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  • Apple to Unveil First Foldable iPhone as Sector Shipments Grow 30%

    Apple to Unveil First Foldable iPhone as Sector Shipments Grow 30%

    Apple is expected to unveil its maiden foldable iPhone at its Cupertino headquarters later on Wednesday, entering a product category where Asian rivals hold a combined 70 per cent share.

    Samsung leads the global foldable smartphone sector with a share of about 40 per cent, followed by Huawei with 30 per cent, according to research firm Counterpoint.

    The new handset is expected to adopt a wider passport-style aspect ratio geared toward video and media consumption, arriving as supply-chain advances make flexible displays more durable and less prone to creasing.

    Asian Rivals Defend Premium Dominance

    For Samsung and Huawei, Apple’s entry turns a high-margin hardware niche into an open battleground across Asian retail channels. Both manufacturers spent years refining flexible hardware, using early technical missteps to improve hinge durability and lock down premium market share in China, South Korea and Southeast Asia.

    Asian component suppliers and display manufacturers stand to gain volume as Apple scales production. The primary risk sits with Android hardware makers in the upper price tiers, who lose their sole hardware differentiator once iOS software is available on a flexible screen.

    The Long March from Early Hinges

    Chinese display maker Royole shipped the first commercial foldable device in 2018 with its outward-folding FlexPai. Samsung launched the US$2,000 Galaxy Fold in 2019, withdrawing initial review units to redesign the display before releasing refined models such as the Fold 8. Huawei followed with the Mate X in 2019, before pushing hardware boundaries further in September 2024 with a US$2,800 tri-fold model.

    Apple’s entry will surely increase competition at the premium end. However, foldables are still a very small part of the overall smartphone market, so there is room for the category to grow well beyond current volumes.

    Growth Divergence in Handset Shipments

    Foldable devices account for a single-digit percentage of total handset sales, constrained by high retail pricing and consumer doubts over long-term screen durability. Google entered the segment in 2023 with the US$1,799 Pixel Fold, while Microsoft discontinued its dual-screen Surface Duo line.

    Research firm IDC expects global foldable shipments to grow nearly 30 per cent this year, outpacing an estimated 1.4 per cent decline in standard smartphone sales as Apple unveils its device later on Wednesday.

  • Geely Hosts CCC Digital Key Trials in Ningbo as China Penetration Hits 58%

    Geely Hosts CCC Digital Key Trials in Ningbo as China Penetration Hits 58%

    Geely Holding Group opened the Car Connectivity Consortium Plugfest in Ningbo on September 7, 2026, testing cross-device vehicle access specifications across global hardware makers.

    Digital keys reached 13.3 million passenger vehicles in China in 2025, taking factory installation rates to 58.1 per cent, according to ResearchInChina.

    The four-day event runs through September 10, bringing engineers from Apple, Volkswagen Group China, Leapmotor, and the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology together to validate CCC Digital Key Version 3 and Version 4 implementations. Testing focuses on Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communications, remote keyless systems, and relay-server architectures built for Chinese mobile platforms.

    Standardizing Access Across Mobile Ecosystems

    Hardware and vehicle makers face a fragmented user base where device compatibility dictates owner satisfaction. Chinese electric vehicle makers built proprietary smartphone-to-car links early to differentiate their cabins, but scaling across export markets requires uniform global protocols. Aligning with CCC protocols reduces development friction for Chinese auto exporters targeting Europe and Southeast Asia, where multi-brand phone compatibility is mandatory.

    The technical risk sits in the handoff between mobile operating systems and vehicle transceivers. Proprietary app-based keys often suffer from background process throttling and latency on Android devices. Standardized Near Field Communication and Ultra-Wideband protocols shift authentication directly to device secure elements, eliminating reliance on third-party companion apps.

    Regional Expansion and Certification Pipeline

    Earlier in 2026, the consortium certified its first batch of Chinese vehicles across Geely brands including Volvo, Polestar, Zeekr, Lynk & Co, Smart, and Lotus, alongside standalone approvals for Nio and Xpeng. Regional momentum extended into India with Mahindra & Mahindra and South Korea through Hyundai Motor Company.

    Testing in Ningbo directly addresses local technical conditions, including cross-platform key sharing via relay servers. Test equipment suppliers including Comprion, Dekra, and Ellisys are running validation benches for Bluetooth sniffing and updated NFC test suites alongside software provider GosuncnWelink.

    “As digital key adoption grows, a common global standard is essential to ensuring interoperability across vehicles and devices,” said Alysia Johnson, President of the Car Connectivity Consortium.

    Testing China-Specific Architecture

    Participating laboratories are using authorized IDL hardware and Comprion validation software to check device compatibility against published automotive test cases before production rollouts. These trials will establish the technical criteria for the next round of device-to-car certifications across Asian component supply chains.

    Engineering teams conclude the Ningbo trials on September 10, 2026, with the validated test cases feeding into updated consortium validation tools as China’s passenger car digital key penetration passes 60 per cent before year-end.

  • Xiaomi Launches 18 Fold Smartphone at 10,999 Yuan with Custom Silicon

    Xiaomi Launches 18 Fold Smartphone at 10,999 Yuan with Custom Silicon

    Xiaomi launched its flagship 18 Fold smartphone in Beijing on Monday, pricing the device from 10,999 yuan (US$1,639) to compete directly with high-end foldables from Huawei and Apple.

    The phone carries Xiaomi’s proprietary Xring O3 processor and LPDDR6 memory from ChangXin Memory Technologies, with sales opening on Thursday at 10am across mainland retail channels.

    Founder and chief executive Lei Jun detailed the hardware specifications at the Beijing presentation. The device includes a 7.58-inch inner display, a reinforced hinge mechanism, an aluminium chassis, and strengthened cover glass. The 24-billion-transistor Xring O3 artificial intelligence processor raises central processor performance by 60 per cent over the prior Xring O1 generation while cutting energy consumption on select workloads by 25 per cent. Lei said Xiaomi has earmarked 50 billion yuan specifically for custom chip development, part of a wider 200 billion yuan research and development budget planned over the next five years.

    Silicon Independence and Electric Vehicle Pricing

    Alongside the phone, Xiaomi rolled out its Pad 9 Pro Max tablet starting at 4,799 yuan, also powered by the Xring O3, and priced its extended-range Skynomad sport utility vehicles. The five-seat N70 Pro SUV starts at 209,900 yuan, while the seven-seat N90 Max begins at 269,900 yuan. Both undercut Tesla’s Model Y L, which retails from 339,000 yuan in China. The extended-range powertrain uses an auxiliary petrol engine to charge the battery pack, delivering a driving range exceeding 1,000 kilometres on a single cycle.

    For consumer tech retailers and premium device vendors across Asia, Xiaomi’s dual offensive in mobile silicon and electric mobility tightens pricing pressure across two categories simultaneously. By pairing domestic memory from CXMT with proprietary processors, the company shields its bill of materials against international component shortages that are squeezing entry-level hardware margins. The aggressive SUV pricing also demonstrates that Xiaomi is treating hardware margins as secondary to ecosystem lock-in, forcing traditional carmakers and handset specialists to defend their retail territory on compressed margins.

    Premium Tier Resists Smartphone Downturn

    The product blitz lands during an intense competitive window in China. Huawei unveiled its Mate XT 2 trifold handset on Monday starting at 19,999 yuan, using its Kirin 9050 Pro processor. Richard Yu Chengdong, chairman of Huawei’s Consumer Business Group, confirmed that Huawei has sold more than 1 million trifold devices worldwide. Meanwhile, Apple is scheduled to present its product line-up on Wednesday in California, where analysts anticipate the launch of a foldable model priced above US$2,000.

    This surge in premium launches contrasts sharply with the broader consumer hardware environment. Counterpoint expects global smartphone shipments to contract 12.4 per cent this year, hit by surging memory costs and lengthening replacement cycles among budget consumers. Premium foldables remain an exception. Counterpoint projects cumulative worldwide foldable shipments will cross 100 million units by year-end, with annual category shipments set to expand 37 per cent in 2027.

    Xiaomi built up to this release after spending 105.5 billion yuan on research and development over the past five years and first previewing the Skynomad vehicle architecture in late July. The group had previously rolled out the first-generation Xring O1 chip last year to test its custom silicon pipeline in select devices.

    Market attention now shifts to Thursday morning retail sell-through figures for the 18 Fold, followed by initial delivery volumes for the Skynomad SUV series ahead of fourth-quarter earnings.

  • HarmonyOS Hits 24 per Cent Share in China as Global Smartphone Sales Fall

    HarmonyOS Hits 24 per Cent Share in China as Global Smartphone Sales Fall

    Huawei’s HarmonyOS captured 24 per cent of China’s smartphone sales in the second quarter of 2026, squeezing Android down to 58 per cent. The domestic operating system expanded its footprint as overall worldwide smartphone shipments dropped 11 per cent year on year.

    Global handset demand contracted faster than the 4 per cent drop recorded in the first quarter, with the sharpest drops hitting budget and mid-tier devices across developing markets. Android felt the brunt of that pullback. Its worldwide sales share dropped four percentage points to 75 per cent, even with stronger sales from Samsung’s Galaxy S26 lineup.

    Shifts in Component Sourcing and Pricing

    Huawei insulated its handset business from rising component prices by sourcing more parts from domestic suppliers in mainland China. High demand for the Enjoy 90 Pro Max alongside steady sales of legacy models helped HarmonyOS reach a 5 per cent global volume share.

    Chinese Android manufacturers took a different path. Pinched by memory chip shortages and higher bill-of-materials expenses, brands scaled down their low-cost phone lineups to focus on higher-margin premium devices. That pivot opened room for Apple at the top end of the market.

    Apple Takes Record June Quarter Share

    Apple captured 20 per cent of worldwide sales during the three months ending June, its highest second-quarter share on record. Deliveries were anchored by the iPhone 17 family and the entry of the iPhone 17e, supported by trade-in programs and retail installment plans.

    In India, Android maintained a dominant 91 per cent volume share, leaving iOS with 9 per cent. In the United States, Apple took 51 per cent of sales against Android’s 49 per cent.

    For retailers and hardware distributors across Asia, the product mix is shifting upmarket as low-end volumes shrink. Brands are preparing their product allocations for the fourth-quarter holiday cycle, where component pricing will dictate whether entry-tier production rebounds or stays constrained.

  • Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple Chief Executive and Hands Reins to John Ternus

    Tim Cook Steps Down as Apple Chief Executive and Hands Reins to John Ternus

    Tim Cook will step down as Apple chief executive to become executive chairman, handing control of the 4.5 trillion dollar company to hardware chief John Ternus.

    The transition ends a 15-year tenure that increased Apple’s annual sales from 108 billion dollars to 416 billion dollars, with net profit surging fourfold to 112 billion dollars.

    Cook will guide Apple’s government relations and trade strategy between Washington and Beijing starting September 1. A regulatory filing shows Ternus receives a base salary of 3 million dollars and an annual equity target of 55 million dollars beginning in 2027. Cook will draw an annual salary of 2 million dollars effective September 26, alongside a 45 million dollar target award in restricted stock units.

    The Asian Manufacturing Pivot

    Ternus inherits a hardware empire undergoing its biggest geographic realignment since the launch of the original iPhone. Apple is shifting assembly lines outward from mainland China to insulate its retail pricing from tariffs and geopolitical disputes. The company plans to manufacture the majority of US-bound iPhones in India by the end of 2026, while routing AirPods and iPad assembly through Vietnam.

    Cook built Apple’s initial dominance on Chinese factory scale, but the post-pandemic supply map demands distributed capacity. For electronics retailers and component suppliers across Asia, the succession confirms that Apple’s diversification away from single-country manufacturing will continue under a hardware-focused chief executive.

    Hardware Strategy and Artificial Intelligence

    Beyond factory logistics, Ternus faces immediate product hurdles across consumer markets. Wearables generated 35 billion dollars in fiscal 2025 sales from devices like the Apple Watch and AirPods, yet the 3,499 dollar Vision Pro headset struggled to capture high volumes. Apple also scrapped its decade-long electric vehicle program in 2024 and continues working to catch rivals in artificial intelligence features and voice assistance.

    The new leadership team must now execute the late-2026 India iPhone production target without eroding gross margins across the 2.5 billion active device base.

  • John Ternus to Take over as Apple CEO as Tim Cook Becomes Executive Chairman

    John Ternus to Take over as Apple CEO as Tim Cook Becomes Executive Chairman

    Apple chief executive Tim Cook will step down after 15 years, handing leadership of the US$4.5 trillion tech company to hardware head John Ternus.

    Cook expanded Apple from a US$350 billion business into the world’s most valuable hardware maker before preparing to shift into the executive chairman role in September.

    Hardware leadership and AI priorities

    Ternus takes charge as Apple faces growing pressure across artificial intelligence development and device assembly. Having run Apple’s hardware engineering division, he oversaw major product portfolios across iPhone, Mac, and iPad product cycles.

    Cook built Apple’s post-2011 growth on rigorous manufacturing coordination and deep consumer distribution networks. His operational playbook turned the brand into a retail powerhouse across China, Japan, and newer retail growth corridors such as India and Southeast Asia.

    Production footprint and next steps

    For electronics supply chains in Asia, the executive change lands as hardware brands reshape procurement and expand production footprints beyond mainland China into India and Vietnam. Regional competitors are simultaneously pushing rapid consumer AI deployments to test Apple’s premium smartphone sales.

    Ternus takes the top post this September as Cook moves into the board chairmanship.

  • Apple Leads Asian Smartphone Market as Xiaomi Expands Low-Cost Reach

    Apple Leads Asian Smartphone Market as Xiaomi Expands Low-Cost Reach

    Apple captured 21.16 per cent of Asia’s smartphone market through early 2026, leading an increasingly divided consumer hardware market across the region. Samsung held second place with 15.57 per cent, retaining its broader footprint after regaining leadership in Southeast Asia despite a 1 per cent dip in total regional shipments during 2025.

    Xiaomi secured third position across Asia with a 12.02 per cent market share, lifting its Southeast Asian shipments 4 per cent to 17 million units. Vivo and Oppo followed with 10.5 per cent and 9.8 per cent shares across Asia, while Huawei retained roughly 18 per cent of domestic shipments in mainland China.

    Social Commerce Alters Budget Device Distribution

    Digital storefronts and direct livestreams on platforms like TikTok have transformed low-cost distribution across developing markets. Xiaomi’s sub-brand POCO recorded its highest monthly volume in November 2025, moving units ranging from the $93 entry-level C71 to the $427 mid-range F7 model.

    Transsion captured 16 per cent of Southeast Asian shipments, supported by basic itel models priced below $30 that drove substantial volume in Vietnam and the Philippines. In Japan, domestic manufacturers Sony and Sharp maintained defensible positions in their home market alongside established flagship brands.

    Component Inflation Squeezes Entry-Level Margins

    Consumer demand in Asia now sits at two distinct poles: premium buyers paying top dollar for ecosystem flagships, and price-sensitive shoppers seeking maximum specifications under $100. While Apple and Samsung control the profitable high end, budget-focused manufacturers face immediate margin erosion from rising memory and storage component expenses.

    Hardware makers entering the second half of 2026 face higher bills of materials that directly threaten sub-$200 device margins. Brands operating in emerging Southeast Asian markets must decide whether to absorb these memory cost increases or risk raising retail price tags above critical affordability thresholds.

  • India Unveils 62500 Crore Rupee Scheme to Lure Apple and Google Hardware

    India Unveils 62500 Crore Rupee Scheme to Lure Apple and Google Hardware

    India has notified a 62,500-crore rupee smartphone manufacturing scheme. The policy aims to push Apple beyond iPhones and shift Google device exports away from China.

    Replacing the earlier production-linked incentive programme, the scheme runs through the 2030-31 financial year to deepen local component sourcing.

    Electronics and IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said New Delhi expects Apple to expand into other product categories using its existing iPhone assembly base. Google will also route a major share of export-oriented device production away from Chinese facilities into Indian factories.

    Manufacturers can claim incentives between 2.25 per cent and 5 per cent on eligible sales under the framework. An extra payout of up to 1.5 per cent applies to firms sourcing parts locally, including display modules, camera assemblies, enclosures, batteries and USB cables.

    Incentives for domestic brands and design

    Domestic brands get a dedicated track. Indian smartphone makers qualify for a 5 per cent sales incentive, alongside a 3 per cent reward for local research, development and product design. The government is working with three domestic companies to launch high-volume device designs within 10 to 14 months.

    Official data shows mobile phones delivered 61 per cent of India’s electronics exports last year, up from 4 per cent in the 2014-15 fiscal year, according to Electronics and IT secretary S Krishnan. Mobile device output now accounts for 48 per cent of total domestic electronics production, up from 10 per cent a decade ago. Overall phone exports grew 166-fold between 2014 and 2025 at a compound annual rate of about 59 per cent. India is now the world’s second-largest phone maker by volume.

    Moving from assembly to component integration

    Global electronics brands across Asia face fresh pressure to localise sub-assemblies rather than snap imported kits together in final assembly plants. Competitors in Vietnam and China will face sharper export competition as Indian suppliers scale up module fabrication.

    Attention now shifts to the 10-to-14 month delivery window for the three state-backed Indian phone designs, alongside Apple’s first confirmed hardware assembly lines outside the iPhone family.

  • Chip Squeeze Drives up Smartphone Prices in India, Boosting Apple and Samsung over Chinese Rivals

    Chip Squeeze Drives up Smartphone Prices in India, Boosting Apple and Samsung over Chinese Rivals

    Rising memory chip costs are significantly impacting India’s smartphone market, leading to a surge in average selling prices and a shift in consumer preferences. The average smartphone selling price in India has reached a record $315, marking a 14.4 percent increase from the previous year, according to recent market data.

    This price inflation is particularly affecting budget-focused Chinese smartphone brands, which have historically dominated the sub-$150 segment. As cheaper chips become scarce and more expensive, these companies are forced to raise their prices, diminishing their traditional value-for-money appeal. Conversely, premium and mid-range players such as Samsung and Apple are gaining market share, partly due to improved financing options that make their higher-priced devices more accessible to consumers.

    Chinese Brands Face Mounting Pressure

    Chinese smartphone makers, including Vivo, Oppo, Xiaomi, and Realme, experienced significant declines in shipments during the June quarter. Vivo’s shipments fell by 13.9 percent, Oppo by 8.5 percent, Xiaomi by 10 percent, and Realme by 14.2 percent year-on-year, according to IDC. Only OnePlus, which caters to a higher-end segment, saw a smaller decline of 2.5 percent.

    Industry experts indicate that the era of sub-$150 smartphones is effectively over in India. New Chinese models with similar features are now expected to cost between $200 and $250, a substantial increase from their previous pricing. This pricing pressure has already led to some budget brands raising smartphone prices by up to 40 percent.

    This development is crucial for RetailNews Asia readers, as India represents one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing consumer markets. The shift towards premiumisation, driven by supply chain economics, presents both challenges and opportunities for retailers and brands operating across Asia-Pacific. As affordability dynamics change, retailers may need to adapt their product assortments and financing solutions to cater to evolving consumer demand.

    Samsung And Apple Expand Their Foothold

    In contrast to the struggles faced by Chinese brands, Samsung and Apple have demonstrated resilience and growth. In the June quarter, Samsung’s shipments rose by 0.4 percent, and Apple’s by 0.7 percent. This enabled Samsung to narrow the gap with the leading player, Vivo, increasing its market share by nearly 200 basis points. Apple also saw its market share rise by 100 basis points in the same period.

    Samsung, with its diverse portfolio spanning from $200 to over $800, is intensely competing with Vivo in the $200-$300 segment. A key advantage for Samsung is its access to in-house memory chip supplies, which mitigates some of the cost pressures affecting competitors. Many Chinese firms rely on external suppliers like MediaTek, SK Hynix, and even Samsung for their chips, making them more vulnerable to price fluctuations.

    The global memory chip shortage, exacerbated by increased demand for AI and data center applications, has driven chip prices up fourfold since September 2025, with further increases anticipated. This trend is expected to continue pushing smartphone prices higher, accelerating the Indian market’s shift towards more premium products as financing options become more prevalent for expensive handsets.

  • Tech Industry Strains Cause Apple to Scrap Visionary iPhone 20 Pro Design

    Tech Industry Strains Cause Apple to Scrap Visionary iPhone 20 Pro Design

    Apple had in store an impressive three-year plan for its flagship product, the iPhone, which would have reached its peak next year – the 20th anniversary of the iconic smartphone range. However, a recent report indicates a change in plans as the company has had to abandon its ambitious iPhone 20 Pro project.

    Scrapping of the iPhone 20 Pro

    The iPhone 20 Pro was set to be a remarkable device, featuring an all-glass screen design. The concept involved no bezels, giving the impression of the screen floating above the chassis. It also proposed to relocate the Face ID component and the selfie camera underneath the display.

    The display was designed to seamlessly merge into the phone’s body, creating a bezel-less effect without distorting the content displayed on the screen. This concept was intended to take a step ahead of Samsung’s Edge phone models. However, Apple has had to abandon the original design of the iPhone 20 Pro.

    It seems that the company has discontinued this model. In its place, a different type of iPhone will be released next year.

    Production Challenges Derail 20th Anniversary Plans

    The technology industry’s existing strained state led to yield issues that forced Apple to change its plans. The 20th anniversary of the iPhone, which was supposed to mark a significant restructuring of the smartphone world, will now be a less extraordinary event.

    Apple’s devoted fans, although disappointed with this news, understand the industry’s current state and do not fault the company.

    Expectations for the 20th Anniversary

    Next year’s 20th anniversary marks a significant milestone for one of the most transformative devices ever created. With the cancellation of the all-glass iPhone 20 Pro, expectations should be adjusted for something less than groundbreaking.

    Industry insiders have recently shared renders of an iPhone 20 Pro that boasts a bezel-less design and a Dynamic Island cutout. It’s highly probable that this is what the new iPhone 20 Pro will look like.

    The dream of a phone with a cutout-free display had many, including me, eagerly awaiting the iPhone 20 Pro’s release before considering switching to Apple. This recent development not only postpones this potential switch but also increases the likelihood of an Android manufacturer outpacing Apple in this innovation.

    Questions & Answers

    What changes were planned for the iPhone 20 Pro?
    The iPhone 20 Pro was supposed to feature an all-glass, bezel-less screen. The Face ID component and the selfie camera were to be moved under the display.

    Why did Apple cancel the iPhone 20 Pro?
    Due to the existing strained state of the technology industry, Apple encountered yield issues, which forced the company to abandon its original plans for the iPhone 20 Pro.

    What should we expect from the 20th anniversary iPhone?
    With the cancellation of the all-glass iPhone 20 Pro, the 20th anniversary iPhone is expected to be less groundbreaking. It’s likely to feature a bezel-less design and a Dynamic Island cutout.

  • Tim Cook Passes the Apple Torch: A New Era Dawns with CEO Transition

    Tim Cook Passes the Apple Torch: A New Era Dawns with CEO Transition

    Speculation has been rife for some time about the imminent departure of Apple CEO Tim Cook from his position. The unexpected announcement of his replacement has therefore caught many by surprise. Despite forecasts suggesting Cook’s remaining tenure might run into a few more years, it now appears his exit is imminent.

    Tim Cook’s New Role

    Tim Cook is slated to relinquish his CEO role later this year after a successful and influential period of leadership at Apple. Starting from September 1, Cook will transition into the position of executive chairman on Apple’s board of directors.

    According to typical patterns, Cook is expected to serve as executive chairman for a substantial period, though his presence at the launch of the iPhone 18 in the upcoming months remains uncertain.

    The decision to appoint Cook’s successor, John Ternus, as the new CEO seems like a well-anticipated move to many. Recently, Ternus has been increasingly in the public eye, having even presented the iPhone Air. Some believe this was a strategic move to familiarize the public with Ternus’s presence during significant product launches.

    Cook’s Farewell Message

    In an internal memo to Apple employees, Cook reflected on his time with the company and the collective accomplishments of the team. He praised the company’s values and expressed his confidence in Apple’s future prospects. This, he noted, influenced his decision to transition to the role of executive chairman and pass on the CEO baton to John Ternus. He affirmed his belief in Ternus’s capability to guide Apple into the future and maintain the company’s core values.

    Cook also expressed his intention to support Ternus and the company in various key areas in his new role and thanked the executive team for their brilliance throughout the years. He concluded by expressing his optimism about the future and inviting all to join him in congratulating Ternus.

    John Ternus’s Response

    In a memo of his own, John Ternus expressed his excitement about his new role as CEO and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the hardware engineering team. He revealed that as he transitions to the CEO role, Tom Marieb will take over as the head of hardware engineering, reporting to Johny Srouji, who is taking on an expanded role of Chief Hardware Officer. Ternus expressed his anticipation for their continued work together and shared his confidence in the team.

    Reflecting on Cook’s Legacy

    Reflecting on Cook’s tenure, it’s astounding to consider the significant impact he has had on Apple and its global user base. Cook’s strategic prowess following the passing of Steve Jobs was instrumental in sustaining the company’s stability and growth.

    Under Cook’s leadership, Apple’s product range has evolved remarkably. The MacBook has become a powerful technological asset, and the iPhone 17 Pro is widely regarded as one of the best flagship smartphones on the market.

    The upcoming launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and the iPhone Ultra later this year will be a poignant moment, given Cook’s absence. The future Apple events are inevitably going to be different, marking a shift in an era in the company’s history.

    Questions & Answers

    Who will replace Tim Cook as CEO of Apple?
    John Ternus has been announced as the successor to Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.

    What will be Tim Cook’s new role at Apple?
    Tim Cook will transition to the role of executive chairman on Apple’s board of directors.

    Who will take over as head of hardware engineering at Apple?
    Tom Marieb will assume the role of head of hardware engineering at Apple as John Ternus transitions to the CEO role.

  • Apple Slashes App Store Commission Fees in China: A Big Win for Developers and Consumers

    Apple Slashes App Store Commission Fees in China: A Big Win for Developers and Consumers

    Apple will decrease the commission fees it collects from App Store transactions in mainland China, marking a substantial victory for Chinese developers. This decision comes in response to the perceived pressure from regulators in the U.S. technology behemoth’s second-largest market.

    Lowered Commission Fees

    Beginning Sunday, the California-based company will reduce fees for in-app purchases and paid transactions to 25%, down from the present 30%, according to a statement on the company’s website. For developers in Apple’s small business and mini apps partner programmes, in-app purchase transaction fees will be decreased to 12% from the current rate of 15%.

    The term ‘mini apps’ denotes smaller applications that function within a larger parent application, such as Tencent’s WeChat.

    Significant Impact for Chinese Developers

    This change is a significant advancement for Chinese app developers, including operators of ‘super apps’ such as Tencent and ByteDance, the owner of TikTok. These platforms offer numerous smaller apps developed by third-party creators.

    The reduction could potentially save Chinese developers more than 6 billion yuan (US$873 million) in annual operating costs. The measure has been presented as a win for Chinese digital consumers.

    Improved Consumer Choices

    The adjustment will enhance consumer choices and information transparency. The premium for digital goods and services within iOS will gradually decrease, and prices for membership subscriptions, game charges, live broadcast tips, mini programs, and other scenarios are predicted to drop, potentially saving consumers up to nearly 1 billion yuan per year.

    Global Scrutiny of Apple Tax

    The 30% ‘Apple Tax’ continues to be a significant target of regulatory scrutiny worldwide. In the U.S., Apple permits users to pay in-app fees using alternative payment methods, while the EU implemented new legislation in 2024 that mandated Apple to reduce commission fees to a range of 10% to 17% for developers.

    In China, Apple has been in discussion with the IT ministry and other departments about reducing their fees.

    World Consumer Rights Day

    The reduced commission fees will take effect on World Consumer Rights Day, a day often marked by Chinese state media spotlighting domestic and foreign companies accused of consumer rights violations. Apple was targeted by this campaign in 2013, when its after-sales service was criticized, compelling the company to issue a public apology.

    Going forward, the Chinese government may require Apple to collect App Store revenues within China, rather than overseas, and increase regulatory oversight of foreign apps published in China.

    Previously, Apple has removed apps such as virtual private networks (VPNs) from its China App Store at the Chinese internet regulators’ request.

    International Developers Also Benefit

    Apple’s fee reduction also extends to international developers whose apps are available on the China App Store. As an example, Duolingo, the highest-grossing education app in China, stands to save a substantial amount of money given its annual revenue from the Chinese market is around US$50 million.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new commission fee rate for in-app purchases and paid transactions in mainland China?
    The new commission fee rate in mainland China is being reduced to 25% from the previous 30%.

    Who stands to benefit from these reduced commission fees?
    Chinese developers and operators of ‘super apps’ such as Tencent and ByteDance, along with international developers with apps available in the China App Store, will benefit from these reduced commission fees.

    When will the fee reduction take effect?
    The fee reduction will take effect on World Consumer Rights Day, which falls on Sunday.

  • Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Apple Preps for Stable iOS 26.3 Update as iOS 26.4 Beta 2 Launches: No Siri Overhaul, but Exciting New Features Await

    Upcoming iOS Updates to Include Minor Improvements

    Apple users who are currently using stable iOS 26.3 might have noticed that a minor update, iOS 26.3.1, is currently under testing. This update is projected to roll out within the next fortnight. Primarily, it’s expected to be a minor adjustment aimed at rectifying a bug or patching a potential software vulnerability.

    The release of iOS 26.3.1 might coincide with the launch of the lower-priced iPhone 17e model, which is expected to hit the market during the first week of March. In anticipation of the release of some Siri 2.0 features in iOS 26.4, as previously stated by Apple, some iPhone users installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 in hopes of getting an early preview of an enhanced Siri. However, this move was unfruitful as Apple launched iOS 26.4 Beta 1 without any Siri AI improvements.

    Regrettably, I was one of the iPhone users who installed iOS 26.4 Beta 1 only to find that the advancements to Siri 2.0 had been delayed. The expectation now is that some of the new features for Siri will be introduced with iOS 26.5, which is due in May. The significant upgrade to Siri that will transform the digital assistant into a chatbot akin to ChatGPT and Gemini, however, is expected to land later in the year with the release of iOS 27 in September.

    The Playlist Playground

    The next stable update, iOS 26.4, is projected to arrive in late March or early April. Despite the likely absence of major changes to Siri, this update will introduce some exciting features like the Playlist Playground, a feature that debuted with iOS 26.4 Beta 1. This feature will allow users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt. The chip containing Apple’s recommended playlist requests can be tapped by users. If the generated playlist doesn’t meet your liking, there are options to refine it further by adding instructions, such as excluding a particular genre or enhancing a certain sound.

    End-To-End Encryption for Cross-Platform Messaging

    Apple has also begun testing end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for RCS. Initially, when iOS 26.4 Beta 1 was released, E2EE RCS testing was restricted to messages sent between two iPhones with iMessage disabled. However, with the release of iOS 26.4 Beta 2, Apple has started allowing cross-platform RCS messaging between iOS and Android devices, protected with E2EE. Users of the latest Beta 2 release are now seeing a “lock icon” while texting a compatible Android phone. However, E2EE cross-platform RCS messaging is not expected to arrive on a stable iOS build until the release of iOS 26.5 or iOS 26.6.

    Questions & Answers

    When is the release of iOS 26.3.1 expected?
    The release is expected to happen sometime within the next two weeks.

    What are the new Siri 2.0 features expected in iOS 26.4?
    Despite initial expectations, it appears that major changes to Siri have been delayed and are now expected to be introduced in iOS 26.5.

    What is the Playlist Playground feature in iOS 26.4?
    This feature allows users to generate a 25-song playlist based on a text prompt, with options for further refinement based on user instructions.

  • Apple Taps Google’s Gemini AI for Long-Awaited Siri Upgrade: A Game-Changing Partnership Unveiled

    Apple Taps Google’s Gemini AI for Long-Awaited Siri Upgrade: A Game-Changing Partnership Unveiled

    Several years ago, Apple assured its customer base of an improved, more intelligent Siri. While some loyalists might have lost hope, the company has now confirmed its speculated collaboration with Google, a move that could potentially transform Siri into a highly competent personal assistant.

    Google’s Gemini AI Powers Siri’s Significant Upgrade

    Apple has declared that Google’s Gemini AI model will be the driving force behind the long-awaited, more personalized iteration of Siri. The company stated that Google’s technology forms the most suitable basis for their model.

    Following a thorough evaluation, Apple determined that Google’s technology offers the most capable foundation for Apple’s foundation models. Apple expressed excitement about the innovative new experiences that this partnership could unlock for its users.

    Though Apple has not divulged further details about the agreement or given a precise timeline for the Siri update, reports suggest that its pact with Google forms part of a multi-year deal.

    A Much-Anticipated Update

    Nearly a year ago, Apple postponed the AI-enhanced version of Siri, initially promised at WWDC 2024. The company admitted that the development of a more personalized Siri was taking longer than anticipated.

    In June of the previous year, speculations suggested Apple was exploring partnerships with OpenAI and Anthropic. A few months after, rumors of a prospective partnership with Google started to make rounds. Later, it was reported that Apple planned to use a custom variant of Gemini to develop the new Siri and pay Google $1 billion annually for it.

    Apple is predicted to launch the new Siri with iOS 26.4 in a matter of weeks. The AI-powered assistant is rumored to comprehend the context of what is displayed on the iPhone’s screen, sift through personal data, and manage complex tasks based on this information. The update is likely to be released in March, potentially eclipsing any AI enhancement Samsung might introduce with One UI 8.5 and the Galaxy S26 series.

    The Right Decision for Apple

    Last year, Google made waves with the release of Gemini 3, now the leading AI model. Despite the unpredictability of LLM development, this was a significant triumph for the company. It also suggests that Apple might have picked the right partner. While it’s too early to get overly excited about the final version of the AI-powered Siri, it wouldn’t be surprising if it performs exceptionally well.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the partnership with Google mean for Apple’s Siri?
    The partnership means that Siri will be powered by Google’s Gemini AI model, making it more intelligent and personalized.

    When is the AI-powered Siri expected to be launched?
    The upgraded Siri is expected to be introduced with iOS 26.4, rumored to be released sometime in March.

    What enhancements can users expect from the new Siri?
    The new Siri is expected to understand the context of what’s displayed on the iPhone’s screen, navigate through personal data, and perform complex tasks based on that information.

  • Game Changer: Apple TV+ Android Update Adds Long-Awaited Google Cast Support

    Game Changer: Apple TV+ Android Update Adds Long-Awaited Google Cast Support

    Apple TV+ has finally introduced the much-anticipated update, enabling Android users to enjoy premium content on large screens. Previously, Android users could only view this content on their 6-inch phone screens unless they had specific hardware.

    Apple TV+ for Android Now Compatible with Larger Screens

    February marked the arrival of the Apple TV app on Android devices, much to the delight of streaming enthusiasts. Despite the excitement surrounding its launch, the app’s capability was seemingly limited. The most notable limitation was that Android users were confined to watching premium content on their small phone screens, unless they possessed particular hardware.

    However, a novel update from Apple has changed the game. Google Cast support has now been officially introduced in the Android app, making it possible to stream shows like Severance or Slow Horses directly from your Pixel or Samsung device to your Chromecast or Google TV setup.

    Revolutionary Features in the Update

    The updated features include Google Cast Support, which allows streaming via Wi-Fi or cellular to compatible TVs. The Offline Viewing feature lets users download movies and episodes for travel, while the Sync Continuity feature ensures that the “Continue Watching” option picks up from where the user last stopped, regardless of the device. Furthermore, Library Management provides full access to your Watchlist to manage upcoming viewing.

    While it may appear to be a minor technical adjustment, it’s a significant change in the app’s usability. For several months, the Apple TV app on Android seemed somewhat detached—a unique and often frustrating experience in a landscape where competitors such as Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu have supported casting for over a decade.

    By incorporating this feature, Apple is signaling a shift away from its “walled garden” approach when it comes to marketing a streaming service. Given that a substantial portion of the global audience comprises Android phone and Google TV users, this upgrade levels the playing field, making Apple TV+ a more appealing primary streaming service for households with mixed ecosystems, rather than just an additional feature for iPhone owners.

    Better Late Than Never

    Truthfully, the initial launch of the app without Cast support felt somewhat incomplete. There was a sense that Apple was only doing the bare minimum to get the app into the Play Store, without much regard for the user experience. It was challenging to recommend the service to Android users when they could not easily watch Apple TV+ on their actual television.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new update in the Apple TV+ app for Android users?
    Apple has introduced Google Cast Support in the Apple TV+ app, enabling Android users to stream content directly to their Chromecast or Google TV setup.

    What are the key features of this update?
    The update includes Google Cast Support, Offline Viewing, Sync Continuity, and Library Management.

    What does the introduction of Google Cast Support signify?
    By incorporating Google Cast Support, Apple is acknowledging the importance of Android phone and Google TV users as a significant portion of its audience. This feature makes Apple TV+ a compelling primary streaming service for households with mixed ecosystems.