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Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 Review


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Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 – Active Noise Cancelling Wireless in-Ear Headphones – Bluetooth Earbuds – Porcelain

Melbourne EV Show Makes a Comeback: More than 100 Electric Vehicles Ready to Energize June


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Melbourne EV Show: More Than 100 Electric Vehicles Set to Energize June

Quick Overview

  • Melbourne International EV AutoShow returns from June 27th to 29th.
  • More than 100 electric vehicles, including BEVs, PHEVs, and hybrids.
  • New models from Xpeng, Polestar, Leapmotor, and others unveiling.
  • Complimentary onsite test drives for prospective buyers.
  • Discover various finance and charging options.
  • Government incentives encouraging EV adoption.
  • Main stage discussions featuring EV experts and leaders.

Melbourne Prepares for the EV AutoShow

Prepare yourselves, Melbourne! The Melbourne International EV AutoShow (MIEVS) is set for its third thrilling year, showcasing a vast array of the most recent innovations in electric mobility. Following an astonishing event in Sydney, Future Drive AutoShows is bringing the excitement back to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 27th to 29th.

Exciting Line-Up

This is your opportunity to get an up-close look at over 100 electric vehicles all in one location, comprising battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and classic hybrids. Anticipate seeing state-of-the-art models from manufacturers like Xpeng, Polestar, Leapmotor, Farizon, and SMART, along with showstoppers like the Ferrari 296 GTB, Ferrari SF90, and the previously unseen-in-Australia Rolls-Royce Spectre.

Newly Unveiled Models

Numerous new models are confirmed for their premiere in Melbourne, offering attendees a first glance at some eagerly awaited vehicles. Watch for the Xpeng G6, Audi Q4 e-tron, Audi Q6 e-tron, the commercial Farizon SV van and F1E small truck, Leapmotor C10, Smart #1, Smart #3, KIA EV3, and the stylish Polestar 4. Sustainable Vehicle Solutions will also present the remarkable Ford F-150 electric.

Complimentary Test Drives

The event will also be an excellent chance for prospective buyers to take the wheel of several EVs, with free test drives offered onsite.

Melbourne EV Show showcases over 100 electric vehicles.

Finance and Charging Options

Investigate a variety of financing options that encompass leasing, funding, and an array of charging solutions, from affordable home units to new ultra-fast chargers.

“Future Drive takes pride in returning the show to Melbourne. With increasing government backing and new incentives driving EV adoption, now is the perfect time for both individuals and businesses to discover the advantages of switching to cleaner, more intelligent transport.”

Ray Evans, CEO of Future Drive AutoShows

With the constant challenge of living expenses, transitioning to an electric vehicle is increasingly appearing to be a savvy financial decision. Many popular EV models are currently priced between A$29,990 and A$58,900, making them a more reachable option for Australian households and enterprises.

“For numerous electric vehicle owners, it is now feasible to fully charge your vehicle for under $5 and conveniently at home. With your EV purchase, you now have the option to acquire a charger together with the vehicle, or other charging solutions can now be installed at home for as low as A$500, saving you time and costs.”

Riz Akhtar, founder of EV data company carloop

Innovative Technology and Government Support

There’s also increasing enthusiasm around Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) and Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology, especially with over 4 million Australians now benefiting from rooftop solar. The recent statement by Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen regarding new standards for V2H and V2G charging indicates that EV owners will soon be able to power their homes and potentially sell excess energy back to the grid.

Government programs are making the EV offer even more appealing, with Victoria targeting half of all light vehicles to be zero-emission by 2030. On a national level, a A$2.3 billion investment for home batteries and fringe benefit tax deductions for leased vehicles are enhancing the green transition’s attractiveness.

Engaging Conversations and Interactive Enjoyment

The event will also host a main stage with daily presentations and panel discussions featuring EV experts, industry leaders, and influencers. Anticipate insights from notable personalities such as Andy Larmour of KPMG, Jason Clarke of TrueEV, Scott Maynard of Polestar Australia, and Emma Sutcliffe of EV FireSafe, addressing everything from tax implications to charging infrastructure and battery safety.

Beyond the vehicles and tech discussions, there will be interactive product exhibits, live EV demonstrations, and even an electric go-kart track for family enjoyment.

For additional details, visit futuredriveauto.au.

Recap

The Melbourne International EV AutoShow is returning, featuring over 100 electric vehicles, including newly unveiled models and complimentary test drives, with an emphasis on financing, charging solutions, and government incentives. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions and interactive displays.

Q: What is the Melbourne International EV AutoShow?

A: It’s a yearly event showcasing the latest electric vehicles, technology, and innovations in the EV sector, held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Q: What types of vehicles will be showcased?

A: The show will present over 100 vehicles, comprising battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and traditional hybrids from leading manufacturers.

Q: Can attendees experience test drives of the electric vehicles?

A: Yes, the event offers free onsite test drives for potential buyers to get hands-on experience with the electric vehicles.

Q: What advantages come with switching to an electric vehicle?

A: Advantages include reduced operating costs, government incentives, environmental benefits, and access to new V2G and V2H technologies.

Q: Are there any government incentives for EV purchasers?

A: Yes, initiatives encompass tax deductions, home battery support, and objectives for zero-emission vehicles, enhancing the appeal of EVs for buyers.

Q: Will there be expert presentations or panels?

A: The event includes daily presentations and panel discussions from industry specialists covering subjects like tax implications, charging infrastructure, and battery safety.

Q: What other activities will be available at the show?

A: Attendees can partake in interactive product displays, live demonstrations, and an electric go-kart track for enjoyable family activities.

Cricket Australia Prepared to Transform Connectivity with SD-WAN and Teams Calling Implementation


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Cricket Australia Adopts Enhanced Connectivity with SD-WAN and Teams Calling

Overview

  • Cricket Australia collaborates with Aussie Broadband for innovative telecommunications solutions.
  • The implementation of SD-WAN and Microsoft Teams Calling improves nationwide connectivity.
  • The three-year contract seeks to enhance secure and dependable broadband services.
  • Fortinet SD-WAN will optimize communication for the workforce and external collaborators.

Strategic Alliance with Aussie Broadband

Cricket Australia has collaborated with Aussie Broadband to transform its connectivity framework. This initiative designates Aussie Broadband as the official telecommunications collaborator, guaranteeing uninterrupted communication across Cricket Australia’s locations throughout the country.

Cricket Australia to implement SD-WAN, Teams Calling

Technological Innovations with SD-WAN and Teams Calling

The collaboration includes the implementation of fibre-optic services and Fortinet SD-WAN technology, which is set to improve connectivity. In addition, Microsoft Teams Calling will be integrated to promote effective communication among the workforce and with external partners.

Assuring a Secure and Trustworthy Network

As stated by Brian Maher, the group chief executive of Aussie Broadband, the technological solutions offered will guarantee secure and dependable broadband services. This is vital for the efficient communication needed by Cricket Australia’s diverse and expansive operations.

Conclusion

Cricket Australia’s recent collaboration with Aussie Broadband signifies a major advance in enhancing their telecommunications framework. With the deployment of SD-WAN and Teams Calling, the organization pledges improved connectivity and communication throughout all its operations.

Q&A

Q: What is the length of the partnership between Cricket Australia and Aussie Broadband?

A: The partnership is established for three years.

Q: What technologies will be utilized in this partnership?

A: The technologies encompass fibre-based services, Fortinet SD-WAN, and Microsoft Teams Calling.

Q: What advantages will this partnership offer to Cricket Australia?

A: It will ensure secure and dependable broadband services, optimizing communication for its workforce and external partners.

Q: Who serves as the official telecommunications partner for Cricket Australia?

A: Aussie Broadband has been appointed as the official telecommunications partner.

Hisense Launches C2 Ultra Laser Mini Projector Featuring Huge 300-Inch Display Potential


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Quick Overview

  • Hisense announces its latest range of Laser TVs and projectors for 2025, featuring the C2 Ultra Laser Mini Projector.
  • The C2 Ultra can display images up to a staggering 300 inches and incorporates advanced TriChroma technology.
  • Notable features include a distinctive gimbal design, built-in subwoofer, and ‘Designed for Xbox’ endorsement.
  • The C2 Ultra is available for $4,499.00 AUD for fans in Australia.
  • The L9Q Laser TV presents a 120-inch screen with ultra-short throw capabilities.

Hisense’s Newest Home Theater Developments

Hisense has introduced its 2025 home theater collection, showcasing an array of Laser TVs and Laser Projection systems designed to enhance home entertainment experiences. A highlight of this lineup is the C2 Ultra 4K TriChroma Laser Mini Projector, which features an impressive array of specifications despite its compact design.

Power in Compact Form: C2 and C2 Ultra Laser Mini Projectors

Hisense promotes its new C2 and C2 Ultra 4K TriChroma Laser Mini Projectors as compact yet powerful solutions for home cinema. These devices leverage Hisense’s LPU Digital Laser Engine and AI to adapt picture and sound to your specific environment.

Versatile Gimbal System

The C2 and C2 Ultra come equipped with a flexible gimbal mechanism, allowing for 360° horizontal and 135° vertical movements, ensuring flawless projection on unconventional surfaces.

TriChroma Color and Brightness

Thanks to TriChroma technology, these projectors deliver cinema-quality visuals, with support for IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision. The C2 Ultra achieves 3,000 ANSI lumens, covering 110% of the BT.2020 color spectrum.

C2 Ultra: The Premium Upgrade

The C2 Ultra features improvements such as a built-in subwoofer and optical zoom ability, adding flexibility in projector placement and exceptional sound for gaming and movies.

The Heavyweight: L9Q Laser TV

For those wanting a powerful home cinema setup, the L9Q TriChroma Laser TV offers a 120-inch ALR display that adapts to various spatial needs.

Brightest Laser Yet

The L9Q delivers an impressive 4,000 ANSI lumens of brightness, ranking it as Hisense’s brightest laser model to date, producing vibrant images even in well-lit environments.

Ultra-Short Throw Technology

With a groundbreaking 0.18 ultra-short throw lens, the L9Q requires minimal distance from the wall, making it perfect for contemporary Australian homes.

Advanced Chip and Image Quality

Utilizing a .47SST architecture chip, the L9Q guarantees 1,000 nits of brightness with accurate color correction for realistic visuals.

Immersive Audio and Gaming

Featuring Harman Kardon speakers and a ‘Designed for Xbox’ credential, the L9Q provides an engaging audiovisual gaming experience.

Conclusion

Hisense’s 2025 lineup is set to enhance home entertainment with state-of-the-art Laser TVs and projectors. With offerings like the C2 Ultra and L9Q, Hisense caters to enthusiasts seeking high-quality, immersive cinematic experiences in their homes.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the primary feature of the C2 Ultra Laser Mini Projector?

A:

The C2 Ultra’s key feature is its ability to project images up to 300 inches utilizing advanced TriChroma color technology.

Q: How does the C2 Ultra accommodate gamers?

A:

The C2 Ultra is ‘Designed for Xbox’, guaranteeing a seamless plug-and-play setup for gamers.

Q: What distinguishes the L9Q Laser TV?

A:

The L9Q is equipped with an ultra-short throw lens, allowing for large image projection from a very short distance, perfect for limited-space settings.

Q: What is the price range for these new Hisense offerings?

A:

In Australia, the C2 Ultra is priced at $4,499.00 AUD, appealing to users seeking premium home cinema products.

Telstra Transitions from ‘Best Effort’ Connectivity, Enables Users to Personalize Settings


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  • By 2030, Telstra intends to transition from ‘best effort’ connectivity to personalised services.
  • The new initiative, ‘Connected Future 30’, seeks to customise services according to each customer’s requirements.
  • Customers will have the ability to prioritise network characteristics like speed and security as per their preferences.
  • This strategy involves revamping Telstra’s network into a virtualised, software-defined framework.
  • Customisation of plans will influence pricing, necessitating new financial models.

An Overview of Telstra’s ‘Connected Future 30’ Strategy

Telstra to transition from standard connectivity services

Telstra is poised to reshape its connectivity offerings in the next five years through its ‘Connected Future 30’ strategy. Shifting away from conventional ‘best effort’ services, Telstra plans to provide personalised connectivity solutions tailored to distinct customer needs. This new methodology aims to deliver more advanced and adaptable connectivity options, reflecting the shifting demands of users.

Network as a Service

Central to Telstra’s new approach is the ‘Network as a Service’ concept. This initiative focuses on transforming how value is derived from Telstra’s network by permitting users to prioritise certain network features such as security, speed, and latency. Vicki Brady, Telstra’s CEO, underscored that customer requirements are continuously evolving, which calls for a more customised connectivity strategy.

Tailored Connectivity Services

With the new strategy, customers will have the capability to tailor their connectivity plans by selecting the network features that are most vital to them. This might involve prioritising download speeds for streaming, ensuring reliable upload speeds for video conferencing, or enhancing security for critical business activities. By providing these tailored options, Telstra seeks to offer a more compelling value proposition for its premium plans.

Investment in Virtual and Software-Defined Networks

A crucial aspect of Telstra’s strategy is the investment in virtual and software-defined network capabilities. This evolution will allow Telstra to provide differentiated services and challenge traditional business models. The adaptability afforded by software-defined networks will enable Telstra to design offerings that are better aligned with customer desires and improve return-on-investment.

Effect on Pricing Strategies

Telstra’s shift towards personalised connectivity services will require modifications to its pricing strategies. Chief Financial Officer Michael Ackland pointed out the necessity for new financial models to accurately price the diverse array of network attributes that customers might request. As the network’s complexity increases, comprehending the financial implications of delivering specific services will be essential for Telstra’s financial approach.

Conclusion

Telstra’s ‘Connected Future 30’ strategy represents a major transition in how the telecom provider delivers connectivity services. By concentrating on customised options and investing in state-of-the-art network technologies, Telstra aims to cater to the diverse demands of its customers while ensuring sustainable business returns. This transformation will entail the development of new financial models and a deeper understanding of the costs and values related to network attributes.

Q: What constitutes Telstra’s ‘Connected Future 30’ strategy?

A: The ‘Connected Future 30’ strategy is Telstra’s initiative to depart from ‘best effort’ connectivity services and provide customised options that enable customers to prioritise specific network features based on their individual needs, with a focus on sophisticated and adaptable solutions by 2030.

Q: In what way will Telstra’s new strategy influence pricing?

A: The strategy will modify pricing by implementing new economic models to address the costs and values of various network features that customers may prioritise in their connectivity arrangements.

Q: What significance do virtualised and software-defined networks have in the strategy?

A: Virtualised and software-defined networking are crucial elements of the strategy, allowing Telstra to offer more flexible and unique services that meet customer needs and improve return-on-investment.

Q: How will the strategy benefit consumers and enterprises?

A: Consumers and businesses will gain from personalised connectivity choices that enable them to prioritise network features such as speed, security, and latency, guaranteeing they receive value-driven services tailored to their specific needs.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro Review


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Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro – Wireless Earphones Graphite

Sennheiser Momentum Sport Wireless Earbuds Review


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Sennheiser Wireless Earbuds, Momentum Sport, Olive, High Performance Driver, 24 Hours Playtime, Hybrid Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Outcoming Sound Capture, Bluetooth 5.2, IP55, Sports Earphones

ANZ Explores Pioneering Agentic AI to Enhance Innovation


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How ANZ Utilizes Agentic AI to Foster Banking Innovation

Quick Overview

  • ANZ is investigating agentic AI to enhance banker efficiency and operational productivity.
  • The bank has realized a fivefold boost in feature delivery speed via its ANZ Plus platform.
  • Cost for acquisition and service has diminished by more than 30% following the adoption of digital strategies.
  • ANZ initiated trials with generative AI in early 2023 to improve code testing among other applications.
  • The AI Immersion Centre initiative has trained upwards of 2000 employees in Australia, New Zealand, and India.
  • ANZ collaborates with Microsoft to promote AI adoption while overseeing related risks.
  • The bank is concentrating on comprehensive AI integration rather than standalone experiments.
ANZ investigates innovative agentic AI for growth

(L-R) Eran Agrios, Salesforce GM and SVP, Financial Services, and Gerard Florian, ANZ group executive for technology

Agentic AI: The Upcoming Advancement in Banker Efficiency

ANZ Banking Group is adopting a progressive stance towards artificial intelligence (AI) by exploring agentic AI—AI systems with the ability to make autonomous decisions and execute tasks—to reshape bankers’ workflows. At a recent Agentforce Financial Services Summit, Gerard Florian, Group Executive for Technology at ANZ, emphasized the objective of eradicating inefficiencies and freeing up time for both bankers and engineers.

“There’s an abundance of wasted time, whether it’s an engineer or a relationship manager. Everyone encounters these inefficiencies in their current roles,” Florian stated. Agentic AI has the potential to transform functions such as meeting preparations, follow-ups, and customer engagements—critical areas where human employees often experience productivity challenges.

ANZ Plus: A Platform-Centric Approach Catalyzing Progress

ANZ’s digital initiative, ANZ Plus, has yielded significant improvements. According to Florian, the platform has facilitated a quintuple increase in the speed of feature delivery to clients. Additionally, the costs related to customer acquisition and service have fallen by more than 30%—a clear reflection of the effectiveness of the platform-oriented methodology.

These advancements arise from the “platform mindset” of ANZ Plus, which allows for modular, scalable, and agile development methodologies. This framework is now being further developed with intelligent automation through agentic AI, aiming to streamline operations and elevate customer satisfaction.

Understanding the Comprehensive Strategy: ANZ’s AI Vision

ANZ’s venture into AI commenced in early 2023 with the sanctioned use of generative AI for software code testing. However, the bank swiftly acknowledged the broader capabilities of AI beyond mere automation.

“We aim to sidestep numerous small AI experiments that fail to scale,” Florian clarified. Instead, ANZ concentrates on grasping entirety of business processes—encompassing loan approvals, customer onboarding, and hiring. This comprehensive perspective aids in pinpointing where AI, whether traditional machine learning, generative AI, or agentic AI, can deliver optimal value.

AI Immersion Centre: Cultivating a Culture of Creativity

The rapid rise of ChatGPT in late 2022 spurred ANZ to intensify its AI adoption efforts. Rather than opposing the transition, ANZ welcomed it by establishing an AI Immersion Centre in partnership with Microsoft. The aim of this program is to enhance the AI skills of leaders and teams throughout the bank.

Now, over a year into this initiative, ANZ has equipped more than 2000 employees across its facilities in Melbourne, New Zealand, and India. These trained leaders are now disseminating their knowledge among their teams, generating a “flywheel effect” that is expediting AI integration throughout the organization.

“We’re fostering a balanced dialogue—recognizing the opportunities while remaining aware of the risks,” Florian remarked. This cultural transition is vital for what he envisions as “potentially the most significant transformation program we will all undergo in the coming years.”

Conclusion

ANZ is positioning itself as a leader in AI innovation within the Australian banking landscape by investigating agentic AI to boost productivity, lower costs, and provide quicker outcomes for customers. Through strategic efforts such as ANZ Plus, AI immersion training, and a comprehensive approach to process enhancement, the bank is setting the stage for a future driven by intelligent automation. By nurturing a culture of education and responsible innovation, ANZ is not only riding the AI wave—it’s actively contributing to its evolution.

Q: What is agentic AI and how is ANZ utilizing it?

A:

Agentic AI refers to AI systems capable of independently undertaking complex tasks and making decisions. ANZ is implementing this technology to enhance banker productivity by automating routine processes such as meeting preparation and follow-ups, enabling employees to concentrate on higher-value tasks.

Q: What advantages has ANZ Plus provided thus far?

A:

ANZ Plus has facilitated a fivefold rise in feature delivery speed and has decreased costs related to customer acquisition and service by over 30%. This has been accomplished through a modular, scalable digital platform strategy.

Q: How is ANZ ensuring its AI projects are scalable?

A:

Rather than pursuing standalone projects, ANZ concentrates on comprehensively understanding business processes to identify where AI can be most impactful. This strategy helps guarantee that AI solutions are scalable and aligned with overall business objectives.

Q: What is the AI Immersion Centre and who is involved?

A:

The AI Immersion Centre is an educational initiative created in collaboration with Microsoft to promote AI integration across ANZ. It has trained over 2000 individuals throughout Australia, New Zealand, and India, including leadership teams who are imparting their expertise to wider teams.

Q: How is ANZ addressing the risks associated with AI?

A:

ANZ is cultivating an informed discussion surrounding AI by training teams on both opportunities and risks. By incorporating responsible AI practices and emphasizing defined processes, the bank aims to mitigate unintended consequences.

Q: What is Microsoft’s role in ANZ’s AI approach?

A:

Microsoft plays an essential role in ANZ’s AI trajectory, having assisted in the establishment of the AI Immersion Centre. The partnership offers technological support and training resources to facilitate responsible AI scaling throughout the organization.

Q: What are the forthcoming plans for ANZ’s AI roadmap?

A:

ANZ intends to further broaden its application of agentic and generative AI across diverse banking functionalities. The focus will continue to be on strategic implementation, staff training, and using AI to enhance customer experience and operational effectiveness.

Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds True Wireless Earbuds Review


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Skullcandy Smokin’ Buds True Wireless Earbuds with Supreme Sound, 50% Renewable Plastics and Microphone, 20 Hours Battery, Bluetooth Earbuds for iPhone, Android, and More – Matcha