Meta unveils new smart glasses ready for consumers at Connect event

Meta Platforms has introduced its first consumer-ready smart glasses featuring a built-in display, aiming to build on the success of its Ray-Ban line, which has been significant player in the artificial intelligence era.

During the Meta Connect event at the company’s headquarters in Menlo Park, California, CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased the Meta Ray-Ban Display along with a new wristband controller.

Despite, encountering some technical issues during the demonstration the audience responded with applause.

Zuckerberg emphasised the potential of the new glasses as a means to achieve “super intelligence”, stating “Glasses are ideal form factor for personal superintelligence, allowing users to remain present while accessing AI capabilities that enhance communication, memory ad sensory perception”.

The Meta Ray-Ban Display features a small digital display in the right lens for notifications and will be priced at $799, available in stores starting September 30.

The price includes a wristband that converts hand gestures into commands for responding to texts and calls.

This launch marks Meta’s latest effort to catch up in the competitive AI landscape, where it is currently trailing behind companies like Open AI and Alphabet’s Google in the rollout of advanced AI models.

Zuckerberg has initiated a recruitment drive in Silicon Valley, targeting engineers from rival firms and pledging substaintial investments in advanced AI technology.

The launch comes as Meta faces scrutiny regarding child safety on its social media platforms.

Reports indicate that Meta chatbots engaged children in inappropriate conversations, while whistleblowlers revealed that researchers were discouraged from studying the potential harmful effects of virtual reality on young users.

In addition to the smart glasses, Meta introduced a new pair of Oakley-branded glasses called Vanguard, designed for athletes and priced at $499.

These glasses integrate with fitness platforms like Garmin and Starva, providing real-time training statistics and post – workout summaries with a battery life of nine hours They are set to launch on October 21.

Meta also updated its existing Ray-Ban line, which does not include a built-in display but now boasts nearly double the battery life and improved camera quality for a new price of $379.

While analysts express cautious optimism about the sales potential of the Display glasses, they view the launch as a stepping stone toward the anticipated 2027 release of Meta’s “Orion” glasses, which Zuckerberg has dubbed “the time machine to the future.”

Forrester analyst Mike Proulx noted that the debut of the Display glasses is reminiscent of Apple’s introduction of the smartwatch.

He remarked that while the glasses represent a convenient form factor, Meta must convince consumers of their value to secure market share.

The new devices include features such as Meta’s AI assistant, cameras, hands-free control, and livestreaming capabilities to the company’s social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.

Zuckerberg’s demonstrations did not go entirely smoothly, with one call to the glasses failing to connect. “I don’t know what to tell you guys,” he admitted, prompting cheers from the audience in support.

Jitesh Ubrani, research manager for IDC’s Worldwide Mobile Device Trackers, praised the Display glasses as “great value for the tech you’re getting,” but cautioned that the software needs improvement to appeal to average consumers.

IDC projects that global shipments of augmented reality and virtual reality headsets, along with display-less smart glasses, will rise by 39.2% in 2025, reaching 14.3 million units, with much of the growth driven by demand for Meta’s more affordable Ray-Bans produced in partnership with EssilorLuxottica.

Apple introduces eSIM technology and ends the need for physical SIM cards

Apple has officially exposed its latest innovation, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air which is a significant step in mobile connectivity by introducing eSIM Technology, and eradicating the physical SIM card completely.

Apple’s recent iPhone device, now available globally, operates solely on eSIM technology, highlighting what experts are calling the end of traditional SIM cards has started.

For over thirty years, mobile users have been using traditional plastic SIM card to connect to cellular networks.

But with the arrival of eSIM, that is used digitally without having any physical existence, the legacy hardware is rapidly being discontinued.

eSIM technology is built directly into the device, unlike physical SIM and user can easily activate it remotely, offering users greater flexibility and security.

Initially, Apple introduced iPhone 14 in 2022 with eSIM technology in the U.S. Now, as the new iPhone 17 Air has been launched, the company is enhancing its vision of a SIM-free future.

The initiative is predicted to be a major shift in the communication industry, with other manufacturers like Google and Samsung are likely to follow the same tech.

According to reports, an estimated number of 3.1 billion smartphones are expected to be shifted to the eSIM technology by 2030.

This change is not just about convenience, it also encourages slimmer device designs, larger batteries, and reduces plastic waste.

While most iPhone 17 models still offer dual SIM options in select markets, the Air model is eSIM-only worldwide, including regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

China remains an exception due to regulatory hurdles, delaying the iPhone Air’s launch there.

In separate progress, Apple has been facing an uptick in scams since it has started taking preorders for the new iPhone 17.

The frauds are aimed at disturbing publicity of its new iPhone launch.

Suspected schemes by counterfeit websites, fraudulent lotteries are gathering personal data, financial information from people while their attempts may pose risks theft of personal data and financial loss.

Historic step as Balochistan launches financial e-filing system

The Balochistan government has introduced the first-ever automated financial digital e-filing system in the province to promote transparency and digital governance.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti launched the digital financial e-filing system at a ceremony held at the Chief Minister Secretariat on Tuesday.

Provincial ministers, assembly members and senior officials from various administrative departments attended the event.

The initiative marks a significant step towards modernising public sector operations and providing citizens with direct access to financial and development data.

Speaking at the inauguration, the chief minister said the new system would streamline financial processes, eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies, and strengthen public oversight.

Citizens will be able to monitor projects and financial records through digital access

“The e-filing system is designed to serve as the backbone of comprehensive financial reform across the province,” Mr Bugti said, adding that its core features include online budget submissions, with all government departments now required to submit budget requests digitally.

He said the system would assist at every stage of approval, with all financial transactions recorded and accessible.

The aim, he said, is to replace outdated and opaque procedures that have long undermined efficiency.

Officials will have access to live data, enabling faster and better-informed decisions.

At the same time, citizens will be able to monitor development projects and financial records on their devices, checking whether initiatives are completed or merely proposed.

“Balochistan is now stepping into the digital age, aligning itself with global standards of transparency and accountability,” the chief minister said.

To ensure swift implementation, he directed all departmental secretaries to immediately adopt the system.

He also announced that future cabinet meetings would be conducted on digital tablets to avoid delays and phase out paper-based processes.

CM Bugti praised the local officials and IT experts who developed the system, noting that it was built entirely by Balochistan’s youth and professionals without external assistance.

He also announced a one-month salary bonus for government employees involved in the project and pledged similar incentives for private-sector contributors as a token of appreciation.

Earlier, Finance Secretary Imran Zarkoon gave a detailed briefing and live demonstration of the system’s features.

The ceremony concluded with the chief minister distributing certificates of appreciation to the development team, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the responsible and transparent use of public resources.

Saudi Defense Minister says Pakistan and Saudi Arabia stand united against any aggressor

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, on Thursday reaffirmed the strong alliance between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, declaring the two nations as one united front against any aggressor.

On social media platform X, Prince Khalid bin Salman stated: “KSA and Pakistan. One front against any aggressor. Always and forever.”

The announcement follows the signing of a “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement” between Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, on Wednesday.

The agreement explicitly states that “any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both.”

A joint statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office highlighted the significance of the pact.

“This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression.

The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both,” a joint statement shared by PM Office Media Wing said.

The two sides reviewed the historic and strategic relations between both countries, and a number of topics of common interest.

The prime minister expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also received a warm gesture of friendship as Royal Saudi Air Force F-15 fighter jets escorted his aircraft upon entry into Saudi airspace.

Joint Statement on the State Visit of H.E. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

At the gracious invitation of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Excellency Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, paid a state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 25/3/1447H, corresponding to 17 September 2025.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received the Prime Minister of Pakistan at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. Both sides held an official session of talks in the presense of both counrties' delegations. At the outset of the session، His Excellency the Prime Minister of Pakistan conveyed his greetings and warm wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The two sides reviewed the historic and strategic relations between both countries, and a number of topics of common interest.

Building on the historic partnership extending for nearly eight decades between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and based on the bonds of brotherhood and Islamic solidarity, as well as shared strategic interests and close defense cooperation between the two countries, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and His Excellency Mr. Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan signed the “Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement”. This agreement, which reflects the shared commitment of both nations to enhance their security and to achieving security and peace in the region and the world, aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and strengthen joint deterrence against any aggression. The agreement states that any aggression against either country shall be considered an aggression against both.

His Excellency Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his accompanying delegation. His Excellency also conveyed his best wishes for the continued well-being of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and the continued progress and prosperity, for the brotherly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In turn, His Royal Highness extended his warm wishes for the good health and well-being of His Excellency the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and for further progress and prosperity for the brotherly people of Pakistan.

US and China Reach Deal to Keep TikTok Operating in America

President Donald Trump on Tuesday announced an agreement between the US and China to keep TikTok operating in the United States, with three sources familiar with the matter saying the deal was similar to one discussed earlier this year.

The agreement requires TikTok's American assets to be transferred to US owners from China's ByteDance, potentially resolving a saga that has lingered for nearly a year.

A deal for the popular social media app, which counts 170 million US users, would represent a breakthrough in months-long talks between the two biggest economies as they seek to defuse a wide-ranging trade war that has unnerved global markets.

"We have a deal on TikTok ... We have a group of very big companies that want to buy it," Trump said at a White House briefing, without providing further details. The announcement comes a day before a September 17 deadline to sell or shut down the short video app.

Later in the day, the White House extended that deadline until December 16. The White House declined to provide any further details on the agreement with China.

The delay will give ByteDance another 90 days to finalise an agreement to transfer TikTok's American assets to US owners, suggesting much work needs to be done to close the complex transaction.

The US entity will have an American-dominated board, the Wall Street Journal reported, with one member designated by the US government.

The idea takes a page from a recent national security agreement inked by the Trump administration that allowed Nippon Steel to buy US Steel after allowing the US to name a board member, in addition to having a Golden Share.

Any agreement may require approval by the Republican-controlled Congress, which passed a law in 2024 during the Biden Administration that required TikTok's divestiture due to fears that its US user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, allowing Beijing to spy on Americans or conduct influence operations through the app.

The basics of the new deal, also similar to April, include that ByteDance will keep the single largest ownership stake at 19.9%, just under the law's 20% threshold, two of the sources said.

While the broad terms are expected to remain the same, the sources did say they do not know what the final deal would exactly look like, given the potential for last-minute changes.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC on Tuesday the commercial terms of the deal had, in essence, been done since around March, with just a few details left to be ironed out.

"This deal wouldn't be done without proper safeguards for US national security," Bessent said. "It seems as though we were also able to meet the Chinese interest."

Report says that the deal is expected to be closed within the next 30 to 45 days, and that the agreement will include existing investors in TikTok's China-based parent, ByteDance, and new investors.

The details are in line with Reuters' reporting in April that the deal would spin off TikTok's US operations into a new company based in the US and majority-owned and operated by US investors.

Jeff Yass' Susquehanna International Group, General Atlantic, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Sequoia Capital are among ByteDance's US backers.

The Trump administration has declined to enforce the law due to worries it would anger TikTok's huge user base and disrupt political communications, instead extending the divestiture deadline on three separate occasions.

Trump, who has credited TikTok with helping him win re-election last year and has 15 million followers on his personal account, was expected to extend the deadline for the fourth time.

The White House also launched an official TikTok account last month.

Tariffs and TikTok

A deal for TikTok, which had been in the works in the spring, was put on hold after China indicated it would not approve it following Trump's announcements of tariffs on Chinese goods.

Washington has said that TikTok's ownership by ByteDance makes it beholden to the Chinese government.

But the company has said US officials have misstated its ties to China, arguing its content recommendation engine and user data are stored in the US on cloud servers operated by Oracle, while content moderation decisions that affect American users are also made in the US

Report says that Oracle will keep its cloud deal with TikTok. Reuters reported earlier this year that the White House was working on a plan to tap Oracle, along with a group of outside investors, to control the app's operations.

As part of the plan, Oracle would have been responsible for addressing national security issues, Reuters had reported.

Oracle shares pared some gains on Tuesday following the news and were last up 1%.

A framework agreement was reached by officials from both countries on Monday.

A final confirmation on the deal is expected on Friday in a call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Trump said in March that his administration was in touch with four different groups on TikTok's sale. Microsoft, Amazon, billionaire Frank McCourt and a consortium led by the founder of OnlyFans have been among the bidders, according to reports.

New WhatsApp Feature Lets You Share Status with Close Friends Only

WhatsApp is preparing to launch a new feature that will allow users to share status updates exclusively with their close friends, rather than their entire contact list.

According to WABetaInfo, the messaging platform has rolled out a new Android beta update via the Google Play Beta Program, bringing the app version to 2.25.25.11.

This upcoming update introduces enhanced privacy controls designed to make managing status visibility quicker and more intuitive.

Inspired by Instagram’s “Close Friends” feature, WhatsApp aims to offer users more granular control over who sees their status updates.

New Status Sharing Interface

The redesigned interface is now available to select beta testers and appears within the drawing editor screen.

At the bottom, users will notice new audience selection chips that resemble filters found in the Chats tab.

These chips allow users to toggle between different privacy settings—such as “My Contacts” and “Only Share With”—without leaving the editor screen.

By tapping the “Only Share With” chip, users can limit the visibility of their status updates to a specific group of contacts.

This group is predefined in the privacy settings, giving users complete control over who sees their content.

 This approach not only simplifies the status-sharing process but also helps prevent oversharing by keeping more personal updates within a trusted circle.

The feature is a step toward offering users more nuanced sharing options, enabling them to maintain greater control over their privacy on the platform.