Category: Australia Tech News

Quick Overview

• The 2025 Digital Nation Awards commemorate Australia’s advancements in the digital realm.
• Prominent sectors acknowledged include healthcare, finance, and education.
• Events emphasise the significance of technology in fostering economic development.
• Numerous networking prospects are available for leaders and innovators in the tech sector.

Focus on the 2025 Digital Nation Awards

The 2025 Digital Nation Awards, hosted in Sydney, displayed the height of digital innovation within Australia. Esteemed as one of the leading events in the technology schedule, these awards recognise the transformative abilities of technology across diverse fields. This year’s occasion was no different, showcasing the accomplishments of companies and individuals who have significantly impacted the nation’s digital environment.

Honoring Innovators from Various Sectors

Spanning from healthcare to finance and education, the awards highlighted the essential influence technology has on advancing these fields. As digital transformation rapidly progresses, the awards create a space for acknowledging those leading the charge in innovation.

Fostering Economic Development via Technology

A prominent theme of the evening was the vital part technology plays in fostering economic growth. As Australia aspires to establish itself as a global frontrunner in the digital economy, occasions such as the Digital Nation Awards underscore how innovation can drive industries ahead, generating new opportunities and efficiencies.

Networking and Collaborative Prospects

The awards additionally act as a key networking venue for industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers. Participants have the opportunity to exchange insights, build new alliances, and delve into potential partnerships that may influence the future of Australia’s technological arena.

Conclusion

The 2025 Digital Nation Awards persist as a standard for acknowledging excellence in technology throughout Australia. By celebrating the accomplishments of those spearheading digital innovation, the awards not only commemorate past achievements but also motivate future progress.

Q: What are the Digital Nation Awards?

A: The Digital Nation Awards represent an annual celebration of digital innovation and accomplishments across different sectors in Australia.

Q: Why are these awards important?

A: They underscore the significance of technology in facilitating economic growth and recognise the contributions of businesses and individuals to the digital ecosystem.

Q: Which sectors are usually acknowledged?

A: Notable sectors include healthcare, finance, and education, among others.

Q: What opportunities do the awards create?

A: The awards provide networking opportunities for industry leaders to establish collaborations and explore partnerships.

Brief Overview

• The BYD Sealion 7 makes its debut at the Melbourne EV Show as a formidable player in the mid-sized SUV sector.
• Available in two models: Premium and Performance, both featuring the ultra-secure BYD Blade Battery.
• Design influenced by “Ocean Aesthetics,” showcasing a streamlined profile and contemporary attributes.
• Cutting-edge technology includes a 15.6-inch infotainment display and extensive safety enhancements.
• The Performance variant features a dual-motor AWD system with remarkable acceleration capabilities.
• Great value with competitive pricing and a wide array of features.

BYD Sealion 7: A Fresh Challenger in the Mid-Sized SUV Sector

Style

The BYD Sealion 7 unveils a unique design philosophy known as “Ocean Aesthetics,” drawing inspiration from the ocean’s fluidity and strength. Its elegant, coupe-like form and low profile provide a sporty appearance. The front showcases a unique X-shaped grille and slender C-shaped LED headlights, amplifying its authoritative stance. The rear design is equally striking, featuring a full-width LED tail light that incorporates a dot-matrix layout.

A notable feature is the spacious front trunk, or “frunk,” which adds extra storage capacity. The Premium variant is fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, while the Performance version comes with 20-inch rims, enhancing its athletic character.

Specifications

The BYD Sealion 7 comes loaded with features, even starting from the entry-level Premium variant. It is built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and includes the ultra-safe Blade Battery with Cell to Body (CTB) technology, boosting safety and interior space.

Standard amenities feature a 15.6-inch rotating infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, and a heads-up display. The interior is upgraded with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats, which have heating and ventilation options.

Technological advancements include a 12-speaker Dynaudio audio system, wireless mobile charging, and sophisticated driver-assistance technologies (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. Additionally, the Sealion 7 has a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) capability to power outside devices.

The Premium version operates as a rear-wheel-drive SUV, while the Performance variant provides a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system for faster acceleration and improved handling.

Conclusion

The BYD Sealion 7 has made a notable entrance at the Melbourne EV Show, establishing itself as a serious player in the mid-sized SUV market. With its state-of-the-art design, forward-thinking features, and competitive pricing, it offers excellent value for Australian buyers interested in an electric vehicle.

Q: What distinguishes the Premium from the Performance variants?

A:

The Premium variant is a rear-wheel-drive SUV with reduced power output, whereas the Performance version features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, delivering increased power and faster acceleration.

Q: What safety features are present in the BYD Sealion 7?

A:

The Sealion 7 includes advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection, and a 360-degree camera.

Q: How does the BYD Sealion 7 compare with Tesla’s Model 3/Y?

A:

The Sealion 7 resembles Tesla’s Model 3/Y pair, offering comparable features and performance at a more aggressive price, positioning it as an attractive option in the mid-sized SUV sector.

Q: What is the BYD Sealion 7’s range on a full battery?

A:

The Premium variant provides a range of up to 567 km NEDC (482 km WLTP), while the Performance variant offers up to 542 km NEDC (456 km WLTP).

For additional details, visit https://bydautomotive.com.au/sealion-7

Quick Overview

• Australian federal government boosts Microsoft collaboration by $25 million for integrated support services.
• Overall agreement value now surpasses $1.2 billion.
• Original agreement began at $96 million, now increased by over thirteen times.
• Copilot services are excluded from this updated arrangement.
• 180,000 Microsoft licences acquired by government agencies last year.

Federal Government Enhances Microsoft Collaboration

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has recently finalized a new one-year arrangement that strengthens the federal government’s bulk sourcing agreement with Microsoft by an additional $25 million. This increase specifically focuses on “integrated support” services, guaranteeing improved assistance for various federal agencies utilizing Microsoft products and services.

Current Scope and Exclusions

The agreement, which encompasses multiple federal agencies, currently does not encompass Microsoft’s Copilot services. Despite this exclusion, the arrangement builds on a $257 million amendment made earlier this month, elevating the total worth of the standing offer beyond $1.2 billion.

Historical Context and Growth

Initially valued at $96 million, the agreement has experienced significant growth, now holding a value more than thirteen times its original figure. Renewed for an additional 12 months in January, the total value of the agreement reached $954 million at the point of its third renewal, reflecting a notable 25 percent increase in just six months.

Impact on Licensing

As reported last year, 180,000 licences for Microsoft Office and other associated products and services were provided to government agencies through the government’s official Microsoft reseller, Data#3. This illustrates the considerable dependence on Microsoft’s suite of products throughout federal sectors.

Summary

The Australian government’s move to elevate the Microsoft bulk sourcing agreement exemplifies a strong commitment to utilizing Microsoft’s technology to bolster federal operations. Although Copilot is not part of this deal, the emphasis remains on integrated support to guarantee seamless service delivery across agencies.

Q&A

Q: What is the aim of the additional $25 million investment?

A: The extra investment is meant to bolster integrated support services for federal agencies utilizing Microsoft products.

Q: Is Microsoft’s Copilot included in this arrangement?

A: No, Copilot is excluded from the current arrangement.

Q: How has the agreement’s value evolved since its initiation?

A: The agreement’s value began at $96 million and has since grown more than thirteen-fold to surpass $1.2 billion.

Q: How many Microsoft licences were acquired by government agencies last year?

A: Last year, 180,000 Microsoft Office and related product licences were acquired by government agencies.

Q: What is Data#3’s role in this agreement?

A: Data#3 acts as the official Microsoft reseller for the government, aiding in the distribution of Microsoft licences to federal agencies.

Brief Overview

• Thales organized a roundtable discussion for financial services centered on the CORIE framework.
• The gathering addressed the CORIE framework established by the Australian Council of Financial Regulators.
• Attendees examined the application of threat intelligence to replicate real-world cyber attacks.
• This framework aids financial institutions in taking proactive measures against possible cyber threats.

Insight into the CORIE Framework

The CORIE framework, developed by the Australian Council of Financial Regulators, is structured as a thorough method for financial institutions to assess their resilience to cyber threats. It stands for Cyber Operational Resilience Intelligence-led Exercises and seeks to strengthen the cybersecurity frameworks of financial organizations.

The Importance of Threat Intelligence

Within the CORIE framework, threat intelligence holds significant importance by offering practical knowledge regarding potential cyber threats. By utilizing threat intelligence, financial institutions can replicate real-world attacks, facilitating the identification of weaknesses and enhancing their defensive approaches.

Key Points from the Thales Roundtable

The executive roundtable led by Thales served as a venue for industry leaders to discuss the execution and advantages of the CORIE framework. Participants investigated how the financial sector can leverage the framework to improve their security protocols and protect against escalating cyber threats.

Proactive Management of Cyber Threats

A major insight from the roundtable was the focus on proactive management of threats. By simulating attacks, institutions can more effectively prepare for real incidents, minimizing possible damage and ensuring the continuity of their operations.

Conclusion

The roundtable facilitated by Thales on the CORIE framework underscored the significance of employing threat intelligence to replicate realistic cyber threats. By embracing this framework, financial institutions can proactively manage potential hazards and enhance their overall cybersecurity defenses.

Q: What is the CORIE framework?

A: The CORIE framework refers to Cyber Operational Resilience Intelligence-led Exercises. It is intended to support financial institutions in assessing their resilience to cyber threats via simulated attacks and threat intelligence.

Q: In what way does threat intelligence aid financial institutions?

A: Threat intelligence offers practical insights into possible cyber threats, enabling financial institutions to replicate real-world attacks, discover vulnerabilities, and refine their defensive tactics.

Q: What was the main topic of the Thales roundtable event?

A: The primary focus of the Thales roundtable was to explore the implementation and benefits of the CORIE framework for financial institutions, highlighting the proactive management of cyber threats.

Q: Why is proactive threat management essential?

A: Proactive threat management equips institutions to handle actual cyber incidents, diminishing potential repercussions and ensuring operational continuity by addressing vulnerabilities beforehand.

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Shokz OpenFit 2+: Enhancing the Open-Ear Experience

• Improved audio thanks to DualBoost technology.
• Prolonged battery life offering up to 48 hours of overall playback.
• Incorporation of physical buttons for better control.
• IP55 splashproof rating, ideal for gym and outdoor use.
• Premium price at A$339; offered in black and grey.

Advanced Audio Technology

DualBoost Technology

The key feature is Shokz’s latest DualBoost technology, which incorporates two separate speakers in each earbud. One oversized low-frequency driver manages bass, while a dedicated high-frequency driver takes care of treble.

DirectPitch 2.0 Sound Direction

The second iteration of DirectPitch technology ensures more precise sound delivery to your ears. Shokz’s evaluations indicate a decrease in sound leakage by 2 to 5dB compared to the earlier model, translating to a 20% to 45% reduction in sound energy at a 20cm distance.

Dolby Audio Support

The OpenFit 2+ integrates Dolby Audio processing, enhancing depth and clarity when used with compatible devices.

Prolonged Battery Performance

48-Hour Total Playback

The charging case allows for up to 48 hours of listening time, a considerable upgrade over various competitors. Each earbud offers up to 11 hours of uninterrupted playback on one charge.

Fast Charging Capability

A quick 10-minute charge yields two hours of listening time. The wireless charging case is compatible with all Qi-certified wireless charging pads.

Battery Longevity

The OpenFit 2+ battery maintains over 80% capacity retention after 500 charge cycles, equating to at least 2-3 years of heavy usage.

Physical Controls and Build Quality

Physical Button Integration

Differing from touch-sensitive controls seen in many wireless earbuds, the OpenFit 2+ utilizes physical buttons for call and music management, minimizing accidental activations.

Water Resistance Rating

The IP55 rating provides safeguarding against sweat and light water splashes, rendering them suitable for gym workouts and moderate outdoor activities.

Comparison with Previous Generation

The prior generation OpenFit Air continues to be a viable choice for budget-minded consumers. Nevertheless, the OpenFit 2+ validates its higher price point with markedly improved battery life, wireless charging features, and superior audio technology.

Specification	OpenFit 2+	OpenFit Air (Previous Gen)
Driver Configuration	Dual drivers (DualBoost technology)	Single driver
Battery Life (Earbuds)	Up to 11 hours	Up to 7 hours
Total Battery Life	Up to 48 hours	Up to 28 hours
Charging Case	Supports wireless charging	USB-C only
Controls	Physical buttons	Touch controls
Audio Enhancement	Dolby Audio support	Standard audio processing
Water Resistance	IP55	IP54
Battery Cycle Life	500 cycles (80% retention)	Not specified
RRP (Australia)	A$339	A$169-199 (current retail)

Market Positioning

At A$339, the OpenFit 2+ occupies a premium position within the open-ear headphone market. These headphones will be available starting July 3 in black and grey through Shokz.com.au, Amazon, and JB Hi-Fi, with additional retailers stocking them from July 31.

Final Assessment

The OpenFit 2+ signifies a well-considered enhancement that addresses significant shortcomings of previous open-ear models. The longer battery life, refined audio technology, and physical controls make it an attractive choice for users who value awareness of their surroundings without sacrificing sound quality.

Summary

The Shokz OpenFit 2+ brings notable advancements over its predecessor, emphasizing improved audio, extended battery duration, and functional physical controls. With its premium pricing, it is aimed at users looking for advanced features and exceptional build quality in the open-ear headphone sector.

Q: What is the primary audio enhancement in the OpenFit 2+?

A: The principal audio improvement is the DualBoost technology, which features dual drivers for enhanced bass and treble response.

Q: How long does the battery last on one charge?

A: The earbuds can deliver up to 11 hours of playback from a single charge, with the charging case extending total playback time to 48 hours.

Q: Are the OpenFit 2+ headphones resistant to water?

A: Yes, they possess an IP55 rating, providing protection against sweat and splashes of water.

Q: What is the retail cost of the OpenFit 2+ in Australia?

A: The retail price is A$339.

Q: Can the OpenFit 2+ be charged without wires?

A: Yes, the charging case supports wireless charging with Qi-certified chargers.

Q: How does the OpenFit 2+ compare to the former OpenFit Air model?

A: The OpenFit 2+ offers enhanced battery life, dual-driver audio technology, and supports wireless charging, presenting substantial upgrades over the OpenFit Air.

Q: What color variations are available for the OpenFit 2+?

A: The headphones come in black and grey options.

• DroneShield has secured an unprecedented A$61.6 million contract with a military client in Europe.
• This contract surpasses DroneShield’s total revenue for 2024, signaling a notable increase in demand.
• Full delivery is projected by Q3 2025, with payments set for Q3 and Q4 2025.
• The company is broadening its presence in Europe by launching a new Centre of Excellence.
• DroneShield aims to achieve 65% European content in its regional sales.
• This agreement is in line with Australia’s Future Made in Australia initiative.

DroneShield’s Historic Contract

In a pivotal agreement, the Australian counter-drone tech firm DroneShield has landed its largest contract ever, valued at A$61.6 million. This substantial deal, comprising three contracts, is directed towards a European military client, representing a key milestone in the company’s growth path.

Exceeding Prior Revenue

The latest contract exceeds DroneShield’s entire projected revenue for 2024, which stands at A$57.5 million, showcasing a heightened interest in its cutting-edge technology. This agreement includes advanced handheld detection and counter-drone systems, along with necessary accessories.

Manufacturing and Delivery Schedule

DroneShield intends to fulfill the entire order by the third quarter of 2025, with payments expected during the third and fourth quarters of that year. This swift execution is supported by the company’s recent advancements in production capacity and inventory management.

Technological Advantages

DroneShield is focused on counter-drone solutions that integrate cutting-edge Radio Frequency sensing technology, along with Machine Learning and Sensor Fusion. Their proficiency in Electronic Warfare is augmented by rapid prototyping abilities, enabling them to efficiently create military-grade solutions.

Plans for European Growth

This notable contract aligns with DroneShield’s vigorous expansion into the European market. The firm is setting up a European Centre of Excellence, which will be its first manufacturing and in-house assembly site outside of Australia. This facility will concentrate on research and development, drone evaluation, and training, improving the company’s capacity to address the region’s defence requirements.

Key Elements of the European Strategy

New Production Capability: The new European facility will introduce a second manufacturing line, enhancing the company’s hardware output.

Heightened European Content: DroneShield plans to ensure at least 65% European industry content for certain sales, thereby qualifying for expanded regional procurement opportunities.

Meeting Regional Demand: The expansion aligns with initiatives like the €800 billion ReArm Europe Plan, targeting a market boasting over A$1.1 billion in active prospects.

A Triumph for Australian Exports

This agreement underscores the escalating worldwide demand for technology produced in Australia. In 2024, exports comprised 91% of DroneShield’s domestic production, highlighting the company’s crucial role in global markets. This achievement corresponds with the Federal Government’s Future Made in Australia initiative, as national defence expenditures are anticipated to double, reaching A$100 billion by 2034. DroneShield is strategically positioned to cater to both Australian defence priorities and those of its allies.

Conclusion

DroneShield’s unprecedented A$61.6 million contract with a European military client signifies a major milestone, reflecting the growing need for its counter-drone technology. The organization’s strategic expansion into Europe, coupled with its strong technological proficiencies, positions it well for forthcoming growth and accomplishments in the global market.

Q&A

Q: What makes DroneShield’s recent contract significant?

A:

The A$61.6 million contract represents the largest in DroneShield’s history, exceeding its projected revenue for 2024, and highlights the increasing popularity of its counter-drone technology.

Q: When is the fulfillment of the contract anticipated?

A:

DroneShield expects to deliver the complete order by the third quarter of 2025, with payments forecasted for the third and fourth quarters of that year.

Q: How is DroneShield advancing its business in Europe?

A:

The firm is establishing a European Centre of Excellence, which will function as a manufacturing and assembly base, concentrating on R&D, drone evaluation, and training.

Q: What does the Future Made in Australia initiative entail?

A:

The initiative seeks to enhance Australian-produced technology and defence capabilities, with national defence spending expected to double to A$100 billion by 2034.

Q: How does DroneShield’s technology function?

A:

DroneShield’s technology uses Radio Frequency sensing, Machine Learning, and Sensor Fusion to effectively identify and neutralize drone threats.

Q: What are the main components of DroneShield’s European strategy?

A:

The strategy encompasses establishing new manufacturing capabilities, boosting European content in sales, and addressing regional demand through plans like the ReArm Europe initiative.