I’m a longtime iPhone user who has not upgraded to one of the iPhone 15 models. The iPhone 14 Pro is still an amazing device. It’s practically the equivalent of the base iPhone 15. And I’m fairly confident that I could keep it for one more year after the iPhone 16 hits stores next September. But if the rumored Apple GPT is ready to debut with iOS 18 on the iPhone 16 series, I’ll upgrade immediately, even if I have to pay more or get the iPhone 16 Pro Max for the best native generative AI experience.

The future of AI on the iPhone sounds promising already. A report from Korea says that the Phone 16 series will get a revamped Siri experience.

The rumor saying Siri will become the “ultimate virtual assistant” dropped on the heels of Samsug’s big Gauss announcement. That’s the Korean giant’s ChatGPT equivalent that will probably debut on the Galaxy S24 as soon as January. That’ll give Samsung a big head start. Also, it’ll put plenty of pressure on Apple to deliver its own generative AI experience.

Will Apple GPT be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max?

I said I’d be willing to pay more for an iPhone 16 model next year to get the best possible generative AI experience. I have no way of knowing what it’ll be, but I certainly don’t expect Apple’s Siri GPT to be exclusive to the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max.

If anything, I think Apple should figure out ways to make its ChatGPT alternative available on as many iPhone models as possible, including my current iPhone 14 Pro. Previous rumors said Apple is considering both on-device generative AI experiences and cloud-based AI features. Samsung confirmed that Gauss will also rely on on-device hardware and cloud infrastructure.

This next-gen Siri experience that iOS 18 should bring will have to work on older iPhones. 

iPhone 15 Pro Max Action Button Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

I also know how Apple works. Apple might make iOS compatible with older devices, yes. But some features will be exclusive to the newest iPhones, the ones that have the better hardware for it.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max has the best zoom capabilities of any smartphone because it features a tetraprism lens that no other model rocks. The iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max feature the A17 Pro chip that delivers console-grade gaming experiences. But those console games do not work on the iPhone 14 Pros.

At the same time, iOS 17 enables features on the iPhone 15 that could work on the iPhone 14 Pro, but Apple decided not to enable them. Like the default 24-megapixel photos, the battery life stats, and the maximum battery charge setting.

Why I’m willing to pay more for the iPhone’s AI features

With all that in mind, I’m certain that Siri AI would offer generative AI features that work on most iPhones. However, Apple will surely devise unique functionalities for the iPhone 16 series, especially the Pro models.

Put differently, I expect the A18 Pros that will power the iPhone 16 Pro models to feature upgrades to the Neural Engine involved in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in iOS 18.

Not only that, but the A18 Pro chips should be better at handling the AI features coming in the next few years. And if you’ve been following ChatGPT innovations for the past year, you have a pretty good idea of how much has happened in the span of 12 months.

However, I don’t need new hardware to get the best ChatGPT features. All I need is a subscription to the Plus tier, and the newest generative AI features will be available in the cloud.

iPhone 15 Screen. Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

The point is I’d still have to pay more money for access to the newest generative AI experience. That’s understandable, as nothing is free on the internet. We can’t expect that from ChatGPT or Siri GPT.

I could run the latest ChatGPT Plus experience on the iPhone right now via OpenAI’s app. But it wouldn’t be a native generative AI experience.

Also, the problem with ChatGPT is that it’s not yet close to delivering a personal AI experience. OpenAI probably can’t do it until it makes its own hardware.

But Apple GPT has a much better chance to do that on iPhone 16 and other models. That’s where on-device processing would come in handy, considering Apple’s big stance on privacy. And, again, this is why I’d want the best possible hardware to handle iOS 18’s personal AI features.

That said, I’m only speculating. Thankfully, WWDC 2024 should give us a look at the first generative AI features Apple will be willing to reveal. And I’ll be in a better position to determine whether an iPhone hardware upgrade is necessary.

That said, I think that native generative AI might be the best thing to happen to the iPhone next year. And I’m more excited about it than battery innovations, new buttons, larger screens, or better cameras. According to current leaks, the iPhone 16 is supposed to deliver on all those fronts.

The post I’ll upgrade to the iPhone 16 Pro Max if I have to, just for the native generative ChatGPT-like experience appeared first on BGR.

Apple is now pushing the iPhone 15 Pro as a complete camera replacement for video makers and even Hollywood studios. After promoting the smartphone with an Olivia Rodrigo video and then shooting an entire keynote with the latest iPhone, the company is now showing how movie makers could use the iPhone 15 Pro in their workflow.

In the 68-second-long ad, you see several people from the film industry, from camera operators to actors, makeup artists, and more. They’re singing “There’s No Business Like Show Business” by Irving Berlin while Apple highlights the iPhone 15 Pro’s capabilities.

One of the main features of the new phones is the ability to capture in Log, which makes post-production easier, so editors can get the best visuals and lighting. In addition, with a USB-C port, iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max support recording ProRes video directly to an external storage drive, so users don’t have to worry about running out of storage.

Lastly, the 15 Pro Max offers up to 5x optical zoom, which is also highlighted in the ad. Here’s how Apple describes this latest campaign on its YouTube channel:

“iPhone 15 Pro is built for show business. Whether shooting cinematic stunts in ProRes 4K at 60 fps directly to an external drive or capturing a dramatic 5x optical zoom on Pro Max. New Log encoding makes ProRes even more powerful, enabling more range and flexibility for visual effects and color grading in post-production. iPhone 15 Pro is fully equipped to shoot your next post-apocalyptic alien car chase action-adventure blockbuster.”

With the latest iOS 17.2 beta, Apple is now testing an upcoming exclusive feature for these iPhones: the ability to shoot spatial videos. These videos will later be playable on the Apple Vision Pro, which is expected to be released in early 2024.

Below, you can check Apple’s “On with the Show” ad highlighting the new iPhones:

The post Apple promotes iPhone 15 Pro’s cinematic capabilities in latest ad appeared first on BGR.

Earlier this year, Qualcomm announced a partnership with satellite connectivity provider Iridium to create Snapdragon Satellite, a proprietary technology to connect smartphones to satellites in order to provide emergency and other services. Ten months after the plan was announced, the companies are already calling it off.

As reported by CNBC, Qualcomm blames phone makers for the death of the feature, saying that there wasn’t much interest from brands to include the proprietary feature. While the company says that they “successfully developed and demonstrated the technology,” phone makers just “have not included the technology in their devices.”

Due to the lack of interest, Qualcomm has ended its partnership with Iridium. The company says that the market is moving towards a standards-based solution rather than a proprietary one, so that will be where their focus goes in support of satellite connectivity going forward.

Qualcomm said in a statement smartphone makers have “indicated a preference towards standards-based solutions” for satellite-to-phone connectivity….We expect to continue to collaborate with Iridium on standards-based solutions while discontinuing efforts on the proprietary solution that was introduced earlier this year,” the company said.

Iridium CEO Matt Desch said in a statement, “While I’m disappointed that this partnership didn’t bear immediate fruit, we believe the direction of the industry is clear toward increased satellite connectivity in consumer devices.” It’s interesting to see Qualcomm abandon a proprietary solution since Samsung announced something similar earlier this year.

Image source: Starlink

The feature would have competed with Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, which the company originally launched on the iPhone 14 lineup. With it, users are able to contact emergency services — even if they don’t have a cellular connection. So far, Apple’s is the only widely available service for smartphone customers.

While Qualcomm has abandoned its current plan, other companies like SpaceX are moving forward with their own. Starlink’s satellite communication service is set to launch next year. Eventually, the company wants to provide satellite connectivity in the form of text, phone, and even data to phones without the need for any special hardware.

The post Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Satellite SOS for Android plan is dead appeared first on BGR.

Soon after Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 series, a report said the company was developing a new iPhone SE variant. Contrary to previous reports, the iPhone SE 4 project was back on the table, with Apple looking to repurpose the iPhone 14 design for the next-gen affordable iPhone SE model.

In addition to retiring the Touch ID design, the iPhone SE 4 would also deliver a slew of upgrades over the predecessor. The list includes Face ID, which comes with the all-screen iPhone 14 design, a 48-megapixel camera, the Action button, and USB-C connectivity.

Paired with an iPhone chip that would be at least as good as the iPhone 14 Pro’s A16, this iPhone SE 4 would be just too good to pass up, I said at the time.

Apple has a large collection of iPhones in its 2023 lineup, hitting various price points. The iPhone SE series is the cheapest possible option. The iPhone SE 4 would have to continue to be the most affordable iPhone Apple sells. The bad news in all of this is that Apple might not be ready to launch the iPhone SE 4 anytime soon. A new report teases a 2025 launch considering the current development progress.

The late September report came from MacRumors, with the blog now doubling down on the information obtained from sources familiar with the iPhone SE 4 progress. In a new story, MacRumors repeats some of the previous claims about the iPhone SE, while adding more context.

The iPhone SE 4 (known as D59 or Project Ghost internally) will be based on the iPhone 14 chassis. The handset will feature a single rear-facing camera, necessitating a new glass backplate design. The camera will be a 48-megapixel shooter, which is the new norm on iPhones.

iPhone 15’s USB-C Port Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

The blog offered actual dimensions for the upcoming iPhone SE 4, which match the base iPhone 14 model. But the iPhone SE 4’s 165g weight should be 6g lighter than the iPhone 14. That’s because of the single-lens camera system.

The iPhone SE 4 will feature an aluminum (6013 T6) frame like the iPhone 14. But it’ll have an Action button and USB-C port instead of the iPhone 14’s traditional mute switch and Lightning port.

MacRumors also mentions one of the phone’s potential colors, black. Apparently, iPhone SE 4 prototypes come in a Midnight option similar to what’s available from the iPhone 14. While the Action button is coming to all iPhones, just as the USB-C port, the rumored Capture button will be exclusive to the iPhone 16.

The report still doesn’t give us the iPhone SE 4’s specs. I’m mostly interested in the A-series chip Apple will use for the handset. It can’t be the A15 Bionic, as that’s what powers the iPhone SE 3. As I said before, the A16 Bionic makes more sense. But if MacRumors’ release date estimate is accurate, we might see a different chip inside the next iPhone SE 4 version.

iPhone 15 Pro profile shows the Action button. Image source: Jonathan Geller, BGR

The blog says the current development schedule points to a 2025 release date. That would be an early 2025 launch, considering Apple’s agenda for iPhone SE versions. By then, Apple’s iPhone 16 phones will be available in stores, rocking purported A18 and A18 Pro chips.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see the iPhone SE 4 get the A18 treatment as well. The main reason for this is the imminent arrival of Apple GPT via iOS 18. This is all speculation from yours truly at this point.

Whatever the case, if the iPhone SE 4 described in these reports becomes real, it’ll probably become the mid-range phone to buy. And the best iPhone to get someone started on Apple’s ecosystem. Say a teenager or a parent looking to upgrade their iPhone.

The post Apple’s major iPhone SE 4 redesign might not launch until 2025 appeared first on BGR.

After a years-long wait, we finally have all of the details about what Humane has been up to. In a short ten-minute video, the company has officially unveiled the Humane Ai Pin, an AI-powered device that looks to utilize AI, a camera, a speaker, and lasers to pull people’s eyes away from their smartphone and focus instead on the world around them.

The Humane Ai Pin is certainly one of the most hyped technology products over the last decade, and it is finally here to take us into the AI era with some hardware. The company describes it as a “standalone device and software platform built from the ground up with AI” — meaning that you won’t need to pair it to your smartphone in order to use it.

You can watch the announcement video on X below:

With the Ai Pin, you can call, text, take a photo or video, listen to music, get directions, learn about food nutrition, and more. You can interact with the device using your voice or touch and play audio through either the built-in speaker or through a pair of Bluetooth-connected headphones. It’s powered by a built-in battery but also pairs with a “battery booster” for extra juice that also serves as a magnet to attach it to your clothing.

Humane communicator has a built-in projector. Image source: Humane

The company says that there are no apps with the AI Pin — instead, the device is completely powered by AI. Your assistant does everything for you — from finding messages to having a conversation in another language. Paired with the camera, the AI can also recognize objects like food to inform you of their nutrition. It can also recognize items in the real world and even purchase them for you online.

The company has partnered with Microsoft, T-Mobile, Google, OpenAI, Slack, Tidal, and more to bring these hands-free experiences to life. You’ll also get access to the Humane Center, which is where you’ll be able to access all of the content you capture and query using the device.

The Humane Ai Pin will cost $699 and come with the Pin, an extra battery, the charging case, the charging pad, and a charging cable. The company has announced a range of accessories, including a clip for attaching it to thicker things like a jacket or bag as well as a non-battery magnet to attach it to finer clothing like a workout shirt. They are also releasing protective covers if you want to give your Pin a flare of color while protecting the sides of the device.

In addition to the $699 base price, you’ll need to pay $24 per month for a subscription plan. That plan, which works with T-Mobile, gives you voice, text, data, and an unlimited number of queries with the AI. People can start ordering the Ai Pin in the United States on November 16th.

The Ai Pin is definitely one of the most ambitious and radical technology products I’ve seen since we started to see VR and mixed-reality headsets start to make their way onto the scene. I wouldn’t mind a world where I don’t need a smartphone to navigate it anymore. Whether or not that will happen in the form of Humane’s AI Pin or perhaps Apple’s rumored smart glasses remains to be seen.

Whatever happens, AI sure seems to make an alternative to the smartphone possible.

The post Humane officially unveils the Ai Pin, a device that aspires to replace your smartphone appeared first on BGR.

Apple could revamp Siri with the iPhone 16 by adding generative AI features to the company’s personal assistant. The information comes from news aggregator yeux1122 on the Korean blog Naver, mentioning a “developer source.”

According to the publication, Apple is preparing to use a Large Language Model to completely revamp Siri into the “ultimate virtual assistant,” becoming the “killer AI app for accessibility across Apple’s vast array of devices.”

The blog reports that Apple will show the first steps of this new generative AI during WWDC 2024, and it’s expected to be released alongside all iPhone 16 models as standard.

At the moment of this report, it’s unclear if the revamped Siri will require a new chip with a better Neural Engine or if it’s going to be an iOS 18 function, as previously rumored by other sources.

Since Apple is expected to introduce A18 and A18 Pro chips for the upcoming iPhone 16 series, the company might offer specific features for those users, as it’s currently doing with Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 owners, whose can ask Siri to log Health entries on-device, instead of requiring Siri to check Apple servers.

Interestingly enough, this report comes a day after Samsung previewed Gauss, its generative AI function that will be available with the upcoming Galaxy S24 series. In a press release, Samsung said:

“Samsung Gauss Language, a generative language model, enhances work efficiency by facilitating tasks such as composing emails, summarizing documents, and translating content. It can also enhance the consumer experience by enabling smarter device control when integrated into products.”

With several players moving to generative AI features, it’s only natural that Apple won’t miss another year without talking about these capabilities. Over the past earning calls, the company’s CEO said that Cupertino is heavily working on these features. WWDC 2024 and Apple’s September event are good moments to introduce and brag about an all-new assistant with generative AI features.

BGR will keep reporting on Apple’s latest news regarding the iPhone 16 and generative AI functions.

The post iPhone 16 will reportedly get a huge Siri overhaul with generative AI appeared first on BGR.

Apple deals are harder and harder to spot, but our expert commerce team continuously tracks prices, sales, and deals throughout the week. That includes the best discounts on AirPods, iPad tablets, iPhone smartphones, Apple Watch, MacBook laptops, and more. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for deals on Apple accessories, so you’ll find everything you need in our comprehensive coverage.

In this guide, we’re going to show you all the top deals on Apple’s best-selling products that we have found. There are so many great Apple Black Friday deals that are already available now, and we’ll share all the best ones.

Featured deals in this article:

• iPhone 15: Get any model for $0.01, no trade-in required
• AirPods Pro 2 with Lightning: $189 (reg. $249)
• AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C: $199.99 (reg. $249)
• M2 MacBook Air 15-inch: $1,049 (reg. $1,299)
• Apple Watch Series 8: $299 (reg. $399)
• Apple Watch Ultra: $659.99 (reg. $799)
• Apple Watch Ultra 2: Save $25
• Apple Watch Series 9: Save $9
• AirPods (2nd-Gen): $69 (reg. $129) at Amazon and Walmart
• AirPods 3: $149.99 (reg. $169)
• AirPods Max: $479.99 (reg. $549)
• Apple AirTag 4-pack: $86.99 at Amazon and Walmart

Whether you’re looking to find the best iPhone deals, a new Mac, the latest Apple Watch, an Apple iPad mini, a new pair of Apple AirPods on sale, or you want to make your first foray into the Apple ecosystem; we found so many great sales that will save you money.

We’ve highlighted some of the best Apple deals available this month across all the top retailers. That includes Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, B&H, and more. There are currently savings available of up to 40% off some of the top devices that Apple makes.

You might also be surprised by how many new Apple products are already on sale with discounts. For example, you can already save some money on the Apple Watch Ultra 2 that was just released last month.

This article brings you a roundup of all the best deals on the most popular and latest devices in Apple’s lineup you can find right now.

Best iPhone 15 deals

Image source: Jonathan Geller for BGR

Apple released its new iPhone 15 lineup on September 22, and there are so many great new features to enjoy.

You get huge speed and performance improvements that no Android phone can match. There’s also a sleek new design with rounded edges, and they’re so much more comfortable in the hand. Plus, there are other big changes like new displays and a new Action button in place of the mute switch.

Of course, one thing hasn’t changed: Apple’s iPhone 15 models are still very expensive. If you want a top-of-the-line iPhone 15 Pro Max with 1TB of storage, it’ll cost you a whopping $1,600!

Thankfully, there are some carrier deals that cut your cost significantly. But there’s one deal in particular that beats all the other ones we’ve seen.

Head over to Amazon, and you’ll find an incredible offer from Boost Mobile. You can get any iPhone 15 model you want for $0.01 with no trade-in required! That includes the iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone 15 Pro with 256GB of storage.

Other carriers are offering free iPhone 15 deals, but they typically require you to trade in an iPhone or other recent flagship phone in order to get the full discount. With this Boose Mobile deal, you can keep your old phone to give to a family member. Or, you can sell it on eBay to make some cash. After all, you’ll need to pay for some new iPhone 15 accessories.

There is a caveat, of course, but it isn’t really much of a catch. You’ll need to sign up for a new Boost Infinite plan, which is the carrier’s name for its unlimited plan. It costs between $60 and $76.67 per month, depending on which iPhone model you choose. And that includes unlimited talk, text, and data.

In case you’re wondering, Boost is an MVNO that piggybacks on multiple cellular networks, including AT&T and T-Mobile. Here’s a Boost Mobile coverage map.

Apple AirPods on sale

Apple’s AirPods are the perfect wireless headphones for Apple fans. They support features like automatic device switching, Spatial Audio, and more.

We have an exhaustive guide covering all the best AirPods deals you can find online right now. But if you just want to take a quick peek at the latest AirPods sales from top online retailers, you’ll find them all right here.

AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd-generation)

Apple’s AirPods Pro on a table. Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

Why we love AirPods Pro

• Amazing noise-cancellation
• The recharging case is perfect for on-the-go usage
• Audio performance is very good
• The silicon tips are comfortable and snug

Industry-leading active noise cancellation and excellent sound quality sum up the Apple AirPods Pro. And now, Apple has taken things to the next level with AirPods Pro 2. This model was recently upgraded with a new USB-C charging case, and you might already be able to catch it on sale with a discount!

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active…

AirPods Pro 2 instantly pair with other Apple devices, and they support hands-free Siri. Once paired with one Apple device, they’re instantly available to any other device signed in with the same Apple ID. Switching between devices is seamless and automatic. These Apple AirPods also add themselves to the Find My app as soon as they get paired to a device, which helps avoid losing them.

These wireless earbuds are quite impressive with connection range and stability. They also show extremely fast wireless connectivity and unique controls. The controls work by squeezing the sticks on the AirPods. One squeeze for play/pause, two to skip forward, three to skip back, and hold for a moment to switch between ANC mode and Transparency mode.

And if you’re looking for an entire guide on only the best AirPods deals, don’t miss our big roundup.

ANC stands for active noise cancellation, which is useful for suppressing sounds and noises around you. Transparency mode utilizes external microphones to tune in on conversations around you without taking out your earbuds. Another major audio is Spatial Audio, Apple’s special implementation of 3D sound, using the movement sensors in the AirPods to place sound around you.

The Apple AirPods Pro are also sweat and water-resistant. The only downside of these AirPods appears to be their not-so-great battery life of 4.5 hours per charge from the buds. But overall, they might just be Apple’s best wireless earbuds yet.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds with USB-C Charging, Up to 2X More Active…

As you can see above, Apple’s $249 AirPods Pro 2 are currently on sale with a deep discount if you get the new version with a USB-C MagSafe case. That makes now the perfect time to upgrade your older model or experience AirPods Pro for the first time. Better yet, AirPods Pro 2 with Lightning are down to just $189 on sale.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Wireless Earbuds, Up to 2X More Active Noise Cancelling, Adaptive T…

Or, if you want to spend even less, renewed AirPods Pro 1st-Gen in excellent condition are on sale for just $149.99, which is close to the lowest price we’ve seen.

Apple’s current-generation AirPods Pro 2 model isn’t a huge upgrade over the original. That being said, it does offer some nice upgrades. You get the newer H2 chip with better active noise cancelling tech, plus volume controls on the stems. There’s also a MagSafe charging case that supports Find My as well as four different types of charging: USB-C, MagSafe, Apple Watch chargers, and regular Qi wireless chargers.

All in all, AirPods Pro 2 are clearly the best Bluetooth earbuds that Apple has ever released. Now that they’re on sale with a discount, it’s a great time to check them out.

Apple AirPods Pro - 1st Gen (Renewed)

Additionally, Best Buy has Geek Squad Certified Refurbished 1st-gen AirPods Pro on sale for just $169.99.

AirPods 2

Apple’s 2nd-generation AirPods earbuds.

Why we love AirPods 2

• Apple’s cheapest AirPods
• Great integration with iPhone and iPad
• Long battery life

The AirPods 2 are the most affordable AirPods on the market. They were first released in 2016 and immediately kickstarted the true wireless earbuds revolution.

These wireless earbuds are powered by Apple’s H1 chip for fast wireless connectivity with Apple devices. They offer five hours of battery life from the buds per charge and up to 24 hours of listening time with the included charging case.

They also possess the ability to instantly pair with your iPhone or automatically switch pairing to another of your Apple products the moment you play something on that device. These headphones support hands-free Siri, audio sharing, and the Find My feature on iPhones. You can get these AirPods with or without wireless charging.

However, these AirPods do not support Spatial Audio, ANC mode, or Transparency mode. They can feel a bit outdated, but they are still a great set of earphones. And if you can catch them in stock, they’re on sale with a big discount right now at both Amazon and Walmart.

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds, Bluetooth Headphones with Lightning Charging…

This model keeps selling out, but it almost always appears back in stock the next day. Be sure to check back often if you miss it.

AirPods 3

Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

Why we love AirPods 2

• Improved audio quality
• Sound isolation
• Available MagSafe Charging Case

The third-generation Apple AirPods were released in October 2021. These new AirPods 3 bring some of the features of the AirPods Pro to the traditional AirPods line. They feature Apple’s H1 chip, Spatial audio, and are sweat and water-resistant.

When fully charged, you get up to 6 hours of playtime and up to 30 hours with the MagSafe wireless charging case. They do not have noise-cancellation but shorter stems, force control, and adaptive EQ to automatically tune music to your ears.

Of note, the AirPods 3 have better battery life than the AirPods Pro. AirPods 3 are also included in our best AirPods deals and sales guide here.

Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) Wireless Earbuds with MagSafe Charging Case. Spatial Audio, Swea…

We should note that this is the first time since last month that AirPods 3 have been discounted. It’s also the first time in more than a month that AirPods 3 are back in stock on Amazon.

They’ve already sold out and reappeared once since popping up earlier this week, and we have little doubt that they’ll sell out again. If they’re out of stock when you check, it’s not a bad idea to check back later in the day or the following day. Like AirPods 2, Apple’s 3rd-Gen AirPods might be in and out of stock for the foreseeable future at Amazon.

Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max in Space Gray.

Why we love the AirPods Max

• Mesh headband is the most comfortable we’ve tried
• Sound performance is absolutely incredible
• Apple ecosystem makes it effortless to transfer the connection to other devices
• Spatial Audio is really fun

Apple AirPods Max are Apple’s first over-ear headphones, and they are Apple’s priciest headphones yet.

The AirPods Max has great noise cancellation and highly impressive sound quality. It also offers quick pairing with other Apple products, shares audio with other AirPods, and automatically switches between devices signed in with the same Apple ID. They support hands-free Siri and the Find My app. The AirPods Max features Apple’s powerful H1 chip, nine microphones, and 40mm drivers.

They provide a superb listening experience with Spatial sound and top-notch active noise cancellation. The AirPods Max has a battery life of about 20 hours. The headband is stainless steel (with a soft-touch finish), the earcups are aluminum, and there’s a special mesh fabric when the headband actually touches your head and over the earpads.

The Apple AirPods Max comes in five colors: Silver, Pink, Space Grey, Green, and Sky Blue. All colors come with at least a two-tone finish, with the headband and earcups in different hues and meshes that complement those.

The right ear cup houses the headphones’ only two controls: A wheel similar to the one found on an Apple Watch but larger, and another button. The wheel adjusts the volume and play/pause/skip, while the other button switches between ANC mode and transparency mode.

All four colors are currently on sale at Amazon if you hurry! If you want our pick on the best AirPods overall, you can read our guide and comparison and come back here to find the best deal.

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode, Per…

Beats deals on headphones and earbuds

Image source: Maren Estrada for BGR

Why we love Beats

• Excellent sound quality
• Impressive battery life
• More variety than Apple’s AirPods lineup

All those AirPods deals are fantastic, but AirPods aren’t the only headphones that Apple sells.

There are several reasons to choose Beats over AirPods, but the two biggest ones are pretty straightforward. First, Beats headphones are less expensive than AirPods. And second, Beats offers a bit more variety.

One of the best examples comes in the form of the new Beats Studio Pro noise cancelling headphones. You can spend $549 on AirPods Max, or you can get these brand-new Beats ANC over-ear headphones for $349.99 — and that doesn’t even take into account the huge discount that Amazon is currently offering!

Beats Studio Pro - Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones - Personalized Spatial Audio,…

It’s the same story with the newest noise cancelling earbuds model from Beats.

They’re called Beats Studio Buds+, and they retail for $169.95 compared to AirPod Pro 2 at $249. Plus, they have a huge discount right now — and they look so cool in Apple’s new transparent colorway!

Beats Studio Buds + | True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds, Enhanced Apple & Android Compatib…

More Beats headphones models are also on sale right now, so definitely check out these deals.

Beats Studio Buds - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds - Compatible with Apple & Android, B…

Beats Fit Pro - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds - Apple H1 Headphone Chip, Compatible wi…

Apple AirTag deals

Image source: Maren Estrada for BGR

Bluetooth trackers have been popular for a while now. But as is often the case, Apple turbocharged the item-finder market when it first introduced the Apple AirTag.

We’ve seen this story play out 100 times before. Apple launches something that offers a fresh new take on an existing product, and people go wild. Now, Apple AirTag trackers are likely the best-selling Bluetooth tracking devices on the planet.

Best of all, Apple AirTag 4-packs are on sale with a big discount right now.

Apple AirTag 4 Pack

It’s actually quite brilliant how the AirTag works.

Instead of relying solely on a one-to-one Bluetooth connection that might help you find something in your immediate vicinity, AirTags connect anonymously to any Apple devices within range. They then securely transmit their location back to the owner.

That means you can look in the Find My app and see your AirTag’s location just about anywhere, as long as someone with an iPhone, iPad, or other Apple device is nearby.

Apple’s AirTag is great for tracking luggage when you travel, your purse or backpack, car keys, or even a pet. Definitely grab a few while they’re discounted at Amazon and Walmart.

Best Apple Watch Deals

The Apple Watch is one of the best smartwatches on the market. It is useful for fitness and health tracking, connecting with loved ones on the go, can be used to locate lost Apple devices, stream songs with Apple Music, and make payments with Apple Pay, and the look is also customizable.

Apple Watch Series 9 & Ultra 2

Image source: Apple Inc.

If you’re shopping for the latest and greatest Apple Watch models, we have some fantastic news. All of Apple’s current Watch models are on sale with discounts right now.

For example, the Apple Watch Series 8 starts at $299 right now, which is a $100 discount. Of note, you might need to click the “see all buying options” link on Amazon to get that price. Also, several colorways are already sold out since the new Series 9 model is out.

Apple Watch Series 8 [GPS 41mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band -…

The Apple Watch Ultra is Apple’s first rugged smartwatch, and it’s actually on sale at Amazon with a discount of up to $139. That makes now the perfect time to see why the new Apple Watch Ultra is Apple’s best and most powerful watch ever.

You should be aware that these deals keep coming and going, so check back often if you miss the current sale.

Just like the Apple Watch Series 8 deals mentioned above, these Ultra deals keep coming and going without notice. If you don’t see a discount when you check today, be sure to check back tomorrow.

The good news is that Apple Watch Ultra deals on Amazon recently dropped the price to $659, which is a new all-time low. But the bad news is that the sale is over now for most band options. There are still a few options available at that price though, so keep an eye on the product listing page.

Apple Watch Ultra [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smart Watch w/Rugged Titanium Case & Orange Alpine Loop…

Of course, Apple recently released brand-new Apple Watch models, and they’re already discounted at Amazon!

The new Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $399 when you buy it from Apple or through most retailers. That is of course the same price as the previous-generation model. But over at Amazon, the new Apple Watch Series 9 starts at $389.99.

It’s not a huge discount, but it’s better than paying full price.

Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 41mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Loop…

Or, if you want the biggest and best model, the new Apple Watch Ultra 2 is also already on sale.

This new version features and even brighter OLED display as well as new, more accurate health sensors. It still costs $799 despite the upgrades, but it’s already discounted at Amazon. Currently, this model is available with a $25 discount in several different band options.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 [GPS + Cellular 49mm] Smartwatch with Rugged Titanium Case & Indigo Alpine…

We have a separate guide covering all the best Apple Watch deals online right now. Definitely bookmark it and check back often if you’re in the market for a new Apple Watch. We update it live every time there’s a new Apple Watch sale!

Where to buy the Apple Watch on contract

If you want to get the Apple Watch but don’t want to pay for it upfront, there are tons of great deals. For those living in the US, these are some of the best deals you can find right now. These carriers let you pay for the cellular model of the Apple Watch in installments:

• T-Mobile: $20.84 per month (41mm), $22.09 per month (45mm) for 24 months
• AT&T: $13.89 per month (41mm), $14.73 per month (45mm) for 36 months
• Verizon: $13.88 per month (41mm), $14.72 per month (45mm) for 36 months

Apple Watch SE

Apple Watch SE.

The Apple Watch SE is one of the most affordable Apple watches. This Apple Watch sports an S8 chipset and a better battery life than the more expensive models.

Apple released the SE series so that the Apple Watch would be available to a much wider range of people. After all, not everyone can afford to spend $399 or more on a smartwatch.

I also think the Apple Watch SE is a great option for parents to give to their young kids. You can set it up on your iPhone, so don’t worry about having to buy a new iPhone for your young child. Then, you can keep track of them no matter where they are.

Right now is a great time to pick up a 2nd-generation Apple Watch SE because it goes on sale all the time.

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 40mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case & Midnight Sport Band…

Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) [GPS 44mm] Smart Watch w/Midnight Aluminum Case & Midnight Sport Band…

If you miss those sales, you can often save $30 by ordering one from Best Buy instead. This sale comes and goes all the time, so be sure to check back in a couple of weeks if you miss it.

Apple Watch SE 2nd Generation

Best Apple iPad Deals

Like the iPhone experience but want a bigger screen from time to time? The iPad is the way to go. Check out the best iPad deals we could find below.

iPad (10.2-inch)

Apple iPad (9th-generation) Image source: Apple Inc.

There are so many iPad deals available right now and you can enjoy discounts on whichever iPad you want. You can find the iPad (10.2-inch), iPad Air, and iPad Pro all on sale at the lowest prices ever.

Among them, there’s no question that the 9th-generation iPad is the most popular model on sale right now.

Apple iPad (9th Generation): with A13 Bionic chip, 10.2-inch Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi, 12MP…

Apple iPad (9th Generation): with A13 Bionic chip, 10.2-inch Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi, 12MP…

When it comes to Apple deals, the lowest prices are often the most appealing. And Apple’s 9th-generation iPad (10.2-inch) is on sale with discounts of up to $99 off depending on which storage option you choose.

Apple iPad Air 5

iPad Air 5th-generation. Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

The new iPad Air 5 (2022) sports a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone, P3 wide color, and an anti-reflective coating. The iPad Air also comes with Apple’s M1 chip, 8GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, and stereo speakers. For image capturing and video calls, it has a 12MP wide-angle primary camera on the back and a 12MP FaceTime Camera. Touch ID and Apple Pay offer secure login and payment. This iPad Air works with an Apple pencil and magic keyboard.

The Touch ID is built into the top button, allowing app sign-ins and secure payments with your fingerprint. The iPad Air 5 comes in five colors: Blue, Purple, Pink, Starlight, and Space grey. The 12MP Ultra Wide front camera enables Center Stage, a feature that ensures the camera automatically pans to keep you centered in the shot even as you move around. The view expands or zooms in when others leave the frame or join in. This feature makes content creation easier and more enjoyable and can also help video calls feel more natural.

Apple iPad Air (5th Generation): with M1 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6,…

The 12MP wide back camera is great for taking crisp photos and making 4k videos. Connection to drives, docks, cameras, and other devices is by means of USB-C, which has up to 2x faster transfer speeds than the previous generation. This makes sending/transfer of large files easier and faster than it’s ever been.

Apple iPad mini 6

The stunning display on the Apple iPad Mini 2021. Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

Apple’s 6th generation compact iPad mini tablet packs an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone, Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, and Apple pencil support Wi-Fi 6 and 5G support. There’s a 12MP wide-angle back camera and a 12MP ultra-wide camera on the front, Touch ID, and Apple Pay.

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): with A15 Bionic chip, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, W…

The iPad Mini comes in four colors: Starlight, Purple, Space Gray, and Pink.

Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, 2021)

Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M1, 2021). Image source: Apple

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is one of Apple’s most powerful tablets yet. It has one of the best screens ever made when it comes to color accuracy, contrast, and brightness! It also packs as much power as a desktop PC with its M1 chip.

The 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR display delivers true-to-life detail with a 1,000,000: 1 contrast ratio, making it perfect for watching your favorite movies and shows and viewing and editing HDR photos and videos. The iPad Pro also utilizes advanced display technologies such as ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color.

Apple 2021 12.9-inch iPad Pro Wi‑Fi + Cellular 128GB - Space Gray

This iPad Pro (M1, 2021) is equipped with a remarkable array of speakers, with drivers in all four corners, which adjust their output depending on the device’s orientation to give the best balance and produce a solid stereo effect. The iPad Pro works perfectly with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard.

If you want as much storage as possible, you can save a whopping $700 right now on the iPad Pro 12.9-inch with 2TB of storage.

Amazon

Apple 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M2, 2022)

Image source: Maren Estrada for BGR

The new iPad Pro comes with an M2 chip, making it faster and more powerful than previous options. This boasts a beautiful Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color. There are 12MP cameras on the front and back and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera on the back that give you so much access to boost your photography skills.

It has an M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU. It lets you stay connected with super-fast Wi-Fi 6e.

Apple iPad Pro 12.9-inch (6th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina XDR Display, 128GB, Wi-F…

The USB-C connector with support for Thunderbolt and USB 4 makes connecting simpler. It also has the ability to utilize Face ID, allowing you to pay with Apple Pay easier and sign up for apps more easily.

Best Mac Deals

Mac computers are an excellent choice if you’re searching for a new desktop computer or PC. Apple has announced two new additions to its MacBook lineup, the new MacBook Air (2022) and the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro computers equipped with M2 chips.

However, there are still great deals on the M1 and M2-equipped models of the Apple MacBook Air and Apple MacBook Pro. Also, be sure to check our big roundup for the best laptop deals you can find this month.

Apple MacBook Air deals

Apple 13-inch MacBook Air (2020). Image source: Apple

This Apple M1 MacBook Air is highly recommended for creatives on a budget. This version of the MacBook Air sports Apple’s in-house M1 chip that replaces the Intel processors Apple MacBooks used to run on. It has an excellent battery life of up to eighteen hours, a Magic Keyboard, and a Touch ID.

The 13-inch Apple MacBook Air is a tremendous improvement on older models of MacBook Air laptops which often come across as greatly watered-down versions of their MacBook Pro counterparts.

At the time of this writing, the M1 MacBook Air was on sale for just $749.99 instead of $999. That matches the lowest price ever for this wildly popular Apple laptop. This deal keeps coming and going though, so be sure to check back often if you miss it.

Of note, the newer 15-inch MacBook Air with M2 chip is also on sale right now. It was just released in early June, but you’ll find a surprising discount right now if you get one from Amazon.

Apple’s upgraded M2 chip is faster and more efficient than the M1 from 2020. The new chip offers an 8-core CPU along with up to a 10-core GPU. Also of note, the newer MacBook Air supports up to 24GB of unified memory. That’s way more RAM than you could get in the previous-generation model.

The added power is great, and we love the ultra-thin design of the 15-inch MacBook Air. But our favorite feature has to be the battery, which offers up to 18 hours of battery life per charge.

Apple’s 15-inch MacBook Air normally starts at $1,299, but it’s discounted right now on Amazon.

Apple 14.2-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023)

Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

The new Apple MacBook Pro 14.2-inch (2023) is a huge step up from the old Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020). Apple updated its M1 chips to the greatly improved M2 Pro and M2 Max chips, which contribute to the Apple MacBook Pro’s 14.2-inch very impressive performance.

This MacBook Pro also offers excellent battery life, a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina display, and a good selection of ports. It is a great laptop for creative professionals, and it’s discounted right now on Amazon.

Apple 16.2-inch MacBook Pro (M2 Pro, 2023)

Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pro. Image source: Christian de Looper for BGR

In addition to its M2 Pro and M2 Max chip, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina display, and a better selection of ports than its predecessor, the 16.2-inch Apple MacBook Pro comes with an even larger screen and a better battery life of up to 21 hours than the 14-inch MacBook Pro model.

These are available in Space Gray and Silver color configurations. And for the first time, there are discounts available on Apple’s most powerful MacBook laptop ever.

Deals on Apple accessories

Apple’s logo hangs above the entrance to an Apple store location in Los Angeles, CA. Image source: Michael Buckner for BGR

This extensive guide on the best Apple deals focuses mainly on Apple’s core products, such as iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, AirPods, and so on. Of course, you’ll never use those devices to the fullest without also picking up some must-have Apple accessories.

BGR has a separate guide covering the best cheap Apple deals under $100. In there, you’ll find deep discounts on things like chargers, cables, iPhone cases, iPad covers, Apple Watch bands, and so much more.

Below, you’ll find a few of the current deals we have listed in that big roundup. Be sure to visit the full guide for more.

Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter - iPhone Charger with Fast Charging Capability, Type C Wall Charg…

Apple Lightning to USB Cable (1 m)

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable (1 m)

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable (2 m)

Apple EarPods Headphones with 3.5mm Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music,…

Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector, Wired Ear Buds for iPhone with Built-in Remo…

FAQs

The post Best Apple deals ahead of Black Friday 2023 appeared first on BGR.

Some of the most recent Galaxy S24 rumors claim the next-gen Samsung flagship will feature on-device generative AI features similar to ChatGPT. Samsung confirmed that it plans to deliver an “AI phone” next year without naming the Galaxy S24 or detailing the generative AI experience it has planned for the device.

Having a built-in generative AI assistant on the Galaxy S24 could be a huge advantage over the iPhone. “Apple GPT” will take a while to arrive on iPhone, though Apple is rumored to be planning AI features in next year’s iOS 18 update. Like Google, whose Pixel 8 phones feature generative AI novelties, the Galaxy S24 could deliver native generative AI features to customers before Apple can do the same on the iPhone.

That’s all speculation, however, as we don’t have any specifics about the sort of ChatGPT rival Samsung will offer. And if a new rumor pans out, Samsung might ruin its potential generative AI advantage by charging Galaxy S24 users a subscription.

Twitter/X user Revegnus mentioned Samsung’s purported plans for generative AI on the Galaxy S24. “Samsung is actively pursuing the option of offering the on-device AI features of the S24 as a ‘subscription’ service,” the leaker said.

Revegnus has offered a steady stream of mobile rumors, including plenty of Galaxy S24 leaks. I’ll also note that Galaxy rumors are usually accurate, especially about flagship phones like the Galaxy S, Z Fold, and Z Flip series.

But the quote above is a contradiction. Generative AI tech like ChatGPT is expensive, of course. It requires lots of research and development, which can’t be cheap. The infrastructure needed for ChatGPT products to run costs money as well. That’s why the best ChatGPT experience comes for a price. Pay for the Plus subscription, and you get the best ChatGPT model from OpenAI.

That is, until you bring on-device AI to the masses. Once that happens, AI processing would take place at least partially on the gadget itself rather than in the cloud. Samsung charging a subscription for “on-device” generative AI doesn’t make much sense.

I could see an option where a basic ChatGPT-like service will be available to all Galaxy S24 buyers for free. Especially the AI features that work directly on the phone. A more expensive generative AI experience closer to ChatGPT Plus could then require a subscription. It would probably need direct access to cloud processing for more complex prompts.

Even so, if Samsung is ready to beat Apple to market with a built-in generative AI assistant for a mobile phone that’s as capable as ChatGPT, then requiring a subscription amounts to Samsung shooting itself in the foot.

OpenAI’s official ChatGPT app is now out on iOS. Image source: OpenAI

Remember that Samsung doesn’t control the operating system, depending on Google’s Android. Separately, Bixby hasn’t been a massive success. I don’t recall anyone talking about it recently, not even Samsung.

Therefore, I doubt that Samsung has been able to develop its own generative AI tech secretly. Again, Google is the counter-example here. Google is in a position to react quickly to OpenAI’s ChatGPT innovations. Samsung doesn’t have that liberty.

I don’t see anyone paying for a ChatGPT-like experience on Samsung phones that’s unproven. And let’s remember that ChatGPT, Google Bard, and all the other chatbots are still unfinished products that we’re all essentially testing and helping these companies perfect.

On the other hand, Samsung might have partnered with OpenAI or a different entity for generative AI access. In such a case, paying for a native ChatGPT-like experience would make sense. Samsung would have to pay for access to ChatGPT, Llama, Claude, or whatever language model it decides to use.

But even in such a scenario, passing those costs to the consumer makes no sense. Not on Android, where buyers don’t spend as much money on digital purposes. Not in a world that’s anticipating Apple to come out with its own GPT service soon enough.

Come to think of it, a better alternative would be getting a ChatGPT Plus subscription and running OpenAI’s premium generative AI on the Galaxy S24, even if it won’t offer a native experience.

The Galaxy S24 event is reportedly scheduled for mid-January, so we won’t have to wait that long to see Samsung’s vision of generative AI on its devices.

The post Galaxy S24 buyers might have to pay extra for AI features appeared first on BGR.

Like most iPhone users, I might have a battery life problem. It’s not that I run out of battery when I least expect it. I worry about battery life without having a good reason to. It’s probably related to past battery trauma, instances where I ran out of juice and don’t want to repeat.

I want better battery life from the iPhone, the Apple Watch, and the MacBook. That’s probably understandable. The smartphone is especially important in our lives, the main computer for most people. Therefore, battery life is a key factor when buying a new model.

That’s why I hope the rumor teasing custom Apple batteries for iPhone is so exciting. It’s something I’ve been dying to see Apple deliver, as we’ve reached a point where standard batteries can only do so much. Especially on mobile devices.

Apple’s proprietary tech

A report from ETNews claims that Apple will deliver its first custom battery in 2025, after several years of research and development.

The strategy aligns with Apple’s way of doing things. The iPhone maker started making its own mobile chips for the iPhone a few years ago, and the A-series processors have been setting the tone in the industry ever since. Apple is also working on its own display tech, including miniLED and microLED displays. And it’s developing its own 5G chip.

Developing proprietary battery tech seems appropriate, considering the current landscape.

Mobile devices like the iPhone and Apple Watch can’t fit larger batteries. While components like the A-series chips get more energy efficient, they will require more energy for intensive tasks. Also, current battery tech impacts battery longevity, potentially hindering Apple’s ability to increase battery charging speeds.

Apple advertises all-day battery life for iPhone 15 models. Image source: Apple Inc.

The report says that Apple is actively developing the materials inside the battery. That includes the cathode materials, aiming to create a “completely new battery” that will deliver higher performance.

The cathode material will impact the battery performance, energy density, output, and stability. Apple is looking to make a new cathode material that’s completely different from what’s available right now. Apple reportedly uses nickel, cobalt, manganese, and aluminum to create the new composition.

ETNews also says that Apple is looking at carbon nanotubes as conductive materials. These can improve performance compared to the current solution.

Finally, Apple is looking to replace graphite in the anode with silicon. This can increase battery capacity and reduce charging times. Apple reportedly has a solution for the silicon problem. The material tends to expand in volume during the charging and discharging process.

Apple has been working on its battery tech since 2018. The iPhone maker recruited an executive from Samsung SDI to oversee the battery department. At the time, the focus seemed to be on large batteries that would fit a future Apple Car. The new technology the ETNews report teases concerns mobile devices.

Other exciting battery developments

I’ll remind you of two different battery technologies that are either in use inside iPhone competitors or are rumored to come to future iPhone models.

First, we have the stacked battery rumor from earlier this year. If it pans out, phones like the Galaxy S24 series and the iPhone 16 will feature stacked batteries similar to the battery technology found in electric vehicles.

Stacked batteries are compact batteries that can increase the energy density of batteries and, therefore, the battery life. They can also charge more efficiently and improve battery health by reducing the pace of degradation. We’ll have to wait until next year to see if Samsung and/or Apple will use stacked battery tech in their smartphones.

Second, we have the Chinese smartphone vendor Honor, which is already using silicon-carbon batteries in some of its models. Most recently, we talked about the crazy-thin batteries inside the world’s thinnest foldable, the Honor Magic V2. They pack silicon-carbon tech that sounds similar to the anode technology Apple is developing.

I said at MWC that I hoped more smartphone vendors would make use of silicon-carbon battery tech. Hopefully, the iPhones of the future will. As you can see in the clip above, silicon-carbon batteries have been conceived for EVs initially. But there’s no denying the tech could serve mobile devices very well.

I’ll also speculate that combining stacked batteries with silicon-carbon tech would result in even better iPhone tech. Though we’ll probably have to wait a few years to see that happen.

The post I hope the iPhone gets the custom Apple battery tech this rumor teases appeared first on BGR.

Apple’s earnings report last week presented us with a familiar scene. The company posted staggering revenue and enormous profits, but analysts were quick to hone in on the negatives. A closer look at Apple’s financial position, however, reveals that the company is doing just fine and far better than some analysts would have you believe.

When Apple released its earnings report last week, the company posted revenue of $89.5 billion, a staggering figure by any metric. Still, some were quick to label Apple’s earnings report disappointing because the figure was slightly lower than last year’s Q4 revenue of $90.1 billion. What’s more, many were quick to observe that Apple posted declines in revenue over the last four quarters. 

Analysts also bemoaned the fact that Apple’s guidance for the current holiday quarter was tepid, with Apple CFO Luca Maestri noting: “We expect our December quarter total company revenue to be similar to last year.” And to top it all off, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently opined that Apple “is in need of a growth engine” and that the Vision Pro won’t be able to fit the bill.

You read all of the above and it’s only natural to assume that the sky is falling. “Apple has peaked!” the pundits shout. It’s a saga we’ve seen play out time and time again. But if we take a closer look at Apple’s financials, we see that the company is performing better than you might think. 

The iPhone is doing just fine

For starters, Apple set a September quarter revenue record for the iPhone during the last quarter. Further, Apple executives relayed that iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max supply was constrained at launch. In other words, Apple’s iPhone-based revenue for the quarter could have easily been even higher.

There has also been a slew of reports suggesting that the iPhone 15 isn’t selling as well as its predecessor. Tim Cook dispelled this notion and stated that the iPhone 15 is actually selling better than the iPhone 14.

“If you look at the iPhone 15 for that period of time and compare it to the iPhone 14 for the same time in the year-ago quarter,” Cook said, “iPhone 15 did better than iPhone 14.”

Why the tepid holiday quarter guidance if iPhone sales are strong?

If iPhone sales are booming, you might be wondering why Apple’s guidance for the current holiday quarter didn’t blow analysts away. Indeed, Apple noting that earnings this holiday quarter would remain flat is what prompted Apple shares to drop in the wake of the company’s earnings report. As a point of reference, analysts were anticipating Apple to project revenue growth of about 5% year over year.

So what’s going on here? Well, if we dig a bit deeper, we find that Apple’s 2023 holiday quarter is one week shorter than it was in 2022, with Maestri noting that Q1 2024 “will last the usual 13 weeks whereas the December quarter a year ago spanned 14 weeks.”

And how much money does Apple make in a week? A boatload. During last year’s holiday quarter, Apple posted revenue of $117.2 billion. Over a 14-week period, that’s $8.37 billion a week. If Apple is anticipating revenue for the current quarter to fall in the same range as $117.2 billion, it suggests that Apple will earn more over a 13-week period this quarter than it did last year.

Services continue to impress and set records

Image source: Apple

For years, we’ve heard Apple naysayers shout that Apple is too reliant on the iPhone. The calls for Apple to diversify its revenue stream were incessant. And, over time, Apple heeded those calls. Aside from the revenue it generates from the iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and AirPods, Apple also makes an astounding amount of money from its Services division.

For the quarter gone by, Apple generated $22.3 billion in services-based revenue, an all-time high. Furthermore, services revenue is about as high as revenue from the Mac, the iPad, and the wearables division all combined.

Put simply, Apple has positioned itself well to withstand a potential drop in iPhone revenue in the future.

The Vision Pro may not be a revenue game-changer, but that’s okay

Image source: Apple Inc.

Apple’s Vision Pro isn’t going to be cheap. Priced at $3,500, no one is anticipating Apple to move millions of units anytime soon. So, while the Vision Pro may not be an immediate game-changer, that’s perfectly fine. Perhaps the Vision Pro, in the years ahead, will generate substantial income for Apple. But in the interim, the idea that the Vision Pro may only be a niche product isn’t a cause for concern because Apple has plenty of other products in its arsenal.

Apple doesn’t need Vision Pro to be a surefire hit right out of the gate because the company has no issue with a slow build. Look at the iPhone, for example. The iPhone, at launch, was exclusive to AT&T for years, something which obviously limited early sales. Also, take a look at the Apple Watch. The device wasn’t an immediate game-changer at launch, but over time, sales began to explode.

Will the same thing happen with the Vision Pro? It’s too early to tell. Still, the notion that the Vision Pro won’t be a huge revenue driver for Apple at launch is nothing to worry about.

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