Tag: Apple

February 26, 2025
Apple announces $500 billion US investment plan amid tariff concerns
Key Takeaways
1. Apple plans to invest over $500 billion in the US over the next four years, including a new server manufacturing facility in Houston.
2. The company is doubling its US Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion and launching a skills academy in Michigan to boost manufacturing skills.
3. Apple will collaborate with thousands of suppliers nationwide, creating direct jobs and infrastructure for its Apple Intelligence systems and data centers.
4. The new Houston server plant will be crucial for Apple Intelligence and is expected to create thousands of local jobs by 2026.
5. Apple aims to add around 20,000 new positions focused on research, development, and advanced technologies over the next four years.
Apple has just revealed an unprecedented investment strategy, planning to pour over $500 billion into the US within the next four years. This initiative encompasses the establishment of a server manufacturing facility in Houston, aimed at powering its Apple Intelligence systems. Additionally, Apple is doubling its US Advanced Manufacturing Fund to $10 billion and will be initiating a skills academy in Michigan to enhance manufacturing skills.
Collaborations and Job Creation
In this ambitious plan, Apple intends to collaborate with thousands of suppliers across all 50 states. This effort will create direct employment opportunities, strengthen the infrastructure for Apple Intelligence, and develop data centers. Furthermore, it includes building corporate hubs and supporting Apple TV+ productions in 20 different states. Currently, Apple supports more than 2.9 million jobs in the US through direct employment, partnerships with American suppliers and manufacturers, and roles for iOS app developers.
New Server Plant in Houston
The new server facility in Houston, which will cover 250,000 square feet and is set to begin operations in 2026, is anticipated to generate thousands of jobs in the area. These servers, previously manufactured overseas, will now be essential for Apple Intelligence and will lay the groundwork for what’s being referred to as Private Cloud Compute, a system that integrates AI processing with high-level security for cloud services.
Investment in Advanced Manufacturing
As part of its enhancement to the US Advanced Manufacturing Fund, Apple is making a significant multibillion-dollar investment in advanced silicon production at TSMC’s Fab 21 in Arizona, where it stands as the largest client. Notably, mass production of Apple chips commenced just last month at this state-of-the-art facility, which already has over 2,000 workers on its payroll.
Future Hiring Plans
Looking forward, Apple aims to add approximately 20,000 new positions over the next four years, primarily in research and development, silicon engineering, software development, as well as AI and machine learning. The company has nearly doubled its investment in advanced R&D in the US over the past five years and is keen to maintain this growth.
All of this is happening amid potential tariff challenges, as the upcoming Trump administration signals a crackdown on Chinese imports. Recently, Apple CEO Tim Cook had a meeting with President-elect Trump, who suggested that Apple might withdraw from Mexico and increase its investments in the US. Meanwhile, the administration is considering a potential 25 percent tariff on chips and has already introduced a 10 percent tariff on goods from China.
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Tags: $500 billion investment, Apple, TSMC
February 25, 2025
Apple Intelligence May Compete with Galaxy AI Through Gemini Integration
Key Takeaways
1. Apple’s AI features currently lag behind those of Samsung and other Android models.
2. Users may soon choose between Google’s Gemini AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT in upcoming updates.
3. The integration of Google’s Gemini AI is expected in the iOS 18.4 update.
4. The update may introduce new features like prioritized notifications and an Image Playground mode.
5. Despite potential improvements, Apple’s cautious approach raises questions about significant advancements in AI capabilities.
While Apple has brought AI into its devices, it still falls behind the offerings found in Samsung and other Android top models. We’ve all witnessed the comparison between the AI-driven object removal feature on an iPhone and that of a Galaxy flagship. Several reports also point out major problems with the notification summarization feature. A recent leak, however, hints that improvements to Apple’s AI features may be on the horizon.
New AI Options for Users
Reports indicate that users will soon be able to choose between Google’s Gemini AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT for Apple Intelligence features. Apple is said to be working on integrating Google’s Gemini AI into its upcoming iOS 18.4 update. This information was uncovered by developer Aaron Perris (@aaronp613) on X, and it points to Apple enhancing its AI capabilities with the addition of Gemini. For those who don’t know, Gemini is the backbone of many AI features seen in Android flagships like the Galaxy S25 series.
Increased Flexibility and Performance
The code snippet suggests that users will soon have the ability to pick either “Google” or “OpenAI” as their preferred AI model, which could lead to more flexibility and might enhance the overall performance of Apple Intelligence. The anticipated iOS 18.4 update is likely to bring various AI-driven upgrades, such as prioritized notifications and a new Image Playground mode. However, just because Apple is integrating Google Gemini doesn’t mean a big leap in AI features is guaranteed. Apple has been cautious from the start, and it seems their approach hasn’t shifted much yet. We remain hopeful that Apple Intelligence will become smarter, but we’ll need to wait for the official rollout to make further judgments.
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Tags: Apple, Google Gemini, iOS 18.4
February 24, 2025
Apple Set to Launch AirTag 2 This Summer with Major Upgrades
Key Takeaways
1. Apple’s AirTag tracker, launched in April 2021, may get a refresh this summer.
2. Rumors suggest the new AirTag (or AirTag 2) could be released in May or June 2024.
3. Anticipated features include an Ultra Wideband chip for improved signal range (up to 60 meters).
4. The new AirTag is expected to have better compatibility with the Apple Vision Pro and a louder, more secure speaker.
5. Caution is advised regarding rumors, as the official announcement from Apple is still pending.
Apple’s AirTag tracker has become a very popular way to keep track of small things, like keys, wallets, and even iPhones. However, this small tracker is starting to feel a bit old; it was launched nearly four years ago in April 2021. A new rumor suggests that Apple may refresh the AirTag this summer.
Rumored Release Dates
The speculation, coming from a leaker known as Kosutami, indicates that Apple might introduce the new AirTag (or AirTag 2) in May or June of this year, just in time for the summer season. This coincides with a statement from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who mentioned that a new AirTag would be expected around the middle of 2025.
Anticipated Features
Current rumors suggest significant upgrades for the AirTag 2, such as the Ultra Wideband chip found in the iPhone 15 and 16 series and the Apple Watch Ultra 2. This chip is said to enhance the signal range by as much as 3 times, which would be around 60 meters (about 200 feet).
The AirTag 2 is also rumored to have better compatibility with the Apple Vision Pro (whatever that means), according to well-known Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Some believe that the new AirTag will feature an upgraded speaker that will be not only louder but also more challenging to remove, making it harder for potential wrongdoers to modify an AirTag to track someone.
Caution on Rumors
As always, it’s wise to take these rumors lightly. The AirTag is certainly due for a refresh, but we will have to wait to see when Apple officially plans to unveil the AirTag 2.
You can currently grab a 4-pack of AirTags on Amazon for $67.99 as of the latest update (usually priced at $99.99).
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Tags: AirTag 2, Apple, Ultra Wideband
February 24, 2025
iPhone 17 CAD Renderings Reveal Unique 2025 Apple Smartphone Design
Key Takeaways
1. Significant redesigns are expected for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air, while the standard iPhone 17 will resemble the iPhone 16.
2. Recent leaks, although from a credible source, may not fully represent the final design of the iPhone 17 series.
3. The iPhone 17 Pro might be more compact compared to the iPhone 16 Pro, which had a larger screen.
4. The new camera design may only be featured on three out of the four models, raising questions about its consistency across the lineup.
5. User reactions to the rumored designs have been largely negative, with many expressing disappointment.
The upcoming iPhone models are shaping up to be quite different from what we’re used to seeing, as hinted by recent leaks. A well-known insider has talked about the revamped designs for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Air, and now we have more leaked images showing a protective case for the iPhone 17 Pro Max that gives us a glimpse of what’s to come.
Expected Changes in the New Lineup
Currently, it appears that three out of the four new iPhones set to debut in September 2025 will undergo significant redesigns. However, the standard iPhone 17 seems to be left out of this major update. Recent leaks have confirmed that the basic model will look quite a bit like the familiar iPhone 16. A shared image on X by the leaker Majin Bu supports these claims.
Credibility of the Leaks
Although this leaker has a reputation for providing reliable information, there have been instances when they were incorrect. Determining the authenticity of these new CAD renderings is tricky, as we can’t be sure if they represent the final look of the iPhone 17 series. Nevertheless, their dimensions align with earlier rumors suggesting that the iPhone 17 Pro might be more compact, which is a surprising move, given the iPhone 16 Pro had a slightly larger screen than its earlier model.
Mixed Reactions from Users
It would be strange for Apple to introduce the new camera design of the iPhone 17 to only three out of the four models. The significance of the red markings on the Pro versions remains unclear, but they might hint at a two-tone color option. Feedback on this post from X has been largely unfavorable, as many users appear to dislike the rumored designs.
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Tags: Apple, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro
February 22, 2025
Apple’s First Foldable Device: iPhone and iPad Hybrid Design
Key Takeaways
1. Apple has not yet entered the foldable smartphone market, unlike other major brands.
2. Rumors suggest a foldable iPhone might feature a 5.49-inch external screen and a 7.74-inch main display.
3. The design aims to combine features of both iPhone and iPad for a unique user experience.
4. The expected release timeline for the foldable iPhone is around 2026, with it being a “Fold” model.
5. The foldable device is likely to use a display sourced from Samsung and will be thicker and shorter than the Oppo Find N.
Apple has not yet joined the foldable smartphone market, unlike other big brands. Still, there are many rumors about a foldable iPhone or iPad being developed. Recently, a new leak from China has shed light on the possible display sizes and design of the foldable iPhone. Let’s dive into the details.
Insights on Display & Design
The information comes from a well-known source, Digital Chat Station, who posted on Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform. According to DCS, the upcoming foldable Apple device might feature a 5.49-inch external screen, while the main folding display could be a spacious 7.74 inches. Although the exact details about the display remain unclear, the tipster suggests that Apple is planning significant enhancements to its foldable design.
A New Hybrid Experience
Typically, foldable phones have a more square primary screen. However, Apple seems to be aiming for a unique blend of both iPhone and iPad experiences. The foldable device is expected to unfold similar to an iPad, creating a more versatile user experience. DCS also compared the design to the Oppo Find N, noting that Apple’s first foldable will be thicker and shorter than the Find N.
Release Timeline and Future Expectations
Sadly, we might have to wait a while for the foldable iPhone, with earlier rumors suggesting it could launch in 2026. Current speculation indicates that Apple’s first foldable iPhone will be a “Fold” model rather than a “Flip,” and it is likely to feature a display sourced from Samsung. That’s all the information available for now, so stay tuned for updates.
Tags: Apple, Digital Chat Station, foldable iPhone
February 22, 2025
iPhone 16e Missing Features: Is It Worth Buying?
Key Takeaways
1. No MagSafe Charging: The iPhone 16e lacks MagSafe charging, a feature present in all other iPhone 16 models.
2. Single Camera Setup: Unlike other iPhone models, the iPhone 16e has only one rear camera, missing the ultra-wide lens found in standard models.
3. Absence of Dedicated Camera Button: The iPhone 16e does not come with a dedicated camera button, limiting quick access to camera functions.
4. No Dynamic Island Feature: The Dynamic Island feature, standard in other iPhone 16 models, is missing from the iPhone 16e.
5. Lack of UWB Support: The new C1 modem in the iPhone 16e does not support the UWB chip, removing precision tracking features available in other Apple devices.
After many months of speculation, Apple has now unveiled the iPhone 16e, their latest entry-level iPhone. This model stands as the least expensive choice in the iPhone 16 series and serves as a sort of successor to the iPhone SE models. However, to keep the price low, Apple made some compromises with this new phone. Let’s take a look at what features are missing and if it’s worth purchasing.
Apple iPhone 16e Overview
One prominent feature that’s missing in the iPhone 16e is MagSafe charging. This technology has been standard since the iPhone 12 series, while Android brands are just starting to catch up. Unfortunately, Apple chose not to include this feature in the iPhone 16e. Although it’s not vital for all users, many people depend on magnetic wireless charging day-to-day.
Camera Limitations
Typically, Apple’s standard iPhones come with a dual-camera arrangement that includes a primary lens and an ultra-wide angle lens. The Pro versions have an extra periscope telephoto lens for zoom photography. However, with the iPhone 16e, Apple has eliminated even the ultra-wide lens, leaving users with just a single camera on the rear. While this setup does provide 2x optical zoom-like quality, it lacks ultra-wide capabilities.
Missing Hardware Features
The iPhone 16e features the integration of Apple Intelligence, which offers numerous AI-enhanced tools and functionalities. However, unlike the iPhone 16 lineup, it does not include a dedicated camera button. This button would have allowed users to have more control over the camera with a single press, making it easier to capture moments on the go.
Dynamic Island Excluded
The Dynamic Island feature, which debuted with the iPhone 14 Pro models, became standard across the iPhone 15 series. This feature carried over to the iPhone 16 lineup, but was omitted in the iPhone 16e. It’s puzzling why Apple chose to leave this out, especially as the design of the iPhone 16e is similar in size and shape to the base iPhone 16.
Tracking Features Missing
The iPhone 16e is the first model to use the new C1 modem, moving away from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon modems. However, this new modem means the budget iPhone does not support the UWB chip (Ultrawideband). As a result, users will miss out on precision tracking capabilities that are available with Apple AirTags and AirPods.
Should You Buy It?
The iPhone 16e finds itself in a precarious position within Apple’s lineup. For just a bit more money, you could opt for the iPhone 15, which offers a wider array of features. Despite being labeled as “budget,” Apple has made it clear that every iPhone, regardless of the model, is a premium product. You’ll still be spending a significant amount for a minimalist experience from Apple.
Tags: Apple, Budget smartphone, iPhone 16e
February 22, 2025
iCloud End-to-End Encryption Unavailable for UK Users
Key Takeaways
1. Apple has prioritized privacy but has removed Advanced Data Protection (ADP) for new iPhone users in the UK due to government demands.
2. Existing UK users must turn off ADP to use iCloud services; it is not automatically disabled by Apple.
3. Advanced Data Protection is opt-in, meaning users who haven’t activated it will not be affected by this change.
4. Other Apple services like iMessage, Keychain, and Safari History still retain end-to-end encryption despite the removal of ADP.
5. UK users concerned about data security may consider switching to other cloud storage services or storing data locally.
Among several factors, iPhones are well-known for their strong focus on privacy. Apple is famous for not compromising on encryption, even when the FBI made requests back in 2015. However, a decade later, Apple has given in to ongoing demands from the UK Government. Consequently, new iPhone users will no longer have access to Advanced Data Protection.
Notice for UK Users
9to5Mac found a notice on an iPhone in the UK that stated, “Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users.” Existing users will also need to turn off the feature if they want to utilize iCloud services. The good news is that it’s opt-in, so unless you turned it on yourself, you might not be impacted. This is also why it’s your responsibility to disable it, as Apple can’t deactivate end-to-end encryption remotely.
Other Security Features Remain Intact
However, this change won’t impact other Apple services that also use end-to-end encryption, like iMessage, Keychain, and Safari History. If you’re located in the UK and rely on iCloud, it might be a wise decision to consider switching to a different cloud storage service or storing your data locally. While the transition may be cumbersome and not as smooth as what Apple offers, you can feel confident that your data will remain safe.
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Tags: Advanced Data Protection, Apple, iphone
February 22, 2025
iPhone Fold: Apple’s First Foldable Device Unites iPhone 13 mini Pro and iPad mini Pro
Key Takeaways
1. Apple has not yet entered the foldable smartphone market, unlike Android competitors like Google, Samsung, and Oppo.
2. There are suggestions that Apple’s first foldable phone could be a clamshell design similar to existing models like the Galaxy Z Flip6.
3. Apple may also be developing a larger, book-style foldable device to compete with models like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold6.
4. The rumored ‘iPhone Fold’ is expected to have a 5.49-inch cover display, slightly larger than those on the Oppo Find N2 and Google Pixel Fold.
5. A larger foldable screen of 7.74 inches could mimic an iPad mini-like aspect ratio, with hopes for high-end features like ProMotion displays and better cameras.
Apple is still not diving into the foldable smartphone market, while Android companies like Google, Samsung, and Oppo are making moves, including the recent launch of the Find N5. Recently, there have been hints that Apple’s first foldable phone might be a clamshell design similar to the Galaxy Z Flip6 or the Razr 50 Ultra (currently priced at $579.99 on Amazon). However, some sources have suggested that Apple is also working on a larger, book-style foldable device.
New Developments in Foldable Design
Focusing on this latter option, there are beliefs that this model would compete with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold or Galaxy Z Fold6. In essence, Apple seems likely to follow the popular design trend for book-style foldables, which is evolving toward approximately 6.5-inch cover screens and 8-inch foldable screens. According to a trustworthy source, these assumptions may not be completely accurate, and we have provided more detailed information on this separately.
Specs and Features
In brief, the supposed ‘iPhone Fold’ is expected to feature a 5.49-inch cover display, which is similar to the 5.54-inch and 5.8-inch cover displays found on the Oppo Find N2 and Google Pixel Fold, respectively. Since then, both Google and Oppo have shifted towards larger designs that have become popular thanks to Huawei, Honor, and Samsung. Thus, the cover display of Apple’s foldable would only be slightly larger than that of the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini.
On another note, a rumored foldable screen measuring 7.74 inches could result in an iPad mini-like aspect ratio. It’s hoped that Apple will put its best foot forward with this device, including ProMotion displays and good cameras, unlike what was seen with the iPad mini and iPhone 13 mini. If this happens, the iPhone Fold could be seen as the ‘Pro’ version of both devices.
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Tags: Apple, Galaxy Z Flip6, iPhone Fold
February 21, 2025
Apple iPhone 16e Geekbench Scores Show Lower CPU and GPU Performance
Key Takeaways
1. The iPhone 16e features a less powerful GPU with a 4-core configuration compared to other iPhone 16 models.
2. Performance tests show the iPhone 16e has lower CPU scores than the standard iPhone 16, indicating about 10% weaker CPU performance.
3. The iPhone 16e scored 24,188 on the Metal test, while the iPhone 16 scored 28,042, highlighting a 15% efficiency gap in GPU performance.
4. The iPhone 16e is priced $200 lower than the standard iPhone 16, making it a more budget-friendly option.
5. Buyers may need to compromise on performance and features, such as the absence of an ultra-wide-angle camera, for the lower price.
Apple has just launched its latest mid-tier smartphone, the iPhone 16e, earlier this week. It’s clear that Apple is not trying to conceal the fact that the iPhone 16e comes with a less powerful GPU compared to other models in the iPhone 16 lineup, featuring a 4-core configuration. However, it seems that the new device might also fall short in terms of CPU performance.
Performance Details
Recently, the iPhone 16e was spotted on Geekbench under the model number “iPhone 17,5,” equipped with 8 GB of RAM. The results show a single-core score of 2,706 and a multi-core score of 7,942. For comparison, the standard iPhone 16 achieved scores of 3,377 and 8,362 in our tests. This data suggests that the iPhone 16’s CPU might be about 10% stronger than that of the iPhone 16e, which is intriguing since both devices share the same number of CPU cores and clock speed.
GPU Performance Comparison
The Metal test results from Geekbench highlight the impact of the missing GPU core in the A18 chip of the iPhone 16e. It scored 24,188 on the Metal test, while the vanilla iPhone 16 managed a score of 28,042. This indicates that the absence of one core likely allows the iPhone 16 to be approximately 15% more efficient in GPU performance.
Pricing and Trade-offs
Although it is somewhat disheartening that the iPhone 16e does not match the performance levels of the iPhone 16, there is a silver lining: the new device is priced $200 lower. For prospective buyers, the slightly diminished performance and the absence of an ultra-wide-angle camera might be seen as a reasonable compromise.
Don’t forget to check out the Apple Watch Ultra 2 available on Amazon.
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Tags: Apple, iPhone 16, iPhone 16e
February 21, 2025
Apple A18’s 4-Core GPU: Surprising Performance Insights
Key Takeaways
1. The iPhone 16e, debuting on February 20, replaces the iPhone SE 3 and features a binned version of the A18 chip with a 4-core GPU, one less than the standard iPhone 16.
2. The A18e retains the same CPU architecture as the standard A18, with 2 large and 4 small CPU cores, ensuring similar performance for daily tasks.
3. Reduced GPU cores in Apple’s chips, like the A18e, may not significantly impact performance, based on past tests of the A17 Pro in the iPad mini.
4. The design of the iPhone 16e could improve efficiency and battery life, with official runtime estimates suggesting up to 26 hours compared to 22 hours for the iPhone 16.
5. Performance predictions for the iPhone 16e should be viewed cautiously until real-world tests are conducted.
The Apple iPhone 16e made its debut yesterday, on February 20, aiming to succeed the former iPhone SE 3. Eliminating the “SE” label, the tech giant from Cupertino has equipped the new device with a robust A18 chip, enhancing its attraction for users. However, according to the official statement, this new budget-friendly iPhone comes with a binned version of the A18 SoC, which includes a 4-core GPU—one core less than the standard iPhone 16’s A18 SoC. The question remains: is this sufficient for Apple enthusiasts who enjoy gaming and high-demand applications?
Chip Production Insights
Utilizing simplified and less efficient versions of full-featured chips isn’t a new practice. Even with the latest and most advanced manufacturing techniques, achieving flawless chip production yield is nearly impossible. Most companies take this route to optimize every wafer produced, and Apple is no different in this respect.
In the scenario of the iPhone 16e, the only component that differs from the full version A18 found in the iPhone 16 is the GPU. This means that users will still experience 2 large and 4 small CPU cores, along with a 16-core Neural Engine (35 TOPS), ensuring that performance during daily tasks should be almost identical to the standard model.
Performance Comparisons
Apple last implemented a reduced version of its mobile SoC in the 2024 iPad mini, which also featured one less GPU core compared to the standard A17 Pro. If our tests on the 7th Generation iPad mini are a reliable indication, the performance drop of the reduced A18 may not be as drastic as anticipated. As demonstrated in the 3DMark Wild Life/Solar Bay Stress test graph below, the A17 Pro with one less GPU core often performs nearly the same, or even slightly better, than the standard A17 Pro (like in the iPhone 15 Pro Max):
The remarkable outcomes from the reduced A17 Pro can be partly explained by the superior heat dissipation of its larger (than an iPhone) metal casing. Nevertheless, having one fewer core can enhance efficiency: reduced power consumption could lead to better temperature management. This suggests that with appropriate tuning and adjustments, Apple might successfully minimize the performance gap between the new iPhone 16e and the standard models, potentially making their chips almost indistinguishable in many situations. There might also be improvements in battery life, as indicated by the official runtime figures: up to 26 hours compared to up to 22 hours for the standard iPhone 16 (though this could also be due to a larger battery).
Final Thoughts
With all this information, it’s important to keep in mind that we should view the above details with caution, as we can only guess about potential performance outcomes until the actual review unit arrives at our testing facility.
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Tags: A18 chip, Apple, iPhone 16e