Tag: iphone

  • iPhone Sales Surge Amid Trump’s Influence on Market Trends

    iPhone Sales Surge Amid Trump’s Influence on Market Trends

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple reported a strong revenue increase of nearly 10%, reaching $94 billion, driven by a 13% rise in iPhone sales to $44.6 billion.
    2. CEO Tim Cook attributed growth to customer upgrades and preparation for potential US tariffs, leading to unprecedented device replacements.
    3. Apple is shifting some manufacturing to India due to rising US-China tensions, despite new tariffs starting August 1.
    4. Analysts believe manufacturing in India will be more cost-effective in the long run, despite additional trading costs of $800 million last quarter.
    5. Apple faces increased competition in China, prompting plans to invest more in AI features to keep pace with rivals like Huawei and Xiaomi.

    Apple shared its revenue numbers for the third quarter yesturday. CEO Tim Cook expressed happiness over the strongest revenue increase since the pandemic began. This impressive growth was primarily driven by a significant rise in iPhone sales, which far surpassed what was predicted. CFO Kevan Parekh mentioned that the company had a record number of active devices across all its product lines and markets. Revenue from iPhone sales climbed by over 13% to reach $44.6 billion, which is six times higher than what analysts expected. The total revenue for the group hit $94 billion, marking a nearly 10% increase – the highest it’s ever been in the April-to-June timeframe.

    Growth Factors

    Tim Cook noted that a part of this growth can be attributed to the company preparing for possible US tariffs. A lot of customers upgraded their old devices to new ones, especially iPhones and Macs, resulting in an unprecedented level of device replacements for Apple. Even though analysts anticipated a pull-forward effect, the sales were still seen as remarkable for a quarter that is usually slow. This good news was also mirrored in the stock market performance.

    Production Shifts

    Most iPhones sold in the US are made overseas, mainly in China. While smartphones are currently not subject to import tariffs, rising tensions between the US and China have prompted Apple to shift some manufacturing to India. However, starting August 1, Indian products will also incur a 25% tariff. Despite these new challenges, analysts believe that manufacturing in India will be more cost-effective in the long run. Apple calculated the extra trading costs to be about $800 million last quarter, with another $1.1 billion expected this quarter.

    Competitive Landscape

    There are early signs of recovery in the Chinese market, where Apple faces growing competition from brands like Huawei and Xiaomi. Sales have improved thanks to discount promotions that have helped stop the declining trend. Competing companies have been particularly successful with their AI features, an area where Apple has been relatively slow. However, CEO Cook has stated that Apple plans to invest more in this area moving forward to keep pace. The potential acquisition of AI firms such as Perplexity and Mistral, as reported by Bloomberg (paywall), could bring the success promised at WWDC25 sooner than expected.

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  • Custom iPhone Cases with USB-C for Older Lightning Models

    Custom iPhone Cases with USB-C for Older Lightning Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has switched to USB Type-C ports for all iPhone models starting with the iPhone 15 series.
    2. Engineer Ken Pillonel created a unique case to connect older iPhones with Lightning ports to USB Type-C.
    3. Pillonel’s innovation allows quick charging, data transfer, and wired Apple CarPlay through USB Type-C.
    4. The case, called Obsoless iPh0n3, supports iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 14 series, and is priced between CHF 43.90 and CHF 49.90 (about $55 to $63).
    5. More iPhone models are expected to be supported in the future.

    Apple has finally switched to USB Type-C ports for all its iPhone models starting with the iPhone 15 series. However, engineer Ken Pillonel has found a way to connect older iPhones to USB Type-C by creating a unique case that allows this connectivity for models that still use Lightning ports.

    Background on Pillonel’s Innovations

    Pillonel is well-known for his modified iPhone X that featured a USB Type-C port, which sold for an astonishing price of over $85,000 in 2021. Since that time, he has also been working on replacement components for AirPods Pro and AirPods Max, which currently cost $449.99 on Amazon, instead of waiting for official replacements.

    Features of the New Case

    In the video shared below, Pillonel describes how his innovative iPhone case uses a specially designed circuit board to enable quick charging, data transfer, and even wired Apple CarPlay through USB Type-C. From what we understand, the only real limitations involve Lightning accessories that need power, such as SSDs. Additionally, Pillonel has included magnets to enhance compatibility with MagSafe.

    Pricing and Availability

    At this moment, the Obsoless iPh0n3 can be purchased for the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, with prices ranging from CHF 43.90 to CHF 49.90 (about $55 to $63) before shipping costs. It seems that more iPhone models will be supported in the future as well. For further information, check out the Obsoless website.

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    Custom iPhone Cases with USB-C for Older Lightning Models

     

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  • MacBook Pro with M5 Launch Delayed; New iPad and More Leaked

    MacBook Pro with M5 Launch Delayed; New iPad and More Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to launch new iPhones and Apple Watches in September 2025, along with an iPad Pro featuring the M5 chip in October.
    2. A successor to the Apple Vision Pro with an upgraded M4 chipset and improved head strap is anticipated by the end of 2025.
    3. New products like Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini are expected to include Apple’s own WiFi chip; however, the new MacBook Pro has been delayed to early 2026.
    4. The MacBook Air M5 is set to launch in early 2026, alongside refreshed budget-friendly iPads and the iPad Air with the M4 chip.
    5. A new Apple Studio Display and a smart home hub are likely to debut in the first half of 2026, while a more affordable MacBook with an iPhone processor is also rumored.

    Based on leaked identification numbers and code from an internal version of iOS 18, a new report from Bloomberg provides further details on the products Apple is expected to launch within the next twelve months.

    Expected Launches in Late 2025

    The product lineup for the second half of 2025 doesn’t hold many surprises, as it’s likely that Apple will unveil new iPhones and Apple Watches in September, as is the custom. Following this, there is an expectation of the iPad Pro powered by the Apple M5 chip in October, which will likely see minimal upgrades apart from the system-on-chip. Additionally, the Apple Vision Pro is anticipated to have a successor, which will feature an upgraded Apple M4 chipset and a more comfortable head strap. The following Apple products are expected to launch by the end of the year:

    Apple roadmap for H2 2025

    Earlier speculations have also suggested a new Apple TV 4K and a HomePod mini, both of which are anticipated to incorporate Apple’s own WiFi chip for the first time. Notably, a new MacBook Pro, which should have been based on the Apple M5 Pro and M5 Max, is missing from this list. Bloomberg reports that the launch of this product has been delayed until early 2026. This iteration is said to be the last with the current design before the MacBook Pro transitions to a thinner and lighter chassis with an OLED screen.

    Looking Ahead to Early 2026

    The MacBook Air M5 is also expected to be introduced early next year. In March or April 2026, Apple may refresh its most budget-friendly iPad along with the iPad Air, equipping them with newer processors. However, the iPad Air is expected to lag a generation behind the iPad Pro, featuring the Apple M4 chip. Aside from the new processor, there are no significant changes or updates planned. Particularly exciting is the possibility of a new Apple Studio Display, since the current model is now over three years old. Additionally, the long-anticipated smart home hub could debut in the first half of 2026. Notably absent from Bloomberg’s list is a more affordable MacBook utilizing an iPhone processor, which is also rumored to launch early in 2026.

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  • 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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