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Category: DJF

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata: I will always stand with the people

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is releasing a statement regarding seabed critical minerals:

    “The people are always my top priority, and I will always stand with you. We highly value our ocean and land, from the reefs to the mountaintops, it’s ours as the people of American Samoa and it’s special to us, and a gift of God. We don’t want harm to come to our land. As I’ve publicly stated, following the announcement by the DOI, I do not support use of current technology that scrapes or vacuums or mines by digging the ocean floor, especially near our beautiful islands. The issue of critical minerals from the ocean is new and emotional for many. Because it is new, we should make a careful decision based on all the facts, then move forward together in wisdom, at the direction of the people!

    Metallic nodule pictured on table cloth, courtesy of C.M. and Tisa Fa’amuli

    “I am inquiring to DOI what is to come and when will they sit down with the leaders of American Samoa.  I am also concerned about the impacts of the mining of critical minerals to our people and on our environment.  We have to protect our islands for our future generations.  I would like DOI to clarify when their intent is, and I have a follow-up call with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.”

    Amata: O le finagalo lava o tagata ou te tu ai

    Laumua i Uosigitone – O se saunoaga lea a le Faipule Tamaitai ia Uifaatali e uiga i minerale taua o le sami:

    “O le finagalo lava o tagata ou te faamuamua, ma ou te tu faatasi ma i latou.  E sili ona taua ia te i tatou o tatou sami ma eleele, e afua mai i le iliti tai e o’o atu i le tuasivi, o lo tatou tofi lea mai le Atua.  E leai so tatou e loto ina ia o’o mai ni Faiga e leaga ai o tatou fanua.  Faapei ona ou faalauiloa faalauaitele atu, ina ua mae’a le faasalalauga mai le Matagaluega o le Initeria, ou te le lagolagoina le faaaoga o tekenolosi faa-ona po nei e valusia pe ave ese pe eli ai le iliti tai o loo tau lata i o tatou motu e sili ona matagofie.  E fou i le toatele o nai o tatou tagata ma ua aafia ai o latou finagalo i lenei mataupu e uiga i minerale aoga mai le sami.  E ao lava ona o tatou faia ni faaiuga faautauta e faavae i luga o mau ua maua mai ae faia lava e tusa ma finagalo o tagata o Amerika Samoa!

    Ua ou fesiligia le Matagaluega o le Initeria e uiga i laasaga o le a uia ma le itu aso latou te feiloa’i ai ma ta’ita’i o Amerika Samoa.  E atugalu foi so’u taofi i aafiaga o nai o tatou tagata ma lo ta siosiomaga i le eliga o nei minerale aoga.  E ao lava ona tatou puipui o tatou motu auā o tatou tupulaga atalī.  Ou te loto ina ia faamanino mai lo latou faamoemoe, ma o loo loma la ma feutagaina ma le Failautusi o le Initeria, le susuga a Doug Burgum.”  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Holds Issues Roundtable Meeting with S.O.F.I.A.S. Leadership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata held a roundtable meeting with leadership members of the Society of Fa’afafine in American Samoa (S.O.F.I.A.S.) to answer questions and discuss the issues that were brought up. 

    Group photo at SOFIAS roundtable

    The meeting included Ertta Laumoli, President, SOFIAS; Isabella Ah Mu Mageo, Miss SOFIAS 2025; Naea Tasha Rikki LeAtio’o, SOFIAS Senior Advisor; Shiki Leaupepe, SOFIAS Advisor; Shanee Masoli, SOFIAS Advisor; Athena Mauga, SOFIAS Advisor; Keniseli Fanolua, SOFIAS Secretary; Jaiyeh Saelua, American Samoa Faafafine Rural Program; and Zee Romero, SOFIAS Advisor. 

    The most discussed issues were the status of the recent Executive Order on the Seabed Mining; education issues, such as the status of the U.S. Department of Education and federal funding for schools; and the Executive Order on Fisheries on April 17th, which is separate from the critical minerals order. 

    Roundtable discussions

    Other topics and related discussions included Cook Islands Seabed Mining agreement with China; China’s presence throughout the Indo-Pacific; old and new technology for Critical Minerals Mining; Coral Reef issues; Passport issues; and topics specific to the Fa’afafine community. 

    “I enjoyed our conversation, and we covered many of the important and current issues,” said Congresswoman Amata. “I want to thank everyone in attendance. We had thoughtful questions and comments from everyone taking part. I hold opportunities to talk with our people as often as I can when I’m in American Samoa, so I can best represent our people in Washington, and I’ve had several Town Hall meetings during this graduation season while I’m able to be home in American Samoa.”

    These meetings are listening sessions, with updates about events, legislation or discussions in Washington. Throughout the year if you have questions or a need for constituent services, please reach out to Congresswoman Amata’s office in Fagatogo.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata Honors Henry Saaga and Thousands of Heroes for D-Day and Battle of Midway Anniversaries

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is honoring the memory of Henry Saaga, who fought in the Normandy invasion, as the United States and World War II allies commemorate the anniversaries of two of the great turning points of the global war – D-Day in Europe in 1944, and the Battle of Midway in the Pacific in 1942. 

    Holding Henry Saaga family photo

    June 6th is anniversary of D-Day, in which Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy, successfully but at great cost in lives. Also, this week, June 4-7 marks the anniversary of the Battle of Midway, a major air and sea battle that turned the tide of the war in the Pacific earlier in World War II. 

    Briefing at Aisne Marne American Cemetery in 2023

    “On these historic dates, we honor the valor of many thousands who changed the world and advanced the cause of freedom for generations, which our living Veterans and Service Members have since helped protect,” said Congresswoman Aumua Amata. “These anniversaries are sobering reminders of the sacrifices of war, but celebrations of these heroes and their enduring legacy of bravery and honor.”

    A Normandy Wreath-laying in 2023

    “Henry Saaga was a young Samoan soldier who was born and raised in Utulei Village, American Samoa. He fought in the invasion of Normandy, and was last seen fighting bravely in the hedgerow combat,” Amata continued. “He is honored on a commemorative wall in France, where names are highlighted with wet sand from the nearby beach – the only acceptable reason to take sand from the protected beach.”

    Henry Saaga’s name enshrined in France

    Known as D-Day, the invasion in Normandy demanded enormous logistical effort. Once the Allies established landings in France, the U.S. and Allied forces began pushing back the Nazi forces and liberating western Europe. General Dwight D. Eisenhower sent the troops across the English Channel with the message, “The eyes of the world are upon you. The hoped and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.”

    Likewise, in the Pacific, the Battle of Midway was a difference-making three days of intense sea and air battle that historians agree changed the direction of the naval war for the years of fighting ahead.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amata: Fishery Decision Is Separate from Seabed Issue

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is correcting a misunderstanding that reopening some waters to fishing somehow may have caused the seabed mining issue. In fact, the two executive orders by the President are separate, and he already had the authority to issue a seabed order before the fishery decision. 

    “To be clear, the fisheries decision did not open Pacific waters to seabed mining. I understand the confusion because of the timing of the two separate decisions,” said Congresswoman Amata. “While both decisions have U.S. and Pacific long term security implications in preventing China’s dominance, one decision did not cause the other, nor did it have any bearing on the legality or authority of the critical minerals order.”

    “The fisheries order is a success I’ve been working for throughout my entire time in Congress, to help secure our fishing and local economy.”

    “On the other hand, the critical minerals order is not something I called for at any time, nor did I endorse or advocate for it. Instead, I have many questions, and our people have many concerns and even fears. As your representative, I am calling for the DOI to sit down with ASG and answer all the many questions, as well as the public comment period that the law will require. I stand with our people, and I am actively listening in multiple town hall and round table discussions. I will continue hearing from you, reporting back to you, and representing your concerns to the administration.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Sleep with one eye open: how Librarian Ghouls steal data by night

    Source: Securelist – Kaspersky

    Headline: Sleep with one eye open: how Librarian Ghouls steal data by night

    Introduction

    Librarian Ghouls, also known as “Rare Werewolf” and “Rezet”, is an APT group that targets entities in Russia and the CIS. Other security vendors are also monitoring this APT and releasing analyses of its campaigns. The group has remained active through May 2025, consistently targeting Russian companies.

    A distinctive feature of this threat is that the attackers favor using legitimate third-party software over developing their own malicious binaries. The malicious functionality of the campaign described in this article is implemented through command files and PowerShell scripts. The attackers establish remote access to the victim’s device, steal credentials, and deploy an XMRig crypto miner in the system.

    Our research has uncovered new tools within this APT group’s arsenal, which we will elaborate on in this article.

    Technical details

    Initial infection vector

    Attacks by Librarian Ghouls continued almost unabated throughout 2024. We observed a slight decline in the group’s activity in December, followed immediately by a new wave of attacks, which is ongoing. The group’s primary initial infection vector involves targeted phishing emails that contain password-protected archives with executable files inside. These malicious emails are typically disguised as messages from legitimate organizations, containing attachments that appear to be official documents. The infection process is as follows: the victim opens the attached archive (the password is usually provided in the email body), extracts the files inside, and opens them.

    We managed to get hold of a malicious implant from an archive disguised as a payment order. The sample is a self-extracting installer made with the Smart Install Maker utility for Windows.

    The installer contains three files: an archive, a configuration file, and an empty file irrelevant for our analysis. They are later renamed into data.cab, installer.config and runtime.cab respectively.

    The primary malicious logic resides in the installer’s configuration file. It uses a variety of registry modification commands to automatically deploy the legitimate window manager, 4t Tray Minimizer, onto the system. This software can minimize running applications to the system tray, allowing attackers to obscure their presence on the compromised system.

    Once 4t Tray Minimizer is installed, the installer pulls three files from data.cab and puts them into the C:Intel directory, specifically at:

    File Name when archived Path on the infected system
    Legitimate PDF as a decoy 0  IntelPayment Order # 131.pdf
    Legitimate curl utility executable 1 Intelcurl.exe
    LNK file 2 IntelAnyDeskbat.lnk

    The PDF decoy resembles an order to pay a minor amount:

    PDF document imitating a payment order

    rezet.cmd

    Once data.cab is unpacked, the installer generates and executes a rezet.cmd command file, which then reaches out to the C2 server downdown[.]ru, hosting six files with the JPG extension. rezet.cmd downloads these to C:Intel, changing their file extensions to: driver.exe, blat.exe, svchost.exe, Trays.rar, wol.ps1, and dc.exe.

    • driver.exe is a customized build of rar.exe, the console version of WinRAR 3.80. This version has had user dialog strings removed: it can execute commands but provides no meaningful output to the console.
    • blat.exe is Blat, a legitimate utility for sending email messages and files via SMTP. Attackers use this to send data they steal to an email server they control.
    • svchost.exe is the remote access application AnyDesk. Attackers use this to remotely control the compromised machine.
    • dc.exe is Defender Control, which allows disabling Windows Defender.

    After downloading the files, the script uses the specified password and the driver.exe console utility to extract Trays.rar into the same C:Intel directory and run the unpacked Trays.lnk. This shortcut allows starting 4t Tray Minimizer minimized to the tray.

    Next, the script installs AnyDesk on the compromised device and downloads a bat.bat file from the C2 server to C:IntelAnyDesk. Finally, rezet.cmd runs bat.lnk, which was previously extracted from data.cab.

    bat.bat

    Opening the bat.lnk shortcut runs the bat.bat batch file, which executes a series of malicious actions.

    Disabling security measures and a scheduled task

    First, the BAT file sets the password QWERTY1234566 for AnyDesk, which allows the attackers to connect to the victim’s device without asking for confirmation.

    Next, the script uses the previously downloaded Defender Control (dc.exe) application to disable Windows Defender.

    To verify that the victim’s computer is on and available for remote connections, the batch file runs the powercfg utility six times with different parameters. This utility controls the local machine’s power settings.

    Next, bat.bat runs the schtasks utility to create a ShutdownAt5AM scheduler task, which shuts down the victim’s PC every day at 5 AM as the name suggests. It is our assessment that the attackers use this technique to cover their tracks so that the user remains unaware that their device has been hijacked.

    Disabling security measures and the power management configuration in bat.bat

    Wakeup script and data theft

    Next, the batch file executes the wol.ps1 script via PowerShell.

    Contents of the “wol.ps1” script

    This script launches Microsoft Edge every day at 1 AM. We found no evidence of msedge.exe being replaced or compromised, leading us to believe it is a genuine Microsoft Edge executable. This daily browser activation wakes the victim’s computer, giving attackers a four-hour window to establish unauthorized remote access with AnyDesk before the scheduled task shuts the machine down at 5 AM.

    Following the execution of the PowerShell script, bat.bat removes the curl utility, the Trays.rar archive, and the AnyDesk installer. The attackers no longer need these components: at this stage of the infection, all necessary malicious files and third-party utilities have been downloaded with curl, Trays.rar has been unpacked, and AnyDesk has been installed on the device.

    After that, the batch file sets environment variables for Blat. These variables contain, among other things, the email addresses where the victim’s data will be sent and the passwords for these accounts.

    The next step is to collect information stored on the device that is of interest to the attackers:

    • Cryptocurrency wallet credentials and seed phrases
    • Dumps of the HKLMSAM and HKLMSYSTEM registry keys made with reg.exe

    Data collection by bat.bat

    The BAT file uses driver.exe to pack data it has collected into two separate password-protected archives. Then, the script runs blat.exe to send the victim’s data and AnyDesk configuration files to the attackers via SMTP.

    Miner installation and self-deletion

    Next, bat.bat deletes the files generated during the attack from the C:Intel folder and installs a crypto miner on the compromised system. To do this, the script creates a bm.json configuration file containing the mining pool address and the attackers’ identifier, and then downloads install.exe from hxxp://bmapps[.]org/bmcontrol/win64/Install.exe.

    install.exe is an installer that checks for the JSON configuration file and the bmcontrol.exe process in the system. If the process is detected, the installer terminates it.

    Then, install.exe downloads an archive with mining tools from hxxps://bmapps[.]org/bmcontrol/win64/app-1.4.zip.

    The archive contains the following files:

    • _install.exe: a new version of the installer. While the samples in the attacks we analyzed were identical, we suspect the attackers have a scenario for updating the malware.
    • bmcontrol.exe: miner controller
    • run.exe, stop.cmd, uninstall.cmd: tools for starting, stopping, and removing the controller
    • XMRig miner

    Depending on the parameters of the JSON file, the unmodified original installer file is used, or _install.exe is renamed to install.exe and run. After that, the installer adds run.exe to autorun. This utility checks for an already running bmcontrol.exe controller on the compromised system, and if it doesn’t find one, runs it from the downloaded archive.

    Once running, bmcontrol.exe creates two processes: master and worker. The master process launches and constantly monitors the worker, and also restarts it if the latter quits unexpectedly. In addition, the master passes the JSON configuration file to the worker process.

    Before launching the XMRig miner, the worker process collects the following system information:

    1. Available CPU cores
    2. Available RAM
    3. GPU

    This data is used to configure the miner on the compromised device and also sent to the attackers’ server. While XMRig is running, the worker maintains a connection to the mining pool, sending a request every 60 seconds.

    After installing the miner on the system, bat.bat removes itself from the victim’s device.

    Legitimate software utilized by the attackers

    It is a common technique to leverage third-party legitimate software for malicious purposes (T1588.002), which makes detecting and attributing APT activity more difficult. We have seen this pattern in current campaigns by various APT groups, in particular in the Likho cluster.

    Beyond the utilities discussed above, we also identified the following software in Librarian Ghouls attacks:

    • Mipko Personal Monitor: a DLP system that the attackers use to monitor the victim. The application can collect screenshots and record keystrokes among other things.
    • WebBrowserPassView: a password recovery utility that can extract passwords stored in web browsers. The attackers use this to steal victims’ credentials.
    • ngrok: a global reverse proxy that secures and accelerates network services. Used by the attackers to connect to target machines.
    • NirCmd: a legitimate utility that facilitates various OS tasks without a visible user interface. The attackers use this to covertly run scripts and executables.

    Phishing campaign

    Our investigation revealed several domains that we assess with low confidence to be associated with the ongoing Librarian Ghouls campaign. At the time of the investigation, some of them remained active, including users-mail[.]ru and deauthorization[.]online. These domains hosted phishing pages, generated with PHP scripts and designed to harvest credentials for the mail.ru email service.

    Example of a phishing page associated with the APT campaign

    Infrastructure

    The implant detailed in this article communicated with the command-and-control servers downdown[.]ru and dragonfires[.]ru. Both resolve to the IP address 185.125.51[.]5.

    Our analysis of the attackers’ infrastructure revealed a notable characteristic: several malicious web servers associated with this campaign had directory listing enabled, allowing us to inspect files they stored.

    Directory listing on a malicious server

    Victims

    Our telemetry indicated that, during the investigation period, hundreds of Russian users fell victim to this campaign. It primarily focuses on industrial enterprises, with engineering schools also being a target of interest. Furthermore, the attacks described also impacted users in Belarus and Kazakhstan.

    The phishing emails are notably composed in Russian and include archives with Russian filenames, along with Russian-language decoy documents. This suggests that the primary targets of this campaign are likely based in Russia or speak Russian.

    About the attackers

    Librarian Ghouls APT exhibits traits commonly associated with hacktivist groups, such as the use of self-extracting archives and a reliance on legitimate, third-party utilities rather than custom-built malware binary modules.

    Since the beginning of the current campaign in December 2024, we have seen frequent updates to the implants, which vary in configuration files and the bundled sets of legitimate utilities. At the time of publishing this, our data encompassed over 100 malicious files connected to this campaign.

    Takeaways

    At the time of this report’s release, the Librarian Ghouls APT campaign described in it is still active, as evidenced by attacks we observed in May 2025. Consistent with previous activity, the attackers leverage third-party legitimate utilities rather than developing custom tools. All of the malicious functionality still relies on installer, command, and PowerShell scripts. We observe that the attackers are continuously refining their tactics, encompassing not only data exfiltration but also the deployment of remote access tools and the use of phishing sites for email account compromise. We constantly monitor this threat actor and will continue to share up-to-date information about its activity.

    Indicators of compromise

    * Additional indicators of compromise and a YARA rule for detecting Librarian Ghouls activity are available to customers of our APT Intelligence Reporting service. Contact intelreports@kaspersky.com for more details.

    Implants

    d8edd46220059541ff397f74bfd271336dda702c6b1869e8a081c71f595a9e68
    2f3d67740bb7587ff70cc7319e9fe5c517c0e55345bf53e01b3019e415ff098b
    de998bd26ea326e610cc70654499cebfd594cc973438ac421e4c7e1f3b887617
    785a5b92bb8c9dbf52cfda1b28f0ac7db8ead4ec3a37cfd6470605d945ade40e
    c79413ef4088b3a39fe8c7d68d2639cc69f88b10429e59dd0b4177f6b2a92351
    53fd5984c4f6551b2c1059835ea9ca6d0342d886ba7034835db2a1dd3f8f5b04

    Implant configuration files

    f8c80bbecbfb38f252943ee6beec98edc93cd734ec70ccd2565ab1c4db5f072f
    4d590a9640093bbda21597233b400b037278366660ba2c3128795bc85d35be72
    1b409644e86559e56add5a65552785750cd36d60745afde448cce7f6f3f09a06
    7c4a99382dbbd7b5aaa62af0ccff68aecdde2319560bbfdaf76132b0506ab68a
    702bf51811281aad78e6ca767586eba4b4c3a43743f8b8e56bb93bc349cb6090
    311ec9208f5fe3f22733fca1e6388ea9c0327be0836c955d2cf6a22317d4bdca

    Malicious archive attachments

    fd58900ea22b38bad2ef3d1b8b74f5c7023b8ca8a5b69f88cfbfe28b2c585baf
    e6ea6ce923f2eee0cd56a0874e4a0ca467711b889553259a995df686bd35de86
    6954eaed33a9d0cf7e298778ec82d31bfbdf40c813c6ac837352ce676793db74

    Malicious BAT files

    e880a1bb0e7d422b78a54b35b3f53e348ab27425f1c561db120c0411da5c1ce9
    c353a708edfd0f77a486af66e407f7b78583394d7b5f994cd8d2e6e263d25968
    636d4f1e3dcf0332a815ce3f526a02df3c4ef2890a74521d05d6050917596748
    c5eeec72b5e6d0e84ff91dfdcbefbbbf441878780f887febb0caf3cbe882ec72
    8bdb8df5677a11348f5787ece3c7c94824b83ab3f31f40e361e600576909b073
    2af2841bf925ed1875faadcbb0ef316c641e1dcdb61d1fbf80c3443c2fc9454f

    Decoy documents

    cab1c4c675f1d996b659bab1ddb38af365190e450dec3d195461e4e4ccf1c286
    dfac7cd8d041a53405cc37a44f100f6f862ed2d930e251f4bf22f10235db4bb3
    977054802de7b583a38e0524feefa7356c47c53dd49de8c3d533e7689095f9ac
    65f7c3e16598a8cb279b86eaeda32cb7a685801ed07d36c66ff83742d41cd415
    a6ff418f0db461536cff41e9c7e5dba3ee3b405541519820db8a52b6d818a01e
    6c86608893463968bfda0969aa1e6401411c0882662f3e70c1ac195ee7bd1510

    Malicious PS1 scripts

    8b6afbf73a9b98eec01d8510815a044cd036743b64fef955385cbca80ae94f15
    7d6b598eaf19ea8a571b4bd79fd6ff7928388b565d7814b809d2f7fdedc23a0a
    01793e6f0d5241b33f07a3f9ad34e40e056a514c5d23e14dc491cee60076dc5a

    Miner installer (install.exe)
    649ee35ad29945e8dd6511192483dddfdfe516a1312de5e0bd17fdd0a258c27f

    Miner controller (bmcontrol.exe)
    9cce3eaae0be9b196017cb6daf49dd56146016f936b66527320f754f179c615f

    Miner launcher (run.exe)
    d7bcab5acc8428026e1afd694fb179c5cbb74c5be651cd74e996c2914fb2b839

    Legitimate software

    AnyDesk
    Blat
    curl
    Defender Control
    Customized RAR 3.80
    AnyDesk
    Mipko Personal Monitor
    ngrok
    NirCmd
    4t Tray Minimizer
    WebBrowserPassView

    Librarian Ghouls malicious domains

    vniir[.]space
    vniir[.]nl
    hostingforme[.]nl
    mail-cheker[.]nl
    unifikator[.]ru
    outinfo[.]ru
    anyhostings[.]ru
    center-mail[.]ru
    redaction-voenmeh[.]info
    acountservices[.]nl
    accouts-verification[.]ru
    office-email[.]ru
    email-office[.]ru
    email-informer[.]ru
    office-account[.]ru
    deauthorization[.]online
    anyinfos[.]ru
    verifikations[.]ru
    claud-mail[.]ru
    users-mail[.]ru
    detectis[.]ru
    supersuit[.]site
    downdown[.]ru
    dragonfires[.]ru
    bmapps[.]org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Sparks a Wave of Young Innovators in Tripura

    Source: Samsung

     
    As the monsoon clouds gather over the lush hills of Tripura, a different kind of storm of ideas, innovation, and ambition is taking over college campuses. Samsung’s flagship innovation competition, Solve for Tomorrow, has made its mark in the farthest corners of India in Season 4, igniting the spirit of problem-solving and nation-building among young minds.
     
    After a powerful launch on April 29, the design thinking workshops and college Open Houses swept across India—reaching not just major metros but also the vibrant heartlands of the Northeast.
     
    Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2025 will provide INR 1 crore to the top four winning teams to support the incubation of their projects, along with hands-on prototyping, investor connects, and expert mentorship from Samsung leaders and IIT Delhi faculty.
     
    In Agartala, Tripura, two colleges—Bir Bikram Memorial College and Netaji Subhash Mahavidyalaya—witnessed a groundswell of students coming together to imagine solutions to India’s most pressing problems.
     
    At Bir Bikram, second-year student Tarit Chakma walked out of the Open House with a quiet determination in his eyes. “I want to solve the water logging issues in tribal areas using smart but low-cost drainage tech.”
     
    Tarit isn’t alone in his vision. Sitting next to him was Sangeeta Dey, a science undergraduate, who spoke of the growing mental health crisis among youth in smaller towns. “I want to build an anonymous digital mental health assistant in local languages, starting with Kokborok,” she said, her notebook already filled with flowcharts and feature ideas.
     
    Meanwhile, across town at Netaji Subhash College, hundreds of students filled the campus hall, their excitement palpable. For many, this was their first exposure to structured innovation and design thinking frameworks.
    Sourav Shukladas, a tech enthusiast from Netaji Subhash College, said, “I’ve been tinkering with the idea of a wearable that can alert family members and local clinics in case of sudden health issues of elderly family members. This platform gave me the confidence that such ideas can be built right here, from Tripura, for the world.”
     
    His classmate, Sangeeta Saha, said, “We’ve always believed we had to leave Tripura to do something meaningful. Today made me think differently. What if we could turn our state into a hub of social innovation instead? I want to work on eco-tourism models that empower local artisans and protect our forests.”
     
    Each voice in these packed halls echoed the larger mission of Samsung Solve for Tomorrow—to democratize innovation, to reach every young mind with potential, and to build a new generation of problem-solvers across India’s many geographies.
     
    What began as roadshows in the North and South has now evolved into a movement that is energizing classrooms in remote towns. And as Season 4 unfolds, it’s clear that Solve for Tomorrow is not just a competition—it’s a call to action for a generation ready to reimagine India, one idea at a time.
     
    From the narrow bylanes of Agartala to the sprawling innovation hubs of Delhi and Bangalore, this is a journey of dreams taking flight. And if the students of Tripura are any indication, the future is in passionate, capable hands.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New handhelds combine the power of Xbox with the freedom of Windows 11

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: New handhelds combine the power of Xbox with the freedom of Windows 11

    Together, we’ve combined our strengths and technical expertise to introduce something entirely new: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. These handhelds are built to make it easier than ever to access your favorite games—from Xbox, Battle.net, and other leading PC storefronts—all from a single device.

    This holiday, with ASUS, players can discover another way to play as we combine the power of Xbox with the freedom you expect from Windows. And this is only the beginning.

    Meet the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X

    • ROG Xbox Ally: The essential handheld at a great value for everyone from the casual player to the avid enthusiast.
    • ROG Xbox Ally X: The ultimate high-performance handheld, built for the most demanding players.

    Both handhelds allow players to play natively, via the cloud, or remotely with their Xbox console in another room.

    Next-Level Features Designed for Play Anywhere

    With the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, players can look forward to an approachable gaming experience that travels with you wherever you go, featuring several new and first-of-their kind features on both devices—from an immersive Xbox full screen experience, an aggregated gaming library with access to installed games from leading PC storefronts, and more.

    We’ve optimized Windows 11 to be easy to use on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X from the moment you power on. Game Bar makes it easy to return home, browse your library, launch or quit games, chat with friends, open apps, adjust settings, and more. Now, with the integration of ASUS’s innovative Armoury Crate, Game Bar also gives you streamlined access to advanced device and input controls. Details like the lock screen and task switcher have also been adjusted for easy navigation with a controller.

    Because these handhelds run Windows, you have access to games you can’t get elsewhere, so you can enjoy the full freedom and versatility of PC gaming—download games from your favorite storefront, run apps like Discord, watch your favorite streamers on Twitch, and play with your favorite mods—all straight from the Xbox experience. The choice is yours.

    Introducing the Xbox Experience for Handheld

    When you power on your Xbox Ally, you’ll boot directly into the Xbox full screen experience, a new feature optimized specifically for handheld gaming. With new modifications that minimize background activity and defer non-essential tasks, more system resources are dedicated specifically to gameplay. That means more memory, higher framerates, and a fully immersive experience for players—all made possible by the versatility and freedom of Windows.

    The Xbox Ally has more familiar Xbox touches, including:

    • Xbox button: With a dedicated Xbox button, players have access to chat, apps, and settings through an enhanced Game Bar overlay, allowing you to quickly switch between running apps and games.
    • Contoured grips: Created with player comfort in mind, and using the same design principles as Xbox Wireless Controllers, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X feature contoured handgrips to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes.
    • Accessibility features: Game Bar and the Xbox app have also been optimized for handheld use, bringing along familiar accessibility features from Xbox consoles and Windows PCs, with much more to come in future.

    Easy Access to Games from Xbox, Leading PC Storefronts, and More

    Locating and accessing games across multiple channels can be a challenge —navigating through various browsers, storefronts, and login credentials can sometimes make gaming feel anything but fun. But with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, getting into the fun is easier and faster than ever.

    Within the Xbox full screen experience, players will see their aggregated gaming library, giving them quick access to games from Xbox, Game Pass, Battle.net, and other leading PC storefronts. With this new feature, your Xbox library, hundreds of Game Pass titles (membership required), and all your installed games from other PC game stores are always at your fingertips.

    We’re also making handheld gaming more seamless through our investment in Xbox Play Anywhere. With support for over 1,000 games, a single purchase means you can play with Xbox, including your progress and achievements, across Xbox console, PC and Xbox Ally—at no additional cost. And when you power on your Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X, your favorite games are already there, ready to play. Whether you’ve been gaming on Xbox console, Xbox on PC, or in the cloud, everything syncs effortlessly. With Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) or Remote Play, you can access your full Xbox console library and keep playing—wherever you are.

    And yes…there’s still even more to come:

    • We’re excited to partner with Roblox for the launch of Xbox Ally. For the first time ever, Roblox will be playable natively and optimized for gaming handhelds, enabling players to play with millions of people and discover a variety of immersive games on day one.
    • We are working closely with our game developer partners on a brand-new program designed to help players easily identify which games have been optimized for handhelds, including the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. We will share more details soon. 
    • Players who purchase an Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X and are new to Game Pass will also be able to get started at no additional cost, accessing hundreds of games like Balatro, Gears Tactics, Vampire Survivors and more, straight from your device.
    • Players on either device will be able to tap into Gaming Copilot via Game Bar, a personalized gaming companion that helps you get to your favorite games faster, improve your skills, and connect you with your friends and communities.

    Two Great Choices & A First Look at Specs

    The Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are perfect for players looking to take an approachable gaming experience with you during travels— whether it’s between airports, or between the comfiest chairs in the living room.

    Both handhelds run on AMD processors that deliver premium gaming performance, immersive visuals, and more.

    The Xbox Ally offers great value for anyone looking to take their favorite games wherever they want to play, whether it’s Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Gears of War: Reloaded, Lies of P, South of Midnight, or many more. It’s powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor—balancing performance and power consumption to maximize battery life without sacrificing gameplay quality—16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage.

    The Xbox Ally X offers more for players looking to get the best level of performance and visual settings from their favorite games on a handheld. It features the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor—allowing us to power the latest AI features as they are introduced— double the storage to have more native games at your fingertips, and 24GB of high-speed RAM that more demanding games crave. The Xbox Ally X also features impulse triggers for more immersive play.

    Here’s how the specs compare between the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X:

        ROG Xbox Ally   ROG Xbox Ally X  
    Operating System   Windows 11 Home   Windows 11 Home  
     Comfort & input    Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall Effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU   Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control.  ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU  
    Processor   AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor   AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor  
    Memory   16GB LPDDR5X-6400   24GB LPDDR5X-8000  
    Storage   512GB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade   1TB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade  
    Display   7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9  
    120Hz refresh rate  
    FreeSync Premium  
    Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection     		 7” FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9  
    120Hz refresh rate  
    FreeSync Premium  
    Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection 
    I/O Ports   2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 / Power Delivery 3.0   1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0, Thunderbolt 4 compatible  
    1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC)   1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0  
    1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack   1x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC; UHS-I with DDR200 mode)  
        1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack  
    Network and Communication   Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4   Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4  
    Dimensions   290.8*121.5*50.7mm   290.8*121.5*50.7mm  
    670g   715g  
    Battery   60Wh   80Wh  
    Included   ROG Xbox Ally  65W charger  Stand   ROG Xbox Ally X  65W charger  Stand  

    Pre-orders, Pricing, Accessories and More – Coming Soon

    At launch this holiday, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X will be available in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with availability to follow for other markets where ROG Ally series products are sold today.

    But that’s not the only thing to look forward to. In the coming months, we’ll share even more details about the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, including pricing, compatible accessories, and pre-orders. Interested in pre-ordering? Please sign up here to be notified when pre-orders go live.

    We can’t wait to share more about the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. Thank you for joining us on this journey as we continue to fulfil our vision of delivering a consistent, approachable gaming experience anywhere—and meeting more players where you want to be.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Maintains No. 1 Position in European Microwave Market for 10 Consecutive Years

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics today announced that it achieved the highest market share in the European microwave segment in 2024, maintaining its No. 1 position for the tenth consecutive year.1
     
    According to data analytics company Euromonitor International, Samsung was ranked as Europe’s No. 1 selling microwave brand based on microwave sales volume in 2024. With this result, Samsung has held the top spot every year since 2015.
     
    “Samsung’s success in the European microwave market comes from our ability to align with what consumers value — a balance of design and intuitive usability,” said Taehwan Hwang, EVP and Head of the Sales & Marketing Team for the Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “We will continue to lead the market by leveraging our strengths in smart connectivity and premium design.”
     

    Making Design and Innovation Central to the Kitchen
    Samsung has targeted the European market with products offering premium design, reflecting the interest of local consumers in kitchen interiors. Since 2019, the company has offered its Bespoke Microwave lineup, which features seven colors2 options and a glass finish, a combination that quickly gained popularity across the region.
     
    To further enhance everyday convenience, Samsung introduced the MW7300B All-in-one Microwave Oven in 2024. Thanks to its SmartThings3 compatibility, users can monitor and control the microwave remotely4 with their smartphones, even when they are not in the kitchen. It can also be operated using voice assistants5 such as Bixby,6 for a seamless, connected cooking experience.

     
    To find out more about Samsung’s microwave products, visit Samsung.com.
     
     
    1 Source Euromonitor International Limited; Consumer Appliances 2025ed, “microwaves” as per Passport definitions; Retail Volume Sales in Units, 2024 data
    2 The available colors may differ by country. Once the color of the panels has been selected it cannot be changed again.
    3 Available on Android and iOS devices. A Wi-Fi connection and a Samsung account are required. The SmartThings Energy and SmartThings Home Care services are only available in certain countries.
    4 Only available when the Smart Control button on the microwave oven is turned on with hands.
    5 A Wi-Fi connection is required
    6 Bixby is Samsung’s Internet of Things (IoT) voice assistant. Bixby service availability may vary depending on the country. Bixby recognizes certain accents/dialects of English (US, UK, Indian), Chinese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. A Samsung account log-in and Wi-Fi connection are required.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The future of data: Microsoft Fabric Community Conference coming to Atlanta March 16-20

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: The future of data: Microsoft Fabric Community Conference coming to Atlanta March 16-20

    The Microsoft Fabric Community Conference is back for its third year—and we’re bringing everything and everybody you’ve loved at past events with us to Atlanta, Georgia. After unforgettable experiences at FabCon in Las Vegas and Stockholm, the Fabric community proved just how powerful it can be when we come together. With more than 13,000 attendees across our last three conferences, it’s clear: the Microsoft Fabric community is here to drive the future of data!   

    And yes, we’re pleased to announce; it’s happening again! Mark your calendars for #FabCon Atlanta from March 16-20, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Join us for the ultimate Microsoft Fabric, Power BI, SQL, Real-Time Intelligence, AI, and Databases community-led event. The third annual FabCon Americas will feature two full days of workshops ahead of sessions from your favorite Microsoft and community speakers, keynotes in the State Farm Arena, more opportunities to Ask the Experts for 1:1 support, an engaging community lounge with opportunities to network and connect with your peers, a dedicated partner pre-day, a packed expo hall, Power Hour, the second annual Data Viz World Championship, and a can’t-miss attendee party at the Georgia Aquarium.   

    FabCon features expert-led content by Microsoft MVPs, the Microsoft product team, partners, and the community itself. Whether you’re here to dive into the latest in Fabric, sharpen your skills, or build connections with data pros from around the world, FabCon 2026 has something for everyone.  

    • Don’t miss out—Register here and use code MSCATL for a $200 discount on top of current Super Early Bird pricing!   

    We can’t wait to take Atlanta by storm to celebrate all things Microsoft Fabric—where learning, innovation, and community collide!  

    What are some of the best things about FabCon coming to Atlanta? 

    • The GWCC will easily hold the 7,500 anticipated attendees. 
    • Flights into Atlanta are frequent, affordable, accessible, and often nonstop from almost anywhere in the world. 
    • Easy access to the GWCC and downtown from the airport via Ride Share or mass transit.   
    • Hotel availability to meet our needs within a five-block radius.   
    • Restaurants are plentiful and meals are more affordable than in many other cities. 
    • For the keynote, the conference center is adjacent to the State Farm Arena, the home of the Atlanta Hawks.  
    • The Georgia Aquarium will be an amazing location for the attendee party. They’ve got whale sharks!  

    Save your spot! 

    P.S. Want to experience the FabCon magic before next spring? Join us in September at FabCon Vienna. 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Moving the Boundaries of Financial Inclusion- A Regulatory Perspective – Address delivered by Shri M Rajeshwar Rao, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India – June 05, 2025 – at HSBC’s event for Financial Inclusion in Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Distinguished guests, participants, ladies and gentlemen, Good evening.

    At the outset, let me thank the organisers for inviting me to share some of my thoughts on the theme of financial inclusion. Before that, let me take a moment to acknowledge that today i.e., June 05, 2025, is the World Environment Day, an UN-recognized day that brings together people across the globe in a shared mission to safeguard and restore our planet. This year’s theme of ending plastic pollution is a call to all of us to make a behavioural shift in our daily life choices. In the spirit of preserving the purity of our environment and safeguarding our well-being, let us commit toward making more sustainable choices.

    2. Coming back to our theme for the day, let me begin by stating the obvious that financial inclusion is not just a policy objective but a collective obligation and responsibility for all stakeholders in the financial ecosystem. The importance of the theme can be underscored by the fact that at least seven out of the seventeen United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of 2030 view financial inclusion as a key enabler for achieving sustainable development worldwide by improving the quality of lives of poor and marginalized sections of the society. It is seen as a way to bridge the gap between the privileged and the under-privileged and a way to bring people out of poverty. An inclusive financial system has the potential to reduce income inequality and poverty, promote social cohesion and enable shared economic development. It also can dissuade the disadvantaged and low-income segments of society from seeking out informal options that renders them vulnerable to financial distress, debt, and poverty.

    History of Financial Inclusion in India

    3. Given the theme for today’s discourse, it would be worthwhile to set the historical context regarding financial inclusion in India. While the financial inclusion initiatives in our country can in many ways be traced back to the 1950s, with significant developments ensuing in the subsequent decade, it was the National Credit Council meeting of July 1968 that paved the way for framing of Priority Sector Lending (PSL) guidelines, nationalisation of select private banks in July 1969 and launch of the Lead Bank Scheme in December 1969 that were the precursors of this journey. The branch expansion policy adopted by RBI during the 1970s, which required a specific number of branches to be opened in rural areas for every branch opened in urban areas, became the foundation for expanding the reach of banking services that we see today. Besides, the experiments with group-based lending towards the turn of the last century and proliferation of microfinance institutions have also helped link the unserved section of the population with the formal banking system.

    4. Interestingly, the above initiatives were taken during a period when the term ‘financial inclusion’ was not prevalent in the country. The first reference to the term was made in RBI’s Annual Policy Statement for the Year 2005-06 by Dr Y.V. Reddy2, the then Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, who highlighted ‘financial exclusion’ that resulted due to certain banking practices. Banks were then urged to review their existing practices to align them with the objective of financial inclusion, leading to the genesis of ‘no frills’ account, which are now known as Basic Savings Bank Deposit Accounts.

    Financial Inclusion in Indian Context

    5. The first step in promoting financial inclusion is understanding its nuances, which are as dynamic and diverse as the Indian economy itself, and thereafter outline its ambit in the Indian context. Given its multi-faceted nature, various organisations and jurisdictions have defined financial inclusion in different ways. In India, the formal definition of financial inclusion3 was given in January 2008 by the Committee on Financial Inclusion chaired by Dr C Rangarajan as “the process of ensuring access to financial services and timely and adequate credit where needed by vulnerable groups such as weaker sections and low-income groups at an affordable cost”. Reflecting the priorities of that time, the definition focused largely on the access to financial services. Currently we have a scenario, where more than 95% households have access to a bank account4, which reflects remarkable progress on one out of three parameters of Financial Inclusion Index developed by the Reserve Bank to measure the extent of financial inclusion in the country.

    6. While there has been a significant progress in expanding the banking reach, it is also important to ensure that inherent barriers to a gamut of financial products and services are eliminated and usage of these services expands to various segments of yet underserved and un-served population in the country. Efforts towards making financial services accessible become futile if they are not used by the intended population or are used without appropriate awareness of its risks and benefits. Thus, the other two parameters of RBI’s financial inclusion index, viz., usage and quality of the financial services cannot be overlooked while defining or measuring financial inclusion. Over the last few years this index has shown reasonable improvement, but there is a scope for improvement in some aspects.

    Current Scenario

    7. To get a perspective on the current scenario, it would be worthwhile to dwell a bit on some of the recent developments in the journey of financial inclusion in the country. Several policy measures towards furthering financial inclusion have been undertaken from time to time, but it was the launch of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) that became the watershed moment in this journey. The Jan Dhan Yojana – Aadhar – Mobile i.e., JAM trinity provided a quantum leap in our endeavour to ensure access to banking services for all adults, making it the world’s largest financial inclusion program. As of May 21, 20255, 55.44 crore Jan Dhan accounts, 56% of which belong to women, have over ₹2.5 lakh crore worth of deposits, which speaks volumes about the impact of the scheme. The provision of universal access to bank accounts has not only increased the potential reach of other financial services but has also enabled frictionless delivery of welfare programs to the targeted segment through adoption of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

    Digital Payments

    8. Access to a bank account is a prerequisite for availing other financial services, and a robust payments and settlements system is an indispensable enabler for proliferation of formal financial services. Over the past decade, the fundamentals of banking have changed with the advent of digital modes of banking like net banking and mobile banking as well as digital payments systems like Unified Payment Interface (UPI). In FY 2024-25, digital payments surged 35% Y-o-Y by volume to 60.81 crore transactions per day, with UPI accounting for 83.73% of such transactions6. The extraordinary uptake of UPI stands as a testament to the power of collaborative and use-case-driven innovation in driving financial inclusion. A particularly compelling example of this transformation can be seen in the informal sector—where today a street vendor or pop-up store owner nonchalantly places a QR code at the fore and receives payment for services without any hassle for cash and quietly integrating himself into the formal financial system with dignity and ease.

    9. For further expanding and deepening the digital payments ecosystem in the country, a Payments Infrastructure and Development Fund has been constituted to encourage deployment of payment acceptance infrastructure. Further, all State and Union Territory Level Bankers’ Committees have been advised to identify districts and assign them to designated banks, with an endeavour to make these districts 100 per cent digitally enabled. The objective is to provide every eligible individual in the identified district at least one mode of digital payments viz., cards, net banking, UPI, AEPS7, etc. It is understood that as on March 31, 2025, 514 districts across 15 states and 6 UTs are 100 percent digitally enabled. This marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a digitally inclusive economy.

    RBI’s financial inclusion index.

    10. RBI’s financial inclusion index, which captures the extent of financial inclusion across the country, with four iterations published till date, has increased from 60.1 in March 2023 to 64.2 in March 2024, showing a Y-o-Y increase of 6.82 per cent. While the progress is appreciable, credit gaps still exist in the system which may be attributed amongst others to a lack of documentation available with the individuals/ entities in the informal system and of awareness regarding the various government schemes. There is as such a need to make concerted efforts to fill them.

    Recent regulatory initiatives

    11. The RBI has been sensitive to need to bring about improvement in the financial inclusion in the country. Some of the measures taken recently in this regard include raising the limit for collateral-free agriculture loans to ₹2 lakh per borrower, enhancing various loan limits under PSL, expansion of the list of eligible borrowers under the category of ‘Weaker Sections’ alongwith removal of existing cap on loans by UCBs to women beneficiaries. The scope of co-lending is proposed to be broadened by expanding the list of permitted regulated entities (REs) that can enter a co-lending arrangement and extending the same beyond PSL loans. A comprehensive review of the Lead Bank Scheme is also underway with an objective to enhance the effectiveness and impact of the scheme.

    12. With respect to digital payments, permissible transaction limit on UPI Lite has been revised in FY 2025 from ₹500 to ₹1000 and on UPI 123PAY from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 to encourage their wider adoption. Further, with a view to promote digital payments among individuals without bank accounts, UPI Circle has been introduced which allows a secondary user to make UPI transactions up to a limit from the primary user’s bank account in a secure manner. Besides, in an effort to enhance ease of access to digital infrastructure for persons with disabilities, payment system participants (PSPs) have been advised to review their payment systems and devices and carry out necessary modifications so that all such systems and devices can be easily accessed and used by persons with disabilities.

    Financial Literacy

    13. Meaningful financial inclusion also requires access and awareness in right proportions for ensuring responsible and equitable service delivery of financial services. Therefore, financial literacy and financial inclusion need to be considered as two sides of the same coin – promoting financial inclusion without adequate financial literacy would lead to underutilization of financial services and increased chances of errors and frauds. Conversely, educating the consumers without facilitating their access to the formal financial system would result into unmet demand for financial services. The efforts towards augmenting financing literacy have been institutionalised by setting up of the National Centre of Financial Education (NCFE) jointly by the financial sector regulators. RBI as a regulator has been at the forefront of financial literacy with the launch of annual Financial Literacy Week campaigns targeted at specified sections of the population. Financial awareness empowers borrowers to assess and understand financial products, thereby supporting informed decision-making. To facilitate informed decision making by the customers and enhance transparency by the lenders, the RBI has mandated that all REs provide a standardised disclosure of key terms and conditions in the form of Key Fact Statement (KFS) to all retail and MSME borrowers.

    Challenges

    14. Even as all the stakeholders in the financial system, including the regulator and the REs, play their part in advancing financial inclusion, certain issues that act as impediments to the efforts made in this regard have come to the fore and will need to be addressed. Let me briefly highlight a few such issues.

    Grievance Redressal

    15. Having an effective grievance redressal mechanism is non-negotiable for financial sector enterprises as non-resolution of consumer’s concerns not only leads to erosion of customer base but also results in loss of trust in the broader financial system and deters new consumers from entering the system. It is concerning that the complaints received at the Offices of RBI Ombudsmen as well as Centralized Receipt and Processing Centres (CRPCs) marked a sharp 33% year-on-year increase8 in FY2023-24. This raises questions on the products, practices, and handling of grievances at the level of the RE. REs, therefore, need to analyse the gaps and strengthen their processes to reverse the trend of increasing grievances.

    Mis-selling

    16. While financial inclusion entails a bouquet of financial services, pushing the same indiscriminately to unaware consumers may be detrimental to their well-being and undermine its stated intent. There are reports of mis-selling of financial services such as insurance products. The concern is that such mis-selling without regard to suitability and appropriateness would beget distrust in schemes aimed at providing a safety net to the low-income households by creating artificial boundaries. We are examining whether it necessitates framing of guidelines to address mis-selling of financial products and services by REs.

    Cyber Safety and Digital Literacy

    17. As digitalization becomes more pervasive, the need for increasing digital literacy becomes even more pronounced. Empowering individuals to use digital devices and platforms with confidence and security is essential to ensuring inclusive participation in the digital economy. Often, apprehensions related to uncertainty, the possibility of errors, or financial loss create psychological barriers that hinder the adoption of technological solutions such as ATMs, mobile banking, and other digital services. The rising incidents of frauds through novel techniques makes it imperative that REs collaborate with other stakeholders like SROs, NGOs, etc. to generate awareness and promote safe digital practices among customers.

    18. At the same time, it is critical for REs to implement effective measures to combat digital frauds. One such area warranting attention is the use of One-Time Passwords (OTPs) as a means of Additional Factor Authentication (AFA). While this method has served well in the past, the evolving threat landscape in the arena of cybersecurity now calls for the development and adoption of more secure and resilient alternatives. Further, REs must diligently adopt the designated 160 number series9 for all service and transactional voice calls as prescribed by the Government. This initiative is critical to maintaining the integrity of communication channels and protecting customers from phishing and other forms of cyber-attacks.

    19. RBI has been running extensive multimedia awareness campaigns using audio-visual messages under the name ‘RBI Kehta Hai’ and text messages as ‘RBI Says’. Further, RBI has introduced the bank.in and fin.in domains exclusively for banks and non-bank entities to curb cyber security threats and malicious activities. Also, to aid the customers in verifying Digital Lending Apps’ (DLAs) association with RE, the RBI has created a public repository of DLAs deployed by the REs which will soon be available on RBI’s website.

    Developments in Microfinance

    20. Let me now focus on a few developments in Microfinance sector. Microfinance has placed itself as a promising avenue for providing formal financial services to the excluded sections of population. While microfinance has played an important role in financial inclusion, there are some issues which need attention. The sector continues to suffer from vicious cycle of over-indebtedness, high interest rates and harsh recovery practices. While some moderation in interest rates charged on microfinance loans has been observed in recent quarters, pockets of high interest rates and elevated margins continue to persist. Even lenders having access to low-cost funds have been found to be charging margins significantly higher than the rest of the industry and which in several instances appear to be excessive. The lenders should look beyond the conventional “high-yielding business” tag for the sector and approach it with an empathic and developmental perspective, recognising the socio-economic role that microfinance plays in empowering vulnerable communities.

    21. The frequency of disruptions in the microfinance sector has increased of late. Incidents of high borrower indebtedness, coupled with coercive recovery practices, sometimes lead to tragic consequences. It is in the collective interest of all stakeholders that such disruptions are pre-emptively addressed and avoided. In this regard, REs must also enhance their credit appraisal frameworks to prevent over-leveraging of borrowers. Additionally, they must eschew any coercive or unethical recovery practices, ensuring that financial services are delivered in a manner that is both responsible and sustainable. While the business model may be sound, the organisational structure and the incentive schemes framed to deliver the services may be flawed resulting in perverse outcomes for customers. This calls for an introspection around the models.

    Way Forward

    22. Even as we reflect on some of these challenges, we need to be clear about the path that we must take to ensure greater financial inclusion. As we look to the future, the way forward for financial inclusion lies in the strategic deployment of emerging technologies to build a more accessible, equitable, and efficient financial ecosystem. Innovations such as AI, blockchain, and digital public infrastructure are revolutionizing how financial services are delivered, especially to the underserved and remote communities. One such innovation in this space is the Account Aggregator (AA) framework. By empowering individuals to securely share their financial data with consent, the AA system enables more accurate credit assessments and potentially facilitates the delivery of customized financial products. Building on this foundation, the Unified Lending Interface (ULI) standardizes and streamlines the digital lending process by providing lenders with a host of alternate data including digitised state land records, milk pouring data and satellite data. It’s RBI’s belief that the JAM trinity will be followed by the new trinity of JAM-UPI-ULI in revolutionizing digital infrastructure and credit delivery and provide necessary fillip to financial inclusion efforts, pushing it to new highs.

    23. The development and implementation of India Stack has revolutionised the banking landscape in India and has been instrumental in furthering financial inclusion by reducing infrastructural, geographical, and linguistic frictions and plugging leakages. REs have been encouraged to innovate in product design, offering solutions that reflect the unique needs of their customer base; for instance, offering flexibility in repayment schedules, variable savings contributions, and locally tailored financial products shaped by seasonal income cycles, occupational patterns, or behavioural tendencies. Such customisation can go a long way in further improving access, usage, and quality of financial services. REs can bring some of these innovations under the theme neutral ‘On Tap’ Regulatory Sandbox framework, which provides a structured environment for testing state-of-the-art solutions in the interest of consumers and financial stability. As connectivity can pose challenges in remote and rural areas, REs can explore the development of lightweight mobile applications and web interfaces optimised for low-bandwidth environments. These measures will go a long way in extending the reach of digital financial services to the last mile, thereby ensuring inclusive and accessible banking for all.

    24. A lot has been achieved in the journey for achieving financial inclusion thus far, yet a lot more needs to be done. It cannot be merely achieved by standalone policy initiatives but by implementation of such initiatives both in letter and spirit by all stakeholders in the financial ecosystem. Also, those who remain outside the ambit of formal finance today represent untapped potential that can meaningfully contribute to economic growth in the future. The dividends of such inclusion will not only accrue to the institutions involved but will also strengthen the foundation of a more resilient, equitable, and prosperous society. Financial inclusion should not be viewed as an act of philanthropy, but rather as a strategic investment in the nation’s economic and social development. With the right mix of well thought of and carefully crafted regulation, technological advancement, and institutional empathy, our collective efforts can dismantle longstanding barriers and usher in a new era of inclusive and sustainable financial growth – one that leaves no citizen behind and resonates far beyond set boundaries.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Large Exposures Framework – Amendment in the list of exempted exposures

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/48
    DOR.CRE.REC.27/21.01.003/2025-26

    June 9, 2025

    All Scheduled Commercial Banks (Excluding Regional Rural Banks)

    Madam / Dear Sir,

    Large Exposures Framework – Amendment in the list of exempted exposures

    Please refer to paragraph 3.1 of the Annex to the circular DBR.No.BP.BC.43/21.01.003/2018-19 dated June 03, 2019 on ‘Large Exposures Framework’ (LEF) in terms of which “deposits maintained with NABARD on account of shortfall in achievement of targets for priority sector lending” are excluded from being considered for exposure limits under LEF.

    2. In this connection, it is advised that in addition to NABARD, the above exemption shall also be applicable to contribution made by the scheduled commercial banks to funds with NHB, SIDBI, MUDRA Ltd., or any other entity specified by RBI, on account of shortfall in achievement of targets for priority sector lending.

    3. The above instruction is applicable with immediate effect.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Vaibhav Chaturvedi)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Non-achievement of PSL targets – Prudential treatment of contribution towards eligible funds with NABARD, NHB, SIDBI and MUDRA Ltd.

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/49
    DoR.CRE.REC.28/07.10.002/2025-26

    June 9, 2025

    Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks other than Salary Earners’ Banks

    Madam / Dear Sir,

    Non-achievement of PSL targets – Prudential treatment of contribution towards eligible funds with NABARD, NHB, SIDBI and MUDRA Ltd.

    A. Exemption from exposure norms

    In terms of para 2.1 of circular DOR (PCB).BPD.Cir No.10/13.05.000/2019-20 dated March 13, 2020 on ‘Limits on exposure to single and group borrowers/parties and large exposures and Revision in the target for priority sector lending – UCBs’, the prudential exposure limits for UCBs for a single borrower/party and a group of connected borrowers/parties are specified as 15 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively, of their tier-I capital.

    2. On a review, it has been decided that the contribution1 by UCBs towards eligible funds with NABARD, NHB, SIDBI, MUDRA Ltd., or any other entity specified by RBI, on account of shortfall in PSL targets shall not be included while computing the aggregate exposure of a UCB to such counterparties for the purpose of deciding the above prudential exposure limits.

    B. Risk weight

    3. It is further clarified that contribution by UCBs towards above eligible funds on account of shortfall in PSL targets, shall fall under the category of ‘all other assets’, attracting a risk weight of 100 per cent2 for capital adequacy purposes, in terms of Annexure 1 of the RBI circular UBD.No.POT.PCB.Cir.No.45/09.116.00/2000-01 dated April 25, 2001 on ‘Application of Capital Adequacy Norms to Urban (Primary) Co-operative Banks’.

    C. Applicability

    4. The above instructions are applicable with immediate effect.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Vaibhav Chaturvedi)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Of Passion, Perseverance and Patents: Women Innovators at SRI-B

    Source: Samsung

    Young innovators from SRI-B, Shweta, Anusha and Meghana (from L-R)
     
    Innovation is not born in labs—it takes shape in minds that dare to ask “what if?”
     
    At the heart of Samsung R&D Institute India, Bangalore (SRI-B), three remarkable women—Meghana, Anusha, and Shweta—are pushing those boundaries.
     
    And their journeys prove that curiosity is not just a spark, it’s a force. From quiet moments of problem-solving to the thrill of seeing an idea patented, these remarkable engineers are paving the way for a future where more women lead innovation in tech.
     
    Discipline and Depth: Anusha’s IP journey in Cellular Tech
    Anusha has 92 global patent filings! Her pathway to success is driven by diligent learning and disciplined innovation. Since her patent journey began in 2015, she has become a powerhouse in the physical layer of cellular communications, with many global patents spanning 4G and emerging 6G technologies. For Anusha, her innovation journey centers on deeply mastering the intricate 3GPP standards and receiver algorithms within the cellular physical layer, then identifying and solving advanced problems that bridge these frameworks. She emphasizes the importance of protecting and nurturing one’s unique problem-solving skills to carve out a distinct niche for oneself. “Innovation is a skill that can be cultivated through the right practice with great discipline,” she says. Her collaborative approach fuels continuous growth.
     
    From Curiosity to Creation: Meghana’s journey through explorative research 
    “Building something from scratch is messy, iterative but is deeply rewarding,” says Meghana. When she joined SRI-B in late 2022, her goal was simple: design a high fidelity multicapture rig for hand tracking in the immersive XR space. What began as a hands-on engineering challenge soon turned into a progressive patent journey with over 29 global filings, and still counting. Her explorations, in setting up a state-of-art multicapture rig with her team soon became a launchpad for discoveries on hand kinematics, low-light tracking, and fatigue detection. Meghana’s story reveals how innovation is often less about grand visions and more about meticulous, iterative exploration.
     
    Exploration and Excellence: Shweta’s journey Through Network Innovation
    Shweta’s experience offers a glimpse into the early sparks of curiosity that fuel long-term innovation. Her first stint with patents came through a shelved idea on RF elements, which nonetheless ignited a lasting interest in intellectual property. Specializing in Non-Access Stratum (NAS) and later expanding to network layers, Shweta has contributed to critical patents in 5G and beyond. Her journey highlights the importance of mentorship and a supportive environment. Shweta firmly believes that patience to nurture ideas from start to finish is key in the generation of patents. “Collaboration with the right people also helps to refine and elevate these ideas into impactful innovations,” she added.
     
    Her track record of 73 patent filings continues to inspire many.
     
    Unstoppable Spirit: Beyond Numbers
    What unites these three women is a shared belief that innovation is about more than just the number of patents filed. It is about solving meaningful problems, pushing boundaries, and nurturing a culture of curiosity and collaboration. Their stories remind us that women innovators are not just participants but leaders in shaping technology’s future. By bringing in deep passion, hands-on engineering, disciplined scholarship, and open collaboration, Meghana, Anusha, and Shweta are quietly setting new benchmarks in technology.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Basel III Capital Regulations – External Credit Assessment Institution (ECAI)

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/50
    DOR.STR.REC.29/21.06.008/2025-26

    June 09, 2025

    All Scheduled Commercial Banks
    (including Small Finance Banks)
    (excluding Local Area Banks, Payments Banks and Regional Rural Banks)

    Dear Sir/ Madam,

    Basel III Capital Regulations – External Credit Assessment Institution (ECAI)

    Please refer to paragraph 6.1.2 of the Master Circular No. DOR.CAP.REC.2/21.06.201/2025-26 dated April 1, 2025 on Basel III Capital Regulations, wherein the list of domestic credit rating agencies accredited for the purpose of risk weighting banks’ claims for capital adequacy purposes has been prescribed.

    2. A reference is also invited to the circular DOR.STR.REC.26/21.06.008/2024-25 dated July 10, 2024 in terms of which, banks were permitted to use the ratings of Brickwork Ratings India Private Limited (BRIPL) for risk weighting their claims for capital adequacy purposes subject to the restrictions/limits specified therein.

    3. On a review, it has been decided to remove the restrictions/ limits placed on the use of ratings of BRIPL by the banks.

    4. All other provisions regarding external credit ratings stipulated in the Master Circular ibid remain unchanged.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Vaibhav Chaturvedi)
    Chief General Manager

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Barclays is scaling Microsoft 365 Copilot to 100,000 employees, putting AI in every employee’s hands. This will simplify how they access information, get things done, and make Copilot the UI for Barclays AI.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Barclays is scaling Microsoft 365 Copilot to 100,000 employees, putting AI in every employee’s hands. This will simplify how they access information, get things done, and make Copilot the UI for Barclays AI.

    A strong move – not just a tech upgrade, but a shift in daily workflows at scale. When Copilot becomes the UI, it’s less about features and more about how decisions, documents, and dialogue are all being reframed through AI. Curious to see how this plays out in regulated environments like finance.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Authority contributing to global fintech event

    Source: Isle of Man

    The Head of Innovation Strategy at the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority is taking part in an international conference focusing on fintech innovation and emerging technologies.

    Ros Lynch has been invited to contribute to a panel discussion at the Global Government Fintech Lab 2025 in Dublin on Wednesday 11 June. The flagship event brings together professionals from more than 20 countries to share expertise and experience about how financial authorities are using technology to improve their operations and delivery.

    Ros is appearing alongside panellists from Latvia, Portugal and Ireland to discuss how regulators and supervisors are seeking to foster financial innovation to achieve better outcomes for stakeholders.

    Participating in the one-day conference supports the Authority’s international engagement and its commitment to embracing innovation within an appropriately regulated environment.

    Ros said: ‘This is an excellent opportunity to tap into the expertise of fintech professionals from around the world. The Authority continues to work collaboratively with industry, government and international partners to promote the Isle of Man as a good place to locate and grow tech-focused businesses.’

    She added: ‘We place a strong focus on data and technology to support our risk-based approach to supervising the Island’s finance sector. The panel discussion will provide an opportunity for me to showcase how a smaller jurisdiction such as ours can harness the power of fintech innovation to enhance regulatory efficiency and responsiveness.’

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ADB, CGIAR, and Gates Foundation Partner to Transform Rice Sector, Uplift Millions of Smallholder Farmers in Asia and the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    ADB and CGIAR, with support from the Gates Foundation, have launched a new initiative to boost investments in sustainable and low-carbon rice production with the aim of improving the lives of millions of vulnerable smallholder farmers across Asia and the Pacific.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Moa Housing: A Small-Scale Approach to Transform Seoul’s Aging Neighborhoods

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Introduction

    The city of Seoul’s Moa Housing initiative is an innovative urban renewal strategy launched in 2022 to revitalize aging, low-rise residential areas that are difficult to redevelop on a larger scale. These neighborhoods—developed in the 1960s and 1980s—consist of compact, multi-family housing districts with narrow streets, insufficient parking, outdated infrastructure, and limited green spaces.

    To overcome these challenges, the initiative introduces a new model that consolidates small plots of land for collective development, enabling residents to build high-quality housing while securing underground parking, green spaces, and other infrastructure. Once consolidated and infrastructure is established, these areas are designated as “Moa Towns.”

    Unlike conventional redevelopment—which can take 10 years and require two-thirds of buildings to be in poor condition—Moa Housing operates on a faster four to five-year timeline. It streamlines the process and offers favorable conditions, including regulatory exemptions and incentives. The program is built on resident participation, supported by public–private partnerships, and aims to provide 30,000 new homes across 100 Moa Towns in 25 years, with the first town scheduled for completion in 2028.

    What is the Moa Housing initiative?

    Moa Housing is a maintenance project in which homeowners collectively own and manage individual parcels of land and develop them together into high-quality housing on a block-by-block basis. It is a small-scale urban renewal model focused on low-rise residential areas that are hard to redevelop under traditional large-scale projects.

    How does the Moa Housing model work?

    The model gathers low-rise areas (within 100,000 square meters) with a mix of old and new buildings, establishes a regional unit, and creates a management plan. Once underground parking and green spaces are secured, the area is designated as a “Moa Town” and implemented through a streamlined process with better incentives than conventional redevelopment.

    What problems does Moa Housing address?

    Moa Housing targets long-standing issues common in aging, low-rise neighborhoods that hinder livability and safety. These include:

    • High-density housing areas with illegal parking and resident conflict
    • Narrow streets that obstruct fire trucks and emergency response
    • Topographical challenges that make access during emergencies and evacuation difficult
    • Inadequate infrastructure such as parking lots, parks, and green space
    • Fragmented development when using building-by-building improvements

    How does Moa Housing differ from conventional redevelopment?

    Moa Housing offers a more flexible and expedited alternative to traditional redevelopment models. Key differences include the following:

    • Traditional redevelopment requires at least two-thirds of buildings be in poor condition—Moa Housing does not.
    • Projects can proceed without major building deterioration in hard-to-develop locations.
    • Moa Housing projects are exempt from architectural and urban management standards, such as height and floor area ratio, as long as site conditions are met.
    • Timeline is significantly faster: 4–5 years versus 10 years or more for conventional projects.

    How are Moa Towns selected?

    There are two methods:

    • A contest conducted by borough offices
    • Consultation based on residents’ proposals

    After meeting eligibility conditions, a management plan must be submitted to the autonomous district. The required conditions are:

    • At least two cooperatives must be established to implement small-scale housing maintenance.
    • Consent from at least two-thirds of the land area targeted by the project must be obtained.

    As of June 2025, 111 neighborhoods have been selected as Moa Town project sites. One site is currently under construction and expected to be completed around 2028.

    What happens once an area is designated as a Moa Town?

    Each autonomous district prepares a Moa Town Management Plan, which is shared with residents and reviewed by a committee. After approval, the plan is granted legal status as a “small housing maintenance management area.” The project then proceeds.

    What financial support does the city provide?

    The Seoul Metropolitan Government pledges to provide 70% of the establishment cost (up to 380 million won per site) for management plan formulation. The remaining 30% is covered by the district.

    What kinds of projects are included under Moa Housing?

    Moa Housing includes various small-scale maintenance types under the Small-scale Housing Maintenance Act:

    • Autonomous housing maintenance
    • Street housing maintenance
    • Small-scale reconstruction
    • Small-scale redevelopment

    Projects are implemented through joint development using architectural agreements.

    What types of improvements are made in Moa Towns?

    Moa Towns are designed to enhance livability through shared infrastructure and better land use. These improvements include:

    • Underground parking lots and increased green spaces
    • Community and shared facilities along low-rise streets
    • Upgraded living infrastructure, including community amenities
    • More integrated, accessible environments for residents

    What makes the business model feasible and attractive?

    The Moa Housing model streamlines redevelopment and offers strong financial and regulatory support, including:

    • Shorter business cycle of 4–5 years compared to 10 years
    • Exemptions from zoning and urban design rules
    • Upzoning and simplified commercial use changes
    • Government subsidies improve project profitability
    • Public architect support for design and planning

    Were there any early difficulties with the project?

    Residents initially had limited understanding of the project’s scope, and promotional efforts were insufficient. Momentum improved after the SH Corporation launched a pilot Moa Town site, focusing on areas with constraints (e.g., height restrictions) and helping raise awareness.

    What are some example sites of Moa Housing in action?

    • An old low-rise residential area near Jungnang Station with a high density of multi-family dwellings.
    • Junghwa 1-dong, Jungnang-gu: Existing dilapidated housing is being transformed into a complex with new infrastructure and essential amenities.

    What are the long-term goals and outcomes of the project?

    Moa Housing aims to transform Seoul’s aging neighborhoods into vibrant, sustainable communities. Its key goals include:

    • Deliver 30,000 homes in 25 years
    • Designate 100 Moa Towns across Seoul
    • Rejuvenate aging districts while addressing housing shortages
    • Enhance quality of life and revitalize local economies
    • Promote energy-efficient buildings, green spaces, and job creation

    How does Moa Housing promote inclusion and diversity in housing?

    By providing a range of housing types, the initiative accommodates varied income levels and lifestyles, promoting a more inclusive housing market.

    The Moa Town project is predicated on the principle of community participation, with residents playing an active role in the planning and execution of the project. Residents are directly involved in the planning and implementation of the project, creating a customized residential environment that reflects the actual needs and wants of the residents. The development of the local economy is twofold: (i) it contributes to improving living spaces, and (ii) it contributes to the economic development of the local area.

    What are the economic development benefits?

    Moa Housing injects public funds into key infrastructure like public parking and parks, which improves local conditions and boosts business profitability. The simplified regulatory framework enhances efficiency for developers.

    What partnerships support Moa Housing?

    Moa Housing is driven by collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure efficient project delivery. This joint approach ensures cost-effective execution.

    • Public sector: responsible for licensing, financing, and infrastructure
    • Private sector: responsible for construction and project implementation

    Figure 1: Overview of available support for joint project

    Source: Seoul Metropolitan Government.

    What are the risks or drawbacks of the model?

    While Moa Housing offers many benefits, it also faces some limitations that can impact implementation:

    • Higher construction costs than typical redevelopment
    • Requires resident consent, which may be hard to obtain
    • Less popular than large-scale complexes
    • As a new initiative, outcomes are not yet fully determined

    When selectively applied, Moa Housing facilitates more efficient urban maintenance.

    What lessons can cities learn from Moa Housing?

    The initiative provides valuable insights into small-scale, community-centered urban renewal:

    • Supports structural change in low-rise housing at appropriate densities
    • Addresses issues such as isolated projects, inadequate infrastructure, and disconnected living environments
    • Demonstrates how community engagement, sustainable design, and localized planning can deliver high-impact results
    • Offers a scalable, replicable model for other urban centers facing similar renewal challenges

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BYD’s growth hinges on EV demand stability and financial transparency, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    BYD’s growth hinges on EV demand stability and financial transparency, says GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Following the news that China-based electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD Co Ltd is under scrutiny as its rapidly rising accounts payables raise concerns over a potential hidden debt burden;

    Murthy Grandhi, Company Profiles Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:

    “BYD posted record 2024 results with revenues of $108.1 billion (CNY777.1 billion) (+29% year-on-year (YoY)) and net profit of $5.6 billion (CNY40.2 billion) (+34% YoY). However, experts warn that the company’s growing reliance on supply chain financing could expose it to serious financial risks if market conditions deteriorate.

    “Despite holding $17.8 billion (CNY102.5 billion) in cash and reducing total debt to $5.8 billion (CNY194.2 billion), BYD’s accounts payables rose 24.3% YoY to $33.6 billion (CNY241.6 billion) in 2024, reaching $34.9 billion (CNY250.8 billion) by March 2025. Over five years, this figure has grown at a CAGR of 41.2%, outpacing both revenue and profit growth.

    “BYD’s financing method involves issuing commercial paper to suppliers, who then sell it to banks. These are treated as trade finance, not corporate debt. However, if credit sentiment shifts, this paper could trade below par. Banks may demand cash, suppliers may go unpaid, and production lines could stall—like Evergrande’s liquidity crisis.

    “The broader risk is systemic. BYD anchors a vast ecosystem of parts suppliers, particularly in Guangdong and Hunan provinces, employing over 900,000 people. A disruption in payments could trigger a liquidity shock across the supply chain.

    “GlobalData emphasizes that this model is only vulnerable under significant market stress. If EV demand drops or credit tightens, BYD may need to accelerate supplier payments or seek external funding—both of which could strain its liquidity. BYD’s capacity to sustain growth while ensuring financial transparency will be vital to preserving investor confidence amid its increasingly leveraged expansion.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Fannie Mae Publishes May 2025 National Housing Survey Results

    Source: Fannie Mae

    Follow Fannie Mae
    fanniemae.com 

    Media Contact
    Matthew Classick
    202-752-3662

    Fannie Mae Newsroom
    https://www.fanniemae.com/news

    Photo of Fannie Mae
    https://www.fanniemae.com/resources/img/about-fm/fm-building.tif

    Fannie Mae Resource Center
    1-800-2FANNIE

    Opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views of Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research (ESR) Group or survey respondents included in these materials should not be construed as indicating Fannie Mae’s business prospects or expected results, are based on a number of assumptions, and are subject to change without notice. How this information affects Fannie Mae will depend on many factors. Although the ESR Group bases its opinions, analyses, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views on information it considers reliable, it does not guarantee that the information provided in these materials is accurate, current, or suitable for any particular purpose. Changes in the assumptions or the information underlying these views could produce materially different results. The analyses, opinions, estimates, forecasts, beliefs, and other views published by the ESR Group represent the views of that group or survey respondents as of the date indicated and do not necessarily represent the views of Fannie Mae or its management.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thin, Light and Built to Last: The New Era of the Galaxy Z Series

    Source: Samsung

    While people have long valued smartphones for their power, convenience and usability, they’ve also expected a mobile device that blends versatility with portability. At Samsung Electronics, our drive to deliver the ultimate mobile experience has always been guided by the needs of our users. This unwavering commitment to meeting their evolving needs has driven the development and ongoing refinement of innovative form factors that consistently redefine the parameters of mobile experiences.
     
    Introduced in 2019, the first Galaxy Fold was a completely new form factor that combined the portability of a smartphone with the extensive productivity of a tablet — challenging conventional perceptions of what a smartphone could be. Driven by the bold vision that foldable phones could reconcile two seemingly conflicting demands — large screens and true portability — Samsung looked to other industries for inspiration, engineering a durable hinge and proving that smartphone displays, too, could fold. It was a synthesis of creativity and productivity that unlocked new possibilities — from seamless multitasking on the go to immersive content creation.
     
    But smartphones are constant companions that we tuck into our pockets, use with one hand and take everywhere we go. So it’s only natural that users desire a foldable device that is as easy to carry as it is to use. To that end,  Samsung engineers and designers are refining each generation of the Galaxy Z series to be thinner, lighter and more durable than the last.
     

    * Image simulated for illustrative purposes
     
    This year, that journey reaches a new milestone. The newest Galaxy Z series is the thinnest, lightest and most advanced foldable yet — meticulously crafted and built to last.
     
    The Ultra experience is ready to unfold.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the ASEAN Committee in Oslo

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, started off his working visit to Norway with the meeting with the ASEAN Committee in Oslo (ACO), on 9 June 2025. During the meeting, Dr. Kao thanked the Committee for its active role and contribution in promoting the profile and visibility of ASEAN in Norway, and in enhancing ASEAN-Norway relations. Dr. Kao also shared thoughts on ways to further strengthen the ASEAN-Norway Sectoral Dialogue Partnership and briefed the Committee on the latest developments in ASEAN. The Meeting was followed by a dinner reception with the ACO and other key stakeholders, including Norway-ASEAN Business Association, where Dr. Kao delivered remarks reaffirming ASEAN’s unwavering commitment to deepening its partnership with Norway in the years to come.
     
    Download the full remarks here.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the ASEAN Committee in Oslo appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple supercharges its tools and technologies for developers

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple supercharges its tools and technologies for developers

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple supercharges its tools and technologies for developers to foster creativity, innovation, and design

    Access to the on-device Apple Intelligence model, large language model integration in Xcode, and an elegant new software design across Apple platforms give developers everything they need to build beautiful modern apps with speed and confidence

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new technologies and enhancements to its developer tools to help developers create more beautiful, intelligent, and engaging app experiences across Apple platforms. A beautiful new software design brings more focus to content, and delivers more expressive and delightful experiences across iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26,1 while keeping them all instantly familiar. The Foundation Models framework joins a suite of tools that allow developers to tap into on-device intelligence, and Xcode 26 leverages large language models like ChatGPT, giving them access to Xcode’s Coding Tools and other intelligent features.

    These new resources join the extensive and continuously evolving set of technologies Apple offers developers, including over 250,000 APIs that enable developers to integrate their apps with Apple’s hardware and software features. These APIs span a wide range of capabilities, such as machine learning, augmented reality, health and fitness, spatial computing, and high-performance graphics. With each platform release, Apple expands and refines its technologies and tools to assist developers in bringing their ideas to life and delivering rich, responsive, and optimized experiences across Apple platforms.

    “Developers play a vital role in shaping the experiences customers love across Apple platforms,” said Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations. “With access to the on-device Apple Intelligence foundation model and new intelligence features in Xcode 26, we’re empowering developers to build richer, more intuitive apps for users everywhere.”

    New Design with Liquid Glass

    The elegant new design gives developers the opportunity to make their apps more expressive and delightful, while being instantly familiar. It’s crafted with a new software-based material called Liquid Glass, which combines the optical qualities of glass with a sense of fluidity. This gorgeous new material extends from the smallest elements users interact with every day — like buttons, switches, sliders, text, and media controls — to larger elements, including tab bars and sidebars for navigating apps.

    Native frameworks like SwiftUI give developers everything they need to adopt the new design in their apps. The universal design allows developers to bring greater focus to their users’ content, establishing a consistent experience when developing across Apple’s platforms.

    With the all-new Icon Composer app, developers and designers are empowered to create visually captivating app icons that enhance their app’s identity. This powerful tool helps create a consistent visual identity for app icons by annotating layers for multiple rendering modes, with advanced features that include blurring, adjusting translucency, testing specular highlights, and previewing icons in various tints.

    Foundation Models Framework

    With the Foundation Models framework, developers will be able to build on Apple Intelligence to bring users new experiences that are intelligent, available when they’re offline, and that protect their privacy, using AI inference that is free of cost.

    The framework has native support for Swift, so developers can easily access the Apple Intelligence model with as few as three lines of code. Guided generation, tool calling, and more are all built into the framework, making it easier than ever to implement generative capabilities right into an existing app. For example, Automattic is using the framework in its Day One journaling app to bring users privacy-centric intelligence features.

    “The Foundation Model framework has helped us rethink what’s possible with journaling,” said Paul Mayne, head of Day One at Automattic. “Now we can bring intelligence and privacy together in ways that deeply respect our users.”

    Xcode 26

    Xcode 26 is packed with intelligence features and experiences to help developers make their ideas a reality.

    Developers can connect large language models directly into their coding experience to write code, tests, and documentation; iterate on a design; fix errors; and more. Xcode has built-in support for ChatGPT, and developers can use API keys from other providers, or run local models on their Mac with Apple silicon, to choose the model that best suits their needs. Developers can start using ChatGPT in Xcode without needing to create an account, and subscribers can connect their accounts to access more requests.2

    Coding Tools help developers stay in the flow and be more productive in their tasks. Accessible from anywhere in a developer’s code, Coding Tools provide suggested actions like generating a preview or a playground, or fixing an issue, and can also handle specific prompts for other tasks right inline.

    Xcode 26 comes with additional features to keep developers focused and productive, like a redesigned navigation experience, improvements to the localization catalog, and improved support for Voice Control to dictate Swift code and navigate the Xcode interface entirely by voice.

    App Intents

    App Intents lets developers deeply integrate their app’s actions and content with system experiences across platforms, including Siri, Spotlight, widgets, controls, and more.

    This year, App Intents gains support for visual intelligence. This enables apps to provide visual search results within the visual intelligence experience, allowing users to go directly into the app from those results. For instance, Etsy is leveraging visual intelligence to enhance the user experience in its iOS app by facilitating faster and more intuitive discovery of goods and products.

    “At Etsy, our job is to seamlessly connect shoppers with creative entrepreneurs around the world who offer extraordinary items — many of which are hard to describe. The ability to meet shoppers right on their iPhone with visual intelligence is a meaningful unlock, and makes it easier than ever for buyers to quickly discover exactly what they’re looking for while directly supporting small businesses,” said Etsy CTO Rafe Colburn.

    Swift 6.2

    Swift 6.2 introduces powerful features to enhance performance, concurrency, and interoperability with other languages like C++, Java, and JavaScript. And now, in collaboration with the open-source community, Swift 6.2 gains support for WebAssembly.

    Building upon Swift 6’s strict concurrency checking, Swift 6.2 simplifies writing single-threaded code. Developers can now configure modules or individual files to run on the main actor by default, eliminating the need for additional annotations.

    Containerization Framework

    The Containerization framework enables developers to create, download, or run Linux container images directly on Mac. It’s built on an open-source framework optimized for Apple silicon and provides secure isolation between container images.

    Tools and Resources for Games

    Game Porting Toolkit 3 provides developers with updated tools for evaluating and profiling their game. Developers can now customize the Metal Performance HUD, and get onscreen insights and guidance for optimizing graphics code for the best possible performance in the evaluation environment. And developers can use Mac Remote Developer Tools for Windows to build Mac games on a remote Mac in their existing development workflows.

    Metal 4 is designed exclusively for Apple silicon, and sets the stage for the next generation of games on Apple platforms with support for advanced graphics and machine learning technologies.

    Developers can now run inference networks directly in their shaders to compute lighting, materials, and geometry, enabling highly realistic visual effects for their games. MetalFX Frame Interpolation generates an intermediate frame for every two input frames to achieve higher and more stable frame rates, and MetalFX Denoising makes real-time ray tracing and path tracing possible in the most advanced games.

    The Apple Games app gives players a new all-in-one destination for all of their games and the friends they play them with on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It also introduces a new dedicated app for developers to reengage their existing players and attract new ones.

    Challenges give players a new way to compete with friends in score-based showdowns, turning single-player games into shared experiences. Developers that have Game Center leaderboards for their games can easily add challenges, offering players even more ways to rally a group, crown a winner, and have a rematch.

    Game Overlay enhances in-game engagement by integrating Game Center features directly into gameplay. Players can access their next achievement and recent scores, and see which friends are currently playing, making it easy to start a chat — all without leaving the game. Players can also adjust settings and view the latest In-App Events, keeping them connected and in control without breaking immersion.

    Managed Background Assets simplifies asset hosting for developers, giving them control over how their app or game downloads assets. Developers can self-host or opt for Apple-Hosted Background Assets, where Apple handles hosting. Every Apple Developer Program membership includes 200GB of Apple hosting capacity for the App Store. Apple-Hosted Background Assets can be submitted separately from an app build.

    Tools to Help Protect Kids Online

    To ensure kids have enjoyable, enriching, and appropriate in-app experiences, developers can utilize a range of tools — including parental controls and the Sensitive Content Analysis framework — to enhance child safety and ensure privacy. Building on these existing tools, developers can use the new Declared Age Range API to deliver age-appropriate content based on a user’s age range. When developers implement this API, parents can allow their children to share their age range without disclosing a birthdate or other sensitive information, enabling developers to tailor experiences accordingly. The feature is built around privacy: Age range data is shared only if parents choose to allow it, and they can disable sharing at any time.

    New App Store Accessibility and App Store Connect Features

    New Accessibility Nutrition Labels for App Store product pages help users learn which accessibility features are supported before they download an app or game.

    Developers can now share information in App Store Connect about their app or game’s support, such as whether it includes VoiceOver, Voice Control, Larger Text, Captions, and more. An Accessibility Nutrition Label will appear on their app’s product page, specific to each platform it supports. Developers can also add a URL on their app’s App Store product page that links users to a website with more details.

    The App Store Connect app on iOS and iPadOS has been updated to let developers view TestFlight screenshots and crash feedback, in addition to receiving push notifications when beta testers provide feedback. The App Store Connect API supports these enhancements, and introduces the ability for developers to create webhooks to get real-time updates, and support for Apple-Hosted Background Assets and Game Center configuration.

    Availability

    Today’s updates join the ever-expanding collection of intelligent and powerful tools and technologies Apple provides to developers. The Apple Intelligence features detailed require supported devices, which include all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later that have Apple Intelligence enabled and Siri and device language set to the same supported language: English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese (simplified). More languages will be coming by the end of this year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese. For more information, visit apple.com/apple-intelligence. Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more information about availability, visit apple.com.

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Available on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later).
    2. ChatGPT’s data-use policies apply. For more information, see openai.com/policies/usage-policies.

    Press Contacts

    Adam Dema

    Apple

    AdamDema@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: iPadOS 26 introduces powerful new features that push iPad even further

    Source: Apple

    Headline: iPadOS 26 introduces powerful new features that push iPad even further

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    iPadOS 26 introduces powerful new features that push the capabilities and versatility of iPad even further

    iPadOS 26 brings a new design; an entirely new powerful and intuitive windowing system; new features powered by Apple Intelligence; major enhancements to working with files, audio, and video; and more

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today previewed iPadOS 26, the biggest iPadOS release ever, taking a huge leap forward and pushing the unique capabilities and versatility of iPad even further. A beautiful design brings a new look to iPad, making the experience even more expressive and delightful. While maintaining the simplicity of iPad, iPadOS 26 introduces an entirely new powerful and intuitive windowing system with new features that help users control, organize, and switch between apps. Apple Intelligence becomes even more capable and integrated across iPadOS 26, with new features that help users communicate, express themselves, and get things done, including Live Translation, new ways to create with Genmoji and Image Playground,1 and intelligent actions with Shortcuts. The supercharged Files app offers new ways to organize files and customize folders. And with Folders in the dock, users can conveniently access downloads, documents, and more from anywhere. The Preview app comes to iPad, giving users a dedicated app to view and edit PDFs, with powerful features like Apple Pencil Markup and AutoFill built in. And with Background Tasks, audio input selection, and Local capture, iPadOS 26 unlocks new capabilities for creative pros working with audio and video.

    “iPadOS 26 is our biggest iPadOS release ever, with powerful features that take the experience to the next level and transform what users can do on iPad,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “With a beautiful new design, an entirely new powerful and intuitive windowing system, even more features powered by Apple Intelligence, huge improvements to working with files, and new capabilities for creatives to power their workflows, iPadOS 26 makes our most versatile device even more capable.”

    A Beautiful New Design

    The beautiful new design brings more expressive and delightful experiences to iPad users, while maintaining the familiarity of iPadOS. It’s crafted with Liquid Glass — a translucent new material that reflects and refracts its surroundings, while reacting to user input and dynamically transforming to bring greater focus to the content they care about most. It enables a new level of vitality across experiences like the Lock Screen and Control Center, and gives users new ways to personalize their Home Screen with updated app icons that come to life in light or dark appearances, colorful new light and dark tints, as well as an elegant new clear look. And updated controls and navigation extend to apps including Mail, Safari, Apple TV, Apple Music, and more.

    An Entirely New Powerful and Intuitive Windowing System

    iPadOS 26 introduces powerful new features that help users work with, control, organize, and switch between app windows — all while maintaining the immediacy and simplicity that iPad users expect. The new windowing system lets users fluidly resize app windows, place them exactly where they want, and open even more windows at once.

    Familiar window controls allow users to seamlessly close, minimize, resize, or tile their windows. Window tiling is designed for the unique capabilities of iPad, and enables users to arrange their windows with a simple flick. If a user previously resized an app, it opens back in the exact same size and position when they open it again. With Exposé, users can quickly see all their open windows spread out, helping them easily switch to the one they need. The new windowing system works great with Stage Manager for those who want to group their windows into distinct stages, and with an external display for those who want even more space to work across their apps.2

    With a new menu bar, users can access the commands available in an app with a simple swipe down from the top of the display, or by moving their cursor to the top. Users can quickly find a specific feature or related tips in an app by using search in the menu bar. Additionally, developers can now customize the menu bar in their own apps.

    New Features Powered by Apple Intelligence

    Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence while taking an extraordinary step forward for privacy in AI, becomes even more capable and even more integrated across iPadOS 26. Live Translation in Phone, FaceTime, and Messages enables iPad users to communicate seamlessly across languages. In Messages, incoming texts — including group messages — are automatically translated into the user’s preferred language.3 On FaceTime, a user can follow along with translated live captions while still hearing the speaker’s voice. And when on a phone call, the translation is spoken aloud throughout the conversation.4

    iPadOS 26 brings users new ways to create Genmoji, giving them the ability to start with existing emoji and descriptions, modify personal attributes like hair length or accessories, and select expressions. Users will also have more control of personal attributes and expressions in Image Playground, and can tap into brand-new styles with ChatGPT, like an oil painting style for a friend’s Contact Poster. For moments when users have a specific idea in mind, they can tap Any Style and describe exactly what they want. And Image Playground can now send a user’s description or photo to ChatGPT and create a unique image.

    Shortcuts features new intelligent actions that allow users to create shortcuts that are more powerful than ever, including summarizing text with Writing Tools and creating images with Image Playground. Users can also tap directly into Apple Intelligence models to provide responses that feed into the rest of their shortcuts. For example, a student can build a shortcut that uses Apple Intelligence models to compare an audio transcription of a class lecture to the notes they took, and add any key points they may have missed.

    Powerful New Ways to Work with Files

    iPadOS 26 introduces powerful new ways to manage, access, and edit files. An enhanced Files app with an updated List view allows users to see more of their document details in resizable columns and collapsible folders. To make folders easier to identify at a glance, Files also offers folder customization options that include custom colors, icons, and emoji that sync across devices. For quicker access, users can now drag any folder from the Files app right into the Dock. Additionally, users can set a default app for opening specific files or file types.

    The Preview App Comes to iPad

    Preview comes to iPad, giving users a dedicated app for creating a quick sketch, as well as viewing, editing, and marking up PDFs and images with Apple Pencil or by touch. Users can access all of their PDFs and images in the Files app right from Preview, create an empty page, use Apple Pencil to draw and write on it, and use AutoFill to quickly fill out PDF forms.

    New Ways to Work with Apps

    Taking advantage of the incredible power of Apple silicon, iPadOS 26 unlocks the ability to perform computationally intensive Background Tasks. When users start a long-running process in an app, Background Tasks will show up with Live Activities, giving users complete control and a clear sense of what is running. And developers can use an updated Background Tasks API that allows users to perform long-running tasks from their apps, too.

    iPadOS 26 also brings new audio features that offer more flexible input and streamlined recording. Users now have better control over their audio input, with the ability to choose different microphones for each app, as well as individual websites. Recorded audio will be made even better with the availability of Voice Isolation, which blocks ambient noise, and allows clear and crisp recordings. And with AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and AirPods Pro 2, studio-quality audio recording allows users to record their content with great sound quality and enjoy clear calls.

    With Local capture, users can produce high-quality recordings right from iPad with any video conferencing app, and easily share audio and video files once the call is over. Echo cancellation of other participants’ audio keeps the user’s voice front and center, allowing for a clear recording of their side of the call.

    New Apps, Plus More Ways to Communicate

    With iPadOS 26, Journal comes to iPad, making it easy for users to capture and write about the details of everyday moments or special events. Using Apple Pencil or touch, users can incorporate drawings and handwriting, along with photos, videos, audio recordings, places, their state of mind, and more. Users can keep multiple journals for various aspects of life, and now have access to a beautiful map view that organizes entries by location.

    The all-new Apple Games app brings users a new home for gaming, and iPadOS 26 introduces Game Overlay, which allows users to quickly see new events and updates, adjust settings, call or invite a friend mid-game, and more.

    The Messages app brings conversation Backgrounds, which lets a user personalize their chats with stunning designs and create unique backgrounds that fit their conversation with Image Playground. Messages also brings Polls and a redesigned details view that helps users easily navigate what has been shared in a conversation, and supercharges group chats with typing indicators, as well as the ability to request and receive Apple Cash.5 Additionally, the Phone app comes to iPad, and includes updates like Hold Assist6 and Call Screening.7

    Additional iPadOS 26 updates:

    • Available in the tool palette, the new reed pen uses stroke-angle presets to enable a traditional calligraphy experience with Apple Pencil or touch in apps like Notes, Preview, Freeform, and Journal; when using Markup; and in third-party apps using the PencilKit API.
    • Calculator introduces new 3D graphing capabilities in Math Notes, allowing users to write an equation with three variables and create a graph in three dimensions.
    • Notes adds the ability to import and export a note into a markdown file, along with support for capturing conversations in the Phone app as audio recordings with transcriptions.
    • Accessibility features include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed to make text easier to read for users who are blind, have low vision, or have other disabilities affecting reading; an all-new Braille Access experience that offers a user-friendly interface for users with a connected braille display; Share Accessibility Settings to temporarily use accessibility settings on another person’s device; and more.

    Availability

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com. New software features will be available this fall as a free software update for iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later), iPad Air (M2 and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (A16), iPad (8th generation and later), iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad mini (5th generation and later). The Apple Intelligence features detailed require supported devices, which include all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later that have Apple Intelligence enabled and Siri and device language set to the same supported language: English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese (simplified). More languages will be coming by the end of this year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese. For more information, visit apple.com/os/ipados and apple.com/apple-intelligence. Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more information about availability, visit apple.com.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Genmoji and Image Playground are available in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, and Japanese.
    2. Full external display support is available with iPad Air (5th generation), iPad Air (M2 and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation and later), and iPad Pro (M4).
    3. Live Translation in Messages supports English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), and Chinese (simplified).
    4. Live Translation in Phone and FaceTime is available for one-on-one calls in English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).
    5. Apple Cash services are provided by Green Dot Bank, Member FDIC. Apple Payments Services LLC, a subsidiary of Apple Inc., is a service provider of Green Dot Bank for Apple Cash accounts. Neither Apple Inc. nor Apple Payments Services LLC is a bank. Learn more about the terms and conditions. Only available in the U.S. on eligible devices.
    6. Hold Assist supports English (U.S., Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, UK), French (France), Spanish (U.S., Mexico, Spain), German (Germany), Portuguese (Brazil), Japanese (Japan), and Mandarin Chinese (mainland China).
    7. Call Screening supports Cantonese (China mainland, Hong Kong, Macao), English (U.S., Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, UK), French (Canada, France), German (Germany), Japanese (Japan), Korean (Korea), Mandarin Chinese (China mainland, Taiwan, Macao), Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (U.S., Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain).

    Press Contacts

    Tara Courtney

    Apple

    tcourtney@apple.com

    Skylar Eisenhart

    Apple

    s_eisenhart@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: AirPods now more versatile with studio-quality audio recording and camera remote

    Source: Apple

    Headline: AirPods now more versatile with studio-quality audio recording and camera remote

    QUICK READ June 9, 2025

    Apple today previewed studio-quality audio recording and camera remote features for AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), and AirPods Pro 2, delivering new ways to capture content and improving how users communicate. Updates to audio recording enable creators to record studio-quality vocals on the go, and start or stop video recordings from a distance with a simple press of the AirPods stem. Building on the benefits of Voice Isolation, AirPods users will also enjoy even clearer calls with enhanced voice quality.

    Creating content gets even better with studio-quality audio recording. Interviewers, podcasters, singers, and other creators can record their content with greater sound quality, and even record while on the go or in noisy environments with Voice Isolation. With the H2 chip, beamforming microphones, and computational audio, users will also enjoy more natural vocal texture and clarity across iPhone calls, FaceTime, and CallKit-enabled apps. Studio-quality audio recording and improved call quality work across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, while also supporting the Camera app, Voice Memos, dictation in Messages, video conferencing apps like Webex, and compatible third-party camera apps.

    Capturing content at a distance is easier than ever with camera remote. While using the Camera app or compatible third-party camera apps on iPhone or iPad, content creators can press and hold the AirPods stem to take a photo or start a video recording, and one more press-and-hold will stop the recording. For users who like capturing themselves singing or dancing, the new features make it easy to perform in sync with a soundtrack while simultaneously recording the video.

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com. New AirPods 4, AirPods 4 with ANC, and AirPods Pro 2 features will be available this fall as a free firmware update with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe 26. Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more information about availability, visit apple.com.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple Intelligence gets even more powerful with new capabilities across Apple devices

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple Intelligence gets even more powerful with new capabilities across Apple devices

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple Intelligence gets even more powerful with new capabilities across Apple devices

    Developers can now access the Apple Intelligence on-device foundation model to power private, intelligent experiences within their apps

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today announced new Apple Intelligence features that elevate the user experience across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple Intelligence unlocks new ways for users to communicate with features like Live Translation; do more with what’s on their screen with updates to visual intelligence; and express themselves with enhancements to Image Playground and Genmoji.1 Additionally, Shortcuts can now tap into Apple Intelligence directly, and developers will be able to access the on-device large language model at the core of Apple Intelligence, giving them direct access to intelligence that is powerful, fast, built with privacy, and available even when users are offline. These Apple Intelligence features are available for testing starting today, and will be available to users with supported devices set to a supported language this fall.

    “Last year, we took the first steps on a journey to bring users intelligence that’s helpful, relevant, easy to use, and right where users need it, all while protecting their privacy. Now, the models that power Apple Intelligence are becoming more capable and efficient, and we’re integrating features in even more places across each of our operating systems,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “We’re also taking the huge step of giving developers direct access to the on-device foundation model powering Apple Intelligence, allowing them to tap into intelligence that is powerful, fast, built with privacy, and available even when users are offline. We think this will ignite a whole new wave of intelligent experiences in the apps users rely on every day. We can’t wait to see what developers create.”

    Apple Intelligence features will be coming to eight more languages by the end of the year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese.

    Live Translation Breaks Down Language Barriers

    For those moments when a language barrier gets in the way, Live Translation can help users communicate across languages when messaging or speaking. The experience is integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, and enabled by Apple-built models that run entirely on device, so users’ personal conversations stay personal.

    In Messages, Live Translation can automatically translate messages. If a user is making plans with new friends while traveling abroad, their message can be translated as they type, delivered in the recipient’s preferred language, and when they get a response, each message can be instantly translated.2 On FaceTime calls, a user can follow along with translated live captions while still hearing the speaker’s voice. And when on a phone call, the translation is spoken aloud throughout the conversation.3

    News Ways to Explore Creativity with Updates to Genmoji and Image Playground

    Genmoji and Image Playground provide users with even more ways to express themselves. In addition to turning a text description into a Genmoji, users can now mix together emoji and combine them with descriptions to create something new. When users make images inspired by family and friends using Genmoji and Image Playground, they have the ability to change expressions or adjust personal attributes, like hairstyle, to match their friend’s latest look.

    In Image Playground, users can tap into brand-new styles with ChatGPT, like an oil painting style or vector art. For moments when users have a specific idea in mind, they can tap Any Style and describe what they want. Image Playground sends a user’s description or photo to ChatGPT and creates a unique image. Users are always in control, and nothing is shared with ChatGPT without their permission.

    Visual Intelligence Helps Users Search and Take Action

    Building on Apple Intelligence, visual intelligence extends to a user’s iPhone screen so they can search and take action on anything they’re viewing across their apps.

    Visual intelligence already helps users learn about objects and places around them using their iPhone camera, and it now enables users to do more, faster, with the content on their iPhone screen. Users can ask ChatGPT questions about what they’re looking at on their screen to learn more, as well as search Google, Etsy, or other supported apps to find similar images and products. If there’s an object a user is especially interested in, like a lamp, they can highlight it to search for that specific item or similar objects online.

    Visual intelligence also recognizes when a user is looking at an event and suggests adding it to their calendar.4 Apple Intelligence then extracts the date, time, and location to prepopulate these key details into an event.

    Users can access visual intelligence for what’s on their screen by simply pressing the same buttons used to take a screenshot. Users will have the choice to save or share their screenshot, or explore more with visual intelligence.

    Apple Intelligence Expands to Fitness on Apple Watch

    Workout Buddy is a first-of-its-kind workout experience on Apple Watch with Apple Intelligence that incorporates a user’s workout data and fitness history to generate personalized, motivational insights during their session.5

    To offer meaningful inspiration in real time, Workout Buddy analyzes data from a user’s current workout along with their fitness history, based on data like heart rate, pace, distance, Activity rings, personal fitness milestones, and more. A new text-to-speech model then translates insights into a dynamic generative voice built using voice data from Fitness+ trainers, so it has the right energy, style, and tone for a workout. Workout Buddy processes this data privately and securely with Apple Intelligence.

    Workout Buddy will be available on Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones, and requires an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone nearby. It will be available starting in English, across some of the most popular workout types: Outdoor and Indoor Run, Outdoor and Indoor Walk, Outdoor Cycle, HIIT, and Functional and Traditional Strength Training.

    Apple Intelligence On-Device Model Now Available to Developers

    Apple is opening up access for any app to tap directly into the on-device foundation model at the core of Apple Intelligence.

    With the Foundation Models framework, app developers will be able to build on Apple Intelligence to bring users new experiences that are intelligent, available when they’re offline, and that protect their privacy, using AI inference that is free of cost. For example, an education app can use the on-device model to generate a personalized quiz from a user’s notes, without any cloud API costs, or an outdoors app can add natural language search capabilities that work even when the user is offline.

    The framework has native support for Swift, so app developers can easily access the Apple Intelligence model with as few as three lines of code. Guided generation, tool calling, and more are all built into the framework, making it easier than ever to implement generative capabilities right into a developer’s existing app.

    Shortcuts Get More Intelligent

    Shortcuts are now more powerful and intelligent than ever. Users can tap into intelligent actions, a whole new set of shortcuts enabled by Apple Intelligence. Users will see dedicated actions for features like summarizing text with Writing Tools or creating images with Image Playground.

    Now users will be able to tap directly into Apple Intelligence models, either on-device or with Private Cloud Compute, to generate responses that feed into the rest of their shortcut, maintaining the privacy of information used in the shortcut. For example, a student can build a shortcut that uses the Apple Intelligence model to compare an audio transcription of a class lecture to the notes they took, and add any key points they may have missed. Users can also choose to tap into ChatGPT to provide responses that feed into their shortcut.

    Additional New Features

    Apple Intelligence is even more deeply integrated into the apps and experiences that users rely on every day:

    • The most relevant actions in an email, website, note, or other content can now be identified and automatically categorized in Reminders.
    • Apple Wallet can now identify and summarize order tracking details from emails sent from merchants or delivery carriers. This works across all of a user’s orders, giving them the ability to see their full order details, progress notifications, and more, all in one place.
    • Users can create a poll for anything in Messages, and with Apple Intelligence, Messages can detect when a poll might come in handy and suggest one. In addition, Backgrounds in the Messages app lets a user personalize their chats with stunning designs, and they can create unique backgrounds that fit their conversation with Image Playground.

    These features build on a wide range of Apple Intelligence capabilities that are already available to users:

    • Writing Tools can help users rewrite, proofread, and summarize the text they have written. And with Describe Your Change, users can describe a specific change they want to apply to their text, like making a dinner party invite read like a poem.
    • Clean Up in Photos allows users to remove distracting elements while staying true to the moment as they intended to capture it.
    • Visual intelligence builds on Apple Intelligence and helps users learn about objects and places around them instantly.
    • Genmoji allow users to create their own emoji by typing a description. And just like emoji, they can be added inline to messages, or shared as a sticker or reaction in a Tapback.
    • Image Playground gives users a way to create playful images in moments, with concepts like themes, costumes, accessories, and places. And they can add their own text descriptions, and create images in the likeness of a family member or friend using photos from their photo library.
    • Image Wand can transform a rough sketch into a polished image that complements a user’s notes.
    • Mail summaries give users a way to view key details for an email or long thread by simply tapping or clicking Summarize.
    • Smart Reply provides users with suggestions for a quick response in Mail and Messages.
    • Siri is more natural and helpful, with the option to type to Siri and tap into its product knowledge about the features and settings on Apple products; Siri can also follow along if a user stumbles over their words, and maintain context from one request to the next.
    • Access to ChatGPT is integrated in Writing Tools and Siri, giving users the option to tap into ChatGPT’s image- and document-understanding capabilities without needing to jump between tools.
    • Natural language search in Photos makes it easier for users to find a photo or video by simply describing it.
    • Users can create a memory movie in Photos by typing a description.
    • Summaries of audio transcriptions in Notes are automatically generated to surface important information at a glance.
    • Users can generate summaries of call transcriptions to highlight important details.
    • Priority Messages, a section at the top of the inbox in Mail, shows the most urgent emails, like a same-day invitation to lunch or a boarding pass.
    • Priority Notifications appear at the top of a user’s notifications, highlighting important notifications that may require immediate attention.
    • Notification summaries give users a way to scan long or stacked notifications and provide key details right on the Lock Screen.
    • Previews in Mail and Messages show users a brief summary of key information without needing to open a message.
    • The Reduce Interruptions Focus surfaces only the notifications that might need immediate attention.

    A Breakthrough for Privacy in AI

    Designed to protect users’ privacy at every step, Apple Intelligence uses on-device processing, meaning that many of the models that power it run entirely on device. For requests that require access to larger models, Private Cloud Compute extends the privacy and security of iPhone into the cloud to unlock even more intelligence so a user’s data is never stored or shared with Apple; it is used only to fulfill their request. Independent experts can inspect the code that runs on Apple silicon servers to continuously verify this privacy promise, and are already doing so. This is an extraordinary step forward for privacy in AI.

    Availability

    All of these new features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com. Users who enable Apple Intelligence on supported devices set to a supported language will have access this fall, including all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later, with Siri and device language set to the same supported language: English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese (simplified). More languages will be coming by the end of this year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more details, visit apple.com/apple-intelligence.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Genmoji and Image Playground are available in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, and Japanese.
    2. Live Translation in Messages supports English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), and Chinese (simplified).
    3. Live Translation in Phone and FaceTime is available for one-on-one calls in English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).
    4. The ability to add an event to Calendar with visual intelligence is available in English on all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
    5. Workout Buddy will be available on Apple Watch Series 6 or later, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation), and Apple Watch Ultra and Ultra 2 with an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone starting in English.

    Press Contacts

    Nadine Haija

    Apple

    nhaija@apple.com

    Anna Tabet

    Apple

    atabet@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: visionOS 26 introduces powerful new spatial experiences for Apple Vision Pro

    Source: Apple

    Headline: visionOS 26 introduces powerful new spatial experiences for Apple Vision Pro

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    visionOS 26 introduces powerful new spatial experiences for Apple Vision Pro

    Widgets become spatial and anchor in a user’s space, Personas are more expressive and realistic, and new APIs unleash exciting opportunities for developers, creators, and enterprises

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today previewed visionOS 26, an expansive update packed with groundbreaking spatial experiences and new features for Apple Vision Pro. Everyday interactions become more immersive and personal, with widgets that integrate into a user’s space, spatial scenes that use generative AI to add stunning lifelike depth to photos, striking enhancements that make Personas feel more natural and familiar, and shared spatial experiences for Vision Pro users in the same room.

    visionOS 26 also adds support for 180-degree, 360-degree, and wide field-of-view content from Insta360, GoPro, and Canon, while new enterprise APIs allow organizations to create spatial experiences unique to visionOS. And with support for PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, players can enjoy a new class of games on Apple Vision Pro.1

    “Apple Vision Pro has defined what’s possible in this new era of spatial computing, and with visionOS 26, we’re excited to push the boundaries even further,” said Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president of the Vision Products Group. “With brand-new ways for Vision Pro owners to connect, explore, work together, and enjoy content, we’re incredibly excited for users to enjoy features like apps and widgets that they can arrange in their spaces, spatial scenes that offer a brand-new viewing experience for their photos, and dramatically enhanced Personas on Vision Pro.”

    Widgets Become Spatial

    Across the Apple ecosystem, widgets offer personalized and useful information at a glance, and with visionOS 26, widgets become spatial, integrating seamlessly into a user’s space and reappearing every time they put on Apple Vision Pro. Widgets in visionOS 26 are customizable, with a variety of options for frame width, color, and depth. Beautiful new widgets — including Clock, Weather, Music, and Photos — all offer unique interactions and experiences.

    Users can decorate their spaces with favorite widgets, including stunning panoramas and spatial photos of their favorite memories, clocks with distinctive face designs, and quick access to their go-to playlists and songs on Apple Music. The Widgets app helps users find widgets, including those from compatible iOS and iPadOS apps, and developers will also be able to create their own widgets using WidgetKit.

    Enhanced Shared Spatial Experiences

    Users love how visionOS lets them connect with family, friends, and colleagues remotely, and with visionOS 26, they can share spatial experiences with other Apple Vision Pro users in the same room. They can come together to watch the latest blockbuster movie in 3D, play a spatial game, or collaborate with coworkers. Users can also add remote participants from across the world via FaceTime, enabling connection with people near and far.

    Dassault Systèmes, a leading provider of engineering and 3D design software, is leveraging this ability with their 3DLive app, bringing the ability to visualize 3D designs both in person and with remote colleagues.

    With visionOS 26, Personas are transformed to feel more natural and familiar. Taking advantage of industry-leading volumetric rendering and machine learning technology, the all-new Personas now have striking expressivity and sharpness, offering a full side profile view, and remarkably accurate hair, lashes, and complexion. Personas are still created on device in a matter of seconds, and new improvements to the setup process allow users to adjust and preview how their Persona looks spatially, and even pick glasses from over 1,000 variations.

    Introducing Spatial Scenes

    visionOS 26 makes spatial photos even more realistic, leveraging a new generative AI algorithm and computational depth to create spatial scenes with multiple perspectives, letting users feel like they can lean in and look around.

    Users can view spatial scenes in the Photos app, Spatial Gallery app, and Safari, while developers can use the Spatial Scene API to make their app experience even more immersive. Zillow is taking advantage of the API for their Zillow Immersive app, allowing users to see images of homes and apartments with the rich depth and dimension that spatial scenes offer.

    New Ways to Browse, Play, and Watch

    Users can select spatial browsing to transform articles on Safari, hide distractions, and reveal spatial scenes that come alive as they scroll. Web developers have the ability to embed 3D models directly into web pages, letting users shop and browse with depth and dimension, and see and manipulate 3D objects and models right in Safari.

    visionOS 26 supports native playback of 180-degree, 360-degree, and wide field-of-view content from Insta360, GoPro, and Canon. Users can enjoy their exciting 2D action footage the way it was meant to be seen. Developers can incorporate this new playback capability into their apps and websites.

    visionOS 26 also introduces support for the PlayStation VR2 Sense controller. Now, developers can deliver even more engaging gameplay experiences for Apple Vision Pro thanks to high-performance motion tracking in 6 degrees of freedom, finger touch detection, and vibration support.

    Enterprise APIs and Tools

    Companies around the world are harnessing spatial computing on Apple Vision Pro to supercharge their workflows for design, training, sales, education, and more. New capabilities like team device sharing let organizations easily set up and manage a shared pool of devices. Users can securely save their eye and hand data, vision prescription, and accessibility settings to their iPhone running iOS 26 and bring it to another Vision Pro, making sharing easier than ever.

    visionOS 26 adds support for Logitech Muse, a spatial accessory built for Apple Vision Pro that enables precise input and new ways to interact with collaboration apps like Spatial Analogue.1

    Enterprise-focused APIs, like the new Protected Content API, ensure that only people who have been granted access can see confidential materials like medical records or business forecasts, while preventing copying, screenshots, and screen sharing.

    Additional visionOS 26 features include:

    • More Apple Intelligence features — including updates to Image Playground — come to Apple Vision Pro. visionOS 26 also adds support for new languages: French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish, along with support for English in Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, and the UK.2
    • Look to Scroll allows users to explore apps and websites using just their eyes. Users can customize the scroll speed, and developers can integrate Look to Scroll into their visionOS apps.
    • In the redesigned Control Center, features like Guest User, Focus, Travel Mode, and more are conveniently displayed in one view, letting users effortlessly manage their music, adjust their Environment settings, and connect to Mac Virtual Display.
    • Users can unlock their iPhone while wearing Apple Vision Pro, even in a fully immersive experience like an Environment. This feature can be enabled in Settings for Face ID-enabled iPhone models running iOS 26.3
    • visionOS 26 supports relaying calls from iPhone, so a user can now answer phone calls directly from Apple Vision Pro, or start a call from People View by selecting a contact’s phone number or clicking on a phone number in a web page.4
    • Home View now supports folders, letting users rearrange and group apps together.

    Availability

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com. For more information, visit apple.com/os/visionos. Apple Intelligence requires Apple Vision Pro running visionOS 26 with Apple Intelligence enabled and Siri and device language set to the same supported language: English (Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, UK, U.S.), French (Canada, France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish (Mexico, Spain). Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. Compatible hardware and software may be required.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Accessory sold separately.
    2. Image Playground is available in English (Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, UK, U.S.), French (Canada, France), German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish (Mexico, Spain) when Apple Intelligence is enabled. Feature availability varies by region.
    3. Unlocking iPhone while wearing Apple Vision Pro requires both Apple Vision Pro and a Face ID-compatible iPhone signed in to the same Apple Account and running visionOS 26 and iOS 26 or later.
    4. Relaying cellular calls from iPhone to Apple Vision Pro requires visionOS 26 or later, and iOS 14 or later. Devices must be signed in to the same Apple Account, connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and within Bluetooth range with Bluetooth enabled.

    Press Contacts

    Andrea Schubert

    Apple

    a_schubert@apple.com

    Corey Nord

    Apple

    cnord2@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple introduces a delightful and elegant new software design

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple introduces a delightful and elegant new software design

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    Apple introduces a delightful and elegant new software design

    A universal design across platforms brings more focus to content and a new level of vitality while maintaining the familiarity of Apple’s software

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today previewed a beautiful new software design that makes apps and system experiences more expressive and delightful while being instantly familiar. It’s crafted with a new material called Liquid Glass. This translucent material reflects and refracts its surroundings, while dynamically transforming to help bring greater focus to content, delivering a new level of vitality across controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and more. For the very first time, the new design extends across platforms — iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 261 — to establish even more harmony while maintaining the distinct qualities that make each unique.

    “At Apple, we’ve always believed in the deep integration of hardware and software that makes interacting with technology intuitive, beautiful, and delightful,” said Alan Dye, Apple’s vice president of Human Interface Design. “This is our broadest software design update ever. Meticulously crafted by rethinking the fundamental elements that make up our software, the new design features an entirely new material called Liquid Glass. It combines the optical qualities of glass with a fluidity only Apple can achieve, as it transforms depending on your content or context. It lays the foundation for new experiences in the future and, ultimately, it makes even the simplest of interactions more fun and magical.”

    Introducing Liquid Glass: A New and Expressive Material

    Inspired by the depth and dimensionality of visionOS, the new design takes advantage of Apple’s powerful advances in hardware, silicon, and graphics technologies. The new material, Liquid Glass, is translucent and behaves like glass in the real world. Its color is informed by surrounding content and intelligently adapts between light and dark environments. Born out of a close collaboration between the design and engineering teams, Liquid Glass uses real-time rendering and dynamically reacts to movement with specular highlights. This creates a lively experience that makes using iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV even more delightful.

    This gorgeous new material extends from the smallest elements users interact with every day — like buttons, switches, sliders, text, and media controls — to larger elements, including tab bars and sidebars for navigating apps. It also shines in system experiences, such as the Lock Screen, Home Screen, notifications, Control Center, and more.

    Updated App Designs 

    Driven by the goal of bringing greater focus to content that’s instantly familiar, Apple’s design team considered every aspect of Apple’s platforms to identify improvements that could be made across the board.

    Controls, toolbars, and navigation within apps have been redesigned. Previously configured for rectangular displays, they now fit perfectly concentric with the rounded corners of modern hardware and app windows — establishing greater harmony between hardware, software, and content. Controls are crafted out of Liquid Glass and act as a distinct functional layer that sits above apps. They give way to content and dynamically morph as users need more options or move between different parts of an app. And with thoughtful groupings, it’s easier for users to find the controls they need.

    Tab bars and sidebars have been redesigned with the same approach. In iOS 26, when users scroll, tab bars shrink to bring focus to the content while keeping navigation instantly accessible. The moment users scroll back up, tab bars fluidly expand. In iPadOS and macOS, updated sidebars make apps like Apple TV even more immersive. They refract the content behind them — while reflecting content and the user’s wallpaper from around them — which ensures users always have a sense of their context.

    These updated design elements apply across fresh new experiences in apps such as Camera, Photos, Safari, FaceTime, Apple Music, Apple News, and Apple Podcasts.

    An Enhanced Experience Across Platforms

    The new design extends across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS, with updates to system experiences like the Lock Screen, Home Screen, desktop, and Dock. To maintain the focus on the subject of photo wallpapers on the Lock Screen, the time is now crafted out of Liquid Glass and fluidly adapts to fit elegantly behind the subject.

    On the Home Screen and desktop, the Dock, app icons, and widgets have all been crafted from multiple layers of Liquid Glass. They look stunning, with specular highlights, and allow for greater personalization options while still maintaining the familiarity that users rely on. For example, in macOS Tahoe 26, users can customize the desktop and Dock with widgets and app icons that come to life in light or dark appearances, colorful new light and dark tints, as well as an elegant new clear look. And it’s made even better with a completely transparent menu bar that makes the Mac display feel even larger.

    Building Dynamic Apps

    For developers using SwiftUI, UIKit, and AppKit, an updated set of APIs make it easy to adopt the new design. By using Liquid Glass materials and the new and updated controls, developers have the opportunity to refresh the design of their apps to make every user interaction even more intuitive and delightful.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Available on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later).

    Press Contacts

    Norman Tan

    Apple

    norman.tan@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Apple TV brings a beautiful redesign and enhanced home entertainment experience

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Apple TV brings a beautiful redesign and enhanced home entertainment experience

    June 9, 2025

    UPDATE

    Apple TV brings a beautiful redesign and an enhanced entertainment experience to the home

    tvOS 26 elevates the Apple TV design featuring Liquid Glass, along with updates to Sing in Apple Music with iPhone

    Apple today announced tvOS 26, making Apple TV even more immersive, enjoyable, and convenient. Featuring a stunning new design with Liquid Glass, tvOS 26 is designed to keep the focus on what’s playing so users never miss a moment. The Apple TV app also now showcases cinematic poster art that makes it fun and easy to discover what to play next. Enhancements to profile-switching and a streamlined way to log in to apps make it easier than ever to access entertainment, while updates to Apple Music Sing bring users new ways to enjoy singing along with friends using iPhone.

    Liquid Glass Comes to the Largest Screen in the Home

    The new design introduces a new material called Liquid Glass.1 It brings a vibrant look to Apple TV, delivering a fresh and expressive design that beautifully reflects and refracts its surroundings using real-time rendering. Interactions with the Apple TV app are also enhanced to create a more delightful and engaging experience while watching shows and movies. The new design keeps the content central to the viewing experience while fast-forwarding or rewinding, starting a sleep timer, adjusting audio, or setting a “Movie night” scene in Control Center.

    Easily Access Entertainment

    The Apple TV app is redesigned with beautiful new poster art that incorporates Liquid Glass, and allows more shows and movies to be displayed, enhancing how users discover entertainment.

    To quickly find personalized viewing recommendations, users will now have the choice to automatically display profiles when Apple TV wakes, allowing them to quickly get back to their recommendations and Watchlist in the TV app and playlists in Apple Music.

    Additionally, tvOS 26 introduces a new API for developers that links app logins to an Apple Account, making it effortless for users to sign in to their favorite apps, shows, and movies when setting up a new device.

    Take the Mic with Sing in Apple Music

    Sing-along sessions reach a new level of fun with tvOS 26, allowing users to transform iPhone into a handheld microphone for Apple TV and have their voices amplified as they belt out their favorite songs.2 Get the party started with friends, as everyone can jump in using their own iPhone to queue up songs or react with onscreen emoji. Accompanied by real-time lyrics and visual effects that light up the big screen, Sing in Apple Music is more engaging than ever, and with Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation, users can follow and sing along to an even wider variety of songs, even if they don’t know the language.3

    Stay Connected with FaceTime

    With tvOS 26, users can enjoy a more personalized FaceTime experience that’s consistent with iOS. Contact Posters on Apple TV make it easier and more personal by displaying a contact’s customized photo and name when starting a FaceTime call on Apple TV. Live Captions expand to include French, German, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish, enabling Apple TV to use on-device intelligence to display Live Captions for FaceTime conversations, so users can follow what’s being said in even more languages. Additionally, FaceTime audio and phone call notifications will appear onscreen for the active profile, allowing users to answer on connected HomePod speakers or their iPhone, and ensuring that communication with loved ones remains at the forefront.

    Additional updates coming to Apple TV:

    • Enjoy breathtaking landscapes with new Aerial screen savers captured across India, including in Goa and Kerala.
    • Personalize the screen saver experience by choosing specific Cityscape, Earth, Landscape, or Underwater Aerials to display — or hide.
    • Designate any AirPlay-enabled speaker as the permanent speaker for Apple TV.

    Availability

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com. New software features will be available this fall as a free software update. For more information, visit apple.com/tv-home and apple.com/apple-tv-4k/#whats-new. Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more information about availability, visit apple.com.

    1. Available on Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later).
    2. Available on iPhone 11 and later with Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) running the latest operating system software.
    3. Lyrics Translation available for select songs in the following languages: English to Chinese (simplified), English to Japanese, Korean to Chinese (simplified), Korean to English, Korean to Japanese, and Spanish to English. Lyrics Pronunciation available for select songs in the following scripts: Cantonese to Jyutping, Chinese (simplified) to Pinyin, Chinese (traditional) to Pinyin, Hindi to Romanized Hindi, Japanese to Romanized Japanese, Korean to Katakana, Korean to Romanized Korean, and Punjabi to Romanized Punjabi.

    Press Contacts

    Zachary Kizer

    Apple

    z_kizer@apple.com

    Emily Ewing

    Apple

    e_ewing@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: macOS Tahoe 26 makes the Mac more capable, productive, and intelligent than ever

    Source: Apple

    Headline: macOS Tahoe 26 makes the Mac more capable, productive, and intelligent than ever

    June 9, 2025

    PRESS RELEASE

    macOS Tahoe 26 makes the Mac more capable, productive, and intelligent than ever

    Introducing a stunning new design, more Continuity experiences with the Phone app and Live Activities, the biggest update to Spotlight ever, and expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities

    CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today previewed the next major macOS release — macOS Tahoe 26 — which introduces a stunning new design and powerful capabilities that enable users to get even more done. With the new design, iconic elements of macOS will feel more expressive, delightful, and personal while remaining instantly familiar, including the desktop, Dock, in-app navigation, and toolbars. Users can further personalize the experience with an updated Control Center and new color options for folders, app icons, and widgets. Continuity gets even better with the Phone app arriving on Mac, so users can access familiar features from iPhone — including Recents, Contacts, and Voicemails — and new ones like Call Screening1 and Hold Assist.2 And with Live Activities from iPhone, users can stay on top of things happening in real time, like an upcoming flight, right on their Mac. Spotlight gets its biggest update ever, allowing users to now directly execute hundreds of actions — like sending an email or creating a note — and take advantage of all-new browsing experiences to get to content faster.

    Apple Intelligence expands with powerful new features that elevate the Mac experience further, while protecting privacy at every step. Live Translation helps users easily communicate across languages, translating text and audio. Genmoji and Image Playground offer new options for creativity.3 Shortcuts get even more powerful with intelligent actions and the ability to now tap directly into Apple Intelligence models to automate complex tasks.

    “macOS is the heart and soul of the Mac, and with Tahoe, we’re building on what users love most. Whether you’re a power user or just getting started on Mac, there’s something for everyone, with even more features to turbocharge productivity and make working across Mac and iPhone more seamless than ever before,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “With its gorgeous new design, amazing Continuity experiences, powerful enhancements to Spotlight, more intelligent shortcuts, and updates to Apple Intelligence, the Mac experience is better than ever.”

    A Gorgeous New Design

    The gorgeous new design enhances the Mac experience in new ways, while maintaining the familiarity of macOS. It is crafted with Liquid Glass, a translucent new material that reflects and refracts its surroundings. The Dock, sidebars, and toolbars have been refined, bringing greater focus to a user’s content. The menu bar is now completely transparent, making the display feel even larger. There are more ways to customize what controls appear in the menu bar and Control Center, along with how they’re laid out. The new design also unlocks more personalization on the Mac. App icons come to life in light or dark appearances, colorful new light and dark tints, as well as an elegant new clear look. Users can also change the colors of folders and add a symbol or emoji to give them a unique identity. And when combined with personalized wallpapers and theme colors, it’s easier than ever to make Mac a seamless extension of a user’s style.

    New Continuity Experiences with the Phone App and Live Activities

    The Phone app arrives on Mac thanks to Continuity, which lets users relay cellular calls from their nearby iPhone. The Phone app on Mac has the familiar features of the Phone app on iPhone — including Recents, Favorites, and Voicemails — and the latest updates like Call Screening and Hold Assist. Call Screening automatically answers calls from unknown numbers and asks the caller for information so a user can decide whether or not to answer. And when a user is stuck on hold, Hold Assist allows them to keep their spot in line while they wait for a live agent, so users can continue working on their Mac.

    Live Activities from a user’s nearby iPhone will now appear in the menu bar on their Mac so they can stay on top of things happening in real time, like an upcoming Uber ride, flight, or live sports score. When clicking on a Live Activity, the app opens in iPhone Mirroring to show more information so users can take action right from their Mac.

    The Biggest Update Ever to Spotlight

    Spotlight, the central place to search for things on Mac, makes finding what users are looking for easier than ever, and provides users with all-new ways to take action. During a search, all results — including files, folders, events, apps, messages, and more — are now listed together and ranked intelligently based on relevance to the user. New filtering options rapidly narrow searches to exactly what a user is looking for, like PDFs or Mail messages. Spotlight can also surface results for documents stored on third-party cloud drives. And when a user doesn’t know exactly what they’re searching for, Spotlight’s new browse views make it easy to scan through their apps, files, clipboard history, and more.

    Users can now take hundreds of actions directly from Spotlight — like sending an email, creating a note, or playing a podcast — without jumping between apps. Users can take actions from both Apple apps and apps built by developers, because any app can provide actions to Spotlight using the App Intents API. Users can also run shortcuts and perform actions from the menu bar in the app they’re currently working in, all without lifting their hands off the keyboard. Spotlight learns from users’ routines across the system and surfaces personalized actions, such as sending a message to a colleague a user regularly talks to. Additionally, Spotlight introduces quick keys, which are short strings of characters that get users right to the action they’re looking for.

    Brand-New Capabilities Powered by Apple Intelligence

    Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that delivers helpful and relevant intelligence, gets even more capable while protecting users’ privacy at every step.

    • Seamless communication across language barriers with Live Translation: In Messages, Live Translation can automatically translate messages, so if a user is making plans with new friends while traveling abroad, their message can be translated as they type and delivered in the recipient’s preferred language. And when the user receives a response, each text can be instantly translated.4 On FaceTime, a user can follow along with translated live captions while still hearing the speaker’s voice. And when a user is on a call in the Phone app, their words are translated for the recipient as they speak.5 This is enabled by Apple-built models that run entirely on device, so conversations stay private.
    • Shortcuts get more intelligent: A whole new class of intelligent actions lets users create shortcuts that are more powerful than ever, including summarizing text with Writing Tools and creating images with Image Playground. And now users will be able to tap directly into Apple Intelligence models, either on-device or with Private Cloud Compute, to generate responses that feed into the rest of their shortcut, maintaining the privacy of information used. For example, a student can build a shortcut that uses Apple Intelligence models to compare an audio transcription of a class lecture to the notes they took, and add any key points they may have missed. Users can also choose to tap into ChatGPT for its broad world knowledge and expertise. Additionally, users can now run shortcuts automatically on macOS, such as at a specific time of day, or when taking a specific action like saving a file to a folder or connecting a display.
    • Updates to Genmoji and Image Playground: macOS Tahoe brings new ways to create Genmoji, giving users the ability to start with existing emoji and descriptions, modify personal attributes like hair length or accessories, and select expressions based on the moment. Users will also have more control of personal attributes and expressions in Image Playground, and can tap into brand-new styles with ChatGPT, like an oil painting style or vector art. For moments when users have a specific idea in mind, they can tap Any Style and describe exactly what they want.
    • Increased productivity with Reminders: Apple Intelligence can review an email, website, note, or other content on Mac to find the most relevant action items. And users can also choose to use Apple Intelligence to automatically categorize Reminders into sections to make them more manageable.

    New Apple Games App, Game Overlay, and More Titles

    macOS Tahoe introduces Apple Games, a dedicated app that gives players a home for all their games, making it easier to jump back into favorites, discover new games tailored just for them, and play with friends in whole new ways. With the new Game Overlay, players can conveniently adjust their system settings, chat with friends, or invite them to play, all without having to leave their game. Players can also turn on Low Power Mode, which extends gaming sessions and maximizes playtime on battery. For developers, macOS Tahoe introduces Metal 4, which brings even more advanced graphics and next-generation rendering technologies to games, like MetalFX Frame Interpolation and MetalFX Denoising, for smoother visuals and faster frame rates.

    Alongside these improvements, developers continue to deliver exciting new games on Mac, including upcoming titles like Crimson Desert and InZOI. Both games leverage powerful software technologies like MetalFX Upscaling to accelerate performance and deliver high-quality visuals, as well as take advantage of the M3 and M4 family of chips with ray tracing for a breathtaking experience. Additional titles on the way include Cyberpunk 2077, Cronos: The New Dawn, Architect: Land of Exiles, Lies of P: Overture, HITMAN World of Assassination, EVE Frontier, Where Winds Meet, and more.

    Additional features in macOS Tahoe include:

    • Safari, the world’s fastest browser,6 offers a fresh but familiar experience, featuring a rounded tab design that floats in the toolbar, along with a refreshed sidebar with new sections to help users more easily find saved content like iCloud Tabs and Saved. When compared to Chrome, Safari is 50 percent faster at loading frequently visited websites7 and offers up to four more hours of battery life when streaming video.8 And for even greater protection from trackers when browsing, Safari now offers advanced fingerprinting protection in all browsing by default.
    • The Messages app brings Backgrounds, Polls, and a redesigned details view that helps users easily navigate what has been shared in a conversation. Plus, it features typing indicators in groups to let participants know exactly who is going to chime in, as well as the ability to add new contacts easily right from the group chat and search with more natural language.
    • Journal comes to Mac, making it easy to capture and write about everyday moments and special events when inspiration strikes. On Mac, it’s easy to type long, thoughtful entries and view them on a map. Users can keep multiple journals for various aspects of life, which are all synced across Apple devices.
    • Photos has an updated design that includes beautiful Liquid Glass elements, enhancements for customization, easier workflows, and sidebar consistency with iPadOS. Pinned Collections now come to Mac, so users can access the collections they use most with a click on the sidebar. Users will also find new buttons to quickly access filtering and sorting options in all views, and the ability to customize the size of Collections tiles, so they can view their library just how they like.
    • On FaceTime, the reimagined landing page features beautiful Contact Posters of recent callers, Liquid Glass controls now float in the bottom right and recede to create more space, and a new More button lets users quickly access features like SharePlay and Live Translation.
    • Notes adds the ability to import and export a note into a markdown file, and support for capturing conversations in the Phone app as audio recordings with transcriptions.
    • Accessibility features include Magnifier on Mac, which enables users with low vision to zoom in on their surroundings using Continuity Camera on iPhone or attached USB cameras, apply image filters so items are easier to see or read, and even change perspective when viewing presentations or books from an angle. Additional features include Accessibility Reader, a new systemwide reading mode designed with accessibility in mind; an all-new Braille Access experience that offers a user-friendly interface for those with a connected braille display; and Vehicle Motion Cues, which helps reduce motion sickness in a moving vehicle.
    • With Passwords, users can easily reference changes they make to their accounts, including checking previous versions of passwords they save, along with details on when they were changed.

    Availability

    All of these features are available for testing starting today through the Apple Developer Program at developer.apple.com, and a public beta will be available through the Apple Beta Software Program next month at beta.apple.com. The release will be available as a free software update this fall. The Apple Intelligence features detailed require supported devices, which include all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad mini (A17 Pro), and iPad and Mac models with M1 and later that have Apple Intelligence enabled and Siri and device language set to the same supported language: English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese (simplified). More languages will be coming by the end of this year: Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, Chinese (traditional), and Vietnamese. For more information, visit apple.com/os/macos and apple.com/apple-intelligence. Features are subject to change. Some features may not be available in all languages or regions, and availability may vary due to local laws and regulations. For more information about availability, visit apple.com.

    About Apple Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple Vision Pro. Apple’s six software platforms — iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay, iCloud, and Apple TV+. Apple’s more than 150,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth and to leaving the world better than we found it.

    1. Call Screening supports Cantonese (China mainland, Hong Kong, Macao), English (U.S., Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, UK), French (Canada, France), German (Germany), Japanese (Japan), Korean (Korea), Mandarin Chinese (China mainland, Taiwan, Macao), Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (U.S., Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain).
    2. Hold Assist will be available in English (U.S.), English (Canada), English (UK), English (Singapore), English (Australia), English (India), French (France), Spanish (U.S.), Spanish (Mexico), Spanish (Spain), German (Germany), Portuguese (Brazil), Japanese (Japan), and Mandarin Chinese (mainland China).
    3. Genmoji and Image Playground are available in English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, and Japanese.
    4. Live Translation in Messages supports English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain), and Chinese (simplified).
    5. Live Translation in Phone and FaceTime is available for one-on-one calls in English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).
    6. Testing conducted by Apple in May 2025 using JetStream 2.2, MotionMark 1.3.1, and Speedometer 3.1 performance benchmarks. Tested with prerelease Safari 26.0 and latest stable versions of Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Firefox at the time of testing on: 15-inch MacBook Air systems with Apple M4 and prerelease macOS Tahoe, and Intel Core Ultra 9-based PC systems with Intel Arc Graphics and Windows 11 Home; iPad Pro 13-inch (M4) units with prerelease iPadOS 26.0, and Intel Core Ultra 7-based PC systems with Intel Arc Graphics and Windows 11 Pro; and iPhone 16 Pro Max with prerelease iOS 26.0, and Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite-based smartphones with Android 15. Devices tested with a WPA2 Wi-Fi network connection. Performance will vary based on usage, system configuration, network connection, and other factors.
    7. Testing conducted by Apple in May 2025 by measuring page load performance of snapshot versions of 10 popular websites under simulated network conditions. Tested on production 15-inch MacBook Air systems with Apple M4, 16GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, and prerelease macOS Tahoe. Tested with prerelease Safari 26.0 and Chrome v136.0.7103.93. Performance will vary based on usage, system configuration, network connection, and other factors.
    8. Testing conducted by Apple in May 2025 on production 15-inch MacBook Air systems with Apple M4, 16GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, and prerelease macOS Tahoe. Systems tested with WPA2 Wi-Fi network connection while running on battery power, with display brightness set to 8 clicks from bottom and keyboard backlight off. Video streaming tested with 1080p content on prerelease Safari 26.0 and Chrome v136.0.7103.93. Not all features are available on all devices. Battery life varies by use and configuration. See apple.com/batteries for more information.

    Press Contacts

    Michelle Del Rio

    Apple

    mr_delrio@apple.com

    Starlayne Meza

    Apple

    starlayne_meza@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –