Latest news with #N50
Al Bawaba
29-04-2025
- Al Bawaba
Apple's Smart Glasses: new leaks suggest they will launch in 2027
ALBAWABA – New leaks reveal that Apple, the American multinational technology company, is planning to launch its new smart glasses in 2027. Apple's Smart Glasses According to recent leaks, Apple's upcoming smart glasses will be powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Notably, the product is reportedly codenamed "N50" and will feature some of Apple's most advanced AI capabilities. It is expected to launch at a lower price point than the Apple Vision Pro, whose production has reportedly been paused for the time being. N50 smart glasses from Apple It is worth mentioning that Apple's new smart glasses are expected to introduce advanced features based on modern technology, including true augmented reality displays, and will be powered by Apple's artificial intelligence. According to the leaks, the device—codenamed N50—will be able to analyze the surrounding environment and provide users with relevant and timely information. The product is reportedly codenamed "N50" and will feature some of Apple's most advanced AI capabilities. (BrainXchange X) Additionally, the new glasses will allow users to take photos and live stream their experiences directly to Instagram. The N50 is expected to launch in 2027.
Hans India
28-04-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Apple is Developing AI Smart Glasses and AirPods with Cameras; Launch is Still Years Away
Apple appears to be quietly working on some groundbreaking wearable technology — AI-powered smart glasses and upgraded AirPods equipped with infrared cameras. However, both devices are still a long way from becoming reality. Reports have been swirling for some time about Apple's ambitions in the smart glasses space. CEO Tim Cook is reportedly highly invested in the project, with insiders saying he 'cares about nothing else,' putting full focus on creating revolutionary hardware that could outperform anything currently on the market. Buzz suggests that Apple's smart glasses may come loaded with cameras and microphones to enhance functionality dramatically. Meanwhile, smarter AirPods with integrated infrared cameras are also said to be in development. In his latest Power On newsletter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman confirmed that Apple is actively working on its smart glasses project, code-named N50. These glasses are designed to be a truly "Apple Intelligence" device, making full use of AI innovations. Rather than offering full-blown augmented reality (AR) like bulky headsets, Apple's vision for these glasses is more subtle. Gurman explains, 'The product will analyse the surrounding environment and feed information to the wearer, though it will stop well short of true augmented reality.' Essentially, the glasses would use onboard cameras and sensors to scan the environment and feed real-time contextual data back to the user via AI systems. Despite all the excitement, the project is facing hurdles. Gurman cautions that the glasses are 'not close to being ready yet' and that a commercial launch is not expected anytime soon. Apple's Smart Glasses: Facing Technical and Design Challenges Building lightweight, comfortable smart glasses that offer powerful AI-backed features is proving to be a significant challenge for Apple. Gurman previously noted that fully functioning AR glasses from Apple could be delayed by at least three to five years. This is mainly because finding the right balance between display quality, battery life, hardware power, and sleek design remains a "difficult formula" to crack. AirPods with Cameras Also in the Works Smart glasses aren't the only futuristic device Apple is betting on. According to Gurman, Apple is also working on a new generation of AirPods equipped with outward-facing infrared cameras. These cameras are not typical visual cameras but sensors similar to those used in the iPhone's Face ID technology. The main purpose of the cameras in the AirPods would be to collect spatial and environmental data. This data would then be used to enhance the user experience, offering improved spatial audio and possibly personalized interactions based on surroundings. Even more exciting is the possibility of gesture-based controls. Thanks to the infrared sensors, users might be able to perform hand gestures to control music, answer calls, or even interact with augmented environments — all without touching their devices. When Can We Expect These Devices? Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously predicted that AirPods with infrared cameras might enter mass production around 2026 or 2027, suggesting that, while promising, the technology is still a few years away from consumer hands. While Apple is moving deliberately with these projects, the competition isn't sitting still. Meta, for instance, launched its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses in 2023 and has confirmed a launch in India soon. Developed with EssilorLuxottica, these glasses combine classic Ray-Ban style with Meta's AI prowess, allowing users to capture photos, make calls, and get real-time translations hands-free — all for $299 in the U.S. Clearly, Apple's vision for the future is bold, but patience will be key as it works through the technological challenges.
India Today
28-04-2025
- Business
- India Today
Apple is making smart glasses and they will have cameras in them, AirPods too may get a camera
Apple has been working on smart glasses for a while now, according to multiple reports. In fact, CEO Tim Cook is said to be so invested in the project that he 'cares about nothing else,' but building and one-upping existing hardware with far superior tech and hopefully, functionality. Buzz also has it that Cupertino is planning to equip its smart glasses with cameras and microphones. Smarter AirPods with infrared cameras are also apparently in the his latest Power On letter, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said that Apple's smart glasses project, code-named N50, is under development. The company is aiming to create these smart glasses as a true "Apple Intelligence" full-fledged augmented reality (AR) headsets, Apple wants its smart glasses to use onboard cameras and sensors to analyse the wearer's surroundings and provide contextual information, feeding real-time data to AI systems. 'The product will analyse the surrounding environment and feed information to the wearer, though it will stop well short of true augmented reality,' Gurman this project is 'not close to being ready yet' and likely won't hit the market any time facing delay in launch of smart glasses Apple is said to be facing significant technical and design challenges in creating lightweight, functional glasses that can comfortably offer users advanced features backed by AI. Previously, Gurman also highlighted that a fully functional pair of AR glasses from Apple could be delayed by at least three to five years, as the company struggles with the 'difficult formula' of balancing hardware power, display quality, battery life, and sleek with camera But smart glasses are not the only wearable smart project Apple seems to be working on currently. It is said to be also exploring ways to make AirPods smarter. Gurman said that Apple is developing AirPods with outward-facing infrared cameras. These wouldn't be conventional cameras but infrared sensors, somewhat similar to the ones used in the iPhone's Face ID primary role of Apple's new AirPods with infrared cameras would be to gather spatial and environmental data, sending it to AI. This tech could then allow the AirPods to offer a more personalised and interactive experience — such as enhanced spatial there are reports that the infrared cameras would also allow the AirPods to enable gesture-based controls. With the help of infrared cameras, users might be able to control music playback, answer calls, or even interact with AR environments using simple hand movements — without touching their smart glasses launch timeline advertisement Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo had also earlier predicted that AirPods with infrared cameras might enter mass production by 2026 or 2027, indicating that while the technology is promising, it is still a few years while Apple is developing some interesting devices with cutting-edge technology, it is moving slowly — perhaps too slowly compared to its competitors. Meta, for example, launched its smart glasses in collaboration with Ray-Ban in 2023. The company has now confirmed that it will soon launch its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses in India. Developed in collaboration with EssilorLuxottica, the glasses combine classic Ray-Ban styling with Meta's AI at $299 in the U.S., these smart glasses come equipped with cameras and speakers, allowing users to take photos, record videos, make calls, and even get real-time language translations hands-free using commands like 'Hey Meta.'
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Business Standard
28-04-2025
- Business Standard
Apple's smart glasses and AirPods with cameras expected by 2027: Report
Apple is reportedly advancing in the development of its own smart glasses to rival Meta's Ray-Ban glasses. According to a report by 9To5Google, citing Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the smart glasses are codenamed "N50," and Apple plans to 'infuse' some of its AI-powered features into the device. Beyond smart glasses, Apple is also said to be working on other smart accessories, including AirPods with built-in cameras. The report states that Apple plans to launch both devices around 2027. Apple smart glasses: What to expect According to Gurman, Apple aims to follow a similar approach to Meta by equipping the glasses with cameras, microphones, and speakers, while keeping the device lightweight and relatively affordable. Additionally, Apple wants to incorporate some advanced AI-powered features, such as Visual Intelligence. 'The idea is to turn glasses into an Apple Intelligence device. The product will analyse the surrounding environment and feed information to the wearer, though it will stop well short of true augmented reality,' Gurman said in his newsletter, as reported by 9To5Mac. Earlier reports suggested Apple's smart glasses might feature compact, high-resolution displays. However, Gurman now indicates that a true augmented reality (AR) experience—with displays embedded in the lenses—may be reserved for future iterations. This is likely due to challenges related to weight and cost, as Apple reportedly wants the device to remain lightweight and practical for everyday use. AirPods with cameras: What to expect Beyond smart glasses, Apple is also reportedly working on AirPods with integrated cameras. According to Gurman, the goal is to push its Visual Intelligence technology into new hardware, enabling real-time assistance related to physical objects. ALSO READ | It remains unclear whether this functionality would be an extension of Visual Intelligence or an entirely new feature. Notably, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also reported on Apple's development of AirPods with built-in cameras. However, Kuo suggested that these AirPods may use infrared (IR) sensors to enhance spatial audio experiences and enable hands-free gesture controls.
Zawya
21-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
CBN: Aligning banks' recapitalisation with monetary, fiscal policies, FG's economic vision
In this piece, JOSEPH INOKOTONG reports how the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN's) banks' recapitalization aligns monetary, fiscal policies with the Federal Government's vision of prosperity for the people, businesses and the economy. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN's) decision to embark on the recapitalisation of banks was to align monetary, fiscal policies with the Federal Government's vision of prosperity for the people, businesses, and economy. The exercise, which is far underway, is recording significant successes, with successful capital raising by many banks and a surge in credit expansion to the domestic economy. CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, explained that with stronger capital bases, banks can provide more loans to businesses and support the government's quest for a $1 trillion economy. Building bigger and stronger banks comes with great benefits to the banks, their customers, and the wider economy. For a government that wants to grow its economy to the $1 trillion mark, the support of the financial services sector led by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, is crucial. The CBN Governor had explained that bank recapitalisation ensures that lenders are well-capitalised, enabling them to take on greater risks, particularly in underserved markets. With stronger capital bases, banks can provide more loans and financial products to Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), rural communities, and other vulnerable segments that have previously struggled to access formal financial services. The CBN had on March 28, 2024, announced a two-year bank recapitalisation exercise which commenced on April 1, 2024, and is expected to end on March 31, 2026. The recapitalisation plan requires a minimum capital of N500 billion, N200 billion, and N50 billion for Commercial Banks with International, National, and Regional licenses, respectively. Others included merchant banks N50 billion; non-interest banks with national licence N20 billion, and non-interest banks with regional license will now have N10 billion minimum capital. The 24-month timeline for compliance ends on March 31, 2026. Cardoso said the recapitalisation policy not only strengthens financial stability but also serves as a catalyst for inclusive growth. 'By enabling banks to extend more credit to MSMEs, we enhance job creation and productivity. Furthermore, with increased capital, banks can invest in technology and innovation, crucial for driving digital financial services such as mobile money and agent banking. These technologies are keys to breaking down geographic and economic barriers, bringing financial services to even the most remote areas,' he stated. He said Nigeria has what it takes to deepen financial inclusion and support the growth of business and economy, stressing that the recapitalization exercise would also support the government's efforts to achieve a $1 trillion economy. The CBN further underscored the importance of banking recapitalisation as a major catalyst for the achievement of the $1 trillion economy agenda of the government. Banking sector remains robust Cardoso explained that the banking sector remains robust, with key indicators reflecting a resilient system. 'The non-performing loan ratio remains within the prudential benchmark of five percent, showcasing strong credit risk management. The banking sector liquidity ratio comfortably exceeds the regulatory floor of 30 percent, a level that ensures banks are maintaining adequate cash flow to meet the needs of customers and their operations. The recent stress test also reaffirmed the continued strength of our banking system. 'I am pleased to note that a significant number of banks have raised the required capital through rights issues and public offerings well ahead of the 2026 deadline. I believe that the banking sector is in a strong position to support Nigeria's economic recovery by enabling access to credit for MSMEs and supporting investment in critical sectors of our economy,' he said. Deputy Governor, Corporate Services, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ms. Emem Usoro, said the journey to a $1 trillion economy requires structured planning, clearly defined policies, unwavering implementation, and an inclusive approach that aligns public and private sector interests. In her Keynote address in Abuja at a seminar organised by the CBN for business editors and financial correspondents, Usoro said that one of the key components of the $1 trillion ambition is the recapitalisation of Nigerian banks. She noted that banks must be sufficiently capitalised to meet the financial demands of a larger and more dynamic economy. 'As we work towards building a $1 trillion economy, we must consider the recapitalisation of our banks to be able to fund, finance, and power the economy, and to favourably compete globally,' Usoro said. She further called for a collective effort from all stakeholders, adding that the financial system must be prepared to play its role in powering development. 'We should particularly pay significant attention to bank recapitalisation to ensure that our banks are strong, resilient and stable enough to carry out financial intermediation, and the much-needed financing of development projects and programmes,' Usoro said. Supporting her position, Dr. Olubuka Akinwumi, Director of the Banking Supervision Department at the CBN, provided insights into the state of the banking sector. He disclosed that banks have so far remained within the prudential thresholds stipulated by the regulator, including benchmarks for the capital adequacy ratio and non-performing loans. 'As we speak, all our banks are still within the prudential thresholds that were set. And they are actively pursuing various recapitalisation efforts,' Akinwunmi said. On the possibility of mergers and acquisitions, Akinwumi said such developments may occur naturally as banks assess their positions and seek strategic alignments. 'Banks are currently focused on raising their capital, but engagements are ongoing, and when the opportunities arise, they will be taken,' Akinwunmi added. Regarding the licensing of new banks, he confirmed a recent uptick in applications and approvals, noting that the apex bank continues to monitor and support institutions that align with national development goals. He said priority sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and manufacturing are receiving attention from both the government and financial institutions, as they are key to achieving a trillion-dollar economy. 'If you look at this year's national budget, it reflects a clear emphasis on critical sectors like health, education, infrastructure, and agriculture. Banks are taking cues from these priorities, recognizing them as viable areas for business expansion,' Akinwumi said. Responding to questions on how many internationally active banks had met the new N500 billion capital requirement, he noted that substantial progress has already been made. 'We are halfway through the journey in terms of timeline, and capital already raised; we are also at least halfway through. That is a positive signal,' he said. He added that starting the recapitalisation process early has helped insulate the financial system from emerging global and domestic shocks. 'The emerging global economic shifts and pressures were not lost on the management of the CBN. We started early. If we had waited till now, the challenges would have been greater. But we acted in time,' he remarked. Dr. Akinwumi expressed confidence that the recapitalisation requirements will be met, stressing that existing shareholders' funds continue to serve as a buffer. However, the CBN deliberately opted for fresh capital inflows, particularly from foreign investors who have shown renewed confidence in Nigeria's financial system. 'International perception of Nigeria's banking sector is improving. The reforms over the past year, especially around the foreign exchange regime and improved transparency regarding reserves, have boosted investor confidence,' he said. He cited recent disclosures on Nigeria's net reserves and improvements in regulatory credibility as key factors that are reshaping the outlook for foreign direct investment in the banking sector On the Loan to Deposit Ratio (LDR), Akinwumi explained that the current 50 percent benchmark does not reflect a reluctance to lend but rather a contextual response to inflation and other macroeconomic challenges. 'As the macroeconomic environment stabilizes, banks will naturally increase lending. It's a cautious approach to ensure that lending supports sustainable growth,' he said. He also touched on the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), stating that there has been marked improvement in transparency. Banks now have a clearer understanding of CRR computations, unlike in the past, which enhances predictability and compliance. Addressing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) funding, he confirmed that banks continue to make provisions, but the CBN remains actively engaged to ensure proper disbursement and sectoral targeting. Supervisory oversight, he explained, is being deployed to verify compliance and effectiveness of disbursed funds. On incentives, he said the most powerful incentive for banks lies in the opportunities provided by a growing economy. 'A stronger bank can take on big-ticket businesses, including infrastructure financing. The current reforms, such as the infrastructure concessioning plans, present viable business opportunities for well-capitalized banks,' Akinwumi explained. The capital verification process, according to him, is thorough and designed to ensure that only legitimate, unborrowed funds are used for recapitalisation. An industry-wide tracking mechanism has been established to streamline verification across institutions and enhance collaboration. 'Our examiners follow each capital trail meticulously, moving from one bank to another as necessary. Even if it's not your bank under verification at that moment, we expect full cooperation to trace the sources of capital,' he said. On the broader question of resilience to global shocks, he maintained that Nigerian banks are being positioned to remain attractive to investors and capable of withstanding external disruptions. 'CBN is monitoring developments closely and adjusting where necessary. The recapitalisation process is not just about compliance, it's about long-term stability, competitiveness, and economic transformation,' he said. The Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Oliver Alawuba, described the CBN's ongoing bank recapitalisation policy as both timely and essential in positioning the financial system to meet the demands of a growing and globally competitive economy. According to Alawuba, the initiative is expected to boost the resilience of the banking sector by strengthening its capacity to withstand economic shocks such as inflation, currency volatility, and global geopolitical disruptions. He noted that the policy will also place Nigerian banks on a stronger footing to finance the country's long-term economic transformation, including funding of large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects. Alawuba stressed that the recapitalisation policy goes beyond regulatory compliance, but is a forward-looking strategy aimed at equipping Nigerian banks to operate at the scale and sophistication required by a trillion-dollar economy. He said the move would enhance the sector's ability to support both traditional economic drivers, such as oil and gas, agriculture, and manufacturing, as well as emerging sectors like fintech, green energy, and infrastructure development. 'Nigerian banks need adequate capital buffers to meet the evolving demands of these sectors. Without this, the industry cannot effectively rise to the challenge,' he said. Alawuba pointed out the sharp contrast between Nigerian banks and their counterparts in more advanced economies, where bank assets typically range from 70 to 150 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In Nigeria, bank assets accounted for just 11.97 percent of GDP as of 2024, a gap he said must be addressed if the country's financial system is to align with international standards. He commended the CBN's recent directive mandating a significant increase in minimum capital thresholds, describing it as recognition of the urgent need for stronger financial institutions capable of delivering on national priorities such as infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, inclusive financial services, and economic diversification. Alawuba reiterated that a robust, well-capitalised banking sector is critical for Nigeria's aspiration to become a one trillion-dollar economy, and the recapitalisation drive is a step in the right direction to achieve that goal.
