Tag: Apple

  • Apple Moves iPhone Production to US to Avoid Trump Tariffs

    Apple Moves iPhone Production to US to Avoid Trump Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple chartered five cargo planes to transport iPhones and gadgets from India and China to the US to avoid new import fees.
    2. The rush to shift inventory was prompted by a new 10% reciprocal tariff that began on April 5, introduced by the Trump administration.
    3. Apple aims to maintain retail prices by stockpiling inventory before the tariff hike, allowing it to avoid immediate price increases for customers.
    4. The company currently has enough stock in the US to meet demand for the next few months without raising prices.
    5. Any price changes in the US could affect major markets like India, as adjustments would likely need to be applied globally.

    In a bid to avoid the newly introduced import fees, Apple chartered five cargo planes loaded with iPhones and other gadgets from India and China to the US, reportedly completing the delivery in just three days. This event took place in the final week of March, as reported by The Times of India.

    The Reason Behind the Rush

    A senior official from India mentioned that this swift move to shift inventory to the United States was prompted by a new 10 percent reciprocal tariff brought in by the Trump administration, which started on April 5. It’s important to note that this is a rather rare time for such a large-scale inventory movement, considering that the global electronics transport usually experiences a lull towards the end of the first quarter.

    Keeping Prices Steady

    The TOI report explains that Apple is working hard to maintain retail prices for as long as possible. This significant inventory movement is a quick reaction to the new tariffs, aimed at reducing the financial strain on the company without passing added costs to customers. “Stockpiling inventory that arrived before the tariff hike gives Apple a buffer, allowing it to avoid immediate price increases,” states the TOI report quoting a source. Currently, Apple has sufficient stock in the US to meet market demand for the next few months without having to raise prices. Interestingly, the company also has no immediate plans to adjust prices in other markets like India and China. However, what will happen once the existing stocks in the US are depleted remains uncertain.

    Market Implications

    As noted by an industry insider, “A price revision solely in the US would not be feasible. The impact would have to spread across major markets, including India.” The Trump administration is actively working to persuade TSMC to establish operations in the US, which could have further implications for the market landscape.

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  • Apple Vision Pro 2 in Production, No Affordable AR/VR Headset Yet

    Apple Vision Pro 2 in Production, No Affordable AR/VR Headset Yet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is working on the Vision Pro 2 headset, expected to launch in 2025, while production of components is already underway.
    2. Lens Technology is supplying the glass panels for the Vision Pro 2, and Changying Precision is responsible for the shell.
    3. The Vision Pro 2 may feature the new M5 chip, which is expected to begin production in the latter half of this year.
    4. The planned budget-friendly version of the Vision Pro has been postponed until after 2027.
    5. The focus on the Vision Pro 2 suggests that a more affordable headset is not a priority for Apple at this time.

    Ever since the unveiling of Apple’s Vision Pro AR/VR headset priced at $3,500 in 2023, many fans have been eagerly anticipating a less expensive version. It was initially thought that Apple was developing a more budget-friendly headset to appeal to a broader audience and compete with the Meta Quest series. However, recent reports indicate that the Vision Pro 2 is already in the works and expected to launch later this year.

    Production Status of Vision Pro 2

    According to a report from ITHome (shared by Jukanlosreve on X), the manufacturing of components for the Apple Vision Pro 2 headset is underway, including essential parts like panels and shells. Multiple independent sources have confirmed that the glass panels for this upcoming headset are exclusively provided by Lens Technology, while Changying Precision is responsible for the shell. Additionally, other suppliers are rushing to fulfill their orders, which suggests that the Vision Pro 2 may be launched in 2025.

    Translation Nuances and Chip Insights

    It’s important to mention that ITHome publishes its news in Chinese, and this article has been translated using Google Translate. This may lead to some errors in the translation. Nevertheless, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously indicated that the second-generation Vision Pro headset is expected to be equipped with the M5 chip, which is anticipated to start production in the latter half of this year. This could mean that the successor to the Vision Pro might be among the first devices to feature the M5 chip.

    Future of Budget-Friendly Headsets

    With Apple concentrating on the upcoming Vision Pro 2 for this year or the beginning of next year, the prospect of a more affordable headset appears to be even further away. Kuo had previously stated late last year that the budget version of the Vision Pro has been postponed until after 2027, and this assessment seems to hold true at this moment.

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  • iOS 19 Leaks: Rounded Icons, New UI Features, and More

    iOS 19 Leaks: Rounded Icons, New UI Features, and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 19 is rumored to bring significant visual and functional enhancements to the user experience, including rounded app icons and UI modifications.
    2. Leaker Jon Prosser shared insights on his YouTube channel, showcasing a nearly finalized version of iOS 19 with visual differences from iOS 18.
    3. The update includes changes to UI components, such as search bars and Control Center sliders, featuring a more rounded design and smoother animations.
    4. New iPhone 17 Pro models will allow simultaneous recording from both back and front cameras, a feature previously seen on the Samsung Galaxy S4.
    5. The credibility of these leaks is increasing as Apple prepares to announce iOS 19 at WWDC starting June 9.

    Apple’s supposed redesign of iOS with iOS 19 has sparked a lot of conversations in recent weeks. This new operating system is rumored to introduce significant enhancements to the user experience, featuring both visual updates and functional upgrades. The latest information comes from well-known leaker Jon Prosser, who claims to have had access to an internal version of the upcoming OS. This build reportedly displays new rounded app icons, modifications to some UI elements including TabView, and additional features.

    Video Insights

    Prosser revealed this information on his YouTube channel fpt (Front Page Tech), where he mentioned that his team has previewed a version of iOS 19 that is nearly finalized. The video created by fpt highlights several visual differences between iOS 19 and the current iOS 18, showcasing the rounded app icons. These visual tweaks are thought to align with Apple’s visionOS for the Vision Pro, although the AR/VR headset uses circular icons rather than the more ‘squircle’ shapes featured in Prosser’s video.

    User Interface Changes

    Additionally, the video displayed modifications to various animations and the layout of UI components like search bars. The sliders for volume and brightness in the Control Center seem to have a more rounded design. Both Apple’s built-in apps and third-party applications are expected to receive an enhanced TabView that includes smoother animations similar to those found in Dynamic Island.

    Moreover, Prosser indicated that the forthcoming iPhone 17 Pro models utilizing iOS 19 will have the ability to record using both the back and front cameras simultaneously. It’s interesting to note that this capability was first seen on the Samsung Galaxy S4 back in 2013.

    Future Expectations

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has also mentioned in recent weeks that iOS 19 will feature a significant upgrade to the operating system. Given that Apple plans to announce the new OS at WWDC starting June 9, these leaks have gained some credibility as the date approaches.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Leak: Thicker Design Than iPhone 16 Pro

    iPhone 17 Pro Leak: Thicker Design Than iPhone 16 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is finalizing designs for the iPhone 17 series, but the official unveiling is still months away.
    2. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max have similar dimensions to the iPhone 16 Pro, with the Pro’s mid-frame being slightly taller.
    3. A plain dummy model of the iPhone 17 Pro has been revealed, showcasing button placements and MagSafe charging location.
    4. The new two-tone design of the rear panel has received criticism for its appearance compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
    5. The camera housing for the iPhone 17 series is expected to have an additional layer over the camera bump, including the flash.

    Apple is not likely to unveil its iPhones for 2025 for several months still. However, the designs are reportedly being finalized for case makers, as shared by Unbox Therapy.

    New Models Revealed

    The well-known YouTube channel claims to have gotten the higher-end iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max models. The design for the iPhone 17 Pro is shown as a plain dummy, giving details of its shape, button placements, and the location of the MagSafe charging coil. Interestingly, it seems this model also has the dimensions of the iPhone 16 Pro’s successor.

    Similar Dimensions

    These dummies seem to indicate that the 17 Pro is going to be almost the same height and width as its predecessor. However, it appears to have a mid-frame that is around 0.45 millimeters taller than the 16 Pro’s frame.

    The same information is believed to apply to the 17 Pro Max, although its model wasn’t measured in this particular leak, which is a bit disappointing.

    Design Critique

    The new two-tone design of the rear panel was featured in the video, and Unbox Therapy’s Lewis Hilsentegger criticized its looks in comparison to the 16 Pro Max.

    Moreover, the camera housing for the 17 Pro series is expected to have an additional layer over its camera bump, which includes the flash. This detail was also highlighted in the video.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro Two-Tone Design Might Be Canceled

    iPhone 17 Pro Two-Tone Design Might Be Canceled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will have a significant redesign, featuring a new edge-to-edge camera module and a possible two-tone finish on the back.
    2. The anticipated dual-tone finish for the iPhone 17 Pro is likely scrapped, with the camera module expected to match the back panel’s color.
    3. The camera layout is expected to remain stable, indicating that Apple may keep its unique module design for future Pro iPhones.
    4. A new model called the iPhone 17 Air may replace the iPhone 17 Plus, focusing on being thinner rather than high-end specifications.
    5. All four anticipated models will include a new camera control button on the right side, with more details likely to be revealed before the expected September launch.

    The iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max are set to introduce a significant redesign to the Pro series for the first time in nearly seven years. Initial images indicate a new camera module that extends from edge to edge, along with a two-tone finish on the back. Even the dummy models of the upcoming iPhones display this updated camera design.

    No Dual-Tone Finish for the iPhone 17 Pro

    However, the anticipated two-tone finish may be scrapped. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple currently does not have any intention to implement a dual-tone design for the back of the iPhone. Gurman mentions in his recent Power On newsletter that the images circulating on the internet depicting the 17 Pro with a dark camera block atop a silver body are “not an accurate representation of what’s to come.” He also states that “the iPhone 17 Pro won’t feature a two-toned back,” and instead, the camera module will match the back panel’s color.

    Camera Layout Likely to Stay

    Despite the possible changes to the finish, the camera layout itself seems more stable. Gurman has not directly addressed the design change, which hints that Apple’s unique module design could be on the table for next year’s Pro iPhones.

    Potential New Model in the Lineup

    In addition to design changes, Apple might be gearing up for a significant shift in its offerings. The iPhone 17 Plus could be replaced by a new variant called the iPhone 17 Air. This model will focus on being thinner rather than emphasizing high-end specifications.

    Apple is still anticipated to release four models in total, all of which will include a new camera control button located on the right side.

    These details are still in the early stages, and with the iPhone 17 lineup expected to debut in September, there’s plenty of opportunity for adjustments. We’ll be watching closely and will provide updates if new information arises.

    iPhone 17 Pro Two-Tone Design Might Be Canceled
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  • Apple Shifts India-Made iPhones to US Amid Price Hike Fears

    Apple Shifts India-Made iPhones to US Amid Price Hike Fears

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increase in Store Traffic: Apple Stores are experiencing a rise in customer visits due to concerns over potential price hikes from tariffs.

    2. Lack of Corporate Guidance: Apple employees currently lack specific information to reassure customers until the earnings announcement on May 1.

    3. Rerouting Production: Apple is shifting more iPhones manufactured in India to the US market to avoid high tariffs, aiming to produce around 25 million iPhones in India this year.

    4. Potential Cost Increases: The iPhone 16 Pro’s production cost could rise significantly due to tariffs, possibly leading to higher retail prices.

    5. Long-Term Production Shifts: Moving iPhone production to the US is a long-term process that may not result in reduced costs, as Apple adjusts its strategy to mitigate tariff impacts.

    Apple iPhone customers are rushing into stores across the US, asking whether prices will go up following a 34% tariff imposed by the Trump administration on goods coming from China. There’s also a threat of this rate increasing to 50% if China decides to retaliate, which it has.

    Increase in Store Traffic

    Employees at Apple Stores are noticing a significant rise in customer visits, reminiscent of the hustle and bustle seen during the holiday shopping season. Many of these prospective iPhone buyers are concerned about potential price hikes. This surge in inquiries has also led to a boost in sales compared to previous years during the same timeframe.

    Lack of Corporate Guidance

    At the moment, Apple staff don’t have specific guidance on how to reassure anxious customers until the company announces its earnings on May 1. However, Apple is proactively taking steps to mitigate any adverse effects that might arise from the steep tariff increase.

    Rerouting Production

    The company has accumulated several months’ worth of device inventory in the US and is also shifting more iPhones manufactured in India to the US market. These devices incur much lower import tariffs, with Apple planning to produce around 25 million iPhones in India this year.

    If a significant number of these iPhones are sent to the US rather than being sold locally, it could potentially meet roughly half of the American demand for these devices. The high tariff on products from China could increase the iPhone’s Bill of Materials (BOM)—the expense involved in assembling them—by approximately 55%.

    Potential Cost Increases

    For example, the iPhone 16 Pro, which currently has a BOM cost of $550 and is priced at about $917 on Amazon in a Grade A renewed condition, could end up costing Apple over $800 to produce and import due to the newly imposed tariffs.

    To maintain its profit margins, Apple might need to raise the price of the iPhone 16 Pro to match that of a fully loaded 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max, which may not be appealing to many consumers in the US.

    Long-Term Production Shifts

    Transitioning iPhone production to the US will take time and will not necessarily lower costs. Thus, it appears that Apple is making efforts to adjust its strategy and lessen the impact of tariffs on American consumers as best as it can.

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  • iPhone 19 Pro: New Design for Apple’s 20th Anniversary, Analyst Says

    iPhone 19 Pro: New Design for Apple’s 20th Anniversary, Analyst Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is planning a major redesign of the iPhone for its 20th anniversary in 2027, potentially called the iPhone 19 series.
    2. The redesign may include a new Pro model with extensive glass usage, aligning with Jony Ive’s vision of a glass-like device.
    3. There is speculation about Apple possibly abandoning the iPhone 19 name, similar to the transition from iPhone 8 to iPhone X.
    4. A foldable iPhone may be in the works, with reports suggesting a release as early as 2026 featuring a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner screen.
    5. The information is based on industry analysis and should be viewed with caution, as it is not officially confirmed by Apple.

    Apple appears to be gearing up for a significant redesign of the iPhone to celebrate its 20th anniversary. There have been various reports suggesting that Jony Ive’s dream of creating an iPhone that resembles “a single sheet of glass” may finally become a reality. Industry expert Mark Gurman has hinted at a ‘major shake-up’ in the design of the iPhone model set to launch in 2027. According to the current naming pattern, this would be recognized as the iPhone 19 series.

    Potential New Features

    According to 9to5Mac, referencing Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is planning a substantial redesign to mark the iPhone’s 20th anniversary. This redesign is expected to introduce a striking new Pro model that utilizes “extensive use of glass.” The device in question would likely be the iPhone 19 Pro if the company chooses to stick with that title. However, there’s also a chance that Apple might completely abandon the iPhone 19 name, similar to how the iPhone X followed the iPhone 8 series.

    Jony Ive’s Vision

    The rumored iPhone 19 Pro aligns with Jony Ive’s original concept of a largely glass iPhone. Whether this design will prove practical and durable remains uncertain, and only time will reveal its effectiveness. Moreover, Gurman has also suggested the possibility of a foldable iPhone for the 20th anniversary, with speculations about this model circulating as well. Some reports indicate that a foldable iPhone might be released as soon as 2026, featuring a 5.5-inch outer display and a 7.8-inch inner screen, which is akin to an iPad mini.

    Caution Advised

    It’s important to remember that this information comes from an industry analyst and not directly from Apple itself, so it should be taken with caution.

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  • Apple and Samsung Phone Prices in the US Could Rise Due to Tariffs

    Apple and Samsung Phone Prices in the US Could Rise Due to Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Impact of Tariffs: New global tariffs introduced by President Trump could lead to higher prices for Apple and Samsung products in the US market.

    2. Dependence on Manufacturing: Both companies rely heavily on international manufacturing, particularly in Vietnam and China, which makes them vulnerable to tariff impacts.

    3. High Tariff Rates: China faces a 34% tariff, while Vietnam has even higher tariffs at 46%, increasing costs for imports into the US.

    4. Profit Margin Squeeze: The tariffs may squeeze profit margins for Apple and Samsung, potentially leading consumers to absorb some of the increased costs.

    5. Shifting Manufacturing Locations: Apple and Samsung are seeking to reduce reliance on China by relocating some manufacturing to countries like Vietnam and India, where tariffs are still significant.

    The recent global tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump create a challenging situation for Apple and Samsung in the American market. These adjustments may significantly impact the two companies, which are the leading smartphone brands in the US. Here’s a summary of the situation.

    Apple & Samsung Under Pressure from Tariffs

    According to Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, Apple and Samsung could encounter substantial US tariffs. In a statement made to MobileWorldLive, he noted that Trump announced these new global tariffs on April 2, 2025, which could lead to increased prices for consumers in the US. Wood emphasized that as the top two brands in smartphone market share, both Apple and Samsung could suffer due to their heavy dependence on international manufacturing, particularly in Vietnam and China.

    Manufacturing Hubs and Tariff Rates

    Vietnam and China are recognized as key manufacturing centers, and they also have some of the highest tariff rates. China is subject to a 34 percent tariff, while Vietnam faces even steeper tariffs at 46 percent. The US president indicated that the total tax burden for China could be even greater when factoring in additional fees. This means that if the situation doesn’t change soon, the rising costs of imports may affect consumers directly. While both Apple and Samsung may see their profit margins squeezed, consumers might help absorb some of these increased expenses.

    Shifting Manufacturing Locations

    Notably, both Samsung and Apple have been making efforts to lessen their dependence on China by relocating some of their manufacturing operations. Alternatives to China include Vietnam and India, with India currently facing a 26 percent tariff.

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  • Next-Gen Apple iPad Mini: Early Details and Leaks Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing a new iPad Mini, expected to feature an OLED display.
    2. Recent rumors about eliminating the iPad Mini for a foldable model have been clarified as inaccurate.
    3. The upcoming iPad Mini will use OLED panels from Samsung Display, similar to the iPad Pro.
    4. The release date for the new iPad Mini is targeted for late 2026.
    5. It remains uncertain if the new iPad Mini will have an upgraded refresh rate.

    After the recent launch of the latest iPad Air in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, Apple is now focusing on developing the next version of its smaller tablet, the iPad Mini. A new leak suggests that this upcoming tablet will feature an OLED display.

    Rumors and Clarifications

    According to leaker Jukanlosreve, the speculation that Apple might eliminate the iPad Mini to shift towards a foldable model is not accurate. This clarification follows earlier reports about Apple’s plans for a foldable iPhone with a 7.74-inch inner display. While this size is close to the iPad Mini’s 8.3-inch screen, it seems that the foldable iPhone will be an additional product rather than a substitute for the smaller tablet.

    Features and Expectations

    In line with earlier reports, the upcoming iPad Mini will reportedly include an OLED display, similar to the iPad Pro. Although the OLED iPad Pro (available on Amazon) hasn’t performed as well as Apple hoped, the company remains committed to implementing OLED technology in its tablets.

    The new iPad Mini is expected to be released in the latter part of 2026. As noted by Digital Chat Station, the device will utilize OLED panels from Samsung Display. However, it’s still unclear whether this model will feature an upgraded refresh rate. We will keep you informed about any developments regarding this matter.

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    Next-Gen Apple iPad Mini: Early Details and Leaks Revealed
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  • Apple’s iPhone Fold: A Rival to Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Foldables

    Apple’s iPhone Fold: A Rival to Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Foldables

    Key Takeaways

    1. The upcoming foldable phone, called the iPhone Fold, is expected to be released in autumn and will feature a 5.5-inch cover display that expands to 7.8 inches.
    2. The iPhone Fold will have a unique 4:3 aspect ratio for its foldable screen, aimed at improving compatibility with iPad software.
    3. Apple is considering a starting price between $2,000 and $2,500 for the iPhone Fold.
    4. The device is reportedly being developed in collaboration with Samsung Display to feature a nearly invisible crease in the display.
    5. The case design of the iPhone Fold is expected to be made from titanium alloy for added durability.

    Rumors about Apple’s upcoming foldable phone are beginning to circulate. Scheduled for release next autumn, the device, dubbed the iPhone Fold, is anticipated to feature a 5.5-inch cover display similar to the iPhone 13 mini from a few years back. When opened, it is said to expand to 7.8 inches, positioning it between the sizes of the Galaxy Z Fold6 and the Pixel 9 Pro Fold (currently priced at $1,099.99 for a refurbished unit on Amazon).

    Display and Design Features

    As per Digital Chat Station, the foldable screen is expected to maintain an almost 4:3 aspect ratio, differing from the 5:4 or 1:1 ratios found in other models. The leak on Weibo indicates that this choice of aspect ratio is intended to enhance compatibility with software designed for the iPad. It’s worth noting that all iPads, except for the iPad mini, feature a 4:3 aspect ratio, including the latest 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models.

    Pricing and Specifications

    However, there are no indications that the iPhone Fold will utilize iPadOS. Presently, Apple is believed to be contemplating a starting price range of $2,000 to $2,500 for the US market. To justify this relatively steep price, the company is purportedly collaborating with Samsung Display to develop a nearly invisible crease in the display, complemented by a case design made from titanium alloy.

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    Apple's iPhone Fold: A Rival to Galaxy Z Fold and Pixel Foldables
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