Tag: iphone

  • Trump urges Apple to produce more iPhones in the US instead of India

    Trump urges Apple to produce more iPhones in the US instead of India

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trump expressed concerns about Apple increasing iPhone production in India, preferring that devices for the US be made domestically.
    2. He reinforced expectations for Apple to invest $500 billion in US operations, with assurances from Tim Cook for increased domestic production.
    3. Trump highlighted the Mac Pro assembly in Texas as an example of Apple’s domestic production, though it is an extension of existing operations.
    4. Experts warn that relocating iPhone production to the US could raise costs significantly, potentially increasing prices by 25% or more.
    5. Following Trump’s comments, Apple’s stock saw a minor decline, and the company’s manufacturing strategies remain under scrutiny amid global trade tensions.

    US President Donald Trump, during a state visit to Qatar, shared details of a recent discussion with Apple CEO Tim Cook. In this conversation, he expressed his worries about the company’s rising iPhone production in India. Trump mentioned, “I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday… I don’t want you building in India.” He indicated that while Apple could still produce iPhones for the Indian market in India, devices meant for the US should be manufactured domestically.

    Trump’s Investment Expectations

    Trump reinforced his desire for Apple to stick to its previous promise of investing $500 billion into US operations. He asserted that Cook assured him of an increase in production within the United States, although no specifics or timelines were disclosed.

    Manufacturing Concerns

    Previously, Donald Trump has shown apprehensions about Apple’s manufacturing in the US, especially beyond just iPhones. He pointed out the Mac Pro, which Apple assembles in Austin, Texas, as a significant example. In November 2019, Trump visited the facility with Tim Cook, commending the company’s efforts in domestic production. However, this was more of an extension of ongoing operations rather than a brand-new project.

    Challenges of Relocation

    Experts note that shifting iPhone production entirely to the US would be a tough task due to Apple’s well-established supply chains in Asia. Moving manufacturing operations could lead to a steep increase in production costs because of higher labor expenses and an underdeveloped electronics manufacturing environment. Analysts predict this shift could raise iPhone prices by 25% or even more.

    After Trump’s comments, Apple’s stock experienced a minor decline, closing at $211.46 in the latest trading session.

    Praise for Leadership

    Trump has previously complimented Cook’s leadership, stating in 2024, “If Tim Cook didn’t run Apple, and Steve Jobs did, it wouldn’t be nearly as successful.” He also reminisced about Cook reaching out to him directly in 2019 concerning tariff matters, contrasting that with the actions of typical lobbyists.

    As global trade tensions persist, Apple’s manufacturing strategies are closely monitored by investors and policymakers alike.

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  • Apple to Raise Prices for New iPhone Lineup, Report Says

    Apple to Raise Prices for New iPhone Lineup, Report Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is considering raising prices for upcoming iPhone models, focusing on new features rather than tariffs as justification.
    2. A new tariff agreement between the US and China reduces tariffs to 10%, but a 20% tariff on China remains in place.
    3. Apple’s most profitable iPhone models, the Pro and Pro Max, will continue to be produced in China, affecting profit margins.
    4. Apple is exploring production in India but lacks the necessary infrastructure for mass iPhone manufacturing.
    5. Price increases may be linked to new camera technologies and larger batteries, with executives avoiding direct mentions of tariffs as the reason.

    Apple is said to be thinking about raising prices for its upcoming iPhone models, expected to launch later this year. Instead of pointing to the ongoing trade conflict between the US and China as the cause, the company plans to focus on new features or design changes as justification for the increases.

    Tariff Agreement

    On Monday, May 12th, 2025, the US and China came to an agreement to cut their reciprocal tariffs to 10%, down from an outrageous 125%. However, a different 20% tariff on China will still be in place. These new tariffs will stay in effect for 90 days, during which both countries aim to finalize a deal.

    Manufacturing Insights

    According to The Wall Street Journal, Apple’s most lucrative iPhone versions, the Pro and Pro Max, will still be produced in China. Insiders from the supply chain informed the publication that Apple may face reduced profit margins unless it opts to raise prices.

    Apple had been mulling over a significant overhaul of its supply chain, with a goal to produce 60 million iPhones every year in India. Yet, currently, the necessary infrastructure and technology aren’t sufficient for mass production.

    Price Justifications

    The sources from WSJ pointed out that new camera technologies and larger batteries might create challenges. The report also indicated that Apple executives are cautious about attributing the price increases to tariffs. Instead, they will likely frame the hike as a result of new features or design improvements in the soon-to-be-released iPhones.

    Apple’s CEO Tim Cook has mentioned in the past that the new tariffs could lead to an extra $900 million in costs for the quarter. He also highlighted that major iPhone models sold outside the US would continue to be sourced from China.

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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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  • European Union Lacks iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay in iOS 18.4

    European Union Lacks iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay in iOS 18.4

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 18.4 introduces new features like priority notifications and support for non-English languages for beta testers.
    2. iPhone Mirroring and SharePlay Screen Sharing are not available for users in the EU due to regulatory uncertainties.
    3. Apple cites concerns over the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regarding user privacy and data security as reasons for the feature limitations.
    4. The DMA has previously impacted Apple, forcing changes like the switch from Lightning to USB-C for the iPhone 15.
    5. It is uncertain if iPhone Mirroring will be available in iOS 19, leaving EU users without this feature for now.

    With the upcoming launch of iOS 18.4, iPhone users, especially those in the European Union (EU), are eagerly anticipating some long-awaited additions. Sadly, EU users must wait a bit longer for one of these features.

    New Release Candidate Details

    The latest Release Candidate for iOS 18.4 was made available on Monday for beta testers. This update brought enhancements to Apple Intelligence, adding features like priority notifications and support for non-English languages. However, EU users observed that iPhone Mirroring is still not accessible. Additionally, SharePlay Screen Sharing, which permits FaceTime users to share their screens, is also absent.

    Apple’s Explanation

    Apple has explained that the lack of iPhone Mirroring in the EU is due to “regulatory uncertainties,” a rather vague justification. Last June, the company pointed to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), expressing concerns:

    We worry that the interoperability requirements of the DMA might force us to compromise the integrity of our products in ways that could endanger user privacy and data security.

    It seems Apple is sticking to its stance on this matter. Given that Apple’s practices have been a key focus of the DMA, the company is probably being cautious about certain features. The DMA is the law that famously compelled Apple to replace its Lightning connector with USB-C in the iPhone 15 (which can be found renewed on Amazon for $487.34).

    Future Outlook

    It is unclear whether iPhone Mirroring will eventually be available with iOS 19, which is anticipated to bring significant changes to Apple’s mobile operating system. For the time being, iPhone users in the EU will have to make do without this particular feature.

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  • Apple’s Foldable iPhone with Liquid Metal Hinges Expected Next Year

    Apple’s Foldable iPhone with Liquid Metal Hinges Expected Next Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. A foldable iPhone is being developed, resembling Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold in design and incorporating features from the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air.
    2. The device will utilize innovative liquid metal hinge technology to reduce screen creases, improving the overall flatness of the display.
    3. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes the foldable iPhone could set a new standard for foldable displays in the market.
    4. Expected specifications include a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner display, similar to an iPad mini.
    5. Production is set to begin in Q4 2026, with a possible launch in early 2027, and the estimated price could be around $2,000.

    For some time, there has been chatter about a foldable iPhone, and the most recent article from Bloomberg by Mark Gurman reinforces this idea. According to the article, the new iPhone is expected to look similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold regarding its design. The report also mentions that this foldable iPhone will incorporate some features from the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, which is only 5.5mm thick, suggesting that the upcoming device will be quite compact.

    Innovative Hinge Technology

    A key aspect of Apple’s foldable iPhone will be its liquid metal hinge, which will be produced by Dongguan EonTec, Apple’s chosen supplier. This hinge aims to tackle one of the major problems with foldable phones: the creases that appear on the screen. Typically, Apple uses liquid metal for smaller items like SIM ejector tools, but they are now looking to use this technology to improve the flatness of the screen.

    Analyst Insights

    Interestingly enough, just last week, Ming-Chi Kuo, a reliable analyst known for his accurate forecasts, reiterated this information. He also mentioned that this innovation could establish a new benchmark for foldable displays that other Android brands might follow. Kuo indicated that the foldable iPhone could come with a 5.5-inch outer screen and a 7.8-inch inner display, resembling an iPad mini.

    At this point, Apple has yet to disclose any technical specifications for the foldable iPhone. Nonetheless, Gurman indicated that the price might be around $2,000, with limited availability initially. It is anticipated that production for the foldable iPhone will commence in Q4 2026 and that it may debut in early 2027, likely alongside the iPhone 18 series. This aligns with predictions made by analyst Jeff Pu in a previous report. In any case, it seems we will have to wait a while before we catch our first official glimpse of the foldable iPhone.

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  • Google Launches Circle in Search for iPhones with Restrictions

    Google Launches Circle in Search for iPhones with Restrictions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Circle to Search has expanded from Google and Samsung phones to more Android devices and now to Apple devices, but with limitations.
    2. On Android, users can easily use Circle to Search across almost all apps by long-pressing the navigation bar.
    3. iPhone users have a restricted experience, only able to access the feature within the Google app and Chrome through a three-dot menu option.
    4. Google is integrating Circle to Search into Google Lens on iOS, improving usability but not achieving full system-wide access like on Android.
    5. Google Lens is receiving AI upgrades, providing users with AI-generated summaries and links related to the items they search for.

    Circle to Search has become one of Google’s notable triumphs lately. Initially, it was only available on Google and Samsung phones, but in late 2024, it started to spread to more Android devices. Now, Google is bringing this feature to Apple devices, although there are some significant restrictions.

    Functionality on Android

    On Android devices, Circle to Search is compatible with nearly all applications and screens. Users can easily activate it by long-pressing the navigation bar, after which they can circle, scribble, or tap on anything displayed to get more information.

    Limitations on iPhones

    On the other hand, iPhones have a much more limited experience. The feature is only found within the Google app and Chrome. Instead of the straightforward long-press action, users must tap the three-dot menu and choose “Search this Screen” to initiate a search.

    Integration with Google Lens

    Rather than fully transferring Circle to Search, Google is basically merging its capabilities into Google Lens as an additional feature for Chrome and the Google app on iOS. This makes sense since Lens has provided similar functions for a while, though users usually need to open the app and upload a screenshot to identify what they see on their screens. The latest update does streamline the process a bit, but it’s still not as user-friendly as it is on Android.

    Coming soon, a new Lens icon will be introduced to simplify access to this feature even further. However, complete system-wide integration like what exists on Android isn’t in the works for now.

    AI Upgrades for Google Lens

    In addition, Google Lens is getting enhanced with AI overviews. Now, when users search for something like a flower or a car using Google Lens, they will receive an AI-generated summary of the item, along with links to online resources related to it.

    This update is gradually being released to English-speaking users in regions where AI overviews are available.

    Google Launches Circle in Search for iPhones with Restrictions
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  • iCloud End-to-End Encryption Unavailable for UK Users

    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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  • iPhone Pro Users Upgrade Phones Faster Than Ever, Says Counterpoint

    iPhone Pro Users Upgrade Phones Faster Than Ever, Says Counterpoint

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pro iPhone users upgrade their devices every 2.75 years, while non-Pro users keep theirs for about 3.15 years.
    2. Many Pro model owners see themselves as trendsetters and influencers, driving their need to upgrade quickly.
    3. The resale market for Pro models is growing, especially in regions with high demand for refurbished iPhones, like India and Southeast Asia.
    4. Apple is successfully attracting former Android users, with nearly half of surveyed iPhone owners having switched from Android devices.
    5. Shorter upgrade cycles are influenced by carrier trade-in offers, installment plans, and Apple’s introduction of exclusive features on newer models.

    Pro iPhone users are swapping their devices much quicker than those who own base models, a recent report from Counterpoint reveals the reasons behind this. On average, Pro users upgrade their iPhones every 2.75 years, while non-Pro users keep their phones for about 3.15 years. This difference might appear small initially, but in the high-end smartphone market where Apple is promoting pricier models, it indicates a significant change.

    What’s Causing the Change?

    The shift in behavior among iPhone users plays a key role in this trend. A lot of Pro model owners view themselves as trendsetters or early adopters, with 45 percent claiming they are the first to try out new tech. Additionally, 25 percent see themselves as influencers who sway buying choices. This self-view creates a pressing need to upgrade, often within two to three years after a phone is released. Meanwhile, users of base models are increasingly drawn to the Pro line, attracted by features like better cameras, ProMotion displays, and higher-quality materials.

    Effects on the Resale Market

    The trend of shorter upgrade cycles is also impacting the secondary market. With more Pro models being sold again, the number of refurbished devices is likely to increase, especially in places like India and Southeast Asia, where there’s a strong demand for used iPhones. Supply issues have made it hard for many customers to find refurbished Pro models, but this change could help alleviate some of those problems.

    The timing of this shift is particularly noteworthy with the iPhone SE 4 launch expected tonight. Apple’s most budget-friendly iPhone has traditionally catered to buyers who are more price-conscious, but the new model is speculated to come with a significant redesign, likely resembling the iPhone 14, complete with Face ID and an OLED screen. If Apple maintains competitive pricing, the SE 4 could serve as an ideal choice for first-time iPhone buyers and those switching from Android.

    Apple’s Success Against Android

    Furthermore, the report points to Apple’s increasing success in attracting users who previously owned Android devices. Nearly half of the iPhone owners surveyed had come from Android, with major brands like Samsung and Google feeling the impact. As more premium Android users transition to iPhones, companies like Samsung, OnePlus, and Vivo are focusing more on AI-driven features and high-end specs to remain relevant.

    Recent statistics from CIRP (via AppleInsider) support the idea of shorter upgrade cycles. In Q4 2024, 36 percent of iPhone users upgraded within two years, a rise from 31 percent the previous year. Carrier trade-in offers and installment plans have made upgrading easier, while Apple’s tactic of launching exclusive features on newer models is pushing users to upgrade sooner than before.

    Even though iPhones can last four to five years, Apple continues to introduce new innovations that instill a sense of urgency among its core users. Whether this trend will persist depends on future product launches, but for now, Pro users are upgrading more rapidly, and Apple is steering the market to maintain that forward momentum.

    iPhone Pro Users Upgrade Phones Faster Than Ever, Says Counterpoint
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  • Apple Reports Record Revenues and EPS Growth in 2025

    Apple Reports Record Revenues and EPS Growth in 2025

    The first part of Apple’s fiscal year 2025 has wrapped up, ending on December 28, 2024, and the results are impressive. The company set a new record, bringing in a whopping $124.3 billion in revenue, which is a 4% increase compared to the same period last year.

    iPhone Sales Lead the Charge

    iPhones were a major contributor, generating $69.138 billion, which represents 55.6% of the total revenue. Tim Cook credited this success to the launch of “our best-ever line-up of products and services during the holiday season.” However, it’s possible that the high prices of the phones also played a role in these strong sales figures.

    Other Products Struggle

    In contrast, sales of Macs and iPads were much lower, with figures at $8.987 billion and $8.088 billion, making up only 7.2% and 6.5% of total revenue, respectively. This shows a noticeable gap between the performance of iPhones and that of other products in Apple’s lineup.

    Services Shine Bright

    On a brighter note, the first quarter of 2025 was the most successful for Apple Services, which includes offerings like Apple TV+, Music, Podcasts, and Fitness+. This segment brought in $26.34 billion, or 21.2% of Apple’s global sales during this period.

    Apple’s earnings per share (EPS) also reached new heights, hitting $2.40, which is a 10% increase from last year. According to Apple CFO Kevan Parekh, this performance will enable the company to distribute around $30 billion, or $0.25 for each share of common stock, to its shareholders, expected to happen on February 13, 2025.

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  • Samsung Accused of Copying iPhone Features in Galaxy S25 Series

    Samsung Accused of Copying iPhone Features in Galaxy S25 Series

    It’s normal for companies to imitate one another. Recently, Macworld pointed out that with the unveiling of the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung has rolled out several One UI 7 features that closely resemble those seen on the latest iPhone models.

    Third-Party Chatbot Integration

    One notable feature mentioned by Macworld is the addition of third-party chatbot integration into Galaxy AI. This is quite akin to the ChatGPT integration found in Apple Intelligence. Additionally, Apple’s AI platform is set to support Google Gemini. The article also draws attention to the Gemini trigger animation on the Galaxy S25 series, which looks a lot like the colorful glowing border animation seen with Siri on the iPhone.

    New Features in the Phone App

    Samsung has added new functionalities that allow users to record, summarize, and transcribe calls directly within the Phone app of the Galaxy S25 series. These features are already present in iOS 18. Another new addition is the battery information section in the Settings app, which, similar to iOS, provides details on battery cycle count, health, and other relevant information.

    More iPhone-Like Features

    These aren’t the sole ‘copied’ features in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series (you can pre-order the S25 on Amazon). Macworld also mentions several other features, such as the Now Bar, which seems to be inspired by iOS’ Live Activities, the capability to record log videos, and various other UI elements reminiscent of the iPhone.

    Of course, Apple has also taken cues from Samsung. For example, it has introduced features that allow users to customize app icon colors, quick settings toggles, and lock screen personalization. Galaxy users have been enjoying these options for quite some time. However, this isn’t necessarily a negative aspect; ultimately, users gain when companies strive to enhance the best version of a new concept.

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