing added comfort for passengers. This attribute sets it apart as a premium model with advanced amenities.
The GAC Aion V includes a 6.6-litre refrigerator located in the centre console armrest, serving both as a refrigerator and warming compartment. Its energy-efficient design facilitates day trips without requiring extra coolers.
Numerous electric vehicles come equipped with camping or utility modes, allowing systems to run while parked without significant battery drain. This feature permits overnight usage of 240-volt fridges, providing an edge compared to traditional vehicles.
Determining the best cooling solution relies on intended usage, financial constraints, and vehicle capabilities. From economical soft coolers to luxury refrigeration systems, the Australian market presents a variety of choices to meet diverse demands.
The advancement of cooling solutions for vehicles, particularly electric ones, provides a broad spectrum of options from cost-effective to high-end powered systems. The selection between conventional and innovative solutions hinges on individual preferences, budget, and vehicle capabilities.
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Fairphone Fairbuds True Wireless Earbuds (Active Noise Cancellation, Replaceable Battery, Bluetooth 5.3) White
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A troubling incident has led to a breach of the Department of Education’s database, impacting all Victorian government schools and their students. This breach required an extensive password reset just as the new academic year was about to commence. The breached database included critical information such as student names, school-issued email IDs, encrypted passwords, school names, and year levels.
Although the Department of Education has verified the breach, the particulars of how the hacker gained access to the database remain unknown. The department has since undertaken containment actions and forensic evaluations. Alerts from at least one school have indicated that immediate measures were enacted to reset all student passwords, ensuring the provision of new access credentials upon their return.
The Victorian Department of Education has pinpointed the breach’s entry route and has put protective measures in place, such as temporarily suspending certain systems to avert further breaches. There are ongoing efforts in partnership with cybersecurity specialists and government bodies to minimize any disruption to students as they start the 2026 academic year.
The breach of the Victorian Department of Education’s database is a significant concern that impacts many students and schools. While there has been no public data release, the prompt response, including a mass password reset and consultations with experts, seeks to enhance security and prevent future breaches.
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The Latrobe Valley, once the energy capital of Victoria, is poised for a substantial transformation as it shifts from coal to a cutting-edge AI data center complex. Keppel’s investment signifies a pivotal change in the economic environment of the region, establishing it as a hub for the global AI economy.
The Powerbank represents a specialized energy and data enclave tailored for AI requirements. With the high power demands of AI workloads, the campus will implement state-of-the-art cooling systems, including provisions for liquid cooling, in line with industry practices.
Keppel’s A$10 billion funding secures 720MW of energy, drawing significant tech enterprises that require scalable operations. This strategic approach places Victoria as a pivotal entity in global technological investments.
“The Powerbank initiative exemplifies Keppel’s capability to create and deliver comprehensive, sustainable infrastructure solutions aimed at bolstering the expanding AI economy.” Loh Chin Hua, CEO, Keppel.
Keppel aspires to be an essential ally in enhancing AI infrastructure, going beyond traditional real estate development.
The Latrobe Valley benefits from its closeness to Melbourne, a resilient electrical grid, and favorable governmental policies, making it a highly appealing option for data centers. These elements are vital for AI operations requiring instantaneous processing and swift data transfers.
The initiative promises to enhance economic growth for regional Victoria, necessitating thousands of workers and generating high-skilled technology roles, paving new career opportunities without the need for urban relocations.
Sustainability is a primary focus of Keppel’s plan, with intentions to match high energy requirements with renewable energy sources, in harmony with technology companies’ ambitious net-zero objectives.
Completing the first phase by 2027 is an optimistic yet attainable goal considering Keppel’s expertise in infrastructure. Each development phase is expected to enhance Australia’s AI ecosystem capabilities.
Establishing such AI hubs domestically strengthens Australia’s digital independence, ensuring that data generated remains domiciled within the country, thereby supporting local startups and researchers on the international front.
Keppel’s vision for the Latrobe Valley represents a transformative leap from an industrial past to a digital future, with a potential investment of A$10 billion. The transition from coal to code signifies a crucial juncture for Australia’s technology sector.
Keppel’s A$10 billion Powerbank effort in the Latrobe Valley signifies a groundbreaking transition from coal to AI innovation, promising economic advancement, sustainability, and fortified digital sovereignty for Australia.
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Recently, Microsoft’s Copilot, an AI-based assistant, was discovered to possess a critical security weakness dubbed Reprompt. This flaw was detected by the data security company Varonis and has since been corrected by Microsoft. The defect permitted potential attackers to extract sensitive user information via a specifically designed single-click prompt injection.
Reprompt enabled attackers to deceive users into clicking a link that seemed authentic but redirected to Microsoft’s Copilot through a web browser. This link contained a specially formatted ?q= parameter with a pre-filled AI prompt, referred to as Parameter 2 Prompt (P2P) injection. After the user’s authenticated Copilot session loaded, the AI would start communicating with a server controlled by the attacker, allowing data extraction such as conversation history, location details, file access history, and more.
Once initiated, the attack could remain effective even if the user closed the Copilot chat window, as the session-level context was leveraged. The attack could bypass detection by client-side tools, since the payload was sent through later AI responses. Varonis noted that no additional user actions or plugins were necessary after the initial click, and there was no restriction on the types of data that could be extracted.
Although no Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) index number has been assigned to Reprompt, and there haven’t been any exploit reports, Varonis recommends that users stay cautious. This includes examining links, particularly those that open AI tools or prefilled prompts, and being cautious about AI requests for personal details. Users should terminate sessions and report any unusual activities promptly.
Microsoft has promptly addressed a critical security vulnerability in its Copilot AI, which could have enabled attackers to access sensitive user information via a single-click exploit. The flaw, identified by Varonis and termed Reprompt, underscores the importance of being alert when engaging with AI tools. Users are advised to be mindful of links and prefilled prompts to safeguard their online security.
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Australia has been keenly anticipating the introduction of autonomous vehicles, and recent news indicates that Waymo, a frontrunner in self-driving technology, may be planning to expand to Australia by 2026. A restricted email sent to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King MP, reveals Waymo’s desire to explore its plans for Australia.
Amidst the excitement, Waymo has clarified that there are no concrete plans or timelines for an Australian launch. According to Ethan Teicher, a representative for Waymo, while they are enthusiastic about the prospect of expansion, they have not confirmed any specifics regarding their potential footprint in Australia.
The regulatory environment for autonomous vehicles in Australia is still being shaped. In February 2022, a decision was made to enact the Automated Vehicle Safety Law through Commonwealth legislation, facilitating a coordinated approach to the approval of autonomous vehicles. This thorough framework is crucial for the incorporation of driverless technology into the Australian transport network.
While anticipation grows regarding the prospective launch of Waymo’s autonomous vehicles in Australia, regulatory challenges present a notable obstacle. With Tesla’s FSD at the forefront locally, Australia awaits the finalization of its national safety regulations to facilitate the integration of autonomous technology. Waymo’s interest is apparent, but official timelines have yet to be established.
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Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro Graphite Headphones (Import Version)
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Rio Tinto has announced its collaboration with AWS to improve its groundbreaking copper extraction method, Nuton. This novel technique uses micro-organisms to extract copper from ores that are typically hard or expensive to process.
Nuton is currently operational at Gunnison Copper’s Johnson Camp mine in the United States, establishing its presence on an industrial scale. The collaboration with AWS aims to further refine this process through cloud-based data and analytics.
AWS is not just a collaborator in refining the Nuton process but also its initial customer. The copper generated will be used in AWS’s US data centres, strengthening the supply chain for essential materials nearer to their point of application.
Rio Tinto’s Copper CEO, Katie Jackson, highlights the significance of industrial innovation and cloud technology in providing cleaner, lower-carbon materials at scale. The partnership with AWS is predicted to hasten optimisation and improve sustainability.
The integration of AWS services into Rio Tinto’s Nuton copper extraction process signifies a major leap forward in sustainable mining methods. By harnessing AWS’s data proficiency, Rio Tinto seeks to enhance its operations while AWS gains a dependable copper supply chain for its data centres.
The Nuton technique is a copper extraction method that employs micro-organisms to retrieve copper from ores that present technical challenges.
AWS provides the essential data and analytics services to enhance the Nuton technique and is the inaugural customer for the copper produced.
Nuton is functioning at an industrial level at the Johnson Camp mine in the United States.
The collaboration seeks to yield cleaner, lower-carbon materials, thus improving sustainability in copper production.
By utilizing locally sourced copper, AWS fortifies its supply chain, ensuring resilience and closeness to its US data centres.
