Latest news with #EyeSight
Hans India
2 days ago
- Hans India
From Empathy to Innovation: Class 11 Student Creates Tech for the Visually Impaired
Seventeen-year-old innovator and accessibility advocate, Ashwat Prasanna, spoke to The Hans India about the journey behind EyeSight—an AI-powered, low-cost smart glasses solution designed to empower India's visually impaired. In this conversation, he shared how empathy, user collaboration, and cutting-edge technology came together to create an inclusive device that aims to reach over 20,000 users by 2026. You're just 17 and already impacting lives—how did your journey into social innovation begin so early? I volunteer at the Premanjali Foundation for the visually impaired. During my time there, I became friends with Charan – he shared my love for math and logic. We would spend a lot of time discussing puzzles and Olympiad questions. But what moved me was when I was told by one of the teachers there not to encourage him a lot since he would never have the opportunities I did – It was very unsettling for me for days – this day and age where we are talking about robot housekeepers and driverless cars, there were still pockets where technology hadn't made its mark – For the next few months, I researched all available accessibility tech, what worked and what was missing – I realized that best results can be achieved if a device was specifically designed for the needs of the visually impaired – navigation, currency reading, scene description etc – that's how the very first version of EyeSight was born – three years ago. Can you share one user testing experience that deeply moved you or reshaped your thinking? More than user testing, I would say that this design was co-created with the users. From the outset, the design and features were influenced by the users' needs and wants. Throughout the version iterations, I got a lot of feedback about what worked and what did not hit the mark. One thing that hit home hard was the affordability. It was easy to get carried away with the latest in technology, but that would be pointless to most of the visually impaired users, as it falls outside their affordability limit. The challenge was to create the best possible version at the lowest cost. How do you plan to make the device sustainable and scalable across India's diverse regions and languages? EyeSight uses the OpenAI API, which has incredible support for India's local languages and even dialects, which currently gives us great reach and localisation in these regions. Additionally, in the future, we plan to fine-tune or train LLMs and AI models to better suit these regions. Another major part of sustainability and scalability is making the device affordable, which has been one of the most significant features so far. Specifically, by making the device 3D printable and using standard parts, it is something that can be assembled by nearly anyone, for everyone. How does EyeSight's offline functionality and ₹1500 pricing truly redefine affordability and accessibility in this space? Compared to other devices with comparable features, which cost upwards of 10-15 thousand rupees, EyeSight is only Rs. 1500, made possible by our choice of design and functionality. Why is this significant? The reality is that for many of the institutions for the visually impaired, more than the features that define access, it's the cost that is the most significant. With EyeSight, thousands more could have access to transformative assistive technology. With a target of 20,000 users by 2026, how do you plan to tackle scale while keeping personalisation and support intact? In the past, the majority of the prototypes have been used in small-scale testing, where they were used individually and not sold to the customer. The pilot phase (set to begin in May) will include loaned units to an institution, by which time the pricing will be finalised. We have received an IB grant of 3000$, which has been very useful in building these late-stage prototypes. Going forward, our first step will be to conduct large-scale user testing and refine the product over the next few months. Based on the testing results, we plan to approach manufacturing units with the refined specs. As far as reaching users is concerned, we are planning to collaborate with schools for the visually impaired in Karnataka. Samarthanam Trust, NAB Karnataka, Mitra Jyoti, and Premanjali Foundation have been of incredible help to us in our creation process. The students in these institutions will be our initial beneficiaries. How did support from programs like IB Global Youth Action Fund and RunWay Incubation shape EyeSight's development? Building the technical product is one thing; taking the product the last mile to reach the market is a whole other thing. As a student, I needed all the help I could get on building EyeSight as a product. RunWay Incubation is a division of PEARL Design Academy that incubates early-stage student ventures such as mine. There I learnt the basic fundamentals of creating a business plan, marketing and fundraising tools. With this foundation, I was able to apply for and acquire the IB Global Youth Action Fund grant of 3000$. This fund, in turn, has helped me build low-fi prototypes and a testable prototype with which I'm doing user testing. How does EyeSight perform offline AI processing on a wearable device without needing constant cloud connectivity? What challenges did you face in optimising performance? Currently, the code implements a combination of models for more detailed online access and quick, essential offline scene inference. This means the basic features of identifying objects, hazards, and safety risks are something that can be possible regardless of an internet connection, and we are working to implement more features to improve offline performance. This is especially significant since many of our users have mentioned that internet connectivity is often patchy in areas where they typically use the product. How do the glasses trigger emergency alerts? Are they gesture-activated or context-based through environmental detection? They need a simple tap gesture on the device before it informs the user and calls emergency services. In future versions, emergencies can be automatically identified using computer vision. What's next for EyeSight after this prototype phase? Are there any new features or partnerships in the works? - First priority is to increase the user-level and field testing for multiple use cases; cooperate with NGOs, and work with the students - From a packaging standpoint, we need to increase the product robustness and reduce the cost of various components; we have identified a hardware partner, and we will accelerate product redesign - We will apply for national and international grants and financial partners for scaling and a large-scale launch
NZ Autocar
17-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
New models continue Subaru's unblemished safety record
The Subaru Crosstrek and closely-related Subaru Impreza have both received five-star ANCAP safety ratings following their MY25 safety updates. These scores apply to Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles built from April 2025 and on sale from June 2025. Because this pair is so similar under the skin, shared test results were used to determine the safety ratings for these models. Collision avoidance performance tests were conducted on the Subaru Crosstrek together with the full-width frontal, oblique pole and side impact tests. Meantime, frontal offset (MPDB) testings was conducted on the Subaru Impreza. The Impreza also underwent its own side impact and pedestrian tests to confirm comparable performance. Read out review of Subaru Crosstrek here. For Adult Occupant Protection both models achieved an 83 per cent result. They offered Good levels of protection for the driver in the full width frontal, side impact and oblique tests. Here, full points were scored. Front passenger protection in the frontal offset test was also deemed Good. A centre airbag between the front seats resulted in mixed performance following side impact crashes. Both models achieved 91 per cent crash test results for Child Occupant Protection. They scored maximum points in the two crash tests that featured the six- and ten-year-old child dummies. Similar results were recorded for Vulnerable Road User Protection (Crosstrek 85%; Impreza 84%). In physical impact tests, the bonnet and windscreen of both models provided Good protection to the head of a struck pedestrian. But Poor results were noted on the stiff windscreen pillars. Both models have the ability to detect and automatically avoid or reduce the severity of a crash with pedestrians and cyclists. Safety Assist systems garnered a 73 per cent result for both models. Each is fitted with Subaru's EyeSight technology. So they offer AEB, lane keep assist, emergency lane keeping, speed assistance systems, and a direct driver monitoring system. The Impreza offered slightly better head and lower leg protection for pedestrians than the Crosstrek. But femur protection provided by the Crosstrek was superior to that of the Impreza, giving it a slightly higher Vulnerable Road User Protection score.
Auto Blog
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Which Subaru Wilderness Model is Best? I Explain
The Subaru Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek were all incredibly capable and versatile cars before getting the Wilderness treatment. However, a factory lift, all-terrain tires, waterproof seating, and a tuned CVT make them even more capable cars. Who knew that was even possible, right? If all three are great, which is best? I've been asked, 'Which Wilderness model is the best?' Too many times to count, and it's a complicated question to answer. Instead of shrugging and saying, 'It depends,' I'll break down the subtle differences between each one to help you make a more informed decision before you head to your local dealership and the commission-chasing Subaru salesmen start circling like sharks. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:10 Tesla sales in Europe drop yet again Watch More 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness — Source: Subaru Right now, there are only three Subaru Wilderness models available: the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback. Each one is equipped with Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires, glossy black model-exclusive wheels, bronze accenting, rugged exterior cladding, and a matte black glare-diffusing patch on the hood. Each one comes with Subaru's award-winning tri-camera EyeSight setup, making them just as safe as the standard models. Good looks aside, what else do you get with the Wilderness badge? Subaru reinforced the roofs on all three models to carry an additional 70 pounds, and raised roof rails make it easier to install those Yakima or Thule crossbars you've got in your garage and get yourself a nice rooftop tent, cargo box, bike rack, or basket. The optional OEM ladder-style crossbars are a great option too, over the fold-away bars that can be added onto the standard models. That beautiful Geyser Blue exterior color is trim-specific, too. And it looks smashing when it's decorated with mud. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness — Source: Michael Shaffer / Subaru On the inside, more bronze complements the otherwise black interior. All three Subies come with all-weather cargo and floor mats, and Subaru's StarTex waterproof (but still very comfortable) seating in the front and rear. Of course, it wouldn't be a fancy trim level if it didn't have 'Wilderness' badging throughout. They're all ready to hit the trails with preinstalled mudflaps and underbody protection for the oil pan and gas tank, too. Subaru says the dual-function X-MODE is more effective in the Wilderness, thanks to an updated CVT for all three models. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Then there's the biggest change: the factory lift. The Outback boasts the most lift of the trio, going from 8.6' to 9.5'. Which, if you're a nerd about ground clearance like I am, is only 0.2' lower than the stock height of a Jeep Wrangler. The Crosstrek comes in second with an upgrade to 9.3', and then the Forester has the mildest increase to 9.2'. This means you can buy a Wilderness model and show up to an Off-Road Subaru meet within the same hour. That's why Subaru developed the Wilderness models, to give those who frequent the roads less traveled without having to modify them. The Outback is the most expensive—but it comes with a turbocharger 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness — Source: Subaru The Outback was the brand's most luxurious one of the lot. It was one of the first to come with a CVT, and had leather seats, a large sunroof, and an upgraded Harmon Kardon sound system, even in the early 2000s. So, it's shocking to literally no one that the Outback is the largest, roomiest, and most comfortable Wilderness. It comes with all the add-ons that come exclusively with the Wilderness trim, but having the taller lift, additional cargo space thanks to a longer wheelbase, and the reinforced roof make the Outback the best choice for families, though even single drivers can still enjoy the Outback. The waterproof seating and all-weather mats make it ideal for dog owners and campers. Plus, it's the only Wilderness model that comes with a turbocharger. Under the hood is Subaru's newest 2.4-liter turbo Boxer four, which makes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It has the highest towing rating of the trio, too, at 3,500 lbs—though I don't know that I'd trust a CVT mated to a four-cylinder engine with that much weight. Especially since the brakes haven't been upgraded from the standard model, but take that as you may. The Wilderness, XT, Touring XT, and Onyx editions are the only versions of the Outback that have the added turbo boost. Off-road, that additional power most certainly comes in handy. Trust me. 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness — Source: Subaru With all those extra ponies and cubic inches of space comes a steeper price tag, though. Though the price range of $37,648 to $47,070 MSRP is actually quite a bargain for what you get, especially when you compare it to the SUVs it competes against, like the Honda Passport TrailSport, Mazda CX-50 Meridian, or the Hyundai Santa Fe XRT, which all have a higher base MSRP over the Outback. When it came to loading my two toddlers in the car, I found the Outback to be easy because of the wide entry point, visible and accessible lower anchors and upper tether points on the back of the seat, but the lower roof line made it slightly annoying to load and unload them. However, once my oldest discovered she could easily climb in and out of it, I only had to worry about bending over to grab my youngest. The trunk was the easiest to get things in and out of, too, and it fit their double stroller, diaper bag, and a Costco haul without breaking a sweat The Forester's taller roof makes it feel roomier, for less 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness — Source: Subaru The Forester is the second roomiest, with cargo space figures just slightly lower than the Outback. A shorter wheelbase is to thank for that, but passenger comfort isn't compromised with the loss of inches. While it seems disappointing, the benefit of the Forester over the Outback is the higher roof line. You can stack more vertically, making that dorm room move or camping trip a little easier to pack for. I also appreciated the higher roof line when it came to loading and unloading my toddlers, since I didn't have to bend over as low. My oldest loved the sunroof (which is standard on the Forester, while it's optional on the Outback) and taller windows, too. Sadly, the Forester Wilderness does not come with a turbo, even as an option. Yes, I'm still mourning the death of the Forester XT, and while the Forester would greatly benefit from a turbocharger, Subaru won't budge. Americans don't get the 2.4-liter. Instead, the Forester comes with a 2.5-liter (sadly) naturally aspirated four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It's no race car, but the improved CVT definitely helps put some pep in its step. Not having a turbo helps keep the mileage numbers fairly high, though, with averages of 25 in the city and 28 on the highway compared to the Outback's averages of 21 and 26 mpg. So, if you're more concerned about mileage than you are about cargo space, the Forester might be the one for you. 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness — Source: Subaru In my opinion, the shorter wheelbase made it easier to park in a garage and felt a lot more nimble off-road, thanks to better approach and departure angles. The cargo space was plenty for my toddler's needs and my own, though I imagine it would be a little tight for a larger family and all their luggage. But that's when you employ those reinforced roof rails and get a cargo box or basket. Like its larger and more stout sibling, it's fairly priced. You get all that and a bag of chips at a price range of $34,995 to $38,877, depending on how many add-ons you opt for. Finally, the small but very mighty Crosstrek 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness — Source: Subaru of America Looks are very deceiving when it comes to the Crosstrek Wilderness, and after putting my kids in one, I understand why they're becoming a common sight in my home of Bend, Oregon. The Crosstrek has the smallest lift of the three, but it's still a feisty little thing. The Crosstrek Wilderness doesn't come with a sunroof, but the interior felt plenty open with large windows. I felt that the corners of the roof were easy to see out of the windshield, and despite a lift and knobby tires, it rode and handled a lot better than I assumed it would. My toddlers were definitely a lot more cramped in the Crosstrek compared to the Forester or the Outback, though, so I wouldn't recommend the Crosstrek for families like I would the other two. However, if you're looking for something capable, reliable, remarkably efficient, and you're on a budget, the Crosstrek is a very respectable choice. It comes with the same engine as the Forester, but since it's the smallest, it feels a lot more poised on and off-road. It has the shortest wheelbase and the best approach and departure angle of the Wilderness models, too. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness — Source: Michael Shaffer / Subaru What I found strange was the trunk design. The trunk itself isn't small, but the entry into it is very narrow, which made loading everyday things more difficult and ate up valuable space. Otherwise, the rear seats were still plenty cozy, but felt very closed from a lack of sunroof and smaller windows compared to the Forester or Outback. I'm a very outdoorsy person, and if I didn't have kids in car seats that require a lot of items, the Crosstrek would be perfect for single drivers or couples without kids. Unlike the Forester and the Outback, the Wilderness is the top-shelf trim of the Crosstrek. Even then, the Crosstrek Wilderness has a more-than-fair base price of $32,195 and a max price of $33,360 with all the add-ons, which is remarkable for what you get. Final thoughts: Your needs decide the winner Subaru Forester Wilderness — Source: Subaru of America Deciding which one is best is like trying to pick the best dessert option. Each one is delicious, and you truly can't go wrong with either one, but each one has a unique strength that may make it a better buy for you and your lifestyle. The Outback has two: power and space. The turbocharger adds a lot of value to it because it not only makes it more capable off-road but also adds a lot of character. There's nothing worse than having to pass a truck or SUV towing a trailer and putting the pedal to the metal only to hear the engine roaring, but the car doesn't move. You wouldn't have to worry about that with the Outback. The cargo space is unmatched, and it does have the highest towing rating. So if you're on the hunt for a very capable off-roader right off the lot, the Outback is worth the extra dough. Especially for families or couples who take camping and softroading very seriously. I'd buy the Outback Wilderness to accommodate my family and outdoorsy lifestyle in a heartbeat. The Forester is another excellent choice for families, as it has similar cargo space numbers to the Outback, but it's easier to park in a garage and easier to load things in and out of (there's a reason why grannies love them so much!). It doesn't have the punch of the turbocharger, but it does earn better mileage than the Outback. It's also incredibly fairly priced and comes with a large panoramic sunroof as standard equipment, which my toddlers absolutely adored, as it opened up the backseats and eased car sickness. I have a 2011 Forester, and the newest generation still carries what made the Forester so successful in the first place. It's just a little bigger and a lot safer. If not for families, this is great for couples with dogs, too. 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness — Source: Subaru The little Crosstrek has a lot of personality, and that's why I recommended one to my best friend. She bought one and loves it, due to its amazingly high average mileage rates, plentiful space for a single person, unmatched off-road capabilities, and safety ratings. It's also the most affordable of the three, even at the fancier Limited Wilderness level, making it ideal for families on a budget (though the cargo space was an issue for me, but it will work with a cargo basket or box), single campers, or families without children. If I didn't have children, this would be the Subaru Wilderness I'd buy. The 2.5-liter engine is a happy medium for the Crosstrek, so it's not shocking that it gets the best mileage of the trio. About the Author Kristen Brown View Profile
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
29-04-2025
- Business Standard
Apple Vision 'Air': Affordable and lightweight headset may launch this year
Apple may introduce a lighter and more affordable version of its Vision Pro headset as early as the end of this year. According to a report from 9to5Mac citing Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is working on an 'air' model of the mixed reality headset, targeting a launch window between late 2025 and the first half of 2026. However, it remains unclear whether the new headset will be a standalone device or require tethering to a Mac, as previously speculated. Internally, Apple reportedly views the current Vision Pro as too heavy for prolonged use, and its high price point has limited its adoption. The new device in development is likely intended to address both of these concerns. Earlier this month, Bloomberg reported that Apple is developing two new mixed reality headsets: a direct successor to the Vision Pro and a lighter, more accessible model. While details about the lighter model remain scarce, Apple is expected to scale back some hardware features to achieve reductions in weight and cost. This could include fewer camera sensors, lower internal display resolution, a narrower field of view, and the removal of the EyeSight display — the outward-facing panel that shows the user's eyes. Other reports suggest that this lighter model may not operate independently and could instead require a connection to an iPhone or Mac to function. Meanwhile, for the next-generation Vision Pro, Apple is said to be focusing on enterprise use cases by addressing latency issues. According to the report, the second-generation headset will support a direct connection to a Mac, enabling ultra-low latency performance. This could prove particularly useful in fields like surgery, where viewing medical images with minimal delay is critical, or in flight simulators.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
View Interior Photos of the 2024 Subaru WRX TR
Read the full review The EyeSight driver-assist system is now standard on all WRX models, including manual-transmission ones like this. The TR is the only manual-transmission 2024 WRX to get these Recaro seats. Fun fact: Reverse is to the right and down in the WRX but left and up in the BRZ because Subaru designed the WRX's transmission but not the BRZ's, which is based on an Aisin design. Now you have something interesting to say at cocktail parties. You Might Also Like Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars through the Decades How to Buy or Lease a New Car Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!
