Getting your iPhone or your MacBook repaired wasn’t always straightforward. I worked in a phone shop before. The biggest problem we had was customers sending phones for repair with Find My iPhone enabled. It completely blocked the repair process. For security reasons. Today, Apple has made “efforts” to make repair easier. Not by choice though. Right to Repair is a massive step forward for tech and customers being able to fix their own complex devices. But Apple is still finding ways to hamper customer rights.
What is Right to Repair?
Right to Repair is a movement that advocates for consumers to have the right to repair their own products. It mainly focused on devices like phones and laptops. One of the key elements is that by repairing your own device, or through an independent repair shop, you shouldn’t lose your warranty.
Ultimately, this should also reduce waste and save consumers money, along with promoting a more sustainable approach to product ownership. The movement’s ambition is to increase the lifespan of a device by 10 years, ultimately reducing e-waste.
In practice, Right to Repair requires manufacturers to provide repair information, tools, and spare parts to the general public to make all of this possible. The movement is currently gaining momentum, with some countries and states proposing and passing legislation to ensure that consumers have the right to repair their products.
Apple’s T2 Chips
Apple’s latest MacBooks launched with the T2 chip. The T2 chip was launched in 2018 and is a custom Apple security chip providing several key functions, including:
Secure Boot where the chip verifies that the Mac’s operating system and bootloader are genuine and have not been tampered with. This helps to prevent malicious software from infecting the Mac.
The T2 chip encrypts the Mac’s storage and protects sensitive data, even if the Mac is lost or stolen.
These two particular specs have been positioned as security features. However, they also massively impact upon the refurbished market going against the ethos of reducing electrical waste in the world.
T2 Chips and Refurbished MacBooks
While the T2 chip launched in 2018, it’s only now that these devices are entering the refurbished market en masse. The T2 chips make it impossible for refurbishers to return the device to its original factory settings. This hinders its reselling potential within the digital circular economy. The result is a massive number of MacBooks being disposed of as waste or sold for a low price as scrap, contributing to the growing problem of electronic waste around the world.
Peter Windischhofer, co-founder of Refurbed, believes the use of T2 Chips “further highlights Apple’s disregard for the refurbishment market and the efforts that are going towards the right-to-repair movement”.
There’s a balance that needs to be struck here. Security is obviously important, but so too is the circular economy. In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in “trade-in” offers at phone launches. The reason for this, in my eyes, is removing phones from the secondary market to increase need to purchase. It’s just not sustainable and so things like this need to be addressed.
As a consumer, there is one thing you can do. Don’t buy an Apple T2 MacBook. There are plenty of adequate devices out there that mean you don’t need to buy and Apple product. At least until they sort this issue.
I have to admit the timing of this is funny. I found myself in the fortunate position of having some money I wanted to invest. With KBC leaving the market, my savings account is closing. I’ve moved to Revolut for my day-to-day banking, but what about my savings? Now, a I found a home for that sum of money. It’s gone into a massive gaming PC build. You’ll see more on that in the coming weeks, but I still have a bit of change left over to invest. I’m also after getting into stocks and trading, so by chance yesterday I downloaded Trade Republic. Just as I joined, Trade Republic launched a 2% interest on savings offer. That’s tempting, isn’t it?
What is Trade Republic?
Trade Republic is a German investment app that was launched in Berlin in 2015 and launched here in Ireland back in October. It was founded by three German entrepreneurs who saw a need for more accessible investment opportunities for people across Europe. Through Trade Republic you can invest in fractional shares of stocks, ETFs and even investment trusts with no account fees and low stock trading fees.
Founders Christian Hecker, Thomas Pischke and Marco Cancellieri.
Basically, Trade Republic makes trading much easier and more accessible. If you’re familiar with Revolut stocks, it’s like that but even more powerful.
Trade Republic made big headlines yesterday when they announced a 2% interest rate on savings.
Is Trade Republic a bank?
Trade Republic is not a bank and does not conduct deposit-taking. They are a German securities trading platform and investment firm.
All funds in your cash account are legally protected up to €100,000 per investor within Europe. They are held in an escrow account at one of Trade Republic’s partner banks, including Citibank Europe and Deutsche Bank. Deutsche Bank is subject to supervision by the Deutsche Bundesbank and the BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority Germany). Citibank Europe plc is supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland.
The securities, like stocks, in your custody account, are not covered by the deposit guarantee scheme.
2% Interest on Trade Republic Savings
While Trade Republic is an investment platform letting you trade in stocks, ETF, crypto and the likes, you can also just leave your money there. If you do, you’ll earn 2% interest on your balance up to €50,000. That’s a massive interest rate for the Irish market to have access to.
“There is no obligation to trade or invest,” Hugo Suidgeest, Trade Republic Country Manager for Ireland and the Netherlands while speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland yesterday. “You can put a lump sum on the new savings account and get the 2% and have nothing to do with investing if you don’t want to”.
Further good news comes in how this is paid. Your interest rate is calculated in real-time and paid out monthly. This means you earn compound interest.
Is 2% a good interest rate?
It’s a really good interest rate for the Irish market.
Because I’ve been shopping around for some value-for-money investments, I’ve looked at a lot of savings accounts in Ireland. I’ve even looked at Prize Bonds as being a more cost-effective way to store my cash. The value out there for Irish customers is awful with most savings account interest rates being in the region of a paltry 0.03%.
That means if you invest €10,000, after a year you’ll have made a €3 profit. With Trade Republic, you’d have earned over €200 in the same period of time.
Time for a disclaimer: I’m not a financial advisor. I’m just a guy who downloaded the app and am trying to work it out. Don’t take anything here as financial advice as I’m not responsible for any mistakes. Seek professional financial advice before investing your hard-earned cash.
Trade Republic have wandered into the Irish market fully aware that Irish consumers are eagerly looking for a product like this. “The rate is eight times as high as the existing banks here so we hope new customers will find their way to Trade Republic,” Mr Suidgeest said to RTÉ.
Is Trade Republic safe to save and invest with?
I would say I’m typically a little more risk-tolerant than most. That’s why I’m using Revolut as my day-to-day bank. It’s also the reason why I didn’t really think too much about this being a very good offer and started to run with it.
While both Trade Republic and Revolut, who are not related I should add, are not regulated by the Central Bank, they are regulated within Europe. That means your investments with them are protected up to €100,000 by the EU deposit guarantee schemes (DGS). In the event that things go south rapidly with Trade Republic, you’ll be protected by the scheme.
There is another risk with the platform though; easy access to investment in stocks, ETF, crypto and more. Investing in these things is more or less gambling. Your savings, once sitting in the Trade Republic platform, are very easily transferred into these markets. Right now, these markets are incredibly volatile and investing in the wrong area can be a quick way to lose a chunk of change.
Investing in stocks is a risky business
The whole idea and offer from Trade Republic is brilliant. But it will open up a world of wealth management that takes some careful navigation.
You’ll also have to declare your taxes at the end of the year yourself. It’s not done automatically.
There are also some other things that I’m sure will come out in the wash. As I said, I’m not a financial advisor. But keep an eye on this. It’s very interesting.
If you do want to sign up, you can sign up using my referral code. You can sign up without it too if you like. If you use it, we both get €50 worth of stock for free. Which is nice.
You’ve either gifted yourself a new phone or got one from somewhere. Either way, you’re here. wondering what to do next. We’ve pulled together a list of the best apps to download to your new phone.
Transfer Everything from your Old Phone
The first bit of advice I have for you is to check what options to have to transfer everything from your old phone. When setting up Android phones or an iPhone, you’ll be given a choice to transfer everything from your old phone. Even if moving between operating systems, you’ll likely be able to save yourself some hassle. Samsung Smart Switch will let help you move from iPhone or another Android phone to Samsung, while Apple offers similar options going the other way.
I’ve used both of these and find it’s great for contacts and photos, but can sometimes miss some apps. So, for that reason, it’s good to have a reminder of the best apps most people download on day one with a new phone.
Most Popular Apps to Download to Your New Phone
There are many apps that you might find useful on a new phone. Here are a few recommendations for apps that you might want to consider downloading.
A messaging app
Your phone will come with a default SMS messaging app installed. But SMS, while tried and tested, is old-fashioned and can’t offer the benefits of a modern messaging app.
Convenience
Messaging apps offer massive convenience. You can communicate with friends, family, and colleagues quickly and easily, without having to place a call or send an email. This can be especially useful if you want to communicate with someone who is not in the same country as you. It all runs through data.
Group messaging
Most messaging apps allow you to create group conversations, which can be a convenient way to communicate with a group of people at once. This is handy not only for messaging but usually for group video calls too. If you have a dispersed family on Christmas day, this is essential tech.
File sharing
Many messaging apps allow you to send photos, videos, and other files to people quickly and easily. This can be useful if you want to share something with someone without having to send it as an email attachment. Of course, with traditional SMS systems, you can send multimedia messages through the MMS system, but no one really knows if that properly works or delivers anymore.
Security
Many messaging apps offer end-to-end encryption, which means that your messages are secure and can’t be intercepted by third parties while they’re being sent. This can be especially important if you want to ensure the privacy of your conversations. Not all apps are equal in security. For example, Telegram doesn’t offer end-to-end encryption, but popular apps like WhatsApp and Signal do.
The best messaging apps
Here are the most popular messaging apps.
Signal (my app of choice)
WhatsApp
iMessage (only for iPhone-to-iPhone communication)
Facebook Messenger
A social media app
Social media can be great and terrible. But unfortunately, nowadays it’s almost unavoidable. It does offer some advantages.
Staying connected
Social media apps allow you to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, even if you’ve all moved far away from each other. You can see what they’re up to, share updates about your own life, and interact with them through likes, comments, and direct messages.
Discovering new content
Social media apps can be a great way to discover new content and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and topics. Many social media platforms have algorithms that show you content that you might be interested in based on your activity and preferences.
Building a personal brand
If you’re looking to build a personal brand or promote your business, social media can be a powerful tool. You can use social media to showcase your work, share your expertise, and connect with potential customers or clients. Many people use the likes of LinkedIn as a complete hub for their entire career.
Staying informed
Many social media platforms have news feeds that show you updates from sources you follow, such as news outlets, celebrities, and influencers. This can be a convenient way to stay informed about what’s happening in the world. Twitter had become one of the best sources of news, but today it’s faltering thanks to one Elon Musk.
Entertainment
Social media can also be a source of entertainment. Many people use social media to watch videos, look at memes, and participate in online communities centered around their interests. I’m not sure I would have gotten through lockdown without TikTok.
The best social media apps
Because social media can be good and bad, it’s critical you make some good choices. For example, I use Signal for messaging, not WhatsApp. Instead of Twitter, I recommend Mastodon and finding your fellow Mastodaoine. Here are the most popular apps, but do your research first!
Instagram
Mastodon
TikTok
Twitter (hanging on by the skin of its teeth)
Facebook (not far off the same)
A navigation app
I live in Dublin. I have Google Maps and use it a good few times a week. I use it in the car, on the bus, on foot, cycling and even for the Luas. Having a good navigation app is essential when getting around a city, whether it be home or on a holiday. Here’s why.
The easy life
Navigation apps provide turn-by-turn directions, making it easy to find your way to your destination. You can input your destination and the app will provide you with the best route to take.
Real-time traffic updates
It doesn’t take much for Dublin to fall apart. In the city center, you can usually tell if there’s been a crash on the M50 purely from traffic build-up. Many navigation apps provide real-time traffic updates, so you can see if there are any delays or accidents on your route and choose an alternate route if necessary.
Public transportation options
Some navigation apps also provide information about public transportation options, such as bus or train schedules. You can easily find the best way to get to your destination using a combination of driving and public transportation. Again, quite often in Dublin, you’ll find that walking or cycling is the fastest way to get from A to B.
Offline use
Many navigation apps can be used offline, which can be helpful if you are in an area with poor or no internet connection. you should download the map for any city you’re about to visit, just in case you hit roaming issues.
Finding great spots
Some navigation apps also offer additional features, such as the ability to search for points of interest (such as petrol stations or restaurants) along your route or to share your location with friends and family.
The best navigation apps
To be honest, even though I moved to iPhone, Google Maps remains the ultimate navigation app. Between real-time updates and Google Reviews helping you find hidden gems, it’s hard to recommend any other app. But there are alternatives if you want to cut Google out of your life.
One great app that does something unique is Waze. This app will help you spot speed cameras, accidents and other crowd-sourced transport issues.
Google Maps
Apple Maps
Here WeGo
TomTom
Waze
A music streaming app
Nothing passes the time, beats boredom and keeps everything running smoothly in work, quite like listening to music. I think most people have some kind of music-streaming app. Here’s why.
Wide variety of music
When music streaming apps first hit the market, they had a somewhat limited selection of music available. However, over the years music streaming services have morphed into virtually every genre and taste imaginable – from hip-hop to classical music, and from R&B to pop music.
Having a music streaming app gives you access to an almost infinite variety of music, allowing you to find songs that perfectly match your tastes.
Stream or download
Not only does this app give you access to a wide array of music, but it also allows for convenience when traveling or when you don’t have an internet connection. You can easily download music onto your device in advance and listen on the go – whether it’s while on an airplane or just out and about.
And as an added bonus, with many streaming services now giving users the ability to store their favorite music offline, having a music streaming app is essential for anyone who loves listening to music!
Value
Back in the day, an album could cost up over €1 to buy. Today, you can get access to music streaming services for this fee and access every album in the world.
While there are some debates about payments to artists, music streaming services are undoubtedly excellent value for consumers. Some, like Spotify, still offer free access. You are served ads to pay for the platform.
Social features
Some music streaming apps offer social features that allow you to share your music tastes with friends, discover new music through their recommendations, and collaborate on playlists. You can even listen along to the same song at he same time remotely.
The best music streaming apps
If you buy iPhone, there’s. a good chance you’ll try out Apple Music and stick with it. Personally, I’m a Spotify guy. I pay for YouTube Premium and still don’t use YouTube Music. A lot of that is down to how bloody good Spotify is.
Spotify
Apple Music
YouTube Music
Amazon Music
Tidal (really high quality)
Let me know if you think I’ve forgotten a big app!
Ah NFTs. One of the weirdest things the internet gave us lately. or NFTs. These digital assets, based on blockchain technology, have been all over the news. You may have even seen people talking about them on social media and wondering if they should jump into investing in them. But what are NFTs, and can they be gifted? To get a better understanding of the hype surrounding these tokens and the questions that come with it, let’s dive right into it.
What Are NFTs?
NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token. Simply put, an NFT is a type of digital asset that is stored on a blockchain network and cannot be copied or exchanged between two parties. This means that each token is unique and non-interchangeable; hence why it’s called non-fungible. These tokens are used to represent virtual items such as artwork, music, and other digital goods like tickets or collectables. Unlike traditional currency transactions which involve the transfer of funds from one party to another, NFTs involve the exchange of ownership rights for tokens representing virtual goods.
Can You Gift NFTs?
Yes! Just like any other gift item, you can purchase an NFT for someone else as a present. In fact, many people have started gifting their friends and family members with unique digital art pieces or collectables through this method. Some platforms even offer exclusive discounts when purchasing multiple items at once so you can gift your loved ones with an entire collection!
That said, it could also be the most useless gift of all time given the jury is absolutely out on NFTs right now.
Did Trump Make This A Hot Topic?
No. While Donald Trump did recently announce his own line of limited edition political memorabilia via an auction of his own NFTs, he was not responsible for making this a hot trend among consumers and investors alike. In fact, many experts believe that Trump was simply trying to capitalise on the growing popularity of this asset class by leveraging his own fame and name recognition to draw attention to it.
Twitter detectives have already discovered that quite a few of the NFTs created are using stock images that haven’t been paid for. That’s obvious from the watermarks remaining in the works.
Are NFTs A Scam?
While there are some risks involved in investing in any asset class — including NFTs — there is no evidence to suggest that these tokens are anything but legitimate investments backed by real value. Though I’m sure debate will rage over Trump’s collection given claims of plagiarism.
In fact, many industry experts believe that these assets are here to stay and will continue to grow in popularity as more people become aware of them and their potential uses within the digital economy. Just look at Bitcoin for a measure of what life with NFTs will be like. Unpredictable and quickly swinging values.
Will NFTs Last?
It’s hard to say definitively whether or not these tokens will remain popular long-term due to their relatively new status within the investment landscape; however many experts believe that they have staying power due to their uniqueness and versatility when compared with other asset classes available today. Additionally, as more companies enter into the space offering different types of services related to these tokens—such as marketplaces for buying/selling them—their popularity could very well continue growing over time as well!
NFTs have quickly become one of the hottest topics online today due largely in part thanks to President Donald Trump’s recent foray into this realm via his own limited edition political memorabilia auctioned off via an auction platform powered by blockchain technology. Despite some initial scepticism from some investors regarding their legitimacy as investments backed by real value claims still abound from industry experts who see great potential in these non-fungible tokens moving forward into the future, but only time will tell if they last beyond their current level of hype or fizzle out just like previous trends before them!
I adore cooking. Honestly. I was a fussy eater for years then my better half opened up a world of flavour for me. Over the past few years, I’ve been cooking more than ever and experimenting with new food and ingredients. At the core of this culinary journey has been a few gadgets that I love too. They make cooking easier, more fun and, sometimes, dinner simply wouldn’t happen without them.
Now I hate those recipe websites that make you scroll through reams of content to get to the meat of it all. So I’ll start with the kitchen gadgets I love, and then come back to some points on “why” they are awesome.
Google Assistant
If you’re an Amazon Echo household, fair enough. But Google offers the handiest smart assistant with a screen in the Nest Hub. This is very handy. The majority of commands your assistant is going to handle is setting a timer. And that’s a life safer when your hands are covered in flour or raw meat juice.
The assistant is also great for converting. I have no idea how the imperial system works. Google does. I regularly ask my assistant to convert ounces to grams or similar. You get the jist.
Finally, because of the screen, you can look up full recipes. Then you can progress step-by-step through making dinner. Naturally, you can also use voice commands to work through your steps. Some recipes can even be cast straight from Google search, but I’ve had very hit-and-miss results with that particular feature.
Let’s finish on a positive here though. Dinner is made, life is good, and the Google Assistant can also play some romantic jazz.
Nice.
Meat Probe
A few years back, I sang the praises of the Meater Smart cooking probe. I still love the idea, but mine broke and there’s no reviving it. Which is a shame. So I turned to the shops to see what else was out there.
I bought myself this ThermoPro on Amazon. It’s relatively cheap and has temperature-resistant cables. This means you get a lovely console that sits outside the oven giving you crucial info on your meat.
To be honest, as much as I loved the Meater Probe, I prefer this simpler approach. The Meater required me to keep and eye on my phone or stay somewhat nearby. But with the ThermoPro, I can wander around the house and just listen out for my meat reaching the temperature I set as my target.
I could show you the gadget itself, or I could show you the results. I know which one is going to be more impactful.
First time cooking roast beef – the power of a meat probe
There are lots of reasons to give one of these a go. A meat probe can help you ensure that your meat is cooked to a safe temperature to prevent food poisoning. It allows you to monitor the internal temperature of your meat as it cooks and helps you avoid overcooking or undercooking your meat. Ultimately, that means enhanced flavour.
Go buy one already.
Slow Cooker
What an amazing piece of kit these things are. Give over with your air fryer obsession and play this flavour game instead.
A slow cooker, also known as a Crock-Pot to Americans, is a kitchen appliance that cooks food at a low temperature over a prolonged period of time. It typically consists of a ceramic or stainless steel pot that is surrounded by a heating element, which is covered by a lid. Slow cookers are designed to be convenient and energy-efficient, as they allow you to prepare meals in advance and require minimal attention while cooking. They are often used to make soups, stews, casseroles, and other dishes that benefit from long, slow cooking.
The rule of thumb I live by is that longer cooking at lower temperatures unlocks a world of flavour.
Now, they’re not all that smart. I’ve seen some smart ones, but they’re like he’s teeth. I do have a solution though; smart plugs.
Smart Plugs
You won’t get to use many appliances with smart plugs. Actually, to be totally honest the slow cooker is probably the best, and possibly only use for smart plugs in the kitchen. Unless you come up with something else.
Smart plugs let you control power outlets in your home, literally, from anywhere in the world. I mean that. Great for turning the lights on without having to get off the couch. Also great for turning on the smart cooker at the right time.
Some recipes only need to be on for a few hours. If you’re back in the office you might want cooking to start at 12pm. Nice and handy knowing that with a smart plug, you can have your slow cooker turned on but only starting once you trigger the smart plug with your phone.
A lovely trick that.
Your Phone
A cheeky inclusion this. We all have them but let’s not forget their power. Look up cooking times. Set timers. Pass the time with some videos. Call you mam while the spuds roast. Most importantly, get some recipes. I look into the fridge a fair bit and realise I’ve forgotten I don’t have some obscure spice. A quick Google usually leads to me learning I can substitute it with something else. Life is a learning journey. Tech can help.
Benefits of buying some kitchen gadgets
There are several benefits to using smart gadgets in the kitchen:
Efficiency
Smart gadgets can help streamline your cooking process and make it more efficient. I don’t go into them here, but something like a smart oven can be programmed to preheat to the correct temperature and turn off automatically when the food is done cooking.
Convenience
Many smart gadgets allow you to control them remotely using your smartphone or voice commands, which can be convenient when you’re busy with other tasks. The most used gadget in my kitchen is the Google Assistant. “Hey Google, set a timer for…”. Every single day.
Health benefits
Some smart gadgets, such as smart scales and sous-vide cookers, can help you cook healthier meals by precisely measuring ingredients and cooking food at a consistent temperature. Plus, if you’re cooking more and ordering takeaway less, you’ll be healthier too.
Fun and learning
Using smart kitchen gadgets can be a fun and educational experience. You can learn more about cooking and try new recipes using the latest technology. I had no idea how meat really cooked until I bought a meat probe. Suddenly it all made sense.
Welcome to the mysterious world of ChatGPT, where artificial intelligence and humour collide. But who is funding this wacky machine-learning experiment? Is it the government? A group of rogue hackers? Or maybe a group of mischievous monkeys with a knack for coding?
Well, the truth is (drumroll please)…
ChatGPT wrote that – sorry.
Who is funding ChatGPT?
Right, so there’s no conspiracy here. You can even ask ChatGPT itself and it will tell you who’s funding it. Or at least who is funding OpenAI, the company that built it.
OpenAI is a research organization that focuses on the development and promotion of friendly artificial intelligence. OpenAI was founded in 2015 by a group of entrepreneurs, researchers, and philanthropists, including Elon Musk, Sam Altman, Greg Brockman, Ilya Sutskever, and Wojciech Zaremba.
OpenAI has received funding from a variety of sources, including private investments, grants, and partnerships with organizations and companies. Some of the investors and partners that have supported OpenAI include Microsoft, Reid Hoffman’s charitable fund, Khosla Ventures, and Infosys.
In addition to these private sources of funding, OpenAI has also received support from government agencies, such as the National Science Foundation and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). This support has allowed OpenAI to conduct research and development on a wide range of AI-related projects, including natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning.
On the website, they state that OpenAI is governed by the board of the OpenAI nonprofit, comprised of OpenAI LP employees Greg Brockman (Chairman and President), Ilya Sutskever (Chief Scientist), and Sam Altman (CEO), and non-employees Adam D’Angelo, Reid Hoffman, Will Hurd, Tasha McCauley, Helen Toner, and Shivon Zilis.
Investors include Microsoft, Reid Hoffman’s charitable foundation, and Khosla Ventures.
How much does ChatGPT cost per day?
In terms of daily costs, a figure of $3 million has been circulating on social media over the past few days. Unfortunately, there is no solid number known. That estimate is just that – an estimate, based on AWS calculations for cloud hosting and processing costs.
This would be problematic for a start given their funding. If being heavily backed by Microsoft, I would expect to see OpenAI using Azure – Microsoft’s cloud platform, not AWS which belongs to Amazon.
I’m sure we’ll learn a lot more about ChatGPT, the people behind it and how much it costs. But for now, what worries me…
It’s hardly a surprise that the spoiled Musk would become bored with the reality of a social media platform so quickly after taking control. Despite owning the literal “Boring Company”, another stupid idea, running social media surely has to be dull compared to launching Mars missions.
Well, after weeks of absolute failures since forking out a small fortune for Twitter, Musk has launched a poll on the platform. The poll, posted from Musk’s personal account, asks “Should I step down as head of Twitter”. He also states that he “will abide by the results of this poll”. It was posted at about 11.20 pm Irish time.
At the time of writing over 5 million people have voted with nearly 60% of the vote leaning towards voting Musk out.
This all comes just hours after Musk was seen at the World Cup Final in Qatar with Jared “Ewwwww” Kushner. On the same weekend, Musk’s Twitter started banning journalists and blocking people from promoting other social media platforms. It’s all very ugly stuff.
Musk generally does follow up with the results of his polls. This one ends in 10 hours. Watch this space.
A fresh wave of people have moved to Mastodon. This follows Twitter blocking people posting about other social media accounts. It’s truly wild to see some of the things Musk has signed off for. But oddly enough, people are trading Musk to Tusk, and moving to Mastodon. But what the bloody hell is it?
What is Mastodon?
Mastodon is a free, open-source social networking service. It is similar to other social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook, but it is decentralized, meaning that it is not controlled by a single entity or corporation. Instead, Mastodon is made up of a network of servers, or “instances,” which are operated by different organizations or individuals. Each instance has its own community and rules, and users can choose which instance they want to join.
Mastodon is built on the concept of “federated social media,” which means that users on different instances can communicate with each other and share content across the network. This allows for greater freedom of expression and privacy, as users are not subject to the same centralized policies and algorithms that govern other social media platforms.
Mastodon has a strong focus on community and inclusivity, and it has a number of features that make it popular with users who want an alternative to mainstream social media. It is also used by organizations and individuals who want to have more control over their online presence and data.
No, explain Mastodon to me like I’m 5
Ok. Mastodon is like a big neighbourhood where everyone has their own house. Some houses are really big and have lots of people living in them, and some houses are small and only have a few people.
Each house has its own rules about what people can do and say inside, just like each family has their own rules about what’s okay and what’s not okay in their own home. Some houses might be really strict and only let people say certain things, while other houses might be more relaxed and let people say pretty much whatever they want.
Mastodon is a place where you can go to meet new people and make friends, just like in a real neighbourhood. You can also share things you like, like pictures or stories, just like you might show your friends something cool you found in your own house.
The cool thing about Mastodon is that it’s not just one big neighbourhood – it’s lots of smaller neighbourhoods all connected together. So if you don’t like the rules in one house, you can go to another one and find a place that’s more your style. It’s like having lots of different neighbourhoods all in one place!
Because there’s no one single company managing the entire Mastodon experience, there’s also no real single app to recommend. But I can recommend one particular approach. It’s called the PWA.
Mastodon PWA
A Progressive Web App (PWA) is a type of website that can act like a regular app on your phone or computer. This means that you can use it even when you’re not connected to the internet.
PWAs are also designed to be faster and more reliable than regular websites. They can load really quickly, even on slow internet connections, and they don’t crash as much as regular websites do.
One way that PWAs are different from regular apps is that they don’t have to be downloaded from an app store like the App Store or Google Play. Instead, you can just go to a PWA website on your phone or computer and install it directly from there. This makes it easier to get and use PWAs, especially if you don’t have a lot of space on your phone or computer for regular apps.
Mastodon comes in a PWA. This means you simple add the website to your home screen on iPhone or Android and you’re done. The best part is this gives access to the Federated Timeline. This is a combined feed of all Mastodon neighbourhoods not available in the official Mastodon app.
Mastodon App
The official Mastodon app is pretty polished and has most of the latest features. However, the lack of a Federated Timeline is a real shame. Still, this is the best app for most regular users who really like their own neighbourhood.
Tusky
This is a free, open-source app for Android devices that provides a clean and user-friendly interface for accessing Mastodon. It has a number of features, including the ability to post, interact with other users, and manage multiple accounts.
Amaroq
This is a free app for iOS devices that offers a similar feature set to Tusky, with a focus on a sleek and intuitive design. It also includes support for multiple accounts and push notifications.
Mast
This is a free, open-source app for iOS and Android devices that provides a feature-rich experience for accessing Mastodon. It includes support for multiple accounts, push notifications, and a customizable interface.
Halcyon
This is a paid app for iOS and Android devices that offers a stylish and intuitive interface for accessing Mastodon. It includes support for multiple accounts and a number of customization options.
Should you switch to Mastodon?
Whether or not you should switch to Mastodon depends on your specific needs and preferences. Mastodon can be a good alternative to mainstream social media platforms if you value privacy, community, and inclusivity, and if you want to have more control over your online presence and data. It is also a good choice if you are interested in participating in a decentralized, federated social media network.
However, Mastodon may not be the best choice for everyone. It may not have all of the features or functionality that you are looking for in a social media platform, and it may not have as large of a user base as other platforms.
Ultimately, the decision to switch to Mastodon (or any other social media platform) should be based on your individual needs and priorities. It might be helpful to try out Mastodon and see how it compares to your current platform. In my opinion, Mastodon is growing quickly as people feel pushed from Twitter. It’s an interesting “farmers market” approach to social media which appeals to many.
A while back I made a leap I never expected to make. I moved to iPhone. With that move came a free trial of Apple TV+. There’s a good chance some new iPhones will fall into new hands in the coming weeks and many will be left asking “is Apple TV+ worth it?”. I’m going to say yes. Here’s why and some suggestions for what to watch.
What is Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is a streaming service operated by Apple that offers original television programs, films, and documentaries. It was launched in November 2019 and is available on various devices, including Apple devices (such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs), smart TVs, streaming devices, and game consoles. It’s not limited to Apple product owners.
In addition to its original programming, Apple TV+ also offers access to a library of licensed content from other studios and networks. The intention was for Apple TV+ to become a one-stop shop for all.
Users can subscribe to the service on a monthly basis for a fee and can access the content through the Apple TV app on their device.
How much does Apple TV+ cost?
Apple TV+ costs €6.99 per month. It’s among the cheaper streaming services on the market. With the likes of Disney+ and Netflix pricing starting at €8.99 per month
One massive consideration is Apple One. Apple One lets you bundle together Apple products like Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade and iCloud. This bundling of products together is great if you’re fully bought into the Apple ecosystem. You get all of Apple’s apps and services, starting from just €16.95. That’s good value if you already have cloud storage and a music streaming platform.
Not sure? There’s a trial too.
Apple TV+ trial
If you want to try Apple TV+, there are plenty of options. If you’ve just bought a new Apple product, you could be eligible for a 3-month trial. Otherwise, you get one week free to binge as much content as possible.
If you want to try Apple One, you get to sample all of Apple’s services for 1-month. So, rather than asking me if it’s worth it – you can check for yourself! But now, for my own opinion.
Is Apple TV+ worth it?
Yes. Apple TV+ is worth €6.99 per month. The service doesn’t have anywhere near the volume of content that Netflix or Disney+ has to offer. Instead, Apple has focused on quality not quantity. This is great for two reasons.
One, you can binge most of the good stuff on a trial or just wait for it all to be out and subscribe for one month to watch everything.
Two, you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through content in the hope you find something. There’s either something to watch or there’s not. It’s that simple.
But what’s on Apple TV+ that’s worth watching?
Best movies on Apple TV+
First up is original movies and documentaries made by Apple especially for Apple TV.
The Banker
This drama film tells the true story of two African American entrepreneurs who hire a working-class white man to front their business in order to circumvent discrimination in the 1950s and 1960s. It stars Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Mackie, and Nicholas Hoult and received positive reviews for its performances and historical depiction.
Greyhound
This war film stars Tom Hanks as a U.S. Navy captain leading a convoy of allied ships across the Atlantic during World War II. It received praise for its action scenes and Hanks’ performance.
Beastie Boys Story
This documentary tells the story of the influential rap group Beastie Boys and features interviews with members Mike Diamond and Adam Horovitz. It received positive reviews for its engaging and nostalgicically-driven narrative.
Finch
Another Hanks’ movie. This time, Hanks plays an eponymous engineer creating a robot to take care of his dog. The credits lists just three names, one of which is the dog.
It’s a bit like I Am Legend meets Wall E or something. But very entertaining.
Best TV shows on Apple TV+
While there are a few good movies, TV shows is where Apple TV+ excels. This makes sense too has shows can be broken up into episodes and seasons – better for retaining subscribers. Here’s the best.
Bad Sisters
Small bit of bias here. Bad Girls is filmed in Dublin and Wicklow. It tells the story of 4 sisters trying to kill the husband of a 5th sister. I’ve never hated anyone quite like the husband. The show will pull plenty of strange feelings out of you.
Also, if you live in Dublin or Wicklow, you get the play the “oh that’s over there by the thing”.
The Morning Show
This drama series stars Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell and follows the personal and professional lives of the hosts of a popular morning news show during a sexual abuse scandal.
It received positive reviews for its strong performances and timely themes around big figures being involved in sexual abuse allegations and convictions.
Mythic Quest
This comedy series set in the world of video game development stars Rob McElhenney and Charlotte Nicdao. It’s full of clever writing and boasts a strong cast.
Watch out for the Covid special they did. One of the few brilliant takes on Zoom episodes I’ve seen.
Ted Lasso
This comedy series stars Jason Sudeikis as an American football coach hired to coach a professional soccer team in England. The show is a so different to anything I expected it to be. It’s heartwarming and humorous, diverse and not afraid to portray cultural differences.
Slow Horses
Slow Horses is Apple’s adaption of a novel by Mick Herron about a group of misfit MI5 agents working in the agency’s Slough House, a place for employees who have made mistakes or been demoted.
The main character is Jackson Lamb, a gruff and irascible former field agent who now heads the Slough House team. The series follows the team as they investigate a kidnapping.
It’s the typical story, as they confront their own personal demons and confront the bureaucracy and politics of the intelligence agency. There’s no shortage of clever plot twists.
For All Mankind
Oddly Amazon Prime launched with an alternate history series, and Apple followed suit with For All Mankind.
“For All Mankind” is a science fiction television series created by Ronald D. Moore especially for Apple TV+. The show is set in an alternate history where the Soviet Union landed the first manned mission on the moon in 1969, leading the United States to redouble its efforts in the space race.
The series follows the lives of a group of astronauts, engineers, and their families as they work to maintain American dominance in space and explore the solar system. It explores themes of national pride, the personal and professional sacrifices of the space program, and the impact of technological advancements on society.
It’s an amazing tale of “what if”. I loved this because once upon a time when studying history I literally wanted to write about theoreitcal history but I wasn’t allowed.
That’s probably enough to show you that, yes, Apple TV+ is worth a punt. If noting else, give the free trial a go.
In my lifetime, I’ve seen TV evolve quite a bit. Glenroe came on of a Sunday night on a rented TV through an old copper aerial. Eventually, my family got Sky. Felt really fancy before realising there was a load of nonsense on most channels. Nowadays, most of my TV viewing is on streaming services like RTÉ Player or Netflix. I’ve pretty much cut the cord as the saying goes.
If you still watch television through a cable or satellite provider, what alternatives are there? What if you could get your TV fix without having to pay a monthly bill?
Enter IPTV. IPTV is a type of streaming service that delivers television programming over the internet. It’s similar to other popular streaming services like Netflix and Paramount+. IPTV, like torrent file sharing, is completely legal, but it can be used to breach copyright. Read on to find out more about the legality of IPTV in Ireland.
What is IPTV and how does it work
IPTV, or Internet Protocol Television, is changing the way we consume television content. By utilising an IP network, such as broadband or the internet, IPTV transports digital television data to users in a method much different than cable or satellite TV. TV shows and movies can be watched on demand or in “time-shifted” playback mode.
This means that you can watch your favorite show whenever and however you want! With interactive elements like video on demand and pause-live-TV all accessible from the same interface, it’s no wonder IPTV is quickly becoming a popular choice for television viewers. Are you ready to make the switch?
Is IPTV legal in Ireland
When it comes to IPTV in Ireland, there is a lot of confusion about its legality and for good reason! IPTV stands for ‘Internet Protocol Television’ and is the delivery of television content over the internet. The big question though: is it legal? In most cases, the answer is yes, but with some important guidelines to adhere to.
For instance, viewing or streaming content without permission from copyright holders or broadcasters is not allowed. Additionally, if IPTV services you use require extra devices or subscriptions then this could raise some red flags. It’s also important to make sure that service providers registered in Ireland are being used as well as checking out any terms of service stated in the fine print. Taking all these measures into account can ensure an enjoyable, safe and legal IPTV experience in Ireland.
But if you are using IPTV streaming services like All 4, you’re using a totally legal IPTV streaming service.
If you’re paying “some guy” in a Telegram chat for access to every channel and movie under the sun, chances are it’s not legal.
The dangers of using dodgy IPTV boxes
IPTV boxes are becoming increasingly popular and convenient, but they come with their own set of risks. Many of them rely on third-party developers and can be from questionable sources, leading to viruses and malware which can affect your device or network. There’s the potential for watching pirated content, with individuals and companies possibly violating copyright law – meaning any money saved is likely not worth the penalty you might have to pay.
Even worse, some countries have outlawed IPTVs entirely! If you’re going to “get in on the action” as it were, ensure you educate yourself thoroughly on the laws surrounding online streaming devices before making any moves. Hey, knowledge is power and maybe avoiding a hefty fine while making sure your device stays safe and secure is something we all want!
Alternatives to illegal IPTV
With the increasing popularity of illegal IPTV, many people are searching for a better way to watch their favorite shows and movies. Luckily, there are a number of legal alternatives available. Subscription streaming services like Prime Video and Netflix provide hundreds of movies at low monthly rates. RTÉ Player and All 4 are also amazing services with no barrier to entry. But remember, for the RTÉ Player you’re supposed to have a TV license.
Charity shops have rakes of DVDs if you want to go “old school”. With so many easy solutions out there, there’s no excuse not to find fun, legal ways to watch movies or TV shows without resorting to illegal IPTV.
So there you have it, everything you need to know about IPTV in Ireland. Remember, if something seems too good to be true then it probably is. Stay safe and legal by avoiding dodgy IPTV boxes.
