Techbest – Top Tech Reviews In Australia
The best in Australian gadgets and technology
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Nokia Essential True Wireless Earphones (E3511), Fully Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth, Noise Cancellation, External Sound Capture / 25 Hours of Music Playback, Instant Connection, Hands-Free Calling
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Microsoft has revealed a strategic co-investment initiative with the Australian Department of Defence, concentrating on cloud adoption and digital evolution. This effort represents a substantial financial commitment, although specific amounts are kept confidential for commercial reasons.
Defence has engaged Data#3 for software and cloud services for the next five years, with a deal valued at $495 million. This contract forms part of a Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment (MACC), highlighting the increased dependency on cloud solutions for national defence functions.
The Enterprise Customer Investment Fund (ECIF) plays a crucial role in this collaboration. ECIF enables Microsoft to allocate budgetary resources to back its products and services, offering Defence financial support for cloud pilots, migrations, and training efforts. This fund is a rebranding of former business investment funds, signifying Microsoft’s changing approach to customer partnerships.
This co-investment bolsters Defence’s wider digital transformation aims, aligning with its digital strategy and secure cloud initiatives. The partnership aims to enhance Defence’s operational capabilities through advanced cloud technologies.
Defence is progressing with two major Azure initiatives: a SAP-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and the Microsoft 365 environment branded as Vera. The ERP system has recently become operational with modules for logistics, maintenance, finance, and procurement, while the Vera environment is witnessing considerable expansion.
Microsoft’s collaboration with the Australian Department of Defence signifies a major investment in cloud-centric digital evolution. Through the ECIF and collaboration with Data#3, this initiative is poised to foster innovation and improve efficiency in Defence’s operations, aligning with its strategic digital pathway.
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Australians aiming to improve their energy storage options have cause for excitement. The Clean Energy Regulator has revealed that new battery modules integrated into existing stackable battery systems can now qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs). Comprehensive criteria and guidance can be located in the REC Registry, streamlining the process for consumers and installers alike.
For individuals with current solar PV systems, incorporating a solar battery is now governed by updated guidelines. These changes ensure that your system aligns with virtual power plants (VPPs), enabling participation in larger energy networks. This initiative aims to enhance current systems and promote involvement in Australia’s clean energy future.
For Australians pursuing complete energy autonomy, new off-grid solar battery requirements offer clarity and support. These stipulations cover properties situated less than 1km from the grid and provide detailed guidance for integrating batteries into pre-existing off-grid systems. The intention is to facilitate the transition to off-grid living with seamless integration and dependability.
To ease installation delays, Solar Accreditation Australia has enacted temporary measures to increase maximum daily installations. From July 1 to August 10, 2025, installers can complete more systems each day, including a combination of solar battery and PV systems. This initiative targets the backlog and seeks to hasten the deployment of new setups.
Registered agents working with solar batteries will continue to manage STCs smoothly. The Australian Government will acquire STCs corresponding to those generated by solar batteries, ensuring a stable market environment. These certificates are not required to be sold to the government, allowing for flexibility in trading on the open market.
The recent updates mark a significant advancement toward making solar battery storage a feasible option for Australian homes and businesses. With lower costs and easier processes, this moment could represent the ideal opportunity to invest in solar battery technology.
For additional information, visit the Clean Energy Regulator website.
Australia is progressing in making solar battery storage more accessible through new guidelines and STC incentives. Whether augmenting a current system or initiating a new installation, these updates promise to lower costs and simplify procedures, creating a favorable opportunity to adopt solar battery technology.
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Huawei FreeBuds 5i Fully Wireless Earphones, High Resolution, ANC Calling Noise Reduction, Ceramic White
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Is it possible to charge an electric vehicle, such as the new Hyundai Inster urban EV, with a portable power station like the EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus? This power station holds 1 kWh of energy and is equipped with four 240V AC power outlets, compatible with a standard car charger cable.
The Delta 3 Plus is constructed to operate grounded without needing an additional adaptor. As stated on its online support page, the unit’s AC output and internal mechanism are grounded, sharing the same grounding as grid electricity when in use.
Open the car to reach the charging port. Connect the Hyundai charger to one of the Delta 3 Plus’s sockets and the vehicle. After powering on the station, confirm that the AC sockets are switched on as well. The Hyundai Inster will indicate that charging has begun with a “Start charging!” alert. However, the Delta 3 Plus’s 1 kWh capacity means that it can only provide charge to the vehicle for around 23 minutes at a rate of 2.2 kW.
During testing, the Delta 3 Plus halted charging due to an “Over Load” error because the car attempted to draw more current than what the station could provide. To fix this, modify the car’s settings to limit the current draw to 6 amps, bringing the charging rate down to 1.3 kW.
With the new settings, the vehicle successfully charged at a rate of 1.25 kW. The Delta 3 Plus can maintain this output without overheating or straining. Keep in mind that the power station’s rated output is 1,800W, with a temporary boost capability of 2,400W using the X boost feature, though this will lower the voltage.
While the EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus can technically charge an electric vehicle, its cumbersome weight and restricted energy capacity render it impractical for increasing EV range. Weighing in at 12.5 kg and priced at $1400, it is better suited for land or camping scenarios. Until improvements are made in weight and cost for these power stations, they won’t provide a viable option for EV charging in isolated or emergency contexts.
The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus showcases the capability of charging an electric vehicle, yet its practicality is hindered by weight, energy capacity, and expense. It serves a better purpose for home or camping backup power instead of extending EV range while traveling.
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TCL MOVEAUDIO S600 Wireless Earbuds TW30-3BLCEU4 – White
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Vocus Group, supported by Macquarie, has effectively secured the requisite regulatory endorsements to purchase TPG Telecom’s enterprise, government, and wholesale fixed-line and fibre resources for $5.25 billion. This takeover signifies a key achievement in Vocus’s plan to upgrade its infrastructure capabilities.
The acquisition, first revealed in 2024, swiftly garnered interest from industry observers and stakeholders. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provided its approval in March, underscoring the move as a competitive advancement in the telecommunications space. With this endorsement and the latest clearance from the Foreign Investment Review Board, Vocus is poised to become one of Australia’s largest proprietors of underground fibre resources.
The agreement is projected to enhance Vocus’s capability to deliver strong connectivity solutions nationwide. By linking nearly 20,000 buildings, Vocus aims to meet the growing demand for high-speed internet and dependable network services, thus augmenting its service provisions for enterprise and government sectors.
Having obtained the final regulatory endorsement, Vocus Group is ready to advance with its acquisition of TPG Telecom’s essential resources. This strategic initiative positions Vocus as a powerful force within the Australian telecommunications sector, greatly increasing its fibre infrastructure presence. The takeover is anticipated to foster innovation and competition, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses across the country.
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The realm of Australian sports is on the brink of a major shift through a new partnership between the CSIRO and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC). This project aspires to transform the sports industry by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into its infrastructure, with an emphasis on both performance enhancement and inclusivity.
The foundation of this collaboration is the AI for Australian Sports Strategy. This extensive framework will deliver an in-depth analysis of AI applications across different sports, pinpoint opportunities for cross-sport partnerships, and establish priorities for upcoming research and development. The strategy is anticipated to steer sporting organisations in the implementation of AI methodologies that improve both participation rates and performance outcomes.
As the use of AI in sports escalates, the demand for ethical standards becomes crucial. The partnership intends to create a responsible AI position statement and checklist to help sports organisations and community stakeholders in responsibly adopting AI. This will encompass ensuring transparency, equity, inclusiveness, and compliance with established ethical benchmarks.
Professor Jon Whittle, Director of CSIRO’s Data61, highlights the collaboration’s potential to advance Australian sports at all tiers. By working closely with the ASC, the initiative aspires to motivate more Australians to participate in sports while leveraging the advantages of cutting-edge data and digital technologies.
Kieren Perkins OAM, CEO of the ASC, emphasises the necessity of implementing robust ethical and responsible frameworks as AI becomes increasingly integral to sports development.
This groundbreaking partnership between CSIRO and ASC lays the groundwork for Australia to spearhead the world in the responsible and impactful utilisation of AI in sports. By concentrating on a thorough AI strategy and ethical standards, this initiative promises to not only enhance sports performance and integrity but also to stimulate greater participation throughout the country.
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Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro Wireless Earbuds, White
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Organizations in Western Australia are redefining roles within their teams to facilitate use-case oriented strategies for AI and ML. Staffing expert M&T Resources, which has recently established an office in the west, is spearheading this change.
In contrast to the east coast’s extensive adoption of AI, WA is concentrating on specific use cases, especially in mining, energy, and logistics. These fields are experiencing operational improvements and predictive insights, leading to tangible ROI.
Organizations are enhancing team skills by converting traditional roles into hybrid positions that demand data fluency, AI capabilities, or automation integration. This approach is prevalent in sectors with streamlined operations and stringent compliance guidelines.
M&T Resources points to the durability of WA’s tech landscape as a significant factor for opening an office in the region. The recruitment expert’s team brings over five decades of experience, establishing connections in crucial industries like mining, government, and healthcare.
“Our expertise enables us to focus on outcomes and relationships,” said Kevin Howell, regional manager, Perth, M&T Resources. The team has successfully placed senior transformation leaders and assembled project teams for substantial initiatives.
M&T Resources is affiliated with NRI ANZ, a prominent digital consultancy. This collaboration enhances the firm’s abilities in WA, allowing it to function as an integrated recruitment partner within significant programs.
This partnership provides early insights into developing workforce requirements associated with large initiatives, delivering reliable talent solutions across contract, permanent, and project-focused demands.
M&T Resources recognizes possibilities across WA, from mining and energy companies emphasizing automation to an advanced startup ecosystem in agricultural technology, cleantech, and digital health.
M&T Resources employs a contemporary recruitment approach, concentrating on proactive, data-driven, and relationship-focused tactics. Clients anticipate recruiters to serve as strategic allies rather than merely talent providers.
Qualified IT professionals are looking for alignment with their values, pathways for career advancement, and meaningful contributions, leading recruiters to foster long-term relationships and provide tailored interactions.
AI, analytics, and automation simplify recruitment methodologies, allowing recruiters to concentrate on more valuable tasks such as market analysis, negotiation, and assessing cultural compatibility.
M&T Resources is at the forefront of evolving technology roles in Western Australia by implementing use-case oriented methods for AI and ML. This approach, backed by a resilient economy and a strengthened partnership with NRI ANZ, equips the firm to satisfy the rising demand for skilled professionals across various industries.
Western Australia emphasizes targeted, use-case-focused strategies due to particular sector demands in mining, energy, and logistics, which gain advantages from operational efficiencies and predictive insights.
Conventional roles are being converted into hybrid positions that require data fluency, AI capabilities, and automation integration, particularly in sectors with streamlined operations.
The NRI ANZ partnership enhances M&T Resources’ footprint in WA, empowering them to deliver reliable talent solutions and obtain early insights into workforce requirements for large initiatives.
There are increasing opportunities in sectors such as mining, energy, agricultural technology, cleantech, digital health, and large-scale transformation projects within government and enterprise.
AI, analytics, and automation are enhancing recruitment processes, permitting recruiters to prioritize high-value activities like market analysis and cultural alignment, rather than solely focusing on sourcing and screening.
Skilled IT professionals desire roles that resonate with their values, provide growth opportunities, flexibility, and a sense of impact, encouraging recruiters to emphasize long-term relationships and personalized engagement.
