Infomatique

IN DECEMBER I HOPE TO OBTAIN A M4 PRO MAC MINI AS A TESTBED TO EXPERIMENT WITH APPLE INTELLIGENCE

November 13, 2024 by infomatique

BY WILLIAM MURPHY

My Apple 27 inch iMac is getting old and the latest OS upgrade/update to Sosoma could well be the last so I am planning to upgrade my equipment towards the end of 2025 however the introduction of the new Apple M4 mini has impacted on my plans and I suspect that I will end up switching to Apple Minis rather than Studios which are much more expensive.

I had more-or-less decided the get the Mini with the base M4 chip but as I now realise that the M4 Pro is in a different league I have no real option but to get a M4 Pro version with 24G of RAM and 1TB of internal SSD … this is discussed in a bit more detail below. I had considered the 2T option but uplift in price is more than I am willing to pay at this stage.

Apple Intelligence is Apple’s new personal intelligence system, designed to harness the power of Apple silicon to understand and create language and images, take action across apps, and simplify everyday tasks. It was announced in June 2024 and the first set of features became available with the release of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 in October 2024.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Current Features:

Writing Tools: Enhanced language capabilities to summarise text, rewrite for different tones, and proofread. These are available across apps, including third-party ones.
Clean Up in Photos: This feature intelligently removes unwanted distractions from photos.
Create a Memory film in Photos: Automatically generate a film from your photos and videos with music and transitions.
Natural language search in Photos: Search your photos using natural language, like “photos of my dog at the beach.”
Notification summaries: Get a concise overview of your notifications to quickly scan and prioritise.
Reduce Interruptions Focus: Minimise distractions with prioritised notifications.
Intelligent Breakthrough & Silencing in Focus: Allows important calls and messages to break through Focus mode and silences unknown callers.
Priority messages in Mail: Elevates time-sensitive emails to the top of your inbox.
Smart Reply in Mail and Messages: Offers intelligent reply suggestions.
Summaries in Mail and Messages: Provides concise summaries of long emails and message threads.
Siri enhancements: Includes product knowledge, more resilient request handling, a new look and feel, a more natural voice, the ability to type to Siri, and more.
Upcoming Features:

Genmoji: Create personalised emojis that capture your unique style and personality.
Redesigned Siri with richer language understanding: Siri will be able to understand and respond to more complex and nuanced requests.
ChatGPT integration: Access ChatGPT directly through Siri for a wider range of conversational and informational queries.
Timeframe:

October 2024: The first set of features was released with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1.
December 2024: Apple Intelligence will be available with localised English in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the U.K.
April 2025: Many core Apple Intelligence features, including those listed above, will roll out to iPhone and iPad users in the EU.
EU Rollout and Ireland/UK Availability:

If you have being paying attention you may notice the discrepancy between Ireland and the UK’s access to Apple Intelligence compared to the rest of the EU. Apple has stated that the EU rollout is slightly delayed due to compliance with the Digital Markets Act (DMA).

However, Apple has specifically mentioned that Ireland will have access to the localised English version of Apple Intelligence in December 2024, alongside the UK, despite being an EU member state. This suggests that Apple may be rolling out features in phases within the EU, possibly starting with countries where English is a primary language.

Key Takeaways:

Apple Intelligence is a powerful new system with features designed to improve productivity and simplify tasks.
The rollout is happening in stages, with some features already available and more coming soon.
The EU rollout is slightly delayed due to regulatory compliance, but Ireland will have early access to some features along with the UK.

THE NEW M4 MAC MINI AND THE EXTERNAL DRIVE DILEMMA

As already mentioned, I am planning to get an M4 Pro Apple Mini as a testbed rather than as my main machine but choosing the right configuration is problematic but as I am getting a machine for beta testing purposes the incorrect choice will not have a major impact.

There’s a lot of hype surrounding the new machine, and it’s easy to get caught up in it without considering potential drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

The Appeal of the M4 Mac Mini

Powerful Performance: The M4 chip offers a significant performance boost over previous generations, making it ideal for demanding tasks.
Compact Design: The Mac Mini’s small footprint is perfect for those with limited desk space.
Affordable Price: Compared to other Macs, the Mac Mini offers excellent value for money.

The External Drive Dilemma

Cost Savings: Opting for a smaller internal SSD and supplementing it with an external drive can seem like a smart way to save money.
Performance Concerns: While external drives have improved, they generally offer slower speeds than internal SSDs, potentially impacting performance.
macOS Features: Some macOS features, particularly those related to security and machine learning, may require booting from the internal drive. This could limit functionality for those relying on external boot drives.
Future Updates: As macOS evolves, there’s a risk that future updates might introduce compatibility issues with external boot drives, potentially leaving users with a less functional system.
Apple’s Stance on External Drives

Apple’s design philosophy increasingly favours internal storage for the operating system and critical applications. This approach prioritises:

Security: Booting from an internal drive enhances security by reducing the risk of tampering with the OS.
Performance: Internal SSDs provide optimal performance for demanding tasks.
Reliability: Internal drives are less prone to connection issues and data corruption.

Recommendations

Prioritise Internal Storage: If your budget allows, prioritise a larger internal SSD. This will ensure optimal performance and compatibility with macOS features.
Choose Reliable External Drives: If you must use an external drive, opt for a reputable brand and a fast connection like Thunderbolt.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with Apple’s recommendations and user experiences regarding external boot drives.
In Conclusion

While the M4 Mac Mini is a compelling machine, it’s crucial to carefully consider your storage options. Don’t solely rely on external drives for essential functions, and prioritise internal storage whenever possible. By understanding the potential limitations and making informed decisions, you can maximise your Mac Mini experience.

ST LAURENCE O’TOOLE CHURCH – HARLEYS HANGER

November 5, 2024 by infomatique

AND NEARBY MOUNT ANVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL

On a recent visit to St Laurence O’Toole’s Church in Kilmacud, I was unable to photograph the interior in detail due to ongoing renovations. A worker, who suggested I return later, surprised me by referring to it as “Harley’s Hanger”! This piqued my curiosity as I attended this church in the 1960s and 70s and never encountered that nickname. (A previous visit was also unsuccessful as a large funeral was taking place.) It should be mentioned that my younger sister attended the school.

The nickname “Harley’s Hanger” for the 1969 church does seem to derive from its resemblance to an aircraft hangar! The “Harley” part undoubtedly refers to Canon Brendan Harley, the first Parish Priest of Kilmacud. Here’s what I’ve gathered about the nickname’s origin:

Modern Architecture: The church, designed by Stephenson Gibney & Associates, has a distinctive modernist style with clean lines, functional design, and a large open space, contributing to its hangar-like appearance.
Canon Harley’s Influence: Canon Harley played a key role in the church’s construction, overseeing the project and likely influencing its design. Parishioners may have associated the building’s unique look with his leadership, hence the nickname combining his name with its hangar-like form.
Affectionate Term: “Harley’s Hanger” appears to be a largely affectionate nickname, perhaps with a touch of gentle humour about the church’s unconventional design. It reflects the close relationship between a priest and his parishioners.
While I couldn’t find definitive documentation on the nickname’s exact origin, the combination of the church’s unique architecture and Canon Harley’s strong presence in the parish likely led to its adoption by the community.

Mount Anville Primary School

Located near St Laurence O’Toole’s, Mount Anville Primary School boasts a rich history dating back to 1831 when a school was first established on Kilmacud Road. Here’s a brief overview of its development:

Early Years (1831-1866): In 1831, following the establishment of the National Board of Education, a free elementary school was set up on Kilmacud Road. This marked the beginning of formal education at the location. The Sisters of the Sacred Heart arrived at Mount Anville in 1853.
Mount Anville School (1866-1954): The Sisters of the Sacred Heart opened a primary school in 1866. Plans for a new school building were approved in 1869, and it opened in 1870 as Mount Anville National School. It was likely located within the grounds of Mount Anville Convent, not at the current Lower Kilmacud Road location.
The Current School (1954-Present): A new primary school building was constructed on Lower Kilmacud Road in 1954, and officially opened in 1955 by Archbishop McQuaid. Sr. Eileen O’Donovan served as the first principal of the school at its current location (1952-1956). The school continues to thrive as a Catholic primary school for girls, upholding the Sacred Heart ethos with a focus on inclusivity, personal development, and academic excellence.

THE OLD DUBLIN ROAD STILLORGAN

November 3, 2024 by infomatique

PASSES THROUGH THE VILLAGE

Stillorgan’s Transformation: From Village to Suburban Hub

The area now known as the ‘Old Stillorgan Road’ was simply ‘Stillorgan Road’ when I lived in Woodlands Drive in the 1960s. Stillorgan was then a small, rural village, a far cry from the bustling suburb it is today. While I personally found it aesthetically unappealing, its transformation throughout the latter half of the 20th century is undeniable. I should mention that I liked living in Stillorgan and that I remained there until I accepted a job offer in California in 1979.

My childhood experiences in Stillorgan were starkly different to those in Rathgar, where I had previously lived with my grandmother. In Rathgar, the local shops offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere, particularly for a child. The shopkeepers were friendly and helpful, creating a sense of community. Stillorgan, in contrast, felt cold and impersonal. The local shops along Stillorgan Road were generally unpleasant, with staff often dismissive or unhelpful towards children. There was, however, one shining exception: Baumanns.

Established in 1947 by Jack and Catherine Baumann, Baumanns of Stillorgan quickly became a local institution. This remarkably diverse business catered to a wide range of needs, offering everything from high-class delicatessen items and pet supplies to hardware, gardening equipment, and even hairdressing services. Jack Baumann, affectionately known as the “King of Stillorgan”, was a beloved figure in the community, renowned for his generosity and charitable work. He also showed a strong commitment to local employment.

In 1978, Val Baumann took over the business, streamlining it to focus on hardware, pet supplies, and garden sheds. The business continued to adapt and evolve, with the addition of an aquatic centre and fishing and shooting supplies in 2002. Baumanns remains a thriving business in Stillorgan to this day, a testament to its enduring appeal and adaptability.

The arrival of the Stillorgan Shopping Centre in the 1960s marked a significant turning point in the area’s development. As one of the first shopping centres in Ireland, and indeed one of the first outside of the USA, it revolutionised the retail landscape. The convenience and variety offered by the shopping centre drew customers away from the smaller shops along Stillorgan Road, leading to the closure of many. Baumanns, however, withstood this change, demonstrating its resilience and strong community ties.

Across the road from this new retail behemoth sat Nimble Fingers, a beloved arts and crafts shop. Now, Nimble Fingers also found itself at the centre of an unexpected drama involving the nearby Oatlands school. In the late 1960s, the school issued a rather startling decree: all students were forbidden from visiting Nimble Fingers. Naturally, this caused quite a stir amongst the parents, who demanded an explanation for this seemingly arbitrary ban. The school, with an air of grave seriousness, declared that the owner of Nimble Fingers was a known member of the Irish Communist Party! One can only imagine the whispers and raised eyebrows that followed this revelation. However, the truth, as it often does, proved to be far less dramatic. It turned out that the owner was not a communist revolutionary, but rather a member of the ICA – the Irish Countrywomen’s Association. This venerable organisation, dedicated to social and educational opportunities for women and the betterment of rural and urban life, was evidently mistaken for a hotbed of communist activity. The misunderstanding, once cleared up, no doubt provided much amusement in the community.

The construction of the Stillorgan Bypass and the M50 motorway further contributed to Stillorgan’s transformation. Improved transport links increased accessibility and spurred further development, solidifying Stillorgan’s position as a key suburban hub.

AN EMPTY PLINTH AND ITS STORY – LOCATED IN THE PEOPLE’S FLOWER GARDEN

November 1, 2024 by infomatique

A PARK WITHIN PHOENIX PARK

In the heart of the People’s Flower Garden, a solitary plinth stands as a silent witness to a bygone era. This classically-styled pedestal once supported a bronze statue of George William Frederick Howard, the 7th Earl of Carlisle. Erected around 1870, the statue was the work of renowned Irish sculptor, John Henry Foley, whose other notable works include the statue of Prince Albert at the Albert Memorial in London and the Daniel O’Connell Monument in Dublin.

The Earl of Carlisle was a prominent figure in 19th-century Irish politics, serving as Chief Secretary and twice as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He played a key role in the creation of the People’s Garden, envisioning it as a place for the “recreation and instruction of the poor of Dublin”. In a time when monuments in Irish municipal parks were rare, the Carlisle Monument held a unique position as the sole statue in the People’s Garden.

However, the monument’s story took a dramatic turn in 1956 when a bomb dislodged the bronze statue from its pedestal. The statue was subsequently relocated to Castle Howard in Yorkshire, England, the Earl’s ancestral home. The plinth, however, remained in Dublin, a poignant reminder of the Earl’s legacy and a testament to the changing tides of history.

Today, the plinth stands as a central focus in a grassy area at the southwest edge of the gardens near Chesterfield Avenue. Its inscriptions provide a glimpse into the life of the Earl of Carlisle:

North face: “Erected by public subscription 1870”
South face: “George Wm. Frederick, seventh Earl of Carlisle, K.G / Chief Secretary for Ireland, 1835 to 1841 / Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, 1855-1858 and 1859 to 1864 / Born 1802. Died 1864.”
Surrounded by low-level planting, the plinth serves as a quiet place for reflection, inviting visitors to contemplate the complexities of history and the enduring power of public spaces.

NORTH KING STREET IT IS LONGER THAN I THOUGHT IT WAS

October 30, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED BY WILLIAM MURPHY 10 OCTOBER 2024

North King Street, stretching further than many realise, is a street steeped in history and woven into the fabric of Dublin’s identity. More than just a thoroughfare, it bears witness to significant events and transformations that have shaped the city.

Historical Significance

The Linen Industry Legacy: Before Belfast became synonymous with linen production, North King Street and its surrounding area were at the heart of Ireland’s linen industry. This legacy is reflected in the street names that echo places in Ulster, such as Lurgan Street, Coleraine Street, and Lisburn Street. Linenhall Street, Linenhall Place, and Linenhall Terrace further emphasise this historical connection. The Linenhall itself, once a bustling hub for the trade, stood nearby, though its influence waned with the rise of Belfast’s linen industry.

1916 Easter Rising and the North King Street Massacre: During the 1916 Easter Rising, North King Street became a scene of intense fighting between Irish Volunteers and British forces. This culminated in the tragic North King Street Massacre, where sixteen unarmed civilians were killed by British troops. This event remains a poignant reminder of the conflict’s human cost. A memorial plaque at the Dublinbikes docking station on Smithfield Square, located prominently on North King Street, commemorates the victims.

Smithfield Square: This large public plaza, once a bustling marketplace, is now a vibrant space that hosts markets, concerts, and other events. It’s a central feature of North King Street and a popular gathering place for locals and visitors.

The Cobblestone Pub: Facing the potential threat of demolition, the Cobblestone Pub stands as a symbol of community resilience and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Thanks to the passionate opposition and protests from locals, this beloved traditional music pub was saved. It continues to be a cherished venue for live music and a vital part of Dublin’s cultural landscape.

North King Street, with its rich history and vibrant present, offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Dublin. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, reminding us of the struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of the city.