Latest news with #AR
Cision Canada
17 hours ago
- Cision Canada
CBSA firearms investigation in the Prairie Region leads to five-year jail sentence Français
WINNIPEG, MB, June 27, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, Robert Ripcik, a 57-year-old resident of Beausejour, Manitoba, was sentenced to five years imprisonment for firearms-related offences along with a 10-year firearm prohibition and ordered to provide a DNA sample. Ripcik, who has been in custody since his arrest on March 12, 2024, pleaded guilty in Selkirk Provincial Court to the following charges: False statements, contrary to section 153(a) of the Customs Act Possession of illegally imported goods, contrary to section 155 of the Customs Act Unauthorized possession of firearms, contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code Possession of prohibited devices, contrary to section 91(2) of the Criminal Code Possession of a prohibited firearm with readily accessible ammunition, contrary to section 95(1) of the Criminal Code The investigation into Ripcik began in April 2023 after CBSA officers at the Winnipeg Land Commercial office examined a shipment that was found to contain items related to the manufacture of firearms without serial numbers. A firearm with no serial number is also known as a "ghost gun" and is untraceable. In March and April 2024, CBSA officers, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, executed search warrants at a rural property near Chatfield, Manitoba. Among the items seized were: Nine long guns with serial numbers (two prohibited firearms, seven non-restricted firearms) Two Polymer 80 pistol receiver blanks for Glock pattern handguns (restricted firearms) and other handgun parts without serial numbers One Ghost Gunner Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine and one 3D printer One lower receiver for an AR pattern rifle without serial number (a prohibited firearm) Fully automatic parts for an AR pattern rifle (prohibited devices) and other AR parts Multiple overcapacity magazines (prohibited devices) and ammunition One fully automatic AR-15 pattern rifle (prohibited firearm) One automatic switch for a Glock handgun (prohibited device) The CBSA Integrated Firearm Enforcement Team (IFET), with assistance from the Winnipeg Police Service, the RCMP and Manitoba Conservation, led the complex investigation that resulted in today's conviction. Quotes "The Canada Border Services Agency is committed to keeping prohibited firearms and firearms parts off our streets and away from our communities. Ghost guns in particular pose a serious risk for many reasons, including how difficult they are to trace when used by criminals. Today's conviction and five-year sentence is a direct result of the hard work of the CBSA Integrated Firearm Enforcement Team and our intelligence and criminal investigators in Winnipeg. I would like to thank our law enforcement partners, the Winnipeg Police Service, the RCMP, and Manitoba Conservation for their contributions in this case and for their continued commitment to protecting our citizens and our communities." Janalee Bell-Boychuk, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, CBSA Quick Facts The CBSA IFET is a team of Intelligence Analysts, Intelligence Officers and Criminal Investigators working collaboratively to identify, interdict, investigate, and support the prosecution of cross border firearm-related offences. Smuggling and other Customs Act and Criminal Code contraventions may lead to prosecution in a court of law. A court conviction can result in fines, jail time, and impact a foreign national's ability to return to Canada in the future. CBSA Investigators have the ability to obtain search warrants and other judicial authorizations to search and seize evidence of criminal offences under the Customs Act and other border-related legislation. Learn more about weapons that are prohibited in Canada. For the latest seizure statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.
The Guardian
a day ago
- Business
- The Guardian
‘Employees feel capable and connected': the vital role played by good technology in job satisfaction
With the rapid pace of digital evolution, the integration of new technology into business operations – digital transformation – is crucial for organisations to survive and succeed. And the role of technology in enabling staff to do their job smoothly and efficiently is more important than ever. The way employees worked changed for many professions with the pandemic, leading to a boom in hybrid working that continues to this day. As a result, to thrive in the current business climate, workers increasingly rely on remote access, remote desktop support and online collaboration. 'Technology plays a critical role in how employees experience their work,' says Mark Banfield, chief commercial officer at TeamViewer, a provider of remote access and remote-control computer software, whose products range from Frontline, an industrial augmented-reality (AR) platform, to Tensor, a cloud-based connectivity solution. 'When technology functions well, it's almost invisible; it simply empowers people to focus, collaborate and be productive without friction. But when it breaks down, the impact is immediate: productivity drops, frustration rises and valuable time is lost. 'That's why it's so important to have workplace technology that supports employees seamlessly. Whether that's proactive issue detection, instant remote support or intuitive tools that guide them through tasks, the goal should always be to remove barriers and enable people to do their best work,' he says. Typical frustrations with workplace tech among staff include systems that are slow or unreliable, tech that doesn't integrate properly, and long delays in getting support when things go wrong. 'These issues create digital friction that takes a real toll on productivity and engagement,' says Banfield. 'That's why a unified platform that provides proactive monitoring, instant remote support, and seamless device management is so important, which is what we provide with our new platform TeamViewer ONE. It removes the complexity for employees and ensures they can stay focused and productive.' Retaining talentWhen it comes to securing top talent, workplace tech is a key differentiator. Platforms that support the digital employee experience (DEX) can significantly enhance job satisfaction, which in turn supports the retention of valuable staff and increases employee productivity. 'The link between good technology and job satisfaction is stronger than ever, especially in hybrid and distributed work environments,' says Banfield. 'Employees expect their workplace tech to work just as well as the tools they use in their personal lives. When it doesn't, it creates friction that affects performance, morale, and even retention. Tech that enhances satisfaction does three things well: it works reliably, it supports productivity without being intrusive and it helps employees feel connected and capable, even if they're remote.' A proactive approachAnticipating issues with workplace tech before they arise is another crucial element in keeping staff happy at work. When the US speciality insurer RLI Insurance began struggling with a reactive approach to IT problems it turned to TeamViewer for a solution. Its concerns were that limited endpoint visibility – the ability to view, monitor and manage endpoints of the IT network – obscured digital issues, while employees hesitated to report problems. The company took a proactive approach by investing in workplace tech that allowed it to troubleshoot potential problems before these issues could have an impact on its staff productivity. RLI implemented TeamViewer's DEX platform, which finds and resolves IT issues before they affect users, eliminating digital friction, avoiding costly downtime, and keeping IT operations running smoothly. With the platform's monitoring capabilities, RLI gained real-time visibility into the performance of every device and application across its organisation. 'We didn't have to get a call; we detected it,' says Jeremy Roberts, RLI's IT manager for technology support, describing how the team now identifies and resolves potential issues before they affect employees. TeamViewer's sophisticated monitoring system continuously performs microtransactions to test the different functions of each device. Training employees on new technologiesTechnology can also influence job satisfaction if it can support employees with training and in learning new roles. In a new study into digital transformation readiness, commissioned by TeamViewer* and interviewing more than 600 business leaders, employee empowerment came out as the biggest single theme. This reinforces the need to equip employees not just with new technologies, but also the training and support to use them. For example, TeamViewer's Frontline system enables experts to guide workers through complex issues remotely. Using AR, the experts can see what the worker sees. Putting employees firstBusinesses that foster a culture of innovation and adaptability will be best placed to maximise the benefits of digital transformation. Ultimately, the key lies in ensuring that workplace technology is centred around employees, their work and their wellbeing, rather than the other way around. 'The key is to design technology with the employee experience at the centre, not as an afterthought,' says Banfield. 'That means implementing tools that are intuitive, responsive, and tailored to real-world workflows. It also means using analytics and feedback loops to continually improve the way technology supports people, rather than expecting them to adapt to clunky or outdated systems.' *Bloomberg Media and TeamViewer: the Workplace Reimagined research study conducted by MTM Find out how your business can embrace the digital revolution with TeamViewer's innovative workplace technologies
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Game-based Learning Market Outlook -2030: Growth, Trends, Opportunities and Leading Key Leaders
Game-based Learning Market by Offering (Gamified Learning, Microlearning, Simulation Learning, LMS, Adaptive Learning, Authoring Tools), Application (K-12, Higher Education, Corporate Training, STEM, Cognitive Development) - Global Forecast to 2030 The game-based learning market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.4% between 2025 and 2030, from an estimated USD 6.23 billion in 2025 to USD 17.82 billion by 2030. The market for game-based learning is driven by the growing need for dynamic and captivating teaching resources, the expanding use of digital learning environments, and the growing use of smartphones and the internet. The market is further driven by improved learner retention, tailored learning experiences, and the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies like AI, AR, and VR. Furthermore, the transition to competency-driven and skill-based education promotes long-term development. Download PDF Brochure@ Increasing digital adoption in education and corporate training, rising demand for interactive and personalized learning experiences, and growing use of AR/VR and AI technologies are driving the growth of the game-based learning market. These factors enhance learner engagement, improve retention rates, and support scalable, outcome-driven educational solutions across sectors. The web-based deployment segment will register the largest market share during the forecast period The web-based deployment of the integration type segment holds the largest share in the game-based learning market due to its high accessibility, platform independence, and ease of integration across devices and operating systems. It allows learners to access content anytime, anywhere, without requiring complex installations. Moreover, institutions and enterprises prefer web-based solutions for their cost-effectiveness, scalability, and seamless updates, making them ideal for widespread adoption in education and training environments. The medical and healthcare training segment is poised for the fastest growth rate during the forecast period The medical and healthcare training segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the game-based learning market due to the increasing need for immersive, risk-free environments to train professionals in critical procedures. Advanced VR, AR, and AI technologies enable realistic simulations that enhance skill development, improve patient safety, and reduce errors. The demand for continuous upskilling and remote training further accelerates adoption in this sector. North America will account for the largest market during the forecast period North America is projected to hold the largest share in the game-based learning market, driven by its advanced digital infrastructure, early adoption of educational technologies, and strong presence of key market players. The region benefits from significant investments in edtech, supportive government initiatives, and a high level of awareness regarding the benefits of interactive learning, enabling widespread implementation across educational institutions and corporate training environments. Request Sample Pages@ Unique Features in the Game-based Learning Market Game-based learning platforms are distinguished by their incorporation of gamification elements such as points, badges, leaderboards, and rewards. These features enhance learner motivation, engagement, and retention by transforming traditional learning into an interactive and enjoyable experience. Many platforms in this market use AI and analytics to tailor educational content according to the learner's performance, pace, and preferences. Adaptive learning paths help maintain engagement by ensuring content difficulty is neither too easy nor too hard, thereby optimizing learning outcomes. Game-based learning solutions provide instant feedback, enabling learners to understand mistakes and improve performance on the spot. This continuous loop of assessment and correction is more dynamic and effective compared to traditional evaluation methods. These platforms often incorporate multiplayer modes, team-based challenges, and social sharing features. Such interactivity promotes teamwork, communication, and peer learning, which are vital skills in both educational and corporate training environments. Major Highlights of the Game-based Learning Market The game-based learning market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing adoption in K-12, higher education, and corporate training sectors. Educators and trainers are recognizing the value of interactive content in improving knowledge retention and learner satisfaction. With a global emphasis on practical skills and competencies, game-based learning is being embraced as a tool to teach critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and collaboration. This shift is particularly visible in vocational training and soft skills development. Advancements in AI, AR/VR, cloud computing, and mobile technology are significantly enhancing the capabilities of game-based learning platforms. These innovations allow for more immersive, personalized, and flexible learning experiences, fueling market expansion. The sector is witnessing a surge in funding and investment, with numerous edtech startups and established tech firms entering the market. This influx is leading to greater competition, innovation, and availability of diverse learning solutions. Inquire Before Buying@ Top Companies in the Game-based Learning Market Some of the leading players in the game-based learning market include Duolingo (US), Kahoot! (Norway), Skillsoft (US), Stride (US), and Pearson (US). These companies leverage the development of curriculum-aligned content to ensure relevance in academic and corporate training environments and the integration of immersive technologies such as AR/VR to enhance user engagement. These approaches help providers differentiate their offerings, improve learning outcomes, and cater to the evolving needs of digital-native learners. DUOLINGO Duolingo is one of the prominent players in the game-based learning market, known for its data-driven approach and gamified learning model. Its core competencies lie in offering engaging, bite-sized lessons supported by features such as streaks, leaderboards, and in-app rewards that boost user motivation. Duolingo is strategically broadening its horizons by venturing into diverse areas such as music, math, and chess while simultaneously enhancing its vertical integration with offerings such as the Duolingo English Test and literacy-oriented apps, including Duolingo ABC. The company emphasizes persistent product experimentation through A/B testing to continually refine the user experience. Additionally, Duolingo has forged partnerships with notable content providers such as CNN and BuzzFeed, aiming to diversify learning formats and bolster its global footprint. This multifaceted approach not only enhances user engagement but also positions Duolingo as a leading player in the evolving edtech landscape. KAHOOT! Kahoot! is a leading platform in the game-based learning market, recognized for its interactive quizzes and real-time engagement tools that support active learning across educational and corporate environments. Its core strengths include a user-friendly interface, real-time feedback, and data analytics that provide actionable insights for educators and trainers. Kahoot! has pursued horizontal integration by acquiring Poio, DragonBox, Drops, and Clever, expanding its reach into early learning, language acquisition, and enterprise training. The company also engages in strategic partnerships with schools and organizations to enhance accessibility and content relevance. Through vertical integration, it offers tailored solutions for K–12, higher education, and workplace learning. Continuous innovation and research-backed product development remain central to its long-term growth strategy. SKILLSOFT Skillsoft, a U.S.-based ed-tech leader founded in 1998 and headquartered in Nashua, NH, blends robust SaaS-based learning content with immersive game-based learning and gamification strategies—most notably via their Percipio platform—to engage learners and drive retention. They've integrated interactive game mechanics (e.g., scavenger hunts and 'Skillball') into corporate training programs to boost motivation and platform adoption, and continually innovate with tools like Interactive Skill Benchmarks—real-world task simulations to assess and develop skills dynamically. STRIDE Stride, Inc. (NYSE:LRN), a Reston, VA–based ed-tech firm formerly known as K12 Inc., is a major player in the U.S. game-based learning market—especially across K-8 education with its Skills Arcade, an adaptive, gamified platform featuring 45,000+ interactive questions and rewards like coins and badges to boost engagement and benchmark-driven progress. They're also widely recognized for their Stride Meets Minecraft initiative, which immerses students in curriculum-aligned challenges in custom Minecraft Education worlds—a feature that earned them 'Digital Game-Based Learning Product of the Year' and finalist status in gamification awards. PEARSON Pearson (U.S.), a leading global education company headquartered in New York, has actively integrated game-based learning across K-12 and higher education through strategic partnerships and proprietary products. They've collaborated with startups like Labster to embed immersive virtual science lab simulations within its Realize LMS, boosting engagement and outcomes in biology curricula. In business higher-ed, Pearson teamed up with mLevel to gamify core courses—adding leaderboards, badges, and level progressions to Pearson's Intro to Business materials. Additionally, in primary language learning, they launched Poptropica English, a quest-driven platform based on the popular gaming world to motivate students through interactive stories and quests.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Vuzix (VUZI) -Sphere Alliance Brings AI-Enhanced AR to the Frontline
Vuzix Corporation (NASDAQ:VUZI) is one of the 12 best-augmented reality stocks to buy, according to analysts. On June 24, Vuzix Corporation partnered with Sphere Technology Holdings to bring Sphere's mixed reality and AI-powered platform to its M400 and M4000 AR smart glasses. This partnership is set to equip frontline workers with hands-free, immersive digital tools to streamline workflows and enable real-time decision-making in complex environments. SFIO CRACHO/ Sphere's spatial computing platform blends the digital and physical worlds using features like spatial mapping, gesture recognition, and holographic rendering. It integrates with enterprise systems such as ERP and IoT platforms, making it ideal for industries that require precision and collaboration without disrupting workflows. By combining Sphere's immersive technology with the portability of Vuzix smart glasses, the collaboration targets key sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and defense. Executives from both firms emphasize the potential to boost operational efficiency, enhance safety, and improve productivity—even in the most demanding field conditions. Vuzix Corporation (NASDAQ:VUZI) designs, manufactures, and markets augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) display devices and smart glasses. It focuses on creating wearable display technology for various applications, including enterprise, defense, and consumer markets. While we acknowledge the potential of VUZI as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 11 Best Performing Warren Buffett Stocks in 2025 and 12 Best Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Stocks to Buy. Disclosure: None.
GSM Arena
3 days ago
- Business
- GSM Arena
Xiaomi teases camera-focused smart glasses before tomorrow's big event Comments
25 June 2025 The company has released a variety of smart glasses over the last few years - some did AR, others focused on audio.
