Category Archives: Press Release

Podcast, Press Release, Shakespeare

New Podcast Series explores Shakespeare’s place in the 21st Century

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The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the independent charity that promotes the works, life and times of William Shakespeare in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, is launching a new podcast series exploring Shakespeare’s place in the modern world.

Titled Shakespeare Alive, the six-part podcast series launches on Tuesday, 17 November and is hosted by the Trust’s Shakespeare experts Dr Paul Edmondson and Dr Anjna Chouhan. Taking a fresh perspective on conversations about Shakespeare, Paul and Anjna’s guests include theatre professionals and artists from around the world discussing their relationships with Shakespeare, and his relevance in society today.

Thanks to support from Arts Council England, Shakespeare Alive is available for free and is accessible across a number of podcast platforms including Apple, Google and Spotify, and on the Trust’s website shakespeare.org.uk/shakespeare-alive.

Kicking-off the series is a captivating discussion about multi-racial casting in Shakespeare, featuring Dr Farah Karim-Cooper of Shakespeare’s Globe. In this first episode, Karim-Cooper’s discussion includes considering the treatment of race in Shakespeare’s plays and how this might be interpreted by audiences.

Paul Taylor, acting director of cultural engagement at the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has emphasised a need to adapt and explore new ways of connecting with audiences via digital channels. With the support of Arts Council England, we are pleased to be able to produce digital content that brings Shakespeare’s culture and his continuing relevance to a contemporary audience in the comfort of their homes. We hope that this podcast will be a compelling source of interest and inspiration to our listeners, especially during these challenging times.”

New podcast series explores Shakespeare’s place in the 21st century
Shakespeare Alive is available for free and is accessible across a number of podcast platforms

Shakespeare Alive episode guide:

Shakespeare and Race, with Dr Farah Karim-Cooper – Shakespeare’s Globe

Dr Farah Karim-Cooper, Head of Higher Education and Research at Shakespeare’s Globe, talks to Paul Edmondson about her first encounter with Shakespeare, her experiences of academia and her work on the Shakespeare and Race festival.

Illustrating Shakespeare, with Mya Gosling – Good Tickle Brain

Mastermind of the comic brand, Good Tickle Brain, Mya Gosling talks to Anjna Chouhan about breaking down barriers and making Shakespeare accessible and fun, through irreverence and illustration.

Becoming Othello, with Debra Ann Byrd – The Harlem Shakespeare Festival

The Artistic Director of the Harlem Shakespeare Festival talks to Paul Edmondson about why she founded her company, and the inspiration for her important memoir: Becoming Othello, A Black Girl’s Journey.

Resurrecting Shakespeare, with Victoria Baumgartner – Will & Co

Founder of theatre company Will & Co, Victoria Baumgartner, talks to Anjna Chouhan about her successful play, Will, and all about her ground-breaking project, Bard in the Yard, to bring Shakespeare to audiences during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Directing Shakespeare, with Gregory Doran – The Royal Shakespeare Company

The Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), Gregory Doran, talks to Paul Edmondson about what made him a Shakespearian and what that means to him personally, and to the company. They also discuss cross-gendered casting, and how theatrical performance brings Shakespeare to life in our own time and culture.

Reviewing Shakespeare, with Nathan and Simon Dowling – The Break a Leggers

YouTube vlogging sensations, Nathan and Simon Dowling of The Break a Leggers, talk to Anjna Chouhan about their experiences of reviewing theatre and their expectations of watching live Shakespeare in the modern world.

Shakespeare Alive is produced by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust and supported by Arts Council England. For more information, see www.shakespeare.org.uk/shakespeare-alive

Gadget Man, Microphones, Press Release, retro, Retro Gadgets, Shure

Shure Unveils MV5C Home Office Microphone Designed for Professionals who Require Pristine Audio

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Latest Addition to MOTIV Microphone Line Provides Consistent Audio for Important Meetings

Executives presenting to leadership, sales teams pitching to a new client, and teachers tackling the world of distance-learning, all demand one thing in this new age of virtual collaboration: crystal clear audio that allows them to speak confidently while delivering their message. To support the needs of this new working environment, Shure launched the MV5C Home Office Microphone, which provides optimal audio quality by prioritising the user’s voice and not the environment. The ideal solution for working-from-home professionals, the sleek digital microphone provides clear audio for conferencing and video calls from any home office, without the need to wear headphones.

Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone
Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone

“With nearly everything now operating from home—TV productions, education, health and wellness, and our everyday work—we quickly realized the need for improved audio in these settings,” said John Born, Senior Global Product Manager at Shure.

“The MV5C provides drastically better sound from a brand that professionals have been trusting for decades to support their biggest moments on stage. In the simplest and most concise way, you can now have the confidence that your message, presentation, or story, is being heard loud and clear.”

Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone
Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone

One-Step Set-Up
User set-up is intentionally simplified, so professionals of all levels can unbox the MV5C, plug it into their computer, and that’s it. The set-up also provides different audio modes for “set it and forget it” applications. Headphones are optional, allowing users to take a break and listen through the computer’s built-in speaker or external speakers. The microphone is compatible with Mac or Windows devices by using the supplied USB-A or USB-C cables for a direct connection.

Studio-Quality Sound for the Home Office
Out-of-the-box, the MV5C is a directional microphone and features Shure’s Speech Enhancement Mode to enhance the user’s voice on audio or video calls for even clearer sound. Users can speak with assurance knowing that their voice will be heard clearly during virtual pitches, presentations, and lessons without having to repeat themselves or be asked to talk louder.

Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone
Shure launches the MV5C Home Office Microphone

Retro-Inspired Design
The MV5C features a sleek, compact design that easily fits on any desk for a powerful solution that offers studio-quality sound. The fully adjustable desk mount stand allows users to easily tilt the position of the MV5C toward the talker’s mouth. The MV5C is a home audio upgrade to help professionals speak more confidently, knowing they will be clearly heard on the other end of the call.
The MV5C Home Office Microphone is available for purchase at select retailers and at www.shure.com for £115 GBP.

Shure’s range can also be purchased on their Shure Amazon Store

Cars, Porsche, Porsche Motorsports, Press Release

“Porsche Unseen” provides a glimpse of unreleased concept cars

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Under the title “Porsche Unseen”, Porsche is for the first time publishing design studies from 2005 to 2019 which have until now been kept under lock and key.

The sports car manufacturer is showing spectacular visions of 15 different cars. The early studies cover the segments “Spin-offs“, “Little rebels“, “Hypercars“ and “What’s next?”. In this way, Porsche is offering an exclusive insight into its design process – from the very first drawing to the finished model ready for series production.

© 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche 919 Street © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

“People all over the world love the timeless and innovative design of our sports cars,” says Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board at Porsche AG. “Visionary concept studies are the foundation of this success: they provide the pool of ideas for the Porsche design of tomorrow, and combine our strong tradition with trailblazing future technologies.”

The previously unpublished design studies are being presented exclusively by the Porsche Newsroom in a series of articles. The 911:Magazine web TV format has also dedicated an episode to selected studies and examines the connection between the studies and the current production models together with Porsche Chief Designer Michael Mauer. For fans of the brand, the book entitled “Porsche Unseen” is released today by the Delius Klasing publishing house. Interested readers are given a detailed look behind the scenes of Style Porsche. A selection of studies will also be on display later for fans to admire live: the Porsche Museum will be integrating the models in the exhibition in 2021.

Porsche Vision Spyder Street © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche Vision Spyder © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

The design process: from the first drawing to the drivable prototype

The design process starts with a sketch. This is visualised in the next step as a 3D model. As soon as an idea is to be developed further, small models are produced in a scale of 1:3, then followed by hard models in the scale 1:1. “The virtual world is the first step, but you especially have to experience the unusual models in reality in order to understand whether a car has small, large or surprising proportions,” says Michael Mauer, Vice President Style Porsche. In contrast to the development of a production model where several models are always developed with different styling formats, the vision projects, on the other hand, concentrate on a single vision model which serves as a protagonist for the central idea.

Porsche Vision Renndienst © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche Vision Renndienst © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

“Porsche intentionally has just a single design studio – located in the direct proximity of development,” says Michael Mauer. “Weissach is our epicentre. Instead of opening advanced design studios in the distant metropolises of North America and Asia, our designers come from all over the world to Porsche in Weissach in order to create the latest production sports cars and automotive visions at the heart of the brand. More than 120 designers, experts for interior, exterior, colours and materials, model builders, modellers and study engineers work in the Porsche Design Studio.

The design studies: on a journey of the mind into the future of mobility

“When it comes to the visions we develop, it is not about bringing every car onto the road. Instead, it is more a question of establishing creative space and a relationship with the future,” says Michael Mauer when describing the design process and adds: “There are two possibilities for continuing to develop as a brand: either you improve your products from the present, that is to say step-by-step. However, it is difficult to be really innovative in this process. Or you give free rein to your creativity. The idea is to let your thoughts jump to the day after tomorrow, and to then move back from there to tomorrow.”

Based on this idea, Porsche develops the product and brand identity which characterises and secures the appearance of all models in the long term. The design language for future models develops from long-term vision. In this process, the higher-level goal is to combine the Porsche design DNA with state-of-the-art vehicle engineering. On the one hand, this secures the innovative capability of future Porsche models and, on the other, also provides an evolutionary reference to the rich history of Porsche. A closer look at some examples:

Porsche 919 Street © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche 919 Street © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

The Porsche 919 Street (2017; 1:1 clay model) was developed on the basis of the technology used in the Porsche 919 Hybrid, promising to make the exhilarating driving experience of the LMP1 race car available to amateur drivers. Under the outer shell are the carbon monocoque and powerful 900 PS hybrid racing drivetrain that helped the Porsche 919 to achieve numerous victories at Le Mans. The dimensions and wheelbase were also the same as on the race car.

Porsche Vision Spyder Street © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche Vision Spyder © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

With its spartan, puristic cockpit, the characteristic radiator grilles over the mid-engine, red graphic elements and the suggested fins at the rear, the compact Porsche Vision Spyder (2019; 1:1 hard model) clearly calls to mind the Porsche 550-1500 RS Spyder from 1954. At the same time, the study was intended to further develop the design identity of Porsche and provide a pool of ideas for future details – for example, the ultra-modern roll bar.

Porsche Vision Renndienst © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche Vision Renndienst © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

The Porsche vision “Renndienst” (2018; 1:1 hard model) is the free interpretation of a family-friendly space concept for up to six persons. The design team designed a futuristic “space shuttle“ with exciting proportions. The study shows how the Porsche design DNA with its characteristic surface modelling can be transferred to an unknown vehicle segment for the brand. In the interior, passengers find a comfortable and modular travel cabin. The driver sits in a central driver’s seat. The all-electric drive technology is located in the underbody. As a result, passengers can enjoy unexpectedly generous space and travel experience combined with Porsche-like flair.

Porsche Unseen © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Porsche Unseen © 2020 Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

The book “Porsche Unseen” is now available from retailers with the ISBN number 978-3-667-11980-3. The design studies are presented in detail over 328 pages with impressive photos from Stefan Bogner and informative text by Jan Karl Baedeker. It is published by Delius Klasing Verlag and is also available in the Porsche Museum shop.

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Audio, Gadget Man, Headphones, Press Release, The Gadget Man

Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand WeSC launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones

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Fashion and lifestyle brand WeSC, known for stand-out creativity and style, has released a line of headphones.

Specifically designed for youth on-the-go, the range is made up of affordable yet stylish true wireless in-ear and on-ear headphones, as well as a more traditional wired stereo headset.

Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones
Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones

Featuring high-quality dynamic sound and with a minimal, striking and contemporary look, the headphones are in-keeping with the brand’s young, fresh and stylish aesthetic.

Founded in 1999, WeSC (We Are the Superlative Conspiracy) is known for its fashionable designs, mixing skateboarding, music, and art youth sub-cultures to create stand-out pieces.

Joseph Janus, CEO of WeSC, said: “We are extremely excited to be launching our latest headphone range.

“True wireless continues to grow in the market and customers are looking for trusted brands where fashion meets function, and we are confident our products deliver.”

Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones
Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones

The headphones are available in an assortment of colours – black, white, navy and pink and include a variety of features aimed at the needs of urban teens.

The brand’s true wireless earbuds boast up to 20 hours playing time when fully charged, and the over-ear model was designed with travel in mind with a foldable and light design.

Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones
Cutting-edge Swedish fashion brand launches range of contemporary true wireless headphones

WeSC is known for numerous exclusive collaborations and limited editions with renowned brands and artists such as Adidas, Absolut Vodka, Nokia, Smart and the Andy Warhol Foundation, RZA, Skrillex, Axwell, Beny Fairfax, Jason Lee, Arto Saari, Galantis and more.

The new collection of lifestyle-inspired headphones is available from Amazon and start from £14.95

If you decide to purchase using the links below, we may receive a commission.

Gadget Man, Keyboard, Mouse, Peripherals, Press Release

Working From Home Accessories from Trust

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Working from home has become the new normal, which is why Trust is happy to introduce a new range of affordable keyboards and mice. Whether looking for a basic keyboard and mouse set, a wireless keyboard and mouse set with extra silent keys and buttons, or an advanced mouse that will give complete control, Trust delivers. With the Taro, Ymo and Ozaa, working from home just became easier and more affordable.

The Taro has everything expected from a keyboard and mouse set: a full-size layout, a comfortable keystroke and a mouse that can be used by both left and right handed users.

Taro: cover the basics
Taro: cover the basics

The Taro has a full-size QWERTY layout with all the functionality users have come to expect from a reliable keyboard. Thanks to the soft keystroke, the Taro will allow workers to type quietly and comfortably for hours without disturbing colleagues or family members and the adjustable feet provide that extra level of comfort.

No need to worry about any accidental spills; the Taro handles it with ease so unlimited coffees still an option!

The Trust Taro is available in two variants:

With the ambidextrous mouse – available from Amazon for £16.99

Keyboard only – available from Amazon for £12.99

Ymo: the strong, silent type

For those looking for flexibility, then the wireless Ymo is just what is needed. It is completely wireless and only requires one USB micro receiver for both the keyboard and mouse.  It keeps the desk clean from cables and has some additional functions that will make any workday a bit easier. This includes the silent keys which are 50% quieter than conventional keyboards and the multimedia and office keys that provide shortcuts to music or the calculator. The accompanied mouse uses silent buttons and has a comfortable grip and just like the Primo, the Ymo is spill resistant too so the coffees can keep flowing.

The Trust Ymo is available from Amazon for an RRP of £22.99

Ymo: the strong, silent type
Ymo: the strong, silent type

Ozaa: the premium mouse

For even more comfort and functionality, the Trust Ozaa is the ideal wireless mouse for home or office working. It has an ergonomic design, which reduces strain on the wrist, and two silent buttons that will allow for hard work with minimal noise. Thanks to its second scroll wheel, going through complex documents is much easier, and it even has a rechargeable battery so no need to buy any disposable batteries saving money and great for the environment too.

Ozaa: the premium mouse
Ozaa: the premium mouse

With the Primo, Ody and Ozaa, Trust is again proving to be a reliable partner for companies and consumers. These new products, were created as a smart, affordable solution as many more are increasingly working from home and need a comfortable and clutter free space to work.

The Trust Ozaa is available from Amazon for an RRP of £44.99

(We may earn a commission from the links to Amazon).

There are many tools and accessories that are so valuable when you work from home, whether you’re running a business or working for a corporate company. You should also remember that there are also a whole host of online tools and services that can help you to better your working life altogether. For example, you may have worries about previous damaging content about yourself online if you have worked your way up to a managerial role. In truth, everyone has the right to be forgotten online and there are ways to remove inappropriate content from the internet if you don’t want it to be circulated again. If you ever feel concerned about progressing your career or bettering your working life due to anything that happened in your past, there will always be methods to fix it.

Audio, Earbuds, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Press Release, Technology, The Gadget Man, Wireless broadband

LA music industry experts launch premium headphone brand in the UK

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Ausounds is set to take the UK by storm as it releases a range of premium audio products designed by some of the most innovative minds in the music business.

The creative team behind the Los Angeles based brand has designed a range of earphones with leading technology and superior sound, featuring tech such as hybrid planar-magnetic drivers, active noise cancelling developed to have zero effect on sound reproduction and IPX5 rating for use whatever the weather.

Five-time Grammy Award-winning producer Brian Kennedy
Five-time Grammy Award-winning producer Brian Kennedy

Made for music lovers and music creators, the range of headphones, earphones and audio signature products start from £119.95.

With a variety of models and colours, consumers can choose from in-ear and over-ear designs with features including true wireless, noise cancellation and wireless charging.

Ausounds want to make its mark on the UK music industry and is keen to collaborate with passionate unsigned musicians, producers and songwriters.

Made for music lovers and music creators, the range of headphones, earphones and audio signature products start from £119.95.
Made for music lovers and music creators, the range of headphones, earphones and audio signature products start from £119.95.

Marcus Sanchez, President and CMO, said: “The role of music creators in the industry is tantamount to everything; this is where our sound comes from.

“We wanted to create a brand that addresses the many needs of creators at all levels – in their everyday lives and in their work.

“Using our industry knowledge and working with music influencers and leaders, we are redefining the sound of audio.”

Combining innovative technology with style and design, Ausounds’ products deliver the full music experience to the listener – just as the producers and songwriters intended for it to be heard.

The brand is committed to supporting up-and-coming artists and talent, helping to drive forward the vibrant British music scene.

Ausounds is also working with music influencers and leaders, including its first brand ambassador, five-time Grammy Award-winning producer Brian Kennedy.

The Ausounds engineering team has unsurpassed experience in research and development for established brands such as Beats, JBL, Bose, and Sennheiser; winning multiple awards for audio performance and industrial design. All of the products are designed, developed and manufactured in Ausounds’ own facilities.

Blaq Tuxedo
Blaq Tuxedo

Ausounds represents the future generation of audio technology, and, after huge success in the USA, Canadian and Japanese markets, the earphone giant set its sights on the UK.

The team behind Ausounds is on a mission to provide premium products for everyday use, at an accessible price point.

Lil Eddie Judge and vocal coach on the XFactor US
Lil Eddie Judge and vocal coach on the XFactor US

Ausounds is led by its CEO, Michael Chen, an Oxford Brookes University graduate with over 16 years of experience in audio manufacturing.

Joining him is President and CMO, Marcus Sanchez, a music industry veteran who has worked with huge brands including Audeze, Universal Music Group and Monster Cable, as well as musicians like Rihanna and Usher.

Ausounds’ products are currently available to buy from Richer Sounds, iamaudio.co.uk and independent high street retailers.

Android TV, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Press Release, Technology

Humax introduces AURA: First Android TV 4K Freeview Play Recorder

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** UPDATE **
I will be receiving a review unit this week, which is very exciting. Keep up to date with my review of the Aura by subscribing to notifications by clicking on the padlock symbol and ‘Allowing’ notifications

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Ultra High Definition Recorder powered by Android TV with built-in Google Assistant, Chromecast, Google Play Store apps and Kids’ Zone

  • First Freeview Play Recorder powered by Android TV technology with crystal clear 4K HDR picture quality
  • Built-in voice control via Google Assistant and access to Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BT Sport and thousands of other apps via the Google Play Store
  • Freeview Play provides 70+ subscription-free channels and 20,000+ hours of on-demand entertainment
  • Quick and easy set-up – simply log in with a Google account
  • Humax AURA App for iOS and Android enables remote planning, recording and viewing on the go
  • Watch TV on any screen: download and enjoy recordings on mobile devices
  • Chromecast built-in: stream favourite content from phone, tablet or laptop to a TV screen
  • Dedicated Kids’ Zone with timed content, safe for the youngest family members
  • Three digital tuners: record up to four programmes at once while watching a fifth*
  • 1TB and 2TB options for up to 500 and 1,000 hours of recordings
Humax AURA_angle left
Humax AURA

Humax has today announced AURA: the first 4K Freeview Play Recorder powered by Android TV technology. This Ultra High Definition TV recorder provides a multitude of subscription-free and top-up entertainment delivered with crystal clear 4K HDR picture quality.

With integrated Google Assistant and access to thousands of apps via the Google Play Store, AURA syncs with the user’s Google account to deliver a customised home entertainment experience built around the individual or family. For ultimate flexibility, Google Assistant also provides voice control for frequently-used TV commands, and allows users to ask questions, discover information and activate smart home devices.

Humax AURA Freeview Play home_whitebkg
Humax AURA Freeview Play home_whitebkg

Humax AURA will be available from November 2020 from Amazon, Humax Direct and electrical retailers with an SRP of £249 for the 1TB model and £279 for the 2TB version.

Powered by the ultra-fast Android TV platform and with Freeview Play built-in, the new Humax box enables rapid access to favourite shows, movies, sports and other programming on live TV. Freeview Play provides the UK’s most popular on-demand apps such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub and All 4, all of which are located together for maximum ease and convenience. For even further entertainment options, users can top up their viewing with paid streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BT Sport and Google Play Movies, and explore and choose from a huge variety of apps and games to download from the Google Play Store.

Humax AURA Freeview Play home
Humax AURA Freeview Play home

Freeview Play provides 95% of the nation’s most-watched TV, all for free. There are more than 70 live TV channels, alongside nine on-demand players: BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5, UKTV Play, CBS Catchup Channels UK, Horror Bites, STV Player and BBC Sounds.

With more than 20,000 hours of on-demand content and over 700 box sets to choose from, Freeview Play also helps viewers make the most of its content with its Explore Freeview Play interface hosted at Channel 100. Home to a universal search function and hand-picked content recommendations, it is easy for viewers to find their favourites and discover new shows. As well as the ability to watch, pause, rewind and record live TV, Freeview Play includes an intuitive seven day TV guide with scroll back functionality.

Humax introduces AURA: First Android TV Freeview Play Recorder
Humax introduces AURA: First Android TV

Catering for even the most avid of viewers, AURA incorporates three digital tuners, allowing up to four programmes to be recorded at once while the user watches another live channel*. Two hard drive options (1TB and 2TB) are available, enabling up to 500 or 1,000 hours of recordings to be stored, giving owners almost unlimited capacity to capture their favourite programmes, series and movies.

Thanks to the Humax AURA app, many features of AURA can be accessed on a mobile device, such as streaming recordings around the home or downloading shows to watch later on the move. The app also affords users the freedom to schedule recordings or set reminders when away from home.

Setting up AURA is extremely simple. By logging into their Google account, users have instant access to all their downloaded apps, YouTube settings, music downloads, as well as Google Home connectivity.

Creating a home screen that is completely personalised to the viewer’s preferences, AURA allows app icons to be moved around easily, keeping all frequently-used apps and content in one place. Suggestions for content the user might enjoy based on their Google preferences are also displayed on this page.

Humax introduces AURA: First Android TV
Humax introduces AURA: First Android TV

With Chromecast built-in as standard on Android TV, AURA enables users to stream photos, videos, music and other media to their TV screen from a laptop, tablet or mobile phone via a home Wi-Fi network.

AURA’s accompanying remote control offers several quick access ‘hotkeys’: a Freeview Play button, Top Picks for content recommendations, a Google Assistant button to activate voice control, TV Guide button plus dedicated keys for Android Home, Amazon Prime Video and the Humax Kids’ Zone.

Google Assistant is integrated into the remote control, allowing users to benefit from Google Home services – simply press the button to activate voice control and ask an unlimited number of questions such as finding out the weather or travel information, choose favourite types of content, change channel or volume – or connect to smart home devices to play music, switch on the lights or heating, and much more.

Developed by Humax, the Kids’ Zone on AURA provides a safe environment for children to watch content curated specially for the youngest members of the family. Episodes can be browsed, searched and selected by duration, allowing parents to pick a show that will fill a suitable slot before dinner or bedtime, for example.

Rob Peacock, director at Humax, commented, “AURA is designed to sit at the heart of a family’s home entertainment experience. The very first Freeview Play Recorder to be built on the Android TV platform, it provides a fully integrated environment that reflects the preferences and favourite content of the individual or family – with lightning-fast access to everything they need in one place, and outstanding picture quality. With such an extensive array of features, users will never miss their favourite show, movie or sporting event, and thanks to a combination of Google technology and the Humax AURA app, they can enjoy the freedom of entertainment on any screen or device, wherever and whenever they wish.”

More information on Humax AURA can be found at https://uk.humaxdigital.com.
Visit www.freeview.co.uk for a full list of Freeview Play channels and services.

Pricing and availability

Available from November 2020, Humax AURA has a suggested retail price of £249 for the 1TB model and £279 for the 2TB model. Retailers include Currys, Argos, Amazon, very.co.uk, Richer Sounds, Euronics (CIH), independent electrical stores and Humax Direct. Prices include VAT.

If you click to buy through Amazon via this website, we will receive a small commission.

Esports, Press Release

Staffordshire University lands Sponsorship Deal to offer Esports Degrees

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TeamSpeak signs partnership deal to sponsor Esports degrees at Staffordshire University 

A new partnership will give Staffordshire University students exclusive access to TeamSpeak software used by the world’s top esports teams.

TeamSpeak offers the number one team communications solution for large scale esports events and is currently used in live production by some of the world’s most prestigious esports events, such as The Overwatch League, The Call of Duty League, ESL, Blast Pro Series, and FaceIT.

The company has also been working closely with Activision Blizzard during the lockdown to enable both players and broadcast crews to work from remote locations around the globe and create seamless productions in place of LAN based events.

The sponsorship will see Staffordshire University integrate this industry-standard software into the curriculum allowing students on BA (Hons) Esports and MA Esports degrees to work on professional setups for broadcasting and esports tournaments.

Professor Ieuan Ellis, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Staffordshire University, said:

“Staffordshire University is a digitally leading provider of higher education strongly connected to the technology and games industries. We are delighted to be partnering with TeamSpeak to provide our esports students with access to sector-leading software to support their learning experience.”

Sponsorship of the Esports degrees at Staffordshire University is TeamSpeak’s latest venture into the education sector. The company recently embarked on a large-scale project to provide competitive voice comms for all High School Esports in the USA, with the ultimate goal of supplying colleges and college leagues around the world.

Marc Henson from TeamSpeak commented: 

“Staffordshire University is an established provider of games industry degrees and introduced the UK’s first Esports degree its Stoke-on-Trent campus in 2018. The University has since founded Digital Institute London which also offers courses in esports and other leading digital degrees.”

Staffordshire University Associate Professor Bobbie Fletcher, who heads up the Department for Games and Visual Effects, added:

“This partnership is a great alliance between academia and industry and we are truly honoured to be working with TeamSpeak. Bringing these two worlds together will give the students an authentic learning experience that they can take with them into employment and beyond.”

Esports, Press Release

Set Yourself Up as an Esports Legend at a Fraction of the Price

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The video game market is worth £5.4 billion in the UK. It’s no surprise then that e-sports is a growing pastime with 7% of the British population (four million people) having tuned into the digital competitions.
The impartial price comparison website, PriceSpy.co.uk, has researched how much the average e-sports professional spends on regular equipment updates and how non-professional players can get the same performance for a fraction of the price.
Top e-sports professionals reveal how much they spend to be at the top of their game  
A new study from PriceSpy.co.uk, looks at 60 of the world’s best e-sport professionals and reveals the true cost to compete.
  • The average e-sport professional regularly spends £781 on the latest gaming accessories
  • The £781 comes from an average spend of a mouse (£80), mousepad (£21), monitor (£476), keyboard (£117), and a headset (£87)
  • As wireless products become more advanced, professional gamers are beginning to integrate them into their setup – 50% of surveyed Valorant players have a wireless mouse
  • Every gaming professional said they use a mechanical keyboard and 97% currently have a 240 Hz monitor

For professional e-sports players, the right set-up can mean the difference between a victory and a defeat. Not only does this mean having a top-of-the-range computer with the right graphics card and CPU. Other important factors include a monitor’s refresh rate, the sensitivity of a mouse, plus the speed and customisability of a mechanical keyboard.

Independent comparison service, PriceSpy.co.uk, spoke to 60 of the world’s top e-sport professionals in Counter:Strike Global Offensive and Valorant, to find out which accessories they’re using at the moment.

The study reveals that e-sport professionals spend an average of £781 on just a mouse, mousepad, monitor, keyboard and headset.

Ninjas in Pyjamas team member, Fredrik “REZ” Sterner, doesn’t believe this high cost is always necessary. REZ said: “Having top of the range gear is important for a professional. But to spend that kind of money isn’t necessary if you’re at the beginning of your career or if you’re just playing for fun. If you are looking to buy new equipment, always try out the product before purchasing it. An expensive buy doesn’t necessarily mean the best result.”

Among the study’s Counter-Strike professionals, only one is using a wireless product: a headset that costs £259. Valorant players are much more likely to embrace wireless tech with 50% of surveyed players using a wireless mouse.

Ossie Bayram, commercial director at PriceSpy said: “The fact that players are even considering buying a wireless mouse means that the technology has become much more reliable. In professional gaming, milliseconds can mean the difference between victory and defeat, especially when it comes to mouse and keyboard sensitivity.

“However, even though wireless products are becoming more reliable, at the top end they are much more expensive than wired versions. If you want a professional level performance for a lower price, then stick with wired products.”

Mouse sensitivity is a key factor for gamers and is measured in dots per linear inch (DPI). Surprisingly, the study shows that the professional players don’t need the highest DPI possible. The most popular max DPI among professionals is 3,200.

Effective dots per inch (eDPI) gives a better idea of true mouse sensitivity. eDPI is calculated by multiplying the mouse DPI with the in-game sensitivity. In Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, professionals are playing with an average eDPI of 859.06 while Valorant professionals have an average eDPI of 235.46.

Top picks among Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Valorant pros

Item

Top pick

Cheapest price on PriceSpy.co.uk

Mouse

£87.72

Mousepad

£13.11

Monitor

£448.99

Keyboard

£100.00

Headset

£64.99

About the study

PriceSpy has gathered information about what equipment 60 of the world’s best e-sport professionals are using, including 50 Counter-Strike:Global Offensive pros and 10 Valorant pros. The surveyed teams include Astralis, Team Liquid, Fnatic, Dignitas, FaZe Clan, GODSENT, Cloud9, Ninjas in Pyjamas, Team SoloMid and Immortals.

Information about the equipment was collected from Liquipedia the 5th of August 2020, while prices were collected from PriceSpy the 13th of August 2020.

Amazon Echo Dot, Press Release, Uncategorized

Joby Announces ‘Freehold’ Phone Case with integrated mount and loop

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JOBY ANNOUNCES THE NEW FREEHOLD™ PHONE CASE WITH FINGER LOOP AND MULTI-ACCESSORY MOUNT

Feel the freedom to create with new JOBY FreeHold™ smartphone cases.

  • Protective case with built-in finger loop for a secure, ergonomic hold
  • Innovative flexible wrapping arms grip the phone to a variety of objects for fun creative images and videos
  • Tripod adapter attaches phone to your favourite GorillaPod® or any standard tripod

JOBY, the creator of award-winning mounts, stands and grips designed to elevate the potential of the latest mobile and imaging devices, announces the launch of FreeHold – a protective smartphone case series with built-in finger loop and modular attachment system. With FreeHold, JOBY now provides a complete ecosystem of products for run-and-gun content creators, further solidifying itself as a leader in smartphone accessories.

Designed for mobile content creation, FreeHold empowers you to easily view and use your smartphone in new and fun ways. Capture and share the most creative images and videos.

FreeHold’s built-in stretch-elastic finger loop hugs your fingers, giving you a dependable hold while snapping pics or vlogging – so, you know your phone isn’t going anywhere! Say “bye-bye” to scuff marks and broken screens.

JOBY knows that smart photography is much more than taking selfies and requires hands-free capability to reach your fullest potential. Slide the finger loop down and witness the magic! Once the finger loop is released, a patented connection point is revealed. Here is where you can attach the two accessories: flexible wrapping arms and ¼” tripod adapter. These are included in both cases and in the complete kit.

You can purchase the Joby Freehold from Amazon here

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