Tag: Apple

  • 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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  • iPhone 17 Dummy Units Show Metal and Glass Back Panels

    iPhone 17 Dummy Units Show Metal and Glass Back Panels

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 series is expected to have a new design, particularly for the Pro versions, featuring glass and metal back panels.
    2. Recent leaks by Sonny Dickson reveal dummy units of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max, showing a smooth back design for the standard models and a rounded glass section for the Pro versions.
    3. The camera bumps on the iPhone 17 Air resemble those of Google’s Pixel, while the Pro models feature a wider bump housing three cameras.
    4. There are speculations about Apple using aluminum for most of the back, with the possibility of a titanium trim for the Pro models to enhance their premium look.
    5. Apple has not officially confirmed any details about the iPhone 17 series, so this information should be treated with caution.

    Apple is likely to have a new design for the forthcoming iPhone 17 series, and recent dummy units imply that the new devices, particularly the Pro versions, will come with glass and metal back panels. A well-known leaker posted a picture on X, which displays the dummy models of the four anticipated versions, highlighting the areas designated for glass and metal, which is probably aluminum. It is still unclear if Apple will completely eliminate titanium from its Pro variants.

    Leaker Insights

    Sonny Dickson, the leaker who has been revealing iPhone 17 information for several weeks, has shared an image on X showing dummy units of the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. While the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air appear to have a smooth back panel design, except for the camera bump, the Pro versions feature a rounded rectangular section beneath the camera bump, which is believed to be the glass area. The remainder of the back is expected to be made of aluminum, though the spot where the MagSafe charging coil is located seems to be glass.

    Camera Bump Details

    The camera bumps align with other leaks that have emerged online, with the iPhone 17 Air showcasing a camera bar similar to that of Google’s Pixel. The Pro and Pro Max models have a more prominent camera bump, which is said to house three cameras and span the full width of the phone’s top.

    Speculation on Materials

    Earlier last year, there were rumors about Apple transitioning to a glass and aluminum design for its upcoming iPhone models. However, discussions about the validity of this claim were rampant, as Apple was particularly interested in utilizing more luxurious materials for its Pro devices. It remains a possibility that Apple might include a titanium trim around the Pro models to enhance their appearance and provide a slightly more premium touch.

    It is important to mention that Apple has yet to disclose any details regarding the next generation of iPhone models; therefore, this information should be viewed with skepticism.

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  • Siri Needs Apple Intelligence Updates to Answer Simple Questions

    Siri Needs Apple Intelligence Updates to Answer Simple Questions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple confirmed that updates to Siri with Apple Intelligence will take longer than expected.
    2. Users reported that Siri struggles to answer basic questions, often responding with “Sorry, I don’t understand.”
    3. A Reddit thread highlighted Siri’s incorrect responses, including a bizarre answer regarding the current month.
    4. Siri provided confusing replies, such as claiming the Apple Podcasts app was not installed, despite it being pre-installed.
    5. Despite being around for 14 years, Siri’s performance has not improved significantly and is still less capable than Google Assistant.

    Apple recently confirmed that updates to Siri with Apple Intelligence will take longer than they initially thought. While users are waiting for these improvements, it appears that Siri is struggling to answer even basic queries. A Reddit thread highlighted this issue, starting with a simple question: “what month is it?” Siri failed to respond correctly, replying, “Sorry, I don’t understand.”

    User Experiences Shared

    Many other Reddit users joined the conversation, sharing their own frustrating experiences with Siri. The assistant repeatedly gave the same “Sorry, I don’t understand” answer when users asked the same question on various iPhone models and different iOS versions. When someone reworded the question to “what is the current month?”, Siri bizarrely replied, “Saturday, March 1, 2025.”

    Surprising Responses

    In another instance, a user requested Siri to play a podcast, but the assistant replied, “I’m trying to play from Apple Podcasts but it doesn’t look like you have it installed.” This response is puzzling since the Apple Podcasts app is pre-installed and cannot be removed. Additionally, another user asked Siri to open a specific app that was clearly installed on their device, but instead of finding it, Siri suggested the same app from the App Store with an ‘Open’ button, not a ‘Get’ option.

    Siri has been around for 14 years, and although it has never been as capable as Google Assistant, this latest performance seems particularly disappointing. Apple has been working on enhancements with the Apple Intelligence updates, but those have been delayed until later in the year.

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  • Apple’s First Foldable Could Be More Efficient Than Expected

    Apple’s First Foldable Could Be More Efficient Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing its first foldable gadget with an 18.8-inch screen that will run on macOS.
    2. The device is expected to have improved power efficiency due to a smaller display driver IC, reduced from 28nm to 16nm.
    3. The foldable gadget, potentially named ‘MacBook Fold’, will be Apple’s first touchscreen device operating on macOS.
    4. Rumors suggest the device could be revealed soon, with mass production expected to start in late 2026.
    5. Industry experts speculate the product launch may occur in late 2026, early 2027, or possibly as late as 2028.

    Apple is reportedly developing its first foldable gadget, featuring a sizable 18.8-inch screen that will operate on macOS. Although the company has not released any official details, various rumors and leaks have been circulating. The most recent information suggests that this device could be much more efficient than earlier estimates indicated. This improvement is linked to Apple supposedly shrinking the display integrated circuit to a smaller, more efficient version, all while maintaining performance levels.

    Improved Power Efficiency

    According to a post by leaker Phone Chip Expert on Weibo, the anticipated foldable gadget from Apple has demonstrated enhanced power efficiency. The display driver IC, which was originally said to be 28nm, has now been minimized to 16nm. This change significantly boosts the power efficiency of the display, without compromising its performance. The leaker did not provide any additional details, but their post was a reply to another that mentioned Apple’s two folding devices have entered the product introduction phase at Foxconn, with mass production expected to kick off in the latter half of 2026.

    Anticipated Launch

    It is rumored that Apple plans to reveal this foldable device, dubbed the ‘MacBook Fold’, in the near future. This will mark the company’s first touchscreen device running macOS, and it will be intriguing to observe how macOS is adapted for touch functionality.

    As noted before, Apple has kept quiet about any specifics regarding the foldable device, so this information should be regarded with caution. Given the production timeline, experts in the industry speculate that the gadget might hit the market in late 2026 or early 2027. However, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman suggests that a 2028 launch is more likely.

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  • Apple’s Foldable iPhone Price Could Reach $2,300, Analyst Says

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone Price Could Reach $2,300, Analyst Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. The estimated price for the foldable iPhone could reach around $2,300, nearly double the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s starting price of $1,199.
    2. The device is expected to launch between late 2026 and early 2027, according to insights from supplier meetings.
    3. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts a price range for the foldable iPhone between $2,000 and $2,500, with specific design features including a 7.8-inch folding display and dual rear cameras.
    4. The foldable iPhone will have a thickness of 4.5mm when opened and 9mm to 9.5mm when folded, with a construction utilizing titanium for the frame.
    5. As Apple’s first smartphone with a foldable screen, the device may face challenges similar to previous foldable phones, and its high price may limit sales.

    Apple has been the subject of speculation regarding a foldable iPhone for quite some time, and it seems that the device is likely to come with a significant price. Analyst Tim Long estimates that the cost for the foldable iPhone in the US could reach around $2,300.

    Insights from Supplier Meetings

    This estimation comes after Long’s team visited Asia to meet with suppliers, who suggested that the device might launch between late 2026 and early 2027. For reference, this price is almost double that of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, which starts at $1,199.

    Predictions Aligning

    Earlier this month, well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo also forecasted a price range between $2,000 and $2,500, refining expectations further. He shared more information about the device, indicating that it would come with a 7.8-inch folding display, a 5.5-inch cover screen, dual rear cameras, a Touch ID power button, and a high-density battery.

    Design Specifications

    When fully opened, the device is anticipated to be 4.5mm thick, increasing to 9mm to 9.5mm when folded. The construction is said to utilize titanium for the frame, while the hinge will combine titanium and stainless steel for added strength.

    Despite the excitement surrounding the foldable iPhone, it’s worth noting that this will be Apple’s first smartphone with a foldable screen and hinge. Previous versions of foldable phones, such as the Galaxy series, faced various issues, particularly with creasing. The high price is also likely to restrict sales, similar to the Apple Vision Pro experience.

    Apple has a history of refining technology before launching consumer products, so it will be intriguing to see how many of the issues they have resolved by the time this phone is released.

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  • Apple iPhone 17 Air May Hint at Future Portless iPhone

    Apple iPhone 17 Air May Hint at Future Portless iPhone

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Air will debut this fall alongside the iPhone 16 series and will be between the sizes of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, with a slim profile of 5.5 mm.
    2. It features a 6.6-inch display, although Apple initially planned for a larger 6.9-inch screen from the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
    3. Early prototypes of the iPhone 17 Air did not include a physical charging port and relied on MagSafe technology for charging and cloud-based file transfers.
    4. The potential for a portless iPhone is still alive, depending on the success of the Air model and ongoing discussions about charging standardization.
    5. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to maintain strong battery performance and will likely be priced around $899, comparable to the iPhone 16 Plus.

    Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman has provided some fresh details regarding the iPhone 17 Air, which is set to debut this fall alongside the new versions of the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. From the latest leaks and gossip, it appears that Apple’s inaugural ‘Air’ styled iPhone will be positioned in size between the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, all while featuring a slim profile of only 5.5 mm thick.

    Features and Expectations

    According to Gurman, the iPhone 17 Air will come equipped with a 6.6-inch screen. However, he points out that Apple initially intended to use a larger 6.9-inch display, likely the same one as the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Additionally, Gurman mentions that the early ‘D23’ prototypes did not include a physical charging port. Instead, they utilized MagSafe technology, with all file transfers conducted solely through the cloud.

    Potential Changes Ahead

    This concept has been put on hold for now, especially considering Apple’s ongoing issues with the European Commission about standardizing charging ports. Gurman speculates that the long-awaited portless iPhone might still make a comeback, but only if a new ultra-slim model proves successful. In the near future, higher-end Pro models could take advantage of the innovations introduced with the Air if it becomes well-received within a generation or two.

    Pricing and Performance Insights

    Furthermore, the analyst asserts that advancements in display, battery life, iOS, and modem technologies will ensure that the iPhone 17 Air does not sacrifice battery performance, even with a 120 Hz ProMotion display. Additionally, Gurman anticipates that the iPhone 17 Air will be priced comparably to the iPhone 16 Plus (currently $729.95 – renewed on Amazon). If this prediction holds true, it would mean that Apple’s first ‘Air’ iPhone could launch at around $899.

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