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Tag: Apple

  • Apple set to unveil new iPad Pro, iPad Air models in May

    Apple set to unveil new iPad Pro, iPad Air models in May

    Apple is preparing for a significant launch event, as reported by Mark Gurman in Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter. The tech giant is set to unveil its latest offerings, the new iPad Pro and iPad Air, during the week of May 6.

    The anticipated launch will introduce new models, including 11-inch and 13-inch OLED iPad Pro versions, alongside a larger 12.9-inch iPad Air. Additionally, consumers can expect refreshed Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil accessories to accompany these devices.

    This announcement marks a notable event for Apple, as it’s been nearly eighteen months since the release of any new iPad hardware. The upcoming iPad Pros are expected to boast enhanced displays, transitioning from mini-LED to OLED panels similar to those found in iPhones.

    This upgrade promises deeper contrast and increased brightness. Alongside display improvements, there’s anticipation for a sleeker design, with a thinner chassis and a repositioned front camera to the landscape edge. These new models will be powered by the advanced M3 chip.

    However, consumers may need to prepare for potential price hikes, as hinted by Gurman’s newsletter. Currently, the 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $799, while the 12.9-inch model begins at $1099.

    For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the new 12.9-inch iPad Air aims to deliver a larger screen size without breaking the bank. Details regarding its processor, whether M2 or M3, remain unclear at this stage.

    Excitingly, the new accessories are expected to enhance the user experience further. Rumors suggest that the new Apple Pencil might include a new squeeze gesture feature, while the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro is set to mimic a laptop with its aluminum base and larger trackpad.

    Although updates for the base model iPad and iPad mini are scheduled for later in the year, Gurman anticipates only minor improvements, primarily a processor upgrade for the iPad mini.

  • Apple explores making personal robots: report

    Apple explores making personal robots: report

    Apple engineers are working on making personal robots, a report said on Wednesday, just weeks after the iPhone-maker abandoned its efforts to develop an electric car.

    The tech titan has people working on a robot that would follow people around at home and be helpful, according to Bloomberg that cited unnamed people familiar with the situation.

    The project was in a nascent stage and it was unclear whether it would lead to a product sold by Apple, the report indicated.

    Apple did not reply to a request for comment.

    The California-based company has been looking for new ways to make money beyond its iPhones and the digital content and services it sells to users.

    Apple recently abandoned its ambitions to produce an electric car, according to US media reports, ending a struggling decade-long project.

    It has never publicly disclosed its EV plans, despite a steady drip of media leaks over the years.

    Apple is reported to have transferred employees from the shuttered car division to generative artificial intelligence projects.

    The robot project is being overseen by Apple’s hardware engineering division and its AI and machine learning group, Bloomberg reported.

    The report came as analysts are keen to hear what progress Apple is making with AI at the company’s annual WWDC developers gathering at its Silicon Valley campus in June.

    Around the world, major tech companies including Google, Microsoft, Meta and Amazon are rapidly pursuing the development and deployment of AI products.

  • Here’s why Samsung is not making displays for the new iPhone SE

    Here’s why Samsung is not making displays for the new iPhone SE

    Apple is currently in the development phase of the iPhone SE (4th generation), with reports indicating that the tech giant intends to utilise the same display technology found in the iPhone 13 for its upcoming model.

    In recent developments, it was revealed last month that three major companies—BOE, Samsung Display, and Tianma—were competing to secure contracts for supplying display panels for the iPhone SE 4.

    Initial bids for the panel prices were submitted, with Samsung Display proposing the lowest price at USD 30 per unit, followed by BOE at USD 35 and Tianma at USD 40. However, Apple remained firm on its budget, not willing to exceed USD 20 per unit.

    Recent reports from IT Home suggest that Samsung Display has opted out of the negotiations due to pricing issues.

    Consequently, Apple has forged a partnership with BOE, the second-largest supplier among the contenders, to procure display panels for the iPhone SE (4th generation) at a rate of USD 25 per unit.

    It’s noteworthy that, despite Samsung Display initially offering the lowest price, it was unable to further reduce its price point.

    On the other hand, BOE, which initially quoted USD 5 higher than Samsung Display, managed to undercut the South Korean company’s proposed price.

    This development marks a significant loss for Samsung Display, as it will not be providing display panels for the iPhone SE 4.

    Speculations arise as to why Samsung Display withdrew from negotiations.

    It is possible that the company recognised the potential for higher profits by focusing on supplying displays for the iPhone 15 series rather than pursuing contracts for the iPhone SE 4, where profit margins would be significantly narrower.

  • Apple’s iPhone sales decline by 24% in China, while Huawei’s sales surge

    Apple’s iPhone sales decline by 24% in China, while Huawei’s sales surge

    In the first six weeks of 2024, Apple experienced a significant downturn in iPhone sales in China, facing a 24 per cent year-on-year decrease, according to a report by research firm Counterpoint.

    The decline was attributed to heightened competition from local rivals, notably Huawei, which witnessed a remarkable 64 per cent increase in unit sales during the same period.

    Apple, once holding the second position in the Chinese smartphone market in 2023 with a 19 per cent market share, now finds itself in fourth place with a reduced share of 15.7 per cent.

    On the other hand, Huawei climbed to second place, expanding its market share from 9.4 per cent to 16.5 per cent year-over-year.

    Counterpoint’s senior analyst, Mengmeng Zhang, explained the dynamics, stating that Apple faced formidable competition from a resurgent Huawei at the high end while also encountering pricing pressures from domestic brands like OPPO, Vivo, and Xiaomi in the middle segment.

    To counteract the decline, Apple initiated measures such as subsidising certain iPhone models by up to 1,300 yuan ($180.68) through flagship stores on Tmall, Alibaba’s major marketplace platform.

    Earlier, the company had offered discounts of up to 500 yuan on its official sites.

    Huawei’s resurgence in premium smartphone sales was attributed to the successful release of its Mate 60 series in August.

    Overcoming years of challenges posed by US restrictions on key component exports, Huawei managed to reclaim its position in the market.

    Additionally, Honour, the smartphone brand that separated from Huawei in 2020, witnessed a 2 per cent increase in unit sales, making it the only other top-five brand to experience growth in the first six weeks of the year.

    Contrastingly, Chinese brands Vivo, Xiaomi, and Oppo faced declines of 15 per cent, 7 per cent, and 29 per cent, respectively, highlighting the fiercely competitive landscape in the Chinese smartphone market.

    Overall, the report indicates a 7 per cent shrinkage in the country’s smartphone market during this period.

  • Apple set to release new iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and more

    Apple set to release new iPad Pro, MacBook Air, and more

    Apple is set to make significant announcements this week, as confirmed by a reliable source familiar with the matter, shared with MacRumors.

    While the specific products remain undisclosed, speculations hint at new iPads, Macs, and accessories. Notably, Beats Solo 4 headphones are also on Apple’s agenda.

    According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the tech giant plans to unveil new iPad Pro, iPad Air, and MacBook Air models, accompanied by fresh Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil accessories.

    Gurman suggests that Apple will forgo a traditional event, opting to announce these innovations on its website through a series of online videos and marketing campaigns, expected in March or April.

    Anticipated releases include two iPad Pro models featuring the M3 chip, OLED displays, a thinner build, a landscape-oriented front camera, a redesigned rear camera bump, and the possibility of MagSafe wireless charging. Additionally, two new iPad Air models with the M2 chip, including a 12.9-inch variant, are expected. 

    A revamped Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro with a larger trackpad and other design enhancements is in the pipeline, along with new MacBook Air models sporting the M3 chip, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 support.

    Further potential announcements encompass a new colour option for the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, new colour choices for iPhone cases, and Apple Watch bands. 

    While rumours circulate about a new Apple TV and a screen-equipped HomePod in early 2024, their readiness remains uncertain.

    Speculations about a fourth-generation iPhone SE are also afoot, with a rumoured release timeframe of 2025.

  • Apple abandons electric car project, shifts focus to AI

    Apple abandons electric car project, shifts focus to AI

    In a surprising turn of events, Apple has officially terminated its ambitious electric car project, according to a reliable source informed about the matter.

    The decision, revealed on Tuesday, marks the end of a decade-long effort initiated by the tech giant to venture into the electric vehicle industry.

    The abandoned project aimed to propel Apple into a new sector, potentially mirroring the triumphs of its iconic iPhone.

    However, the venture faced challenges and inconsistent progress throughout its existence.

    The cancellation aligns with a broader trend in the automotive industry, where global players are scaling back investments in electric vehicles amid a substantial drop in demand.

    Reportedly, several team members previously engaged in the electric car project will be reassigned to Apple’s artificial intelligence (AI) division.

    This strategic move aligns with Apple’s commitment to bolstering its presence in AI, a domain where it has been comparatively reserved.

    Apple has refrained from significant AI initiatives, contrasting sharply with industry giants like Alphabet and Microsoft, which seized an early advantage in integrating this transformative technology.

    Concerns have arisen that Apple’s cautious approach may leave it lagging behind in infusing AI into its product lineup.

    Ben Bajarin, CEO of Creative Strategies, commented, “If it is true, Apple will put more focus on GenAI, and that should give investors more optimism about the company’s efforts and ability to compete at a platform level on AI.”

    Last year, Apple experienced the smallest share gain among the so-called Magnificent Seven stocks, reflecting apprehensions about its stance on AI.

    Microsoft recently surpassed Apple as the world’s most valuable company, underscoring Apple’s struggle with weakening demand for its key products, particularly in significant markets like China.

    Simultaneously, the electric vehicle industry faces a slowdown in demand due to elevated interest rates, leading to job cuts and reduced production.

    Apple’s shift in focus to AI reflects a strategic pivot in response to market dynamics and underscores the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation.

    Apple has chosen to adapt its trajectory in a rapidly evolving landscape, signalling a nuanced strategy that aligns with emerging industry trends.

  • Apple resolves iPhone slowdown controversy: Users receive $92.17 settlement

    Apple resolves iPhone slowdown controversy: Users receive $92.17 settlement

    In a resolution to the 2017 controversy surrounding Apple’s deliberate slowing down of iPhones with older batteries, recent reports indicate that affected users are now receiving settlements. 

    According to MacRumors, individuals impacted by this matter are finding deposits of $92.17 in their bank accounts, as confirmed by the website and corroborated by embedded posts from readers. 

    The settlement website, updated in December, indicated that payments were scheduled for this month, effectively bringing closure to the issue.

    The “batterygate” incident originated in 2017 when a developer exposed iOS 10 updates slowing down the performance of older iPhone models like the 6S and 7, with Apple initially withholding the purpose of this slowdown. 

    Subsequently, the company revealed that it aimed to prevent spontaneous shutdowns as the battery degraded. 

    This led to multiple class action lawsuits, alleging that Apple’s actions forced premature phone upgrades rather than allowing users to replace their batteries.

    In 2020, Apple reached a settlement, and by August of that year, legal hurdles were cleared, paving the way for impending payouts. 

    While initially expected to be around $65 for approved claims filed by October 6th, 2020, recent reports suggest the actual payments are higher, averaging $92.17, as reported by The Verge. 

    Noteworthy is the inclusion of the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6S, 6S Plus, 7, 7 Plus, and the original iPhone SE in the list of affected models. If you fall into this category, monitor your bank account for the settlement deposit.

  • Apple Watch import ban goes into effect in US patent clash

    Apple Watch import ban goes into effect in US patent clash

    A US import ban on certain Apple smartwatch models came into effect Tuesday, after the Biden administration opted not to veto a ruling on patent infringements.

    The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) decided in October to ban Apple Watch models over a patented technology for detecting blood-oxygen levels.

    Apple contends that the ITC finding was in error and should be reversed, but last week paused its US sales of Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.

    The order stemmed from a complaint made to the commission in mid-2021 accusing Apple of infringing on medical device maker company Masimo Corp’s “light-based oximetry functionality.”

    “After careful consultations, Ambassador (Katherine) Tai decided not to reverse the… determination and the ITC’s decision became final on December 26, 2023,” the president’s executive office said in a statement on Tuesday.

    Apple has been steadily ramping up fitness and health features with each generation of its Apple Watch, which dominates the smartwatch category.

    In September, Apple released its Apple Watch Series 9, touting increased performance along with features such as the ability to access and log health data.

    “Our teams work tirelessly to create products and services that empower users with industry-leading health, wellness and safety features,” Apple said when the ITC ban was issued.

    “Masimo has wrongly attempted to use the ITC to keep a potentially lifesaving product from millions of US consumers while making way for their own watch that copies Apple.”

    In May, a trial of Masimo’s allegations ended in a mistrial after jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict.

    Late last year, Apple filed two patent infringement lawsuits accusing Masimo of copying Apple Watch technology.

  • iPhone 16 batteries to be primarily manufactured in India

    iPhone 16 batteries to be primarily manufactured in India

    In a strategic manoeuvre aimed at reducing its reliance on China, Apple has reportedly communicated a strong preference for manufacturing iPhone 16 batteries in India.

    As part of this initiative, an existing Indian battery supplier has been encouraged to scale up production, while Chinese suppliers, including Desay and Simplo Technology, have received directives to establish battery factories within India.

    Additionally, Japanese battery supplier TDK is gearing up for its own production facility in the country.

    This significant shift in strategy deviates from the original decision made by Steve Jobs to centralize most of Apple’s manufacturing operations in China, a move that was previously lauded as a key achievement by Tim Cook during his tenure as COO. 

    The change reflects a growing recognition of the strategic risks associated with being overly dependent on a single country, evident in events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical tensions between the US and China.

    The multifaceted rationale behind this move includes concerns about the impact of global events on manufacturing capacity, the unpredictability of trade relations between major economies, and the reputational challenges posed by close associations with a country facing human rights criticisms.

    Apple’s decision aligns with a broader industry trend of diversifying manufacturing locations to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

    Notably, the company aims to prioritise Indian production for iPhone 16 batteries, with local government support evident in a Japanese supplier, TDK, establishing a significant facility in Manesar, Haryana.

    While this facility is expected to begin production in 2025, post-iPhone 16 release, it signifies a strategic commitment to bolstering the electronics manufacturing ecosystem in India.

    Apple’s move underlines the industry’s evolving approach to supply chain management in response to a dynamic global landscape.

  • iPhone 15’s remarkable sales performance surpasses iPhone 14

    iPhone 15’s remarkable sales performance surpasses iPhone 14

    Apple announced a remarkable performance in its earnings for the September quarter, with a notable year-over-year increase in iPhone revenue, despite only a brief period of iPhone 15 sales factored into the results.

    However, other hardware divisions within the company experienced declines, leading to a fourth consecutive quarter of overall sales downturns. Apple generated $89.5 billion in revenue for the quarter.

    CEO Tim Cook expressed that the iPhone 15 lineup exhibited stronger early traction compared to the 14 series.

    He stated, “When you examine the performance of the iPhone 15 during that period and compare it to the iPhone 14 in the same timeframe last year, the iPhone 15 outperformed the iPhone 14.” Cook also noted that the Pro and Pro Max models were currently facing supply constraints.

    The Mac division encountered a substantial 34 per cent decline in revenue year over year, prompting Apple to hold its M3 event earlier in the week, where they introduced updated MacBook Pros and a refreshed iMac.

    Cook characterised the current PC consumer market as “challenging” and expressed optimism for a better quarter for the Mac in the upcoming December quarter, citing the presence of the M3 and new products.

    iPad revenue saw a 10 per cent decrease due to the absence of recent models, while wearables revenue experienced a more modest 3 per cent decline.

    Apple’s services unit continued to be a reliable source of revenue, with a 16 per cent year-over-year increase. Cook highlighted that “every main service achieved a record.”

    Looking ahead to the holiday shopping season, Apple’s CEO is optimistic about the company’s position, stating, “We now offer our most robust product lineup ever for the holiday season, including the iPhone 15 series and our first carbon-neutral Apple Watch models, a significant milestone in our commitment to making all Apple products carbon neutral by 2030.”