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10 failsafe picks for the mum who “doesn’t want anything”

<p>For some people, Mother’s Day is easy, with mums dropping gift hints all throughout the year, plus a few timely reminders sprinkled in right before the big day for good measure. </p> <p>For others, it’s a wild guessing game, usually off the back of the annual “oh, you don’t have to get me anything”. And as anyone who’s steered headfirst into that one before knows, it isn’t a risk worth taking. </p> <p>Luckily, the good people over at <a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/gifts/mothers-day-gifts?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Innovations</a> - Australia’s most trusted home shopping brand for more than 35 years - have it covered, no matter what your mum’s tastes may be. </p> <p>With an impressive range boasting everything from homewares to garden essentials, beauty, fashion, entertainment, and crafts galore, you’re sure to find something that delights, while giving her the pamper treatment she deserves. </p> <p>And with these ten top picks, you may even snag yourself the title of ‘favourite child’ for 2023. </p> <h3><strong>1. Say goodbye to a chilly reception this winter </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/HERHR?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Herbie-Heat-Pack_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>There are few things worse in the winter than wanting your hot water bottle, but lacking any motivation to wait around for the water to boil - and then just to cool enough to safely put in there - and often just opting to go without. </p> <p>But that’s where Cuddly Herbie comes in! With its microwave heating capabilities, this cotton friend is the perfect size for a warm hug, is filled with silicone beans, and even comes with a removable polyester cover for mums all across Australia to beat the winter chill. </p> <p>And better yet, it’s good for the whole year - just pop your Herbie Heat Pack in the freezer and in no time you’ll have yourself a cool compress for all those pesky aches and pains. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/HERHR?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Herbie Heat Pack, $36.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>2. No laundry room? No problem</strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/MWSHM?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Mini-Washing-Machine_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>Anyone who does laundry has - at one point or another - stood in front of their machine debating whether or not they have enough to warrant a full load. And whether the solution was to search the house top to bottom for a few more all-important smelly socks, or to save the chore for another full-basket day, an easier one was within reach all along. </p> <p>With a mini washing machine, a small load is no hassle! No-one needs to feel guilty about it either, with the small appliance using an even smaller share of power and water to get the job done. </p> <p>Standing proud at 28cm tall, and complete with a draining basket and draining pipe, this portable machine isn’t greedy, and only asks for some laundry soap, a wall outlet, and some water to get started. It’s even portable, so if your mum’s been after something to lighten the packing load on her next caravanning trip, this may just be the perfect pick for her. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/MWSHM?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Mini Washing Machine, $89.00 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>3. Sudoku? Don’t mind if you do </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/DSUDK?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Deluxe-Sudoku-Game_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>Some mums enjoy a crossword, and some mums are a little more into numbers, opting to test their brain with a good old sudoku puzzle instead. But no matter which takes your mum’s fancy, you have the power to save her from the frustration of crossing out poor guesses, smudges that refuse to budge, and scribbles that made sense - and only made sense - at the time. </p> <p>With this natural wooden board, measuring in at 24 x 24cm, those issues are a thing of the past! With over 100 printed puzzles to slide in and play, and 81 double-sided number tiles, there’s hours of enjoyment to be found. And best of all, for those who want the fun without the headache, the board comes complete with its very own solution booklet. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/DSUDK?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Deluxe Sudoku Game, $39.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>4. Can’t lose that, won’t lose that </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/COSMO?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Cosmetic-Organiser_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>How many times have we heard our mums ask themselves where they’ve put something? Be it their phone, their keys, or even the shoes they last had on, we’ve all joined that search and rescue mission - sometimes even being the ones to ask ourselves. </p> <p>Luckily, your mum need never lose her favourite lipstick again, and reaching for her best moisturiser has never been easier, with this durable cosmetic organiser. Made of an adorable pastel pink plastic, this space-saving wonder features three spacious drawers, a clear acrylic lid for easy viewing - tall enough to hold even those pesky tall bottles - and a handy carry handle, so your mum can keep it out on display, or carry it right along with her on her next big trip. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/COSMO?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Cosmetic Organiser, $49.00 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>5. Make cold hands a thing of the past </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/HWPB?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Comforting-Hand-Warmer-with-Power-Bank_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>Whatever the reason - of which there are dozens - many people are in constant battle with their own cold fingers and toes. And most aren’t particularly keen on the idea of wearing gloves around the house until they warm up, especially if they’re particularly bulky and doomed to get in the way of a task.</p> <p>But with this little hand warmer, knocking out that chill can be done in record time, and all without taking up an unnecessary amount of space in your mum’s cupboard or her bag. This pocket-sized device comes with its very own carry pouch, and warms to 30, 37, or 50°C - it even stays that way for up to an impressive seven hours. It’s easy to charge with the provided USB cable, and even doubles as a powerful rechargeable battery that can charge your smartphone, tablet or any other USB-compatible device on the go.  </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/HWPB?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Comforting Hand Warmer with Power Bank, $19.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>6. Don’t keep ‘pilling’ on </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/FABSH?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Rechargeable-Fabric-Shaver_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>Some clothing lasts an entire lifetime without a loose thread or a lint ball in sight, while other items subscribe more to the ‘blink and you’ve got pilling’ way of life. No mum wants to send herself or her kids - or even her grandkids - out in the world covered like that, and this shaver may be just the thing to give her some peace of mind in the face of another pilling crisis.  </p> <p>Perfect for everything from coats to jumpers and plush toys, this fabric shaver makes the most of its stainless steel blades and three-speed motor to get the job done well, and to get it done quickly. It even comes with a lint box that’s no hassle to empty, and can be used just about anywhere - not only is it cordless, but it’s rechargeable, and comes with a USB cord - as well as a cleaning brush to get rid of the most stubborn of lint. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/FABSH?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Rechargeable Fabric Shaver, $34.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>7. See the light, smell the light</strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/ADIFF?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Aroma-Diffuser-with-Coloured-Light_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>With a sleek wood-grain finish and colour-changing light brand, this show-stopping piece doesn’t just look good - it smells good, too. And if there’s one thing a mum deserves, it’s the opportunity to relax in luxury, even if she’s doing it from the comfort of her own home. </p> <p>All it takes is a few drops of water and some essential oil, and this diffuser does the work from there. And with options that range from a soft and steady light to an entire rainbow cycle of colour, whatever your mum’s mood, she can customise her surroundings to her heart’s content. At just 16 cm tall, it won’t even take up too much space, and comes with a USB cord, with the potential to be powered by a simple phone charger. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/ADIFF?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Aroma Diffuser with Coloured Light, $39.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>8. Slip into comfort</strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/23W23?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Cosy-Wool-Lined-Slipper_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>One of the hardest things in the colder months is getting out of bed, so if the option was there to slide your feet out of there and straight into some cosy slippers, wouldn’t you take it? Wouldn’t you want your mum to take it? </p> <p>With a fluffy collar, these slippers are a warm and comfy at-home essential, made from a soft suede with a gorgeous wool lining. And with a moulded rubber sole, there’s that little bit of extra support that doesn’t come with your standard slipper socks. Plus, if blue isn’t quite your mum’s colour, these also come in a beautiful dusty pink. </p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/23W23?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Cosy Wool Lined Slipper, $74.00 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>9. Don’t look so puzzled </strong></h3> <p><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/61921?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Gridded-Puzzle-Mat_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>Jigsaw puzzles not only provide hours - sometimes entire days - of entertainment, but they can also leave you with a fun statement art piece at the end. Granted, of course, that you didn’t lose any pieces along the way. </p> <p>One way to prevent that unfortunate end? A puzzle mat. Able to roll up, these keep puzzles held securely in place for those times you need your table back but don’t quite have the time to finish, or simply need to move to another, comfier location. Sometimes you might start your puzzle alone and later decide to call in reinforcements, and sometimes it goes the other way, after all - too many cooks spoil the broth, too many puzzlers complicate the jigsaw. </p> <p>This mat has guides for jigsaws ranging between 500 and 2000 pieces - with grids at 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 intervals. So no matter the size of your mum’s project, she doesn’t need to worry about losing track - instead, she can focus her full attention on securing those crucial corner pieces.</p> <h3><a href="http://www.innovations.com.au/product/61921?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Gridded Puzzle Mat, $23.95 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a></h3> <h3><strong>10. That’s ‘sew’ perfect</strong></h3> <p><a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/craft/accessories/folding-sewing-table?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/04/Folding-Sewing-Table_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></a></p> <p>While a sewing project can start so, so small, it never takes long for things to expand, and for you to suddenly need far more than you ever thought you might. It can quickly become a pain, getting up and down, to grab whatever it is you’re missing, and can just as quickly drain any enthusiasm in the process. </p> <p>But with this versatile wooden workstation, your mum can have everything with her from the very beginning, and she can do it in style - and from wherever she wants, with its convenient wheels. While folded down, the table measures 59 x 40 x 79 cm high, and while folded out, its entire workspace measures 117 x 40 cm. </p> <p>Additionally, the inside of the station boasts three shelves to store essential tools and supplies, as well as an entire internal shelf dedicated to storing machines while they’re not in use, keeping things neat, tidy, and practical for any avid sewer. </p> <h3><a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/craft/accessories/folding-sewing-table?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=PLD03MdayGifts&amp;affiliate=O60INA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Folding Sewing Table, $199 – Buy now at Innovations</em></a> </h3> <h3><em>To check out all of the incredible Mother’s Day gifts and inspiration for yourself, head on over to the online version of the <a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/catalogues.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Innovations 2023 Mother’s Day Catalogue</a>. </em></h3>

Home & Garden

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An Italian museum’s innovative way of tracking viewer interactions

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Art researchers in Italy have discovered a new way to help more accurately curate popular museum exhibitions. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Working with the Italian national agency for new technologies, the Istituzione Bologna Musei in Bologna has installed 14 small cameras that use artificial intelligence (AI) to study the reactions of viewers. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The cameras pick up facial expressions, posture and positioning of those who pass through the gallery on a daily basis. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The data collected by these cameras is then used to draw broader conclusions about future exhibits and specific artworks. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Researcher Riccardo Scipinotti came up with the initiative, referred to as ShareArt, to record how long visitors look at art, the paths they take through galleries, where their eyes are drawn to on particular canvases.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All of these factors make up each piece of art’s “attraction value”, as well as analysing which exhibits are the most popular. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ShareArt technology has the potential to revolutionise the museum and art world, as the data shared from the AI could determine placement of certain works in a gallery, how works are lit or hung, or how works are displayed in relation to one another.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The team of researchers began to roll out ShareArt in early July as COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in Italy, and has already started to yield interesting results. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The technology is also fitted to detect if museum-goers are flouting making-wearing rules.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The AI device is programmed to flash red if a visitor is wearing their mask incorrectly, or not wearing one at all. </span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em><br /><br /></p>

Art

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An innovative app tells Aussies how at-risk they are of bushfires

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An innovative app has been announced by </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Bushfire Building Council of Australia to help Aussies be better prepared for bushfire season.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The app will allow homeowners and renters to easily assess how at-risk their residence and local area are of a destructive bushfire. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Users of the app will enter their address and answer a series of questions about their home and their landscaping situation. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A rating of one to five stars will then be issued to the user, along with a list of measures, specific to the individual’s property, that will help them gain a higher rating and ultimately making their house safer and less flammable.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After the nation-wide devastation and destruction of the 2019/2020 Black Summer bushfires, The Bushfire Building Council of Australia hopes to avoid the same level of desolation in future bushfire season through the use of the app. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Former Victorian fire chief Craig Lapsley said the technology has been a long time coming, and hopes the app will help people all over the country be more prepared.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It's been a decade and it really had to come to a head with the Black Summer fires,” Mr Lapsley said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">During the Black Summer bushfires, approximately 3,000 homes were destroyed, with an unprecedented 1.8 million hectares of land burnt.</span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty Images</em></p>

Technology

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Behind the new Samsung Fold: how the quest to maximise screen size is driving major innovation

<p>To enlarge a phone, or not to enlarge a phone? That is the question. In the world of flagship smartphones, there seems to be one clear trend: bigger is better.</p> <p>Manufacturers are trying to strip away anything that might stand in the way of the largest possible slab of screen. There is also growing demand for thinner phones with diminishing <a href="https://www.lifewire.com/bezel-4155199">bezels</a> (the area surrounding a screen).</p> <p>This trend has now culminated in the latest innovation in smartphone design, the <a href="https://www.t3.com/au/news/best-folding-phones">foldable screen phone</a>. These devices sport thin <a href="https://www.techradar.com/au/news/what-is-oled">OLED</a> self illuminating screens that can be folded in half.</p> <p>The newest release is the <a href="https://www.theverge.com/21427462/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-2-review">Samsung Galaxy Z fold 2</a> – a device that is almost three-quarters screen and has extravagant overtones rivalled only by a hefty <a href="https://www.samsung.com/au/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold2/buy/">A$2,999 price tag</a>.</p> <p><strong>Hear from them</strong></p> <p>But to prevent the phones themselves from growing to unwieldy size, manufacturers are having to find ways to balance size with usability and durability. This presents some interesting engineering challenges, as well as some innovative solutions.</p> <p><strong>Internal design complexities of folding phones</strong></p> <p>Modern phones still typically use a thin LCD or plastic OLED display covered by an outer glass panel.</p> <p>Folding displays are a new category that exploit the flexibility of OLED display panels. Instead of simply fixing these panels to a rigid glass panel, they carefully engineer the panel so that it bends – but never quite tightly enough to snap or crack.</p> <p>Internal structural support is needed to make sure the panel doesn’t crease, or isn’t stressed to the point of creating damage, discolouration or visible surface ripples.</p> <p>Since this is a mechanical, moving system, reliability issues need to be considered. For instance, how long will the hinge last? How many times can it be <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2019/10/4/20898484/samsung-galaxy-fold-folding-test-failure-durability">folded and unfolded</a> before it malfunctions? Will dirt or dust make its way into the assembly during daily use and affect the screen?</p> <p>Such devices need an added layer of reliability over traditional slab-like phones, which have no moving parts.</p> <p><strong>Large screen, thin phone: a recipe for disaster?</strong></p> <p>Each generation of smartphones becomes thinner and with smaller bezels, which improves the viewing experience but can make the phone harder to handle.</p> <p>In such designs, the area of the device you can grip without touching the display screen is small. This leads to a higher chance of <a href="https://www.cnet.com/news/study-19-percent-of-people-drop-phones-down-toilet/">dropping the device</a> – a blunder even the best of us have made.</p> <p>There’s an ongoing tussle between consumers and manufacturers. Consumers want a large, viewable surface as well as an easily portable and rugged device. But from an engineering point of view, these are usually competing requirements.</p> <p>You’ll often see people in smartphone ads holding the device with two hands. In real life, however, most people use their phone with <a href="https://www.smartinsights.com/mobile-marketing/mobile-design/research-on-mobile-interaction-behaviour-and-design/">one</a> <a href="https://alistapart.com/article/how-we-hold-our-gadgets/">hand</a>.</p> <p>Thus, the shift towards larger, thinner phones has also given rise to a boom in demand for assistive tools attached to the back, such as <a href="https://www.androidcentral.com/best-popsockets">pop-out grips and phone rings</a>.</p> <p>In trying to maximise screen size, smartphone developers also have to account for interruptions in the display, such as the placement of cameras, laser scanners (for face or object identification), proximity sensors and speakers. All are placed to minimise visual intrusion.</p> <p><strong>Now you see it, now you don’t</strong></p> <p>In the engineering world, to measure the physical world you need either cameras or sensors, such as in a fingerprint scanner.</p> <p>With the race to increase the real estate space on screens, typically these cameras and scanners are placed somewhere around the screen. But they take up valuable space.</p> <p>This is why we’ve recently seen tricks to carve out more space for them, such as <a href="https://www.techradar.com/au/news/this-is-the-worlds-first-smartphone-where-half-the-screen-is-a-fingerprint-scanner">pop up</a> cameras and <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=phone+screen+hole+for+camera&amp;source=lmns&amp;bih=598&amp;biw=1280&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enAU871AU871&amp;safe=active&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjXvcyoveDrAhUwhUsFHXvqBYMQ_AUoAHoECAEQAA">punch-hole</a> cameras, in which the camera sits in a cutout hole allowing the display to extend to the corners.</p> <p>But another fantastic place for sensors is right in front of us: the screen. Or more specifically, under the screen.</p> <p>Samsung is one company that has suggested placing selfie-cameras and fingerprint readers behind the screen. But how do you capture a photo or a face image through a layer of screen?</p> <p>Up until recently, this has been put in the “too hard basket”. But that is changing: Xiaomi, Huawei and <a href="https://www.extremetech.com/mobile/262497-samsung-patent-shows-phone-camera-inside-display">Samsung</a> all have patents for <a href="https://www.phonearena.com/news/samsung-galaxy-s21-s30-under-display-camera_id125174">under-display cameras</a>.</p> <p>There are a range of ways to do this, from allowing a camera to see through the screen, to using <a href="https://www.rp-photonics.com/microlenses.html">microlenses</a> and camera pixels distributed throughout the display itself – similar to an insect’s <a href="https://www.britannica.com/animal/insect/Nervous-system#ref250944">compound eye</a>.</p> <p>In either case, the general engineering challenge is to implement the feature in a way that doesn’t impact screen image quality, nor majorly affect camera resolution or colour accuracy.</p> <p><strong>Laptops in our pockets</strong></p> <p>With up to 3.8 billion smartphone users <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/">expected by 2021</a>, mobile computing is a primary consumer technology area seeing significant growth and investment.</p> <p>One driver for this is the professional market, where larger mobile devices allow more efficient on-the-go business transactions. The second market is individuals who who <a href="https://www.statista.com/topics/779/mobile-internet/"><em>only</em> have a mobile device</a> and no laptop or desktop computer.</p> <p>It’s all about choice, but also functionality. Whatever you choose has to get the job done, support a positive user experience, but also survive the rigours of the real world.</p> <p><em>Written by Andrew Maxwell. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/behind-the-new-samsung-fold-how-the-quest-to-maximise-screen-size-is-driving-major-innovation-145700">The Conversation.</a></em></p>

Art

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The new innovation that allows visually impaired people to "see"

<p>For a local Sydney woman, she loves reading anything she can get her hands on. At first, she might sound like a bookworm. However, she loves reading simply because she was born completely blind and had no idea what it was like to read junk mail and trawl through the adverts looking for a decent bargain.</p> <p>This changed last September, when she received a small device that clips onto a pair of glasses. The device uses artificial intelligence to recognise faces and read text for her.</p> <p>The device, OrCam MyEye 2.0, has completely changed her life.</p> <p>Lisa Hayes explained to <a href="https://www.news.com.au/technology/gadgets/wearables/the-breakthrough-of-the-21st-century-how-this-product-changed-a-blind-womans-life/news-story/74f9881ed0f6f87a8797842bd982d1da">news.com.au</a>:</p> <p>“It has got be the breakthrough of the 21st century as far as I’m concerned.”</p> <p>“It’s one of the best things I’ve ever had.”</p> <p>The tech is designed by an Israeli company called OrCam and the device is designed for the blind and visually impaired.</p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7824337/picture1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ca47348ee3fc4a22aecf5e25c10ac6fb" /></p> <p><em>What the device looks like. Photo credit: OrCam</em></p> <p>On the front of the device, there’s a small camera with real time visual recognition technology. On the back of the device is a small speaker that relays the information into the ear of the user. It’s available in 23 languages.</p> <p>Miss Hayes is overjoyed with the device.</p> <p>“Being totally blind since birth, I’ve never been able to read a print book,” she said. “I can now actually read. I can read medication boxes, I can pick up junk mail.</p> <p>“I feel like I’m part of the real world.”</p> <p>The device has gotten attention around the globe, with Prince William being shown the technology on a historic visit to Israel.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BkkFGF3n-9v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BkkFGF3n-9v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">#princewilliam made a historic visit to Israel, meeting with 4 top technology companies. He met with OrCam Technologies and used OrCam MyEye 2, the most advanced assistive wearable technology, that reads text, recognizes faces, and identifies products for the blind, visually impaired, and people with reading difficulties. #assistivetechnology #blindness #lowvision #OrCam #assistivetech #visuallyimpaired #partiallysighted #blind #lifechanging #visualimpairment #wearabletech</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/orcam_technologies/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> OrCam</a> (@orcam_technologies) on Jun 28, 2018 at 2:43am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The royal was thrilled with the technology, <a href="https://www.orcam.com/gb/article/prince-william-experiences-life-changing-device-for-blind-people/">saying</a>:</p> <p>“Wow. That is absolutely incredible.</p> <p>“That will help many people I am sure. What brilliant tech.”</p> <p>Would you use this device? Let us know in the comments.</p>

Technology

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9 innovations changing the world of travel

<p>Like any industry, travel is one that is constantly moving and evolving. Here are nine innovations changing the world of travel today.</p> <p><strong>1. Digital check-in</strong></p> <p>Your smartphone can now be your room key as hotel chains launch digital apps that let guests manage their whole check-in process from start to finish. You can also organise your own check out and order extras, like room service or pay per view movies, so you never have to queue at reception again.</p> <p><strong>2. Track your luggage</strong></p> <p>The danger of lost luggage used to be a persistent nightmare for travellers. Not anymore. A new range of digital trackers connect your luggage with your smartphone, so you can see exactly where it is at all times. Airlines are also upping their game with better luggage processing systems that virtually guarantee your bag will turn up in the right place as quickly as possible.</p> <p><strong>3. Inflight wifi</strong></p> <p>Today’s travellers want to stay connected at all times, so airlines are coming onboard with good quality, reasonably priced inflight Wi-Fi. High speed service is provided by cutting edge satellites, so you can stream movies or TV shows, browse the net or catch up on emails.</p> <p><strong>4. Rental car guarantees</strong></p> <p>No one wants to be stuck with a dud rental car or hit with exorbitant fees. To give customers greater transparency, companies like Avis are launching apps that show you exactly what cars are available, calculate the total cost, let you make a booking and even unlock the car for you.</p> <p><strong>5. Popular premium economy</strong></p> <p>There used to only be three options when flying – first, business or economy. Now, many airlines are recognising the benefit of adding a premium economy class to give travellers more choices within their budget. Premium economy can range from simply larger seats with more legroom to a sort of business class light experience with great food, lounge access and upgraded amenities.</p> <p><strong>6. Last minute deals</strong></p> <p>Traditionally, booking a flight or hotel room at the last minute meant paying a premium. Now, travellers can sign up to a number of sites or apps that will send you an alert when there’s a price drop on a fare and let you book it right away. There are similar apps for hotel rooms, so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal on your whole trip.</p> <p><strong>7. Check in round the clock</strong></p> <p>There’s nothing worse than arriving in your destination early in the morning after a long flight and not being able to check in to your hotel room until 2pm. Recognising that travel is a 24 hour a day business, some hotels are implementing check in policies that work around the clock, so you can check in when you need to and have your room for the full day, regardless of the time.</p> <p><strong>8. Help to use your points</strong></p> <p>Many travellers complain that they accumulate plenty of airline points but are unable to redeem them due to restrictive policies or limited flights. A new plug in for Expedia called 30K lets you see how many points are needed for flights, as well as the price. You can also calculate how many points you could earn for a flight and compare multiple reward programs at once.</p> <p><strong>9. High-speed transport</strong></p> <p>This one is still a little way in the future, however travellers can look forward to high-speed trains and planes completely revolutionising the way we travel. Supersonic commercial planes are currently in development that could make a flight from London to New York in just one hour. Within the next 10 years, bullet trains will connect capitals in Asia and carry passengers between hubs like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in just 90 minutes.</p> <p>What do you think of this list? Are there any innovations we’ve left out? Share your thoughts in the comments section.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/tips-for-getting-through-the-airport-stress-free/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>5 tips for getting through the airport stress-free</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/ways-to-win-over-your-flight-attendant/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em>4 clever ways to win over your flight attendant</em></strong></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/things-you-can-ask-for-on-a-plane/"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 things you didn’t know you could ask for on a plane</span></strong></em></a></p>

Travel Tips

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9 innovations set to change the way you shower

<p>These innovative shower accessories are so cool that you’ll never skip your morning shower again.</p> <p>1. LED showerhead light – This LED showerhead lights up in multiple colours to turn your morning shower into a delightful rainbow spectrum.</p> <p>2. Bluetooth speaker showerhead – This showerhead is a speaker, and lets you listen to music and take phone calls while showering so you can make the most of your time.</p> <p>3. Wall mount bubble maker – This one’s for the grandkids. Convincing the little ones to take a bath will be a breeze with a wall mounted bubble blower.</p> <p>4. Waterproof notepad – Many people do their best thinking in the shower. After all, it’s one of the only places you have guaranteed time to yourself. Never forget a genius shower idea again with this waterproof note pad.</p> <p>5. Animal shaped water-proof speaker – Everyone likes to sing in the shower. This adorable turtle shaped speaker suctions onto the wall so you can play your favourite tunes while you wash. It even comes in octopus and snail form!</p> <p>6. A water-sensing shower timer – This device sits next to your drain and monitors the amount of water you use. When you’ve used enough water, it lets you know so you can wrap up your routine and save water.</p> <p>7. A live moss shower mat – This mat is made out of real moss, feels great under your feet, and feeds off of the water that drips off of you when you emerge, all while bringing an outdoor edge to your bathroom.</p> <p>8. Nostril soap dispenser - Soap dispensers are convenient and hassle free. This one has all the benefits of your usual dispenser, with the added hilarity that it looks like a giant nose. Press the nostrils and release your shower gel.</p> <p>9. Temperature sensing LED showerhead – Like the last LED showerhead, this one also lights up. But it also senses temperature, so if your shower gets too hot or too cold, it will let you know via red or blue light.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/at-home/2015/07/how-to-make-rubbish-smell-nice/">A clever trick to make your rubbish smell nice (and 11 other handy home hints)</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/at-home/2015/07/guests-no-spare-room/">How to ensure guests are comfy if you don’t have spare room</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/at-home/2015/07/new-umbrella-designs/">3 umbrellas like you’ve never seen them before</a></strong></em></span></p>

Home & Garden

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The latest and greatest in camping innovations

<p>If you ask anyone why they don’t like camping, it usually comes down to the reason that camping just isn’t comparable to the comforts of home or hotel. But these camping innovations might just be enough to reform even the most stubborn hotel enthusiast. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. Memory foam mattress –</strong> The most uncomfortable part of camping? Not having your own bed. With a memory foam mattress, you’ve got the next best thing. You can now purchase raised air mattresses with memory foam tops so sleeping-you will never know you left home.</p><p><strong>2. Heated shower –</strong> Nothing beats a warm shower, especially when you’re roughing it outdoors. There are now many varieties of portable water heaters available which provide hot water in seconds so you’ll never have to do without.</p><p><strong>3. Couple’s sleeping bag –</strong> Don’t want to miss out on sleeping side by side with your partner? You can buy jumbo width sleeping bags that fit two average sized people inside.</p><p><strong>4. Pop-up tents –</strong> If your idea of a bad time is struggling to set up a tent, you’ve fewer excuses now: there are now pop-up tents that sleep up to ten people and are ready to go in just three minutes. No more wrestling with poles and fabric.</p><p><strong>5. Water filter bottles –</strong> If you desire clean water while camping (as you should) there are now countless varieties of water bottles with built in filters to keep you healthy and hydrated during your time outdoors.</p><p><strong>6. Tent pitchers –</strong> With <a href="http://www.avantgardecamping.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>The Avant Garde Camping Company</strong></span></a>, Australia now has the option of having someone else set up a luxurious European style tent for you, complete with throw rugs, pillows, blankets and lighting. Just tell them where you’ll be and they pitch it for you.</p><p><strong>Related links:</strong></p><p><em><a href="/travel/travel-club/2015/07/best-glamping-locations/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">6 of the best glamping locations in the world</span></strong></a></em></p><p><em><a href="/lifestyle/outdoors/2015/07/how-to-choose-a-sleeping-bag/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The best sleeping bags to look for</span></strong></a></em></p><p><em><a href="/lifestyle/outdoors/2015/08/camping-chicken-wings/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Camper’s teriyaki chicken wings</span></strong></a></em></p>

Domestic Travel

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This innovative mother worked magic to make children love their hearing aids

<p>When Sarah Ivermee’s friend’s daughter expressed grief over the look of her hearing aids, Ivermee came up with a decorative solution that would change everything.</p> <p>Ivermee offered the young girl nail stickers in the hope that the ornamentation would help her feel special and ease her hearing-aid related anxiety.</p> <p>“She loves them and loves the fact that she can have fancy designs and her friends don’t,” Ivermee told The Mighty.</p> <p>No stranger to hearing loss herself, Ivermee’s own son was diagnosed with profound deafness at the age of just three months. He was later fitted a cochlear implant, a surgically implanted hearing aid.</p> <p>“Having a cochlear implant fitted for your child is no easy choice, and it isn’t right for everyone,” Ivermee explained to The Mighty, “but it has made Freddie’s world a much bigger place.”</p> <p>Since helping her friend’s daughter, Ivermee has started a business called <em>Lugs</em> which specialises in ornamentation for children’s hearing aids.</p> <p>“I thought there would be a lot of families struggling with children who don’t want to wear their [hearing devices], and I felt I had to help.”</p> <p>Already the endeavour is having national effect, as Ivermee’s first five orders went to the U.S.</p> <p>“I get emails from professionals to thank me for what I’m doing; it just amazes me,” said Ivermee. “People all over the world are wearing the little kits that I make in my living room; it’s unbelievable!”  </p> <p><img width="500" height="379" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7190/2015-05-10_135014_500x379.jpg" alt="2015-05-10_13.50.14" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img width="500" height="550" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7192/toys_500x550.jpg" alt="Toys (1)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></span></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="http://www.mylugs.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ivermee’s designs can be purchased here.</span></a></strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/07/paul-mccartney-on-john-lennon-death/">McCartney reveals past resentment following Lennon’s assassination</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/news/news/2015/07/what-is-a-grandparent/">When asked to write about their grandparents, these 8-year-olds had the most hilarious responses</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/%20http:/www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2015/07/dog-sells-out-guilty-friend/">Video: dog dobs in her guilty best friend</a></strong></em></span></p>

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