Mobile network provider EE has launched a smartphone age guidance initiative in which it advises that children under 11 should only use non-smart devices with limited capabilities.

Children With Smartphones 

EE says its new initiative is in response to concerns about children’s online safety and the impact of device usage on their well-being. Back in February, for example, an Ofcom study revealed that almost a quarter of UK five-to-seven-year-olds have their own smartphone. The study also showed that nearly two in five are using messaging service WhatsApp, despite the minimum age limit being 13 while over half of children under 13 use social media. In fact, the study showed that three-quarters of social media users aged between 8 and 17 have their own account or profile on at least one of the large platforms and many children in the study also said they simply lie to gain access to new apps and services. Worryingly, almost three-quarters of teenagers between ages 13 and 17 have encountered one or more potential harms online.

What’s The Problem? 

The use of smartphones and social media by young children poses significant risks, including exposure to inappropriate content such as violence and explicit material, as well as cyberbullying. Privacy concerns also arise, as children may inadvertently share personal information or be subject to data collection by apps. Also, the extensive use of screens can lead to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption, while also potentially contributing to screen time addiction and reduced attention spans.

As EE says, parental concerns are growing as children increasingly use devices at a young age, often bypassing age restrictions to access social media. These concerns centre on the content that children are exposed to, the amount of time they spend on devices, and the potential impact on their mental wellbeing and social development. In fact, children themselves report mixed experiences with social media, indicating that while it offers social connection, it can also lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy.

In the UK (back in March), a Parentkind survey showed that 58 per cent of parents would support the idea of introducing a ban on smartphones for under 16s (77 per cent among parents of primary school children). The survey also showed that 83 per cent of parents said that they felt smartphones are potentially harmful to young people.

EE’s Initiative Targeting Under 16s

In response to parental concerns about the above-mentioned issues, EE says its initiative is targeting under-16-year-olds. The initiative classifies device usage into three groups based on age suitability: under 11s, 11-13, and 13 -16.

Key Recommendations 

EE’s key recommendations for each group as part of the initiative are that:

– Under 11s should only be allowed to use limited capability, non-smart devices, such as feature phones and that parents could ensure they can make texts and calls but restrict access to social media or inappropriate content.

– For children aged 11-13, the advice is that if they use a smartphone, it should have parental controls enabled, as well as a family-sharing app in place such as Google Family Link or Apple Family Sharing, while restricting access to social media.

– For 13-16-year-olds, EE suggests that smartphones are appropriate, but parental controls should be used to manage and restrict children’s access to inappropriate sites, content, and platforms. EE says this age group’s smartphones should allow social media access but should be linked to a parent or guardian account.

Backed By Charity Groups 

EE is keen to stress that this smartphone guidance initiative has the backing of recognised charity groups, including Internet Matters, a leading child safety organisation. For example, Internet Matters CEO Carolyn Bunting said: “This initiative is timely and much needed. Parents and guardians want their children to be able to stay connected with them and to experience the benefits of digital technology, but they are also concerned about online safety and wellbeing. Our recent research showed that parents want to make their own decisions about their children’s use of technology, but that many would value guidance to help them in doing so. It is fantastic that EE is supporting parents with age-specific advice to support children’s diverse technology needs.” 

Part Of A Range Of Measures 

EE also says that the initiative is part of a wider design to promote safe and responsible use of technology among young people, which also includes enhanced in-app (parental) controls, child-friendly products (through a partnership with Verve Connect, to make the ‘Dash+’), and a family online Safety Hub, to be launched later this year.

Mat Sears, Corporate Affairs Director for EE commented: “While technology and connectivity have the power to transform lives, we recognise the growing complexity of smartphones can be challenging for parents and care-givers. They need support, which is why we are launching new guidelines on smartphone usage for under 11s, 11–13-year-olds, and 13 -16-year-olds to help them make the best choices for their children through these formative years.” 

Other Mobile Operators? 

EE is not the only mobile operator to have initiatives to protect their youngest customers. For example, Vodafone has its “Digital Parenting” platform, providing parents with tools and advice on managing children’s online activity, including guidance on setting screen time limits, and understanding online risks. Similarly, O2 has partnered with the NSPCC to offer resources and workshops aimed at educating both parents and children about online safety and responsible use of technology.

Government 

It’s worth noting that back in May, the House of Commons Education Committee asked the UK government to consider a total ban on phones for under-16s. Although this wasn’t supported by the Prime Minister, he did say that the government would be looking again at what content young people can access online. It’s also worth noting that the initiatives by UK mobile operators like EE, Vodafone, and O2 to promote online safety for children are closely aligned with the objectives of the UK’s Online Safety Bill which mandates that companies must take proactive steps to protect users, particularly children.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

In today’s digital society, the use of smartphones by children can offer several benefits, such as keeping them connected with family and aiding in their learning and development.

However, the increasing concerns about online safety and the impact of digital device usage on children’s well-being cannot be ignored. EE’s initiative to guide smartphone usage for different age groups, therefore, highlights the growing recognition of these issues and the need for tailored approaches to address them. For EE and other mobile operators, this initiative could, of course, mean an enhanced reputation as a responsible company that is seen to care about the well-being of its youngest users.

By offering practical tools and guidance, these companies can not only mitigate potential risks but also build stronger relationships with parents and guardians who are looking for ways to manage their children’s digital lives more effectively. It may also be a way for mobile operators to stay on the right of legislation and to be seen to be responding positively to government pressure.

For UK parents and guardians, EE’s guidelines may provide a bit more much-needed clarity and support in an area that is becoming increasingly complex. By adhering to age-specific advice and using the recommended parental controls, families may feel better able to navigate the challenges associated with children’s smartphone use and that they are able to do something more to protect their children.

EE’s proactive approach in this initiative could actually help children to enjoy the benefits of digital technology while minimising some of the risks, thereby supporting their mental and emotional development. Also, initiatives like these align with broader legislative efforts, such as the UK’s Online Safety Bill, reinforcing a collective move towards a safer digital environment for young users. For children, this could mean a safer, more structured online experience that could promote positive interactions and healthy digital habits. As these practices become more widespread, they may set a higher standard for how technology can be used responsibly to enhance, rather than harm, young lives.

However, it’s not just mobile operators that need to step up. Social media companies also play a crucial role in making the digital world safer for children and these platforms must take greater responsibility by implementing stricter age verification processes to prevent underage users from accessing content that is not suitable for them. Many believe that social media companies could be doing a lot more to enhance their content moderation systems to swiftly identify and remove harmful content, such as cyberbullying, explicit material, and misinformation. They could also provide better tools and resources for parents and guardians to monitor and control their children’s activities on these platforms, promoting a safer online environment. By collaborating with mobile operators, educators, and policymakers, social media companies could, therefore, be part of a more comprehensive approach to safeguarding children in the digital space.

In the latest macOS Sequoia developer beta, Apple has introduced a new feature that allows users to install Mac App Store apps directly onto external drives, thereby saving storage space and costs.

This change, though appearing minor, has significant implications for storage management and offers users more flexibility in how they use and manage applications.

Usually, Mac App Store apps are installed in the internal Applications folder, consuming limited internal storage. Now, users can install larger apps (over 1GB) on external drives, which aligns with how third-party apps are managed. This change should help users manage and maximise their internal storage, which is often limited (256GB or even 128GB) and costly to upgrade.

This new feature also allows users to try apps temporarily without adding them to the internal Applications folder. Apps can be easily installed and removed from external drives, making it convenient for those who need to use an app for a specific task or test multiple versions without cluttering internal storage.

While this offers flexibility and space-saving benefits, it may, however, impact performance depending on the speed of the external drive. Also, users will need to keep the external drive connected to access these apps, which might be less convenient for those who use their Macs on the move. Despite these drawbacks, this new option looks like providing a more adaptable way to manage Mac storage and applications.

The FBI, MS-ISAC, and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in the US have issued a released a joint advisory to businesses about the ransomware-as-a-service collective ‘RansomHub’.

The joint advisory highlights how RansomHub (formerly known as Cyclops and Knight) has as established itself as an efficient and successful service model. The advisory highlights how, since its inception in February 2024, RansomHub has encrypted and stolen data from at least 210 victims across various critical infrastructure sectors, including water and wastewater systems.

RansomHub affiliates have been stealing data using a double-extortion strategy, encrypting systems, and stealing data to coerce victims into compliance. The data exfiltration methods vary by affiliate, and the ransom note usually omits initial payment demands or instructions although it typically gives victims between three and 90 days to pay. Instead, it provides a client ID and directs victims to contact the ransomware group via a specific .onion URL, accessible through the Tor browser.

The advice to defenders is to implement the recommendations in the Mitigations section of the advisory, which include installing updates for operating systems, software, and firmware as soon as they are released, using phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA), such as non-SMS text-based methods, for as many services as possible, and training users to recognise and report phishing attempts.

Engineering researchers at the US University of Minnesota Twin Cities claim to have demonstrated a state-of-the-art hardware device that could reduce energy consumption for artificial intelligent (AI) computing applications by a factor of at least 1,000!

AI’s Massive Energy Consumption 

The issue the researchers were aiming to tackle is the huge energy consumption of AI, which is only increasing as AI becomes more widespread. For example, the International Energy Agency (IEA) recently issued a global energy use forecast showing that energy consumption for AI is likely to double from 460 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2022 to 1,000 TWh in 2026. This is roughly equivalent to the electricity consumption of the entire country of Japan!

With the growing demand of an increasing number of AI applications, the researchers have been looking at ways to create a more energy-efficient process, while keeping performance high and costs low.

The New Device – Use The ‘CRAM’ Model 

The new device developed by the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering researchers works using a model called computational random-access memory (CRAM). The hardware device which uses the CRAM model is a ‘machine learning inference accelerator’ that is used to speed up the process of running machine learning models, specifically during the inference phase. Inference is the phase where a trained machine learning model makes predictions or decisions based on new, unseen data.

The researchers claim in a recent paper that a CRAM-based machine learning inference accelerator can achieve an improvement on the order of 1,000. Another example showed energy savings of 2,500 and 1,700 times compared to traditional methods.

What Makes IT So Different? 

The difference with the CRAM model is that whereas current AI processes involve a transfer of data between logic (where information is processed within a system, and memory, where the data is stored), the CRAM model performs computations directly within memory cells. Permanently storing data in this computational random-access memory (CRAM) means there’s no need for slow and energy-intensive data transfers to take place, which results in much greater efficiency.

Jian-Ping Wang, the senior author of the research paper about CRAM highlighted how this idea of using memory cells directly for computing “20 years ago was considered crazy” but thanks to the interdisciplinary faculty team built at the University of Minnesota (UMN) they have “demonstrated that this kind of technology is feasible and is ready to be incorporated into technology.” 

Very Flexible Too 

In comments posted on the UMN website, Ulya Karpuzcu, an expert on computing architecture, co-author on the paper has also highlighted another reason why CRAM is a more energy-efficient than traditional building blocks for today’s AI systems. Karpuzcu said: “As an extremely energy-efficient digital based in-memory computing substrate, CRAM is very flexible in that computation can be performed in any location in the memory array. Accordingly, we can reconfigure CRAM to best match the performance needs of a diverse set of AI algorithms.” 

Builds On MTJ Research 

This latest discovery builds on Wang and his team’s previous groundbreaking, patented research into Magnetic Tunnel Junctions (MTJs) devices. These are the nanostructured devices used to improve hard drives, sensors, and other microelectronics systems, including Magnetic Random Access Memory (MRAM), which has been used in embedded systems such as microcontrollers and smart-watches.

Semiconductors 

Following their own successful demonstration of the efficiency boost provided by CRAM-based hardware, the research team is now planning to work with semiconductor industry leaders, including those in Minnesota, to provide large scale demonstrations and produce the hardware to advance AI functionality.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

The development of this new CRAM-based machine learning inference accelerator could be a significant breakthrough with far-reaching implications across several industries. For example, for the semiconductor industry, this discovery could bring a new era of innovation. By partnering with the University of Minnesota researchers, semiconductor companies have an opportunity to lead the charge in creating energy-efficient AI hardware, offering a competitive edge in an increasingly sustainability-focused market. The ability to reduce energy consumption by such a vast factor may not only address the growing concern over AI’s carbon footprint but may also align with global initiatives towards greener technologies.

For AI application makers and users, the introduction of CRAM-based technology could revolutionise the way AI systems are designed and deployed. The drastic reduction in energy consumption may allow developers to create more complex and capable AI applications without being constrained by energy costs and efficiency limitations. This could lead to a surge in innovation, as more businesses could afford to implement advanced AI solutions, knowing that their energy requirements and associated costs will be manageable. Users of these AI applications may benefit from faster, more responsive, and more cost-effective services, as the energy savings translate into enhanced performance and lower operational costs.

The energy industry, too, stands to benefit from this technological advancement. With AI’s projected energy consumption doubling within a few years, the shift towards more energy-efficient computing is not just beneficial but essential. By adopting CRAM-based hardware, data-centres and other large-scale AI operators could significantly reduce their energy demands. This reduction may ease the pressure on energy resources and help stabilise energy prices, which is particularly important as demand continues to grow. For data-centre operators, in particular, the promise of lower energy consumption translates directly into reduced operating costs, making them more competitive and sustainable.

Also, this development may support global carbon emission targets, a concern shared by governments, businesses, and consumers alike. By enabling a reduction in energy usage by a factor of 1,000 or more, the adoption of CRAM-based AI technology could substantially cut carbon emissions from data-centres and other heavy users of AI. This would align with the goals of many corporations and nations trying to meet climate commitments and reduce their environmental impact. The widespread implementation of such efficient technology could even become a cornerstone of global efforts to combat climate change, offering a practical and impactful solution to one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

The advent of CRAM-based machine learning inference accelerators, therefore, may not only transform the AI landscape but could also reshape industries and address critical global challenges. By embracing this technology, businesses could achieve greater efficiency and performance as well as contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

This video tutorial explains how you can make a report about your website which tells you how well you’re covered for security and compliance.

[Note – To Watch This Video without glitches/interruptions, It’s best to download it first]

If you frequently connect your computer to wireless displays or audio devices, the Windows key + K shortcut provides a quick way to access these connections without navigating through multiple menus. Here’s how:

Open Connect Menu

– Press Win + K to open the Connect menu.

Connect to Devices

– The menu will display available wireless displays, audio devices, and other devices you can connect to.

– Click on the device you want to connect to from the list.

In this second of our ‘Essentials Explained’ series, we explore how e-waste is currently disposed of, what happens to it afterwards, plus various initiatives and strategies aimed at reducing the ever-increasing pile of discarded electronics.

What Is E-Waste? 

Electronic waste (e-waste) refers to any electronic device that has reached the end of its useful life and is discarded. This can include everything from obsolete computers, servers and mobile phones to outdated office equipment like printers, photocopiers and even light bulbs.

The improper disposal of e-waste poses severe environmental and health risks. Many electronic devices contain toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and cadmium which can leach into the soil and water, causing long-term environmental damage. Also, when e-waste is burned or improperly handled, harmful chemicals can be released into the air, posing a threat to human health.

The sheer volume of e-waste (combined with its hazardous nature) underscores the importance of proper disposal methods and the need for businesses to take proactive steps in managing their electronic waste.

How Much E-Waste Is There? 

With the relentless pace of technological advancement, global e-waste generation continues to grow at an alarming rate. In 2023, the world produced approximately 63.3 million tonnes of e-waste. This actually represents a slight increase from the 62 million tonnes generated in 2022. This trend indicates that e-waste is increasing by about 2.6 million tonnes annually and it is projected to reach around 82 million tonnes by 2030!

The UK alone produces approximately 24.9kg of e-waste per person each year, which is significantly higher than the European Union average.

How UK Businesses Can Dispose of E-Waste 

Understanding and managing e-waste is not just an environmental responsibility but also an opportunity to enhance sustainability credentials and ensure compliance with regulations.

Currently, e-waste can be disposed of in several ways, but the most common methods include recycling, landfill, and informal disposal.

In the UK, however, businesses are legally required to dispose of their e-waste in a manner that complies with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations. Here’s how this process typically happens:

Assessment and Collection 

Businesses first need to assess their electronic waste to determine whether it can be refurbished or if it should be recycled. Items that are still functional can be donated, sold, or refurbished.

For items that need to be disposed of, businesses can arrange for collection by authorised waste carriers. Many IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) companies offer services that include secure data destruction, collection, and responsible recycling of e-waste.

Examples of well-known IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) companies include:

– Sims Lifecycle Services (SLS) – One of the largest ITAD providers globally, with significant operations in the UK.

– Restore Technology – Part of the Restore Group and a leading UK ITAD company offering a full suite of services for IT asset disposal.

– Stone Group – A UK-based ITAD provider that focuses on providing sustainable IT asset management solutions.

– Tier 1 – A UK-based ITAD company with a strong reputation for providing secure and compliant IT asset disposal services.

These are just a selection of some of the bigger names – there are, of course, many more ITAD companies for businesses to choose from.

Data Destruction 

Before any disposal, however, it is crucial for businesses to ensure that all data on electronic devices is securely erased to prevent data breaches. This is often done by ITAD companies that specialise in secure data destruction, providing certification for the process.

Recycling 

Collected e-waste is then transported to authorised recycling facilities. These facilities are equipped to safely dismantle electronics, recovering valuable materials such as metals and plastics. The WEEE Regulations require businesses to ensure that their e-waste is sent to facilities that meet environmental standards.

Some e-waste is exported for recycling under strict regulatory controls, though this is less common due to concerns about environmental and health impacts in destination countries.

Documentation and Compliance 

In the UK, businesses are legally required to dispose of e-waste through authorised channels under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. This directive ensures that e-waste is properly collected, treated, and recycled, thereby reducing the amount that ends up in landfills.

This means that UK businesses must maintain records of their e-waste disposal to demonstrate compliance with WEEE regulations. This includes documenting the amount and type of e-waste, the method of disposal, and the recycling outcomes. These records are crucial for regulatory audits and to ensure legal compliance. However, compliance can be complex, and as such, many businesses may still be inadvertently contributing to the problem through improper disposal practices.

Reuse and Refurbishment 

An increasing number of businesses opt to refurbish and reuse electronic equipment instead of disposing of it. This not only reduces waste but also cuts costs and supports sustainability goals. Reused and refurbished equipment is often sold or donated, extending the lifecycle of electronic devices. Examples of UK companies offering refurbishment include:

– Envirofone. This UK company focuses on the refurbishment of mobile phones and tablets. They purchase old or unwanted devices, refurbish them to ensure they are in good working condition, and resell them to consumers.

– The Phone Co-op. Part of the Midcounties Co-operative, it offers refurbished mobile phones as part of its sustainability initiatives.

– Techbuyer. A global leader in the refurbishment and resale of data centre equipment, including servers, storage, and networking devices, Techbuyer purchase used IT hardware, refurbish it (to a high standard), and then sell it with warranties.

These are just a few examples, there are many more – the point is that by following these (compliant) steps, UK businesses can manage their e-waste responsibly, thereby minimising environmental impact and ensuring compliance with national regulations

Recycling 

Recycling is the most environmentally responsible option, allowing for the recovery of valuable materials such as gold, silver, and copper. These materials can then be reused in the production of new electronic devices, reducing the need for mining, and conserving natural resources. For example, it’s estimated that one million mobile phones can yield 35,274 pounds of copper, 772 pounds of silver, and 75 pounds of gold!

Only 20 Per Cent Is Recycled 

Unfortunately, despite the potential benefits of recycling, only about 20 per cent of global e-waste is formally recycled. The rest often ends up in landfills or is sent to developing countries where it is informally recycled. This informal recycling often involves dangerous practices, such as burning circuit boards to extract metals, which expose workers to toxic fumes and result in severe environmental pollution.

What Happens to E-Waste After Disposal? 

Once e-waste is disposed of, its journey depends largely on how it has been processed. In cases where e-waste is correctly recycled, it is typically collected by waste management companies that specialise in electronic waste. These companies sort, dismantle, and process the waste to recover valuable materials. Metals like gold, silver, and copper are extracted and sold back into the market, while other components, such as plastics and glass, are recycled for use in other products.

However, not all e-waste is managed so responsibly. E-waste that ends up in landfills can leach harmful chemicals into the environment, contaminating soil and water supplies. Furthermore, e-waste sent to developing countries for informal recycling often results in significant environmental and health risks due to unsafe processing practices, as mentioned.

The Circular Economy 

On the other hand, e-waste that is properly recycled can play a vital role in creating a circular economy. By reintroducing valuable materials back into the production cycle, businesses can help reduce the demand for new resources, minimise environmental impact, and support sustainable development. For example, initiatives like the Royal Mint’s partnership with Excir, a Canadian start-up, aim to recover precious metals from e-waste, demonstrating how innovative approaches can turn waste into valuable resources.

Initiatives and Strategies to Reduce E-Waste 

The growing e-waste crisis has prompted a variety of initiatives and strategies aimed at reducing the amount of electronic waste generated and improving its disposal. These include:

– Government and regulatory initiatives. In the UK, the WEEE Directive has been instrumental in shaping how businesses handle e-waste. This legislation mandates that producers and importers of electronic goods are responsible for financing the collection, treatment, and recycling of e-waste. Also, the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan promotes sustainable product design and resource efficiency, aiming to reduce waste generation and enhance recycling efforts across the continent.

– Corporate responsibility and business Initiatives. Businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of responsible e-waste management, not only as a regulatory requirement but also as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes. As mentioned earlier, many companies now partner with IT asset disposition (ITAD) services, which specialise in the secure and environmentally friendly disposal of electronic assets. These services ensure that e-waste is handled in a way that maximises value recovery and minimises environmental impact.

– Technological and industry innovations. Technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in reducing e-waste. For instance, the Royal Mint’s innovative approach to recovering gold from circuit boards is just one example of how technology can help tackle the e-waste problem. Other innovations include the development of ‘device-as-a-service’ models, which encourage businesses to lease rather than purchase electronic devices, thereby reducing the need for frequent upgrades and disposals.

– Consumer and employee engagement. Engaging both consumers and employees in e-waste reduction efforts is essential. Businesses can run awareness campaigns to educate their staff about the importance of proper e-waste disposal and encourage responsible practices, such as returning old devices for recycling. Also, promoting the use of refurbished or second-hand electronics can help reduce the overall demand for new devices, thereby decreasing e-waste generation.

Looking Ahead – The Future of E-Waste Management 

The future of e-waste management is likely to be shaped by a combination of regulatory pressures, technological innovations, and a growing awareness of the environmental impact of electronic waste.

The ‘right to repair’ movement, for instance, is gaining traction and could significantly extend the lifecycle of electronic devices, reducing the need for frequent replacements and cutting down on e-waste. For example, in 2021, Apple launched its Self-Service Repair program and expanded its Independent Repair Provider (IRP) program globally.

Also, as the circular economy concept becomes more mainstream, businesses will increasingly be expected to adopt practices that minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency.  As sustainability becomes a critical factor in business operations, companies that proactively address e-waste management will be better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, reduce costs, and enhance their reputation.

What Does This Mean For Your Business? 

For UK businesses, addressing e-waste properly isn’t just a matter of regulatory compliance, but is also a critical component of a broader sustainability strategy that can offer significant benefits beyond simply meeting legal requirements. Effective e-waste management has the potential to reduce your company’s environmental impact, recover valuable materials, and strengthen your reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

In today’s business landscape, stakeholders (ranging from customers to investors) are increasingly aware of the need for sustainability. By adopting robust e-waste management practices, such as partnering with IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) companies or implementing internal recycling programmes, your business can demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. This can enhance your brand’s reputation, making it more attractive to eco-conscious consumers and partners.

Responsibly managing e-waste can also unlock financial benefits. For example, by refurbishing and reusing electronic devices, businesses can extend the lifecycle of their IT assets, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Also, ITAD companies often help recover valuable materials like metals from old electronics, which can be resold or reused within your organisation. This not only reduces costs but also contributes to a circular economy, where resources are continuously repurposed rather than discarded.

Staying ahead of regulatory requirements is, of course, important for avoiding fines and ensuring smooth operations. The UK’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations require businesses to handle e-waste responsibly. By proactively managing e-waste, your business can avoid the risks associated with non-compliance, such as legal penalties or damage to your corporate reputation. Moreover, being compliant also means that your business is contributing to national and global efforts to reduce environmental harm.

Also, as more businesses adopt sustainability practices, those that do not may even find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. By effectively managing e-waste, your business can differentiate itself from competitors who may not be as proactive in their environmental efforts. This can be particularly important when bidding for contracts or partnering with organisations that prioritise sustainability in their supply chain.

Managing e-waste can also drive innovation within your business. For example, exploring new technologies or business models that reduce e-waste, such as device-as-a-service (DaaS) models or leasing arrangements, can open up new revenue streams and enhance your operational efficiency. Additionally, participating in e-waste recycling or refurbishment initiatives can foster partnerships with other organisations, leading to collaborative opportunities that support business growth.

Following in from the last 2 weeks, here are 10 more (final) top iPhone tips / tricks you may not know about that could make your life easier and help you to be more productive:

1. Shift Your Keyboard Left or Right for One-Handed Typing 

If you often find yourself needing to type with one hand, especially while multitasking or on the move, your iPhone has a feature that allows you to adjust the keyboard layout for more comfortable one-handed use. By holding down the globe or emoji icon located at the bottom of the keyboard, you can easily select a left- or right-leaning keyboard. This makes it simpler to reach all the keys with just one thumb. However, note that this feature is only available in portrait mode and may not work if you have enabled “Larger Text” under Settings > Display & Brightness.

2. Pin Essential Conversations in the Messages App 

For business professionals juggling multiple conversations, keeping important threads at the forefront can significantly enhance efficiency. The Messages app on your iPhone allows you to pin critical conversations to the top of your chat list, making them easily accessible. This is especially beneficial when you need to frequently reference discussions with clients, colleagues, or team members. To pin a conversation, simply swipe right on the desired thread and tap the pin icon that appears. This ensures that key conversations remain visible and are not buried under less important messages, helping you stay organised and responsive in your business communications.

3. Use Safari’s Reader Mode for Distraction-Free Reading 

In a world filled with digital distractions, it can be challenging to focus on reading online content. Safari’s Reader Mode is an excellent tool for anyone who prefers a cleaner, more focused reading experience. By stripping away unnecessary elements like ads, buttons and other on-screen distractions, Reader Mode presents only the text and essential images of a web page. To activate this mode, simply tap the “AA” icon in the address bar while viewing a page in Safari and select “Show Reader View.” This is particularly beneficial for lengthy articles or research, allowing you to immerse yourself in the content without interruptions.

4. Swipe to Delete Calculator Entry Mistakes 

The iPhone’s built-in calculator is a handy tool for quick calculations, but errors can happen, especially when dealing with complex numbers. If you accidentally input the wrong digit, there’s no need to start over. Simply swipe left or right on the calculator’s display to delete the last number you entered. This feature is a real time-saver, particularly when performing detailed calculations that require accuracy.

5. Use Volume Buttons as Shutter Buttons 

When you’re trying to capture the perfect photo, especially in situations where stability is key, relying on the on-screen shutter button can sometimes cause the camera to shake. Instead, you can use the volume buttons on your iPhone as a shutter button, which often provides a steadier hand. This trick also works with wired earbuds that have volume controls, giving you even more flexibility to capture the shot exactly as you want it.

6. Use the Files App for Organised Document Management 

For those juggling multiple documents across different cloud services and local storage, the iPhone’s Files app is an invaluable tool. It acts as a central hub, allowing you to access, manage, and organize files from iCloud, local storage, and even third-party cloud services like Google Drive and Dropbox. You can easily create folders, move files between locations, and share documents with colleagues, all from within the app. This feature helps keep your business documents organized and accessible, no matter where you are.

7. Customise Good Vibrations for Contacts 

If you frequently have your iPhone on vibrate mode, you might miss important calls or messages because the vibrations all feel the same. However, you can customise the vibration pattern for specific contacts, so you know who’s reaching out without even looking at your phone! Go to a contact’s settings, tap on Ringtone or Text Tone, and choose from the available vibration patterns or create a unique one. This way, you’ll immediately know if it’s a client, colleague or family member trying to get in touch.

8. Create SOS Contacts for Emergency Situations 

In case of an emergency, having your critical contacts set up as SOS contacts can make a significant difference. Through the Health app, you can designate specific individuals as emergency contacts. To do this, tap on your profile in the Health app, select Medical ID > Edit > Emergency Contacts, and add the people you want notified in an emergency. When you activate the Emergency SOS feature on your iPhone, these contacts will be automatically alerted, along with your current location, which is crucial in times of need.

9. Use Guided Access for Focused Work 

Guided Access is a lesser-known but powerful feature for those who need to focus on a single task without distractions. This tool locks your iPhone into a single app, preventing you from switching to other apps until you disable it. It’s particularly useful for business presentations, reading documents, or any situation where you need to stay focused. To activate it, go to Settings > Accessibility > Guided Access, and then triple-click the side button when you want to use it. This feature helps maintain your attention on the task at hand, eliminating the temptation of multitasking.

10. Set Up VIP Email Alerts for Critical Communication 

In business, ensuring that you never miss an important email is crucial. The Mail app on your iPhone offers a VIP feature that allows you to set up custom alerts for emails from specific senders. By adding key contacts, such as clients or executives, to your VIP list, you’ll receive specialised notifications whenever they send you an email, even if your inbox is overflowing. To set this up, open the Mail app, navigate to the VIP section, and add the contacts you want to prioritise. You can further customise the notification settings by going to Settings > Notifications > Mail > VIP. This tailored alert system ensures that important emails get your attention immediately, helping you maintain prompt and effective communication.

These last 10 in our three-week series of top iPhone tips should help you make the most of your iPhone, boost your productivity, and streamline your daily tasks.

Summer is the perfect time to refresh your Android skills and boost your productivity, whether you’re in the office or on the go. In this second of our two articles on the subject, we’ve gathered together 10 more top tips to help you make the most of your Android device during the sunny season, keeping you efficient, secure, and focused.

1. Use Google Lens for Text Recognition

Quickly capture and digitise text from documents, business cards or signs using Google Lens, saving time on manual data entry.

Open the Google Lens app or tap the Lens icon in the Google Photos or Camera app. Point your camera at the text you want to capture, then tap on the text to select it. You can copy the text to your clipboard, translate it, or search it directly online.

2. Customise Do Not Disturb Mode

Manage interruptions during important meetings or work hours by customising the ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode to allow only essential notifications.

Go to “Settings,” select “Sound” or “Notifications,” then tap on “Do Not Disturb.” You can set schedules for when Do Not Disturb should activate, choose which contacts can bypass the mode, and allow or block certain apps’ notifications. This ensures you’re only disturbed by critical alerts.

3. Use File Sharing with Nearby Share

Quickly and securely share files, links, and other data between Android devices without needing a third-party app.

Open the file you want to share, then tap the share icon and select “Nearby Share.” Ensure both devices have Bluetooth and Location enabled. The receiving device will see a prompt to accept the file, and the transfer will begin. Nearby Share works even when devices aren’t connected to the internet.

4. Set Up App Shortcuts for Faster Access

Access your most-used app functions directly from the home screen using app shortcuts, saving time on repetitive tasks.

Long-press on the app icon on your home screen, and a menu with shortcuts will appear (e.g. composing a new email in Gmail). Drag your preferred shortcut to the home screen to create a dedicated icon for it. This feature is supported by many popular apps, making it easy to jump straight to specific tasks.

5. Use Digital Wellbeing to Monitor App Usage

Keep track of how much time you’re spending on various apps and set limits to ensure you’re not getting distracted during work hours.

Go to “Settings,” select “Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls,” and then tap on “Dashboard.” Here, you’ll see a breakdown of your app usage. Tap on an app to set a daily limit, after which the app will pause for the rest of the day. This helps in maintaining focus and reducing time spent on non-essential apps.

6. Pin Important Notifications

Avoid missing critical notifications by pinning them to the top of your notification shade, ensuring they remain visible until addressed.

Swipe down to open your notification shade, then find the notification you want to pin. Long press on the notification and select “Pin” or “Keep.” This option may vary depending on your device’s manufacturer, but it ensures important messages or alerts stay at the forefront.

7. Use Android’s Built-In Screen Recorder

Easily create video tutorials, record presentations, or capture gameplay directly on your device without needing third-party apps.

Swipe down from the top of the screen to access the quick settings menu, then tap on “Screen Recorder” (you may need to add it to the menu if it’s not visible). Choose your recording settings, such as audio input, and tap “Start.” The recording will begin after a short countdown, and you can stop it by tapping the notification or the stop button.

8. Enable One-Handed Mode for Easier Use

Make it easier to use your phone with one hand, especially on larger devices, by enabling One-Handed Mode.

Go to “Settings,” select “Advanced Features” (this may vary by manufacturer), then tap on “One-Handed Mode.” Enable the mode and choose how you want to activate it—by swiping down from the bottom of the screen or by double-tapping the home button. This mode reduces the screen size, allowing easier access to all areas of the display with one hand.

9. Manage Permissions for Better Privacy

Control which apps have access to your personal data by managing app permissions, enhancing your privacy and security.

Go to “Settings,” select “Privacy” or “Apps & notifications,” then tap on “Permission manager.” Here, you can see which apps have access to various permissions, such as location, camera, and microphone. You can adjust these settings to only allow apps access when they’re in use or deny permissions entirely.

10. Use the Clipboard Manager to Save Multiple Items

Keep track of multiple copied items and access them later using Android’s clipboard manager, enhancing your productivity.

If your device supports it (such as on Samsung’s One UI or through third-party apps like Gboard), you can access the clipboard by long-pressing in any text field and tapping “Clipboard.” Here, you’ll see a history of your copied items. Tap on any item to paste it, or pin important items to keep them saved even after restarting your device.

Making Life That Bit Easier This Summer …. 

We hope these tips go some way to helping you unlock the full potential of your Android device and make your daily tasks smoother and more efficient, this summer and beyond.

A team of researchers at Stanford University are aiming to improve options for renewable energy storage by working on new technology to enable the conversion and long-term storage of electrical energy in a ‘liquid battery’.

The Issue 

People in California as a state (plus Stanford University and the researchers based there) are looking to transition to renewable fuel, although it is facing some challenges in doing so. For example, solar power drops at night and declines in winter. Furthermore, wind power ebbs and flows and is unreliable. As a result, California has to depend heavily on natural gas to smooth out the highs and lows of renewable power. This means there’s now a strong argument to suggest that new technologies that can store more power for the electric grid are needed.

Currently Lithium-Ion

As highlighted by Robert Waymouth, the Robert Eckles Swain Professor in Chemistry in the School of Humanities and Sciences, “The electric grid uses energy at the same rate that you generate it, and if you’re not using it at that time, and you can’t store it, you must throw it away.” 

However, in California, rather than throw it away, batteries are already used to store electricity for the grid using lithium-ion technologies, e.g. at the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility. However, due to the need for energy storage at scale, researchers (such as those at Stanford) are searching for systems that can supplement those technologies.

A Liquid Battery 

One such technology being worked on by Waymouth’s Stanford research team is using liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) for renewable energy storage.

LOHCs can store and release hydrogen using catalysts and elevated temperatures and, in the future, may be able to function as “liquid batteries,” storing energy and efficiently returning it as usable fuel or electricity when needed.

Isopropanol 

The Stanford researchers have been experimenting with using Isopropanol (rubbing alcohol) and acetone as ingredients in hydrogen energy storage and release systems. For example, Isopropanol (a high-density liquid form of hydrogen) could be stored or transported through existing infrastructure until it’s needed for usage as a fuel in a fuel cell or to release the hydrogen, without emitting carbon dioxide.

For example, as Waymouth says: “When you have excess energy, and there’s no demand for it on the grid, you store it as isopropanol. When you need the energy, you can return it as electricity.” 

Catalyst System Developed To Help 

One challenge in doing this until now has been finding a way to make isopropanol directly from protons and electrons without producing hydrogen gas.

However, Daniel Marron, lead author of the study has, developed a catalyst system that can combine two protons and two electrons with acetone to generate the LOHC isopropanol selectively, without generating hydrogen gas (using iridium as the catalyst).

One key finding in developing the catalyst system was the success of using the relatively inexpensive Cobaltocene, a chemical compound of cobalt, as a co-catalyst in this reaction. The addition of cobaltocene solved the problem by directly delivering protons and electrons to the iridium catalyst rather than liberating hydrogen gas.

More Abundant, Cheaper Catalysts May Be Better 

The hope is now that this greater understanding of the properties of cobaltocene could help scientists develop other catalysts to make the LOHC systems more affordable and scalable. For example, this could mean using more abundant, non-precious earth metal catalysts, such as iron.

Used For What? 

Upscaled LOHC systems could be used to improve energy storage for industry and energy sectors or for individual solar or wind farms.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation? 

The advancements in liquid battery technology, particularly the usage of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs), represent a significant opportunity for organisations across various sectors. As the push for renewable energy intensifies, the ability to store energy efficiently and on a large scale becomes increasingly critical. For industries reliant on consistent energy supply, this new technology could provide a reliable buffer against the intermittent nature of renewable sources like solar and wind. The potential to store excess energy as isopropanol, for instance, offers a versatile and scalable solution that could reduce dependence on fossil fuels and enhance energy security.

For organisations in the energy sector, especially those managing solar or wind farms, the development of LOHC systems could be a game-changer. These systems may allow for the capture and storage of surplus energy during periods of low demand, which can then be reintroduced into the grid when needed, thus optimising energy production, and reducing waste. Also, the move towards using more abundant, non-precious metal catalysts in these systems could lower costs and make this technology more accessible, opening new avenues for innovation and investment.