Tag: Apple

  • US Implements New Tariffs on Electronics to Support Domestic Production

    US Implements New Tariffs on Electronics to Support Domestic Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. The U.S. will implement separate tariffs on imports of smartphones, computers, and semiconductors to boost domestic manufacturing.
    2. A “special focus type of tariff” will now apply to previously exempt consumer electronics, impacting companies like Apple and Samsung.
    3. The policy change aims to address national security concerns and reduce reliance on Southeast Asian manufacturing.
    4. Experts warn that the cost of products like iPhones could increase significantly as production shifts to the U.S.
    5. The new tariffs may alter global trade relations and raise concerns about supply chain stability.

    The United States is getting ready to implement separate tariffs on imports of smartphones, computers, semiconductors, and similar components in the next one to two months, as stated by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. According to ABC News on April 13, 2025, this action indicates a strategic shift aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing.

    New Tariff Details

    Consumer electronics imports will now be subject to a “special focus type of tariff.” “We need to have semiconductors, chips, and flat panels made in America. We can’t depend on Southeast Asia for everything that operates for us,” Lutnick explained. This announcement follows President Donald Trump’s decision from April 11 to exempt smartphones, laptops, and other electronics from reciprocal tariffs imposed on April 2, a day referred to as “Liberation Day.”

    Impact on Importers

    The US Customs and Border Protection notice, effective from April 5, included products such as hard drives and memory chips, providing relief to companies like Apple and Samsung. Lutnick later clarified that these products will now be included in a “special focus type of tariff” set to begin soon, even though they were previously exempt from reciprocal duties. To avoid the tariff deadline imposed by Trump, Apple moved its inventory from India and China to the US in the last week of March.

    National Security and Economic Concerns

    This policy change aims to tackle national security issues, with Lutnick declaring that discussions with other countries are off the table. “These are things that are national security that must be made in America,” he mentioned. Experts have warned that “Made in America” iPhones could potentially rise to $3,500, indicating possible cost increases as production is shifted. The Trump administration aims to protect consumers and assist US firms while promoting self-sufficiency, although the swift policy change raises concerns about the stability of supply chains.

    As these tariffs come into play, the emphasis on domestic chip and electronics production could significantly alter global trade relations.

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  • Apple Developing Two New Vision Pro Headsets: Latest Update

    Apple Developing Two New Vision Pro Headsets: Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing two new versions of the Vision Pro headset: a lighter, more affordable model and one that enhances connectivity with Macs.

    2. The original Vision Pro, launched in 2024, has struggled in the market due to its high price of $3,500 and bulky design.

    3. The upcoming lighter model aims to address pricing concerns and compete with budget alternatives like Meta’s Quest headsets.

    4. The second new model will focus on improving functionality through low-latency connections to Macs, offering features like screen mirroring.

    5. Tim Cook is committed to creating advanced, comfortable Augmented Reality glasses and exploring AI-enhanced features for other Apple products.

    Apple is said to be working on two new versions of its Vision Pro headset. One of these will be lighter and less expensive, while the other will aim to enhance tethered experiences when connected to a Mac.

    Vision Pro’s Launch Challenges

    Released in 2024, the Vision Pro has faced difficulties in the market and has been labeled a commercial flop for Apple. Despite its impressive technology, the hefty price of $3,500 has made it unaffordable for many potential buyers, leading to complaints about its limited practical uses. The device’s bulky design and weight of 650 grams have also contributed to its negative reception.

    New Variants in Development

    As reported by Bloomberg, Apple is actively working on solutions to these problems with two new models. One significant challenge for Apple has been persuading consumers to pay the high price, especially with budget-friendly alternatives like Meta’s Quest headsets available. The upcoming lighter design aims to tackle this pricing issue by being more wallet-friendly.

    The second model will seek to broaden the Vision Pro’s applications through a low-latency connection to a Mac, providing features such as screen mirroring and seamless integration with business software.

    Tim Cook’s Vision for AR

    Insiders from Bloomberg indicate that Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, is determined to outpace Meta by developing top-of-the-line Augmented Reality (AR) glasses that are both lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear. It seems Cook is “not interested in anything else” and is “totally focused” on this development effort.

    In addition, Apple is exploring short-term solutions. Similar to Meta, which has found success with features for photography and AI, Apple is considering the introduction of AI-enhanced cameras on the Apple Watch and AirPods in the near future.

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  • Revamped Siri Launching This Fall with iOS 19 Update

    Revamped Siri Launching This Fall with iOS 19 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Siri updates have been delayed but are expected to launch this fall with iOS 19.
    2. The delay is linked to changes in Apple’s management team overseeing Siri’s development.
    3. A new feature allowing users to edit and send photos is confirmed, but other features remain uncertain.
    4. Apple aims to provide a more personalized Siri experience, with improvements anticipated in the coming year.
    5. The new Siri is designed to address ongoing user concerns about its performance and response accuracy.

    Apple’s long-anticipated updates to Siri have been delayed for some time, missing their initial timeline. According to a recent report, the enhanced Siri is set to launch this fall, coinciding with the expected release of iOS 19. This delay appears to stem from significant changes within Apple’s management team responsible for integrating Apple Intelligence features into Siri. The shift in leadership seems to have realigned the project, enabling the company to fulfill its commitments.

    Report Details

    The information originates from The New York Times, as reported by 9to5Mac. It suggests that Apple intends to introduce a refreshed Siri in the fall, which will include a feature that allows users to edit and send photos to friends. This insight is attributed to three sources familiar with the company’s strategy. However, since the report highlights only this specific feature, it remains uncertain whether all the other promised Apple Intelligence features for Siri will also debut in the fall.

    Anticipation for More Features

    It seems logical that Apple would not limit itself to a single feature update for Siri, especially considering all the enhancements that were promised last year. Earlier in March, Apple indicated that the more personalized Siri experience would take longer than initially anticipated and is expected to arrive “in the coming year.” While there was uncertainty around the update’s timeline, it now appears that the new features may launch alongside iOS 19, anticipated for September or shortly thereafter, still within this calendar year.

    Addressing User Concerns

    There have been reports about Siri struggling to answer straightforward questions, which has frustrated iPhone users for an extended period. The new Siri experience is designed to tackle these issues and provide substantial improvements to its overall functionality.

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  • Apple’s 18.8-Inch Foldable Expected by End of Next Year

    Apple’s 18.8-Inch Foldable Expected by End of Next Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing two foldable devices: a 7.8-inch foldable iPhone and an 18.8-inch foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid.
    2. Mass production for these devices is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.
    3. The first foldable device could be unveiled by late 2026 or early 2027, earlier than previously anticipated.
    4. The larger foldable device may run macOS with a touch interface, marking a potential first for macOS devices.
    5. There is conflicting speculation about the launch dates, with some analysts suggesting 2028 for the larger device, while others expect a 2026 or 2027 release.

    Apple is reportedly developing two foldable devices: a foldable iPhone and a larger one that could either be a MacBook or an iPad. Numerous leaks and rumors have suggested details about the specifications and expected release dates for these products. Initially, the larger foldable was anticipated to launch in 2028; however, an industry analyst has indicated that it might actually debut as early as late 2026 or the beginning of 2027.

    Development Progress

    According to Macrumors, which quotes Jeff Pu, the lead analyst from GF Securities, progress on these foldable devices is moving along well. They are projected to begin mass production in the fourth quarter of 2026. The devices include an 18.8-inch foldable MacBook-iPad hybrid and a 7.8-inch foldable iPhone. These statements align with Pu’s earlier assertions that they would enter the New Product Introduction (NPI) stage at Foxconn.

    Possible Launch Dates

    If the information proves to be correct, Apple might unveil its first foldable device by the end of 2026 or early 2027. The 7.8-inch foldable iPhone was already expected to hit this timeframe, while the larger device was initially thought to be arriving in 2028, as suggested by other analysts in the industry.

    Speculation on Specifications

    Details regarding the 18.8-inch foldable are somewhat unclear, but Pu believes it will function as a MacBook-iPad hybrid running macOS with a touch interface. If this is accurate, it would be the first touchscreen device to operate on macOS. Conversely, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman thinks this larger foldable will be an iPad and insists it won’t launch until 2028, dismissing any notions of a 2026 or 2027 release.

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  • US Freezes Tariff Hikes Except for China Facing 125% Increase

    US Freezes Tariff Hikes Except for China Facing 125% Increase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is moving iPhones and other products to the US to stabilize retail prices amid new tariffs.
    2. The Trump administration has paused planned tariff increases for 90 days for countries not retaliating against US tariffs.
    3. China is not included in the tariff pause, with tariffs increasing from 104% to 125%.
    4. Over 75 countries have asked the US government to negotiate a solution regarding tariff increases.
    5. The stock market reacted positively, with the S&P 500 rising 9.5% and the Nasdaq Composite increasing 12.2%.

    Apple has recently moved a significant quantity of iPhones and various other items from its stock in India and China to the US. This action was taken to maintain the retail prices as stable as possible in light of the new tariffs placed on all imports to the US.

    Tariff Pause for 90 Days

    The Trump administration has put a stop to the planned tariff increases for 90 days concerning countries that have not retaliated against US tariffs. Therefore, these nations will face a universal US tariff of 10% until July. When asked about the reason for this delay, the president remarked: “People were jumping a little bit out of line. They were getting yippy.”

    Increased Tariffs on China

    However, as the title suggests, China is not included in this pause. The Trump administration has escalated the already high 104% tariff to a staggering 125%, marking the start of what is being called a new trade war between the two nations. The motive? In retaliation to the previously set 104% tariff on goods exported from China, Beijing imposed 84% tariffs on imports from the US. Following this, the Trump administration accused China of showing a “lack of respect” and increased the tariff to 125%, which took effect immediately.

    Negotiations and Market Impacts

    Over 75 countries have urged the US federal government to “negotiate a solution” since the Trump administration revealed its plans for tariff increases, as stated by the president. Ultimately, he decided to ease off, paving the way for three months of negotiations with multiple nations.

    Many of you might already know how these tariff changes impact the stock market. On Wall Street, the S&P 500 index surged by 9.5%, marking its largest single-day rise since 2008. The Nasdaq Composite also rose by 12.2%—its best performance since 2001.

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  • 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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