Latest news with #Optical
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
EYE Q1 Earnings Call: National Vision Discusses Transformation Strategy, Leadership Transition, and Tariff Impact
Optical retailer National Vision (NYSE:EYE) reported revenue ahead of Wall Street's expectations in Q1 CY2025, with sales up 5.7% year on year to $510.3 million. The company's full-year revenue guidance of $1.94 billion at the midpoint came in 0.7% above analysts' estimates. Its non-GAAP profit of $0.34 per share was 10.5% above analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy EYE? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $510.3 million vs analyst estimates of $502.6 million (5.7% year-on-year growth, 1.5% beat) Adjusted EPS: $0.34 vs analyst estimates of $0.31 (10.5% beat) Adjusted EBITDA: $64.07 million vs analyst estimates of $60.83 million (12.6% margin, 5.3% beat) The company slightly lifted its revenue guidance for the full year to $1.94 billion at the midpoint from $1.93 billion Management raised its full-year Adjusted EPS guidance to $0.63 at the midpoint, an 8.6% increase Operating Margin: 5.1%, in line with the same quarter last year Locations: 1,237 at quarter end, up from 1,201 in the same quarter last year Same-Store Sales rose 5.5% year on year (0.4% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $1.66 billion National Vision's first quarter performance was driven by the company's ongoing transformation initiatives, including new approaches to pricing, product assortment, and targeted customer segmentation. CEO Reade Fahs credited these strategies with improving results across managed care, progressive, and outside prescription customer segments, which together saw double-digit comparable sales growth. The rollout of remote eye exam technology helped address prior challenges with optometrist shortages, stabilizing exam capacity and keeping store coverage healthy. Fahs highlighted that the company's pricing actions raised average ticket values without reducing conversion rates or customer satisfaction, indicating customer acceptance of these changes. Product mix shifts toward higher-value frames and investments in store associate training also contributed to the positive momentum, while ongoing operational discipline supported bottom line growth. The first quarter's results reinforced management's belief that National Vision's transformation is gaining traction. Looking forward, National Vision's raised full-year guidance is underpinned by continued investment in digital tools, personalized marketing, and new product offerings aimed at expanding its reach among higher-value customer segments. Incoming CEO Alex Wilkes outlined priorities to further segment and personalize the customer experience, while enhancing store capabilities and modernizing the product mix. Management emphasized the importance of cost efficiency, particularly as the company prepares for potential increases in tariffs on imported eyewear. CFO Chris Laden stated, 'We believe that we can mitigate potential higher tariff costs with pricing actions and cost reduction efforts to neutralize the tariff impact.' The leadership team acknowledged macroeconomic uncertainty and intends to balance growth investments with disciplined expense management as transformation initiatives continue to roll out during the year. Management attributed the quarter's performance to pricing actions, higher-value product launches, targeted customer segmentation, and the successful adoption of digital and remote exam capabilities. Targeted segmentation strategy: Focused efforts on managed care, progressive, and outside prescription customers led to double-digit comparable sales growth within these segments. These customers, who represent about half of National Vision's base, were identified as underdeveloped but high-value groups, helping to expand the company's addressable market. Pricing actions well-received: New pricing structures were implemented, particularly in the fourth and first quarters, resulting in higher average ticket values. Management reported no negative impact on exam-to-purchase conversion rates or Net Promoter Scores, suggesting customer acceptance of higher price points and an ability to offset inflationary pressures such as tariffs. Product mix modernization: The company began introducing more branded and higher-priced frames, including launches of L.A.M.B. and Ted Baker eyewear. Management noted that after the second quarter, the proportion of frames priced above $99 will double compared to the end of last year, aiming to attract a broader customer base and enhance the in-store experience. Digital and remote exam adoption: Approximately two-thirds of stores now offer remote eye exams, allowing more efficient use of optometrist resources and helping ensure broad store coverage. This technology is now embedded in operations, and management expects further efficiency gains over time. Leadership transition and new hires: The company announced a planned CEO succession, with Alex Wilkes set to take over from Reade Fahs. Other recent leadership additions include CFO Chris Laden and new executives with backgrounds in retail and healthcare, supporting the transformation agenda and operational execution. National Vision's outlook is shaped by continued transformation initiatives, evolving customer preferences, and the need to manage external cost pressures such as tariffs. Enhancing customer experience: Management is rolling out new digital selling tools, improving CRM systems, and personalizing marketing to better engage higher-value customer segments. These investments are intended to drive sales growth and foster customer loyalty as the market becomes more competitive. Tariff mitigation and cost control: The company is preparing for potential increases in tariffs on imported frames, with less than 10% of its cost of goods exposed to China. Management believes that pricing actions and ongoing cost reduction efforts can offset these headwinds, but notes the situation is fluid and not yet fully reflected in guidance. Store optimization and product innovation: Efforts to optimize store formats, test smaller locations, and introduce new branded products are expected to broaden the customer base and improve store economics. National Vision is also investing in associate training and evolving its assortment to support higher average ticket values and margin resilience. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will be watching (1) the impact of ongoing product launches and pricing actions on average ticket values and customer mix, (2) execution of digital marketing and CRM enhancements to drive personalized engagement, and (3) the company's ability to manage cost pressures, particularly if tariffs on imported frames increase. Progress on store optimization and expansion will also be important signposts. National Vision currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 34.8×. Is the company at an inflection point that warrants a buy or sell? The answer lies in our full research report (it's free). Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election sent major indices to all-time highs, but stocks have retraced as investors debate the health of the economy and the potential impact of tariffs. While this leaves much uncertainty around 2025, a few companies are poised for long-term gains regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate, like our Top 6 Stocks for this week. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,754% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
The Verge
15-05-2025
- The Verge
Chrome's Android app will now let you zoom in on text without affecting the webpage
Emma Roth is a news writer who covers the streaming wars, consumer tech, crypto, social media, and much more. Previously, she was a writer and editor at MUO. Google is rolling out a handy update for Chrome on Android, as it will now allow you to zoom in on text without affecting the appearance of the webpage. You can use a slider to enlarge text, and then set it for one page or for all the sites you visit. Previously, when you zoomed in on a page in Chrome's Android app, it enlarged the entire page, making the site more difficult to navigate. You can try out the updated zoom feature by tapping the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of Chrome and then selecting how far you want to increase the size of the text. Additionally, Chrome's Optical Character Recognition tool, which converts an image of text into a machine-readable format, will now automatically recognize scanned PDFs on desktop, letting you highlight, copy, and search for text, as well as use a screen reader with them. Google first started rolling out this feature in beta earlier this year, but now it's available to all users on desktop. Google is also expanding Gemini's integration with TalkBack on Android, a screenreader that uses AI to identify and describe images on your screen. Now, TalkBack will let you ask follow-up questions about an image, such as what color an object is, what material it's made of, and what else is in the image. The company is launching Expressive Captions as well, which Google says 'provides real-time captions for anything with sound across most apps on your phone — using AI to not only capture what someone says, but how they say it.' That means you'll see captions that tell you when someone is saying 'noooooo' instead of 'no.' Google is adding captions for more kinds of sounds as well, like whistling or someone clearing their throat. This feature is rolling out in English in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia on devices running Android 15 and later.
Time Business News
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- Time Business News
Custom AOI Systems: Revolutionizing Complex Inspection in Modern Manufacturing
As industries race toward smarter, faster, and more efficient production, the demand for flawless quality has never been higher—especially in high-stakes sectors like automotive, aerospace, and medical device manufacturing. But as parts become increasingly complex—with curved surfaces, reflective materials, and intricate geometries—traditional inspection methods are hitting their limits, leading to inconsistent results, costly defects, and production delays. To overcome these modern challenges, forward-thinking manufacturers are embracing Custom Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) systems. Unlike off-the-shelf solutions, custom AOI systems are purpose-built for the unique demands of complex parts. By combining advanced imaging, intelligent lighting control, robotic motion, and AI-powered defect detection, these systems enable automated, high-precision inspection at scale—unlocking new levels of efficiency and product reliability. Why Custom AOI Systems Are Essential for Complex Part Inspection In advanced manufacturing, even a micron-level defect—invisible to the human eye—can compromise the safety, performance, or longevity of a critical component. Standard AOI systems, while effective for flat and uniform parts, often fall short when tasked with inspecting components that are geometrically complex or composed of challenging materials. Custom AOI systems are specifically engineered to detect such minute anomalies across non-linear surfaces, reflective finishes, and dynamically positioned parts. These systems combine precision optics, adaptive lighting, robotic positioning, and AI-driven defect recognition to deliver sub-micron accuracy in the most demanding environments. Common Inspection Challenges in Complex Manufacturing Multiple Surfaces & Angles Components such as engine housings, orthopedic implants, or turbine blades often feature multiple inspection zones, including internal cavities, curved edges, and recessed surfaces. These require multi-angle or 360-degree imaging to detect defects like micro-cracks, porosity, or incomplete machining that may measure just a few microns in depth. Components such as engine housings, orthopedic implants, or turbine blades often feature multiple inspection zones, including internal cavities, curved edges, and recessed surfaces. These require multi-angle or 360-degree imaging to detect defects like micro-cracks, porosity, or incomplete machining that may measure just a few microns in depth. Irregular Shapes & Sizes Intricate part geometries make it difficult for fixed-camera AOI systems to maintain consistent focus or coverage. A custom AOI setup with articulated camera mounts or robotic arms ensures complete visual access, capturing fine imperfections along complex contours, threads, and cavities. Intricate part geometries make it difficult for fixed-camera AOI systems to maintain consistent focus or coverage. A custom AOI setup with articulated camera mounts or robotic arms ensures complete visual access, capturing fine imperfections along complex contours, threads, and cavities. Reflective and Transparent Surfaces Polished metals, chrome coatings, and glass parts create unwanted glare, refraction, and ghosting under conventional lighting. Custom AOI systems address this with specialized diffuse or polarized lighting, combined with image enhancement algorithms capable of isolating micron-level defects such as pitting, scratches, and coating delamination. Polished metals, chrome coatings, and glass parts create unwanted glare, refraction, and ghosting under conventional lighting. Custom AOI systems address this with specialized diffuse or polarized lighting, combined with image enhancement algorithms capable of isolating micron-level defects such as pitting, scratches, and coating delamination. Inconsistent Part Orientation When parts arrive at varied angles or orientations on the production line, standard systems struggle to maintain alignment for accurate inspection. Custom AOI systems integrate machine vision-guided positioning and real-time orientation correction, allowing precise imaging regardless of how the part is presented. When parts arrive at varied angles or orientations on the production line, standard systems struggle to maintain alignment for accurate inspection. Custom AOI systems integrate machine vision-guided positioning and real-time orientation correction, allowing precise imaging regardless of how the part is presented. High-Speed Inspection Demands In high-throughput environments, inspection must occur in milliseconds. Custom AOI systems incorporate synchronized high-speed cameras and real-time AI analytics, enabling sub-millisecond detection of surface defects, dimensional deviations, and assembly errors—without slowing down production. Designing a Custom AOI System: Key Components & Strategies Designing a customized quality inspection system goes far beyond simply assembling cameras and lights. It requires a seamless integration of hardware engineering, precision optics, and intelligent software—all tuned to the unique characteristics of the product and its production environment. Here's how these systems are architected to deliver high-performance inspection at micron-level precision. 1. Custom Imaging Architectures At the core of any custom AOI system is a carefully engineered imaging solution tailored to the geometry, surface type, and movement of each part. High-Resolution Area Scan Cameras Ideal for static or intermittently moving components, these cameras capture ultra-detailed still images capable of highlighting micron-scale surface imperfections, such as burrs, pits, or minute cracks. Ideal for static or intermittently moving components, these cameras capture ultra-detailed still images capable of highlighting micron-scale surface imperfections, such as burrs, pits, or minute cracks. High-Speed Line Scan Cameras Perfect for parts moving on continuous conveyor belts, line scan cameras 'stitch' together narrow image slices to produce a complete, distortion-free image—suitable for detecting edge defects, weld irregularities, and surface inconsistencies in real time. Perfect for parts moving on continuous conveyor belts, line scan cameras 'stitch' together narrow image slices to produce a complete, distortion-free image—suitable for detecting edge defects, weld irregularities, and surface inconsistencies in real time. Multi-Camera Systems For parts with multiple surfaces or complex contours, cameras are positioned strategically at various angles to ensure comprehensive visual coverage. This setup helps detect hard-to-see defects on recessed, curved, or internal areas. For parts with multiple surfaces or complex contours, cameras are positioned strategically at various angles to ensure comprehensive visual coverage. This setup helps detect hard-to-see defects on recessed, curved, or internal areas. Robotic Camera Integration When fixed perspectives are insufficient, robotic arms or collaborative robots (cobots) are used to maneuver cameras dynamically around the part. This flexibility allows customized quality inspection systems to adapt to irregular geometries and inspect every angle with micron-level focus. 2. Advanced Lighting Techniques for Enhanced Defect Visibility In customized quality inspection, lighting is as crucial as the imaging itself. Without proper illumination, even the highest-resolution camera cannot reveal subtle defects. Diffuse Lighting Minimizes harsh reflections on glossy or metallic surfaces, providing even illumination to expose fine surface imperfections. Minimizes harsh reflections on glossy or metallic surfaces, providing even illumination to expose fine surface imperfections. Directional Lighting Emphasizes micro-textures, highlighting minute scratches, tool marks, or uneven finishes that standard lighting might miss. Emphasizes micro-textures, highlighting minute scratches, tool marks, or uneven finishes that standard lighting might miss. Dark Field Illumination Casts light at shallow angles to make surface flaws like cracks, scratches, and dents glow brightly against a dark background. Casts light at shallow angles to make surface flaws like cracks, scratches, and dents glow brightly against a dark background. Backlighting Illuminates parts from behind to detect through-holes, transparency variations, or edge defects that may be invisible from the front. Illuminates parts from behind to detect through-holes, transparency variations, or edge defects that may be invisible from the front. Structured Lighting Projects geometric patterns onto the part to reveal 3D surface variations, warping, and curvature-related flaws. Projects geometric patterns onto the part to reveal 3D surface variations, warping, and curvature-related flaws. Dynamic Lighting Control Using programmable LED arrays and smart controllers, the system adjusts light intensity, color, and direction in real time, optimizing visibility for different surface materials and part geometries. 3. Mechanical & Electrical Integration for Precision Handling A high-performance customized quality inspection system must align imaging with precise mechanical movement and synchronization to maintain accuracy and consistency. Motorized Camera Mounts These mounts automatically reposition imaging systems during inspection, enabling optimal viewing angles without manual intervention. These mounts automatically reposition imaging systems during inspection, enabling optimal viewing angles without manual intervention. Robotic Arms and Cobots Used to reorient or manipulate large, heavy, or unusually shaped parts to ensure every surface is within the camera's field of view. Used to reorient or manipulate large, heavy, or unusually shaped parts to ensure every surface is within the camera's field of view. Motion Encoders and Synchronization Systems These devices link inspection timing to part movement—whether on a conveyor or manipulated by a robot—ensuring images are captured at the right moment, even at high speeds. 4. AI-Powered Defect Detection and Intelligent Classification Once imaging is complete, the system shifts from optics to intelligence. AI drives the decision-making layer of customized quality inspection, identifying and categorizing defects with high precision. Deep Learning-Based Defect Recognition Neural networks trained on vast libraries of defect images can identify surface anomalies, structural faults, and subtle deformations—even those unseen during training. Neural networks trained on vast libraries of defect images can identify surface anomalies, structural faults, and subtle deformations—even those unseen during training. Golden Template Matching Compares each inspected part to an ideal reference model, detecting even the slightest deviations in shape, texture, or alignment. Compares each inspected part to an ideal reference model, detecting even the slightest deviations in shape, texture, or alignment. Adaptive Learning Algorithms Continuously evolve by learning from operator feedback and new defect patterns, improving inspection accuracy and reducing false positives or missed detections. Continuously evolve by learning from operator feedback and new defect patterns, improving inspection accuracy and reducing false positives or missed detections. Real-Time Data Processing & MES Integration Inspection results are processed instantly, triggering automated quality control actions such as part rejection, labeling, or process adjustment. Integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) enables full traceability and closed-loop feedback across the production line. Benefits of Custom AOI Systems Investing in a customized quality inspection system delivers more than just accurate defect detection—it transforms quality control into a strategic advantage across the production lifecycle. Here's how: Comprehensive Full-Surface Inspection Custom AOI systems are engineered to inspect every surface, angle, and contour of even the most complex parts. By incorporating multi-camera arrays, robotic imaging arms, and dynamic lighting, these systems eliminate blind spots that standard AOI setups often miss—ensuring nothing escapes detection, not even micron-level flaws hidden in recessed or reflective areas. Accelerated, Intelligent Quality Control Designed to operate at production-line speeds, custom AOI systems perform real-time defect detection and classification without creating bottlenecks. Advanced AI models streamline inspection workflows by instantly identifying non-conformities and flagging critical defects, helping manufacturers maintain throughput without compromising quality. Consistent and Objective Results Manual inspection is prone to variability and fatigue. In contrast, custom AOI systems deliver standardized, repeatable results 24/7. Leveraging machine vision and AI, these systems apply the same criteria to every part—reducing false positives, eliminating oversight, and ensuring compliance with strict quality standards. Scalable and Future-Ready Design Custom AOI solutions are inherently modular and adaptable. Whether introducing a new product variant, switching to different materials, or modifying production lines, these systems can be reconfigured with minimal disruption. This scalability supports continuous innovation while safeguarding inspection consistency across changing production requirements. Cost Reduction and Operational Efficiency By detecting defects early in the production process, custom AOI systems prevent flawed components from reaching later stages where rework or scrap costs are higher. The result: significant reductions in material waste, labor costs, reinspection time, and warranty claims—driving higher profitability and stronger customer trust. The future of industrial inspection is not just automated—it's highly intelligent and specifically tailored to the unique needs of each production environment. Custom AOI systems are at the forefront of this evolution, offering manufacturers a powerful, strategic advantage. By seamlessly integrating advanced imaging technologies, robotics, and AI-driven analysis, these systems provide unparalleled precision and efficiency, even when faced with the most intricate components or demanding production settings. From highly complex engine parts to reflective, polished surfaces or high-speed manufacturing lines, a custom AOI solution ensures every aspect of production is meticulously inspected—driving towards zero-defect manufacturing. This level of accuracy and reliability is not just a luxury; it's essential for companies aiming to stay competitive in the fast-evolving landscape of Industry 4.0. As manufacturers increasingly adopt automated solutions, customized quality inspection systems will become the backbone of quality assurance, enabling scalable production while maintaining the highest standards. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Digicomm International and Taara Partner to Bring Wireless Optical Communications to Broadband, Enterprise, and Municipal Networks
ENGLEWOOD, Colo., May 05, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Taara, born out of X, Google's Moonshot Factory, has chosen Digicomm International, a leading telecommunications distributor and manufacturer to stock and expand the deployment of Taara's innovative wireless optical communication technology. Through this strategic alliance, Digicomm will deliver Taara Lightbridge, a groundbreaking solution to broadband providers, enterprises, and municipalities seeking reliable high-speed, high-capacity wireless connectivity. Taara Lightbridge uses beams of light to deliver fiber-like speeds through the air, providing an ideal solution for middle-mile connectivity, network resilience, and rapid service restoration. By adding Taara Lightbridge to its portfolio, Digicomm strengthens its commitment to provide customers with innovative and scalable products that address today's growing broadband demands. "Partnering with Taara marks an exciting milestone for Digicomm and our customers," said Jennifer Nelson, FTTx and Wireless Sales Leader at Digicomm International. "Taara's Wireless Optical Communication technology is a perfect complement to our extensive wireless, HFC, and FTTx offerings, empowering service providers to expand faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost." "We're excited to welcome Digicomm as our Master Value-Added Reseller in the Americas region," said Sanjay Nagpal, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Partnerships at Taara. "Digicomm's deep regional expertise and strong ecosystem of relationships will accelerate the deployment of Taara's high-speed wireless optical technology where it's needed most. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to expand affordable, reliable internet access with partners seeking innovative, fiber-equivalent solutions." With decades of experience delivering advanced broadband technologies, Digicomm's logistical capabilities and customer reach make it an ideal partner to scale deployment quickly and effectively. Digicomm will stock and support Taara Lightbridge wireless optical solutions, offering link planning services, rapid order fulfillment, and customer service to meet the unique needs of broadband network operators. About Digicomm International Founded in 1993, Digicomm is an industry-leading, value-added broadband distributor and manufacturer – and a key strategic partner to its customers helping them meet the rigorous demands of broadband network operations. Service providers around the world depend on Digicomm's extensive inventory of Wireless, HFC, and FTTx products, representing trusted manufacturers such as AOI, PPC, Commscope, Tarana Wireless, and many others. Digicomm also designs and manufactures products including EDFAs, optical passives and more. For further information, visit About Taara Taara is a moonshot for connectivity, with a mission to extend and amplify the global communications network with beams of light. Born at X, Google's Moonshot Factory, the team combines expertise across disciplines to tackle the world's toughest connectivity challenges. Taara is now deploying wireless optical communications with industry partners in over a dozen countries, expanding access to fast, reliable connectivity. Learn more at View source version on Contacts Digicomm Internationalpressinquiries@ Taara Connect, Sign in to access your portfolio
Time of India
26-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
MMRDA non-fare revenue triples to 122cr
Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) recorded a sharp jump in non-fare box revenue (NFBR) for FY 2024–25, closing the year at Rs 122 crore — almost three times last year's Rs 42.5 crore. The 187% growth underscores the authority's renewed focus on asset monetisation and operational self-sufficiency, even as it aims to keep metro fares affordable. Total operational revenue — comprising fare and non-fare income — rose to Rs 292 crore, against Rs 190 crore earned in FY 2023–24. The figure also comfortably surpassed MMRDA's Rs 200 crore internal target for the year. How the money flowed: Revenue from Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) licensing topped the list at Rs 61.72 crore, followed by station advertisements (Rs 23.95 crore) and train branding (Rs 7.47 crore). Retail outlets and kiosks contributed Rs 8.22 crore, while station naming rights fetched Rs 9.76 crore. Manpower deployment, telecom infrastructure, and other avenues like filming permissions added smaller but significant amounts. tnn
