Author: Richard

    • Richard
    • Comments Off on IDC Reports: Apple Alleviates iPhone Sales Drop in China with Expansion in Emerging Markets During Q2
    IDC Reports: Apple Alleviates iPhone Sales Drop in China with Expansion in Emerging Markets During Q2

    ### Emerging Markets Counterbalance Apple’s China Decline, While Samsung Gains Ground

    In the second quarter of 2025, Apple noted a slight increase in iPhone shipments, retaining its global standing despite waning demand in China. Per IDC’s initial figures, Apple delivered 46.4 million iPhones in Q2 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 1.5%. This achievement secured Apple the second spot worldwide, behind Samsung, which sold 58 million units, showcasing a substantial 7.9% rise year-over-year.

    The overall smartphone industry witnessed minimal growth of just 1% year-over-year, with total shipments reaching 295.2 million globally. Economic hurdles such as inflation and rising unemployment, along with decreasing sales in China, significantly influenced market trends.

    Nabila Popal, senior research director for Worldwide Client Devices at IDC, shared observations on the report, indicating that economic instability usually restricts demand at the lower end of the market, where price sensitivity is the highest. This scenario has resulted in a squeeze in low-end Android devices, further hindering overall market expansion. Furthermore, the lower-than-anticipated performance in China contributed to stagnant global growth. Despite a fruitful 618 e-commerce festival that mainly aimed to reduce inventory rather than drive new shipments, Apple faced a 1% decline in China during Q2. Nonetheless, this drop was balanced out by robust double-digit growth in emerging markets, resulting in a 1.5% global growth for Apple in the quarter.

    Samsung’s growth can be largely credited to its Galaxy A36 and A56 models, which brought Galaxy AI features to more affordable devices. Xiaomi secured third place with 42.5 million units shipped, while vivo and Transsion reported shipments of 27.1 million and 25.1 million units, respectively. Transsion, albeit lesser-known, has displayed consistent growth in the budget segments.

    ### Modest Increases in Shipments, Lesser Increases in Market Share

    Despite the 1.5% rise in iPhone shipments, Apple’s market share saw a slight increase from 15.6% to 15.7% year-over-year, which remains relatively stable when compared to Samsung’s significant surge from 18.4% to 19.7%. IDC remarked that the data is preliminary and may be subject to alterations, but it suggests that while Apple temporarily reversed its longstanding iPhone sales decline in China and saw a brief uptick in U.S. demand amid tariff uncertainties in April, that momentum faded throughout the rest of the quarter. As a result, growth in this segment was primarily fueled by emerging markets.

    Looking forward, IDC predicts that the smartphone market could see growth driven by new AI-enabled models and persistent demand in mid-range segments. The importance of AI in distinguishing mobile devices is becoming increasingly pronounced, leading to discussions regarding the features competitors provide that may be absent in the iPhone.

    ### Accessory Deals on Amazon

    *FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links.*

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Blue Sharks: Nature’s Surprising Chameleons
    Blue Sharks: Nature’s Surprising Chameleons

    Blue sharks are widely recognized for the hue of their skin, yet recent studies suggest these remarkable sharks may possess more than what is immediately visible. In fact, blue sharks could potentially be among nature’s most adept chameleons, as new information indicates the elements that determine the shark’s coloration might enable it to alter its hues according to its surroundings.

    This research originates from a cohort of marine biologists who presented their discoveries at the latest Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Belgium. The scientists claim they stumbled upon these revelations while examining the minute tooth-like scales responsible for the sharks’ blue tint more closely.

    These tooth-like scales are referred to as dermal denticles. Upon further inspection, the researchers identified that the scales have small pulp cavities housing guanine crystals. These crystals are what facilitate the camouflage prowess in chameleons, implying that blue sharks could potentially harness similar abilities to change their color to conceal themselves in various environments.

    It is believed that these color-shifting crystals enable the sharks to merge with the darker depths of the ocean. For instance, the researchers propose that as pressure on the shark’s body rises, the cells could become more densely packed, thereby rendering the creature’s skin significantly darker as it descends deeper.

    Thus far, the researchers have merely simulated the potential outcomes of increased pressure on the cells. Moving forward, they aim to apply their findings to real-world scenarios by examining the blue shark’s chameleon-like traits more thoroughly. Their aspiration is to establish that the sharks alter their colors in response to their environment, even if it merely entails a darkening effect during deeper dives.

    There remains an abundance of knowledge we have yet to acquire about sharks, including the reasons some species become immobilized when inverted. However, it is hoped that ongoing research like this will aid in revealing more about these awe-inspiring and fearsome creatures.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Anbernic RG477M: A Handheld Gaming Device Made of Metal
    Anbernic RG477M: A Handheld Gaming Device Made of Metal

    Following a sluggish beginning to the year, Anbernic has entered a remarkable phase.

    (Image credit: Anbernic)

    Essential information

    • Anbernic has briefly showcased its newest gaming handheld, the RG477M, in a video.
    • This is the first Anbernic device with a metal casing since the RG405M launched in 2023.
    • While specifics are limited, it is likely to share specs with the RG557.

    Since the last metal shell handheld was launched by Anbernic, the firm has introduced 22 diverse retro and Android gaming devices. This pattern will soon change, as the RG477M was revealed in a 21-second clip uploaded to Anbernic’s YouTube channel.

    ANBERNIC RG 477M First Look! – YouTube

    Watch On

    The company did not disclose additional information apart from presenting some rapid B-roll visuals. This validated the metal casing and the arrangement of the buttons, joystick, and D-pad. Though it was not explicitly stated, it is reasonable to speculate that the joysticks may feature RGB lighting, inferred from the close-up visuals in the clip.

    Nonetheless, drawing from Anbernic’s past, we can deduce some aspects just from the product name. With few exceptions, most Anbernic handhelds follow a naming convention of “RGXXYZZ,” which can be broken down as follows:

    <aside data-component-name="Recirculation:ArticleRiver

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Assessing the Advantages of Transitioning to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
    Assessing the Advantages of Transitioning to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

    It’s Samsung’s finest foldable to date, yet it’s also the priciest foldable Samsung has ever released.

    After years of stagnant advancements, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has provided foldable phone enthusiasts with everything they desired and beyond. This year, Samsung introduced the top mobile processor, a 200MP primary camera sensor, and a revamped slim and lightweight design for its high-end Fold. However, Galaxy Z Fold users might have also received something they weren’t looking for: the $2,000 starting price of the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

    For those monitoring from home, this makes the Galaxy Z Fold 7 the most expensive Samsung foldable ever launched in the U.S. It’s even costlier than the original Galaxy Z Fold released in 2019 for $1,980. Naturally, inflation, tariff variability, and various other factors could account for the price increase, yet this indicates that the decision to purchase the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is more intricate than ever.

    Individuals considering an upgrade must assess their current device and determine if acquiring the latest Samsung foldable justifies the steep price. For anyone with a recent foldable from Samsung, Google, or OnePlus, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is likely out of their reach—unless they take advantage of incredible pre-order trade-in offers. Justifying an upgrade is simpler with an older model, as the enhancements accumulate over multiple generations.

    Let’s examine the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s pricing and specifications to assist you in deciding whether to upgrade or stay with your current device.

    Should you transition to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 from a Galaxy Z Fold 6?

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 was already an impressive foldable, and the Galaxy Z Fold 7 enhances those earlier improvements. Is there sufficient new features in the latest model to entice current users to switch? That likely hinges on personal opinion. There are several notable enhancements, yet it may be difficult to rationalize spending $2,000 on a foldable just one year after paying $1,900 for the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

    The primary distinctions between these two models lie in their display dimensions and designs. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 has larger inner and outer screens, measuring 8 inches on the main display and 6.5 inches on the cover display. This is an increase from the 7.6-inch main screen and a 6.3-inch cover screen of the Galaxy Z Fold 6. Most importantly, the newer model features a wider cover screen, which should provide a more comfortable typing and usage experience.

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is significantly thinner and lighter than its predecessor, which may be the most compelling reason to upgrade. It measures only 8.9mm in thickness when closed, allowing for the addition of a case while still remaining under the Galaxy Z Fold 7’s 12.1mm thickness. Moreover, the new version weighs merely 215 grams, making it lighter than every major flagship from Apple, Google, and Samsung.

    Hardware enhancements present a mixed picture. The new model benefits from the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and a 200MP camera, but the comparable features of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 are not to be overlooked. Daily use performance differences are likely to be negligible. Additionally, RAM, battery capacity, and charging speed remain unchanged between the models.

    While the thinner and lighter Galaxy Z Fold 7 is appealing, most Galaxy Z Fold 6 owners should likely hold on to their device for another year. I recently reinserted a SIM into the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, and it remains an outstanding foldable that still performs admirably in 2025. Transitioning from the Galaxy S25 Edge to a bulkier device was notable, and I certainly felt the difference between the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Galaxy Z Fold 6.

    Regardless, we’re discussing a price of $2,000. Unless you have substantial disposable income, there simply isn’t sufficient value to justify the upgrade from the previous model. And this isn’t a critique of Samsung—I doubt anything would convince me to spend $2,000 every year on new foldable devices.

    Should you upgrade to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 from an older Galaxy?

    The dynamics shift somewhat when considering older Samsung Galaxy models. Even the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, which is merely two years old, is beginning to show its age. It’s equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip that wasn’t designed for the AI generation, and its 6.2-inch cover screen falls short of 2025 standards. Moreover, the phone’s weight of 252 grams and a thickness of 13.4mm when folded feels significantly bulkier compared to the Galaxy Z Fold 7.

    There are advantages to remaining with the Galaxy Z Fold 5, as it maintains the same battery capacity, charging

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on 9to5Mac Daily: July 14, 2025 – News on Apple and Formula 1 Progress
    9to5Mac Daily: July 14, 2025 – News on Apple and Formula 1 Progress

    ### 9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News

    In the ever-evolving realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest news and advancements is vital, particularly for Apple fans. **9to5Mac Daily** acts as a dependable outlet for daily summaries of the most important stories connected to Apple and its ecosystem. This podcast, accessible on multiple platforms, offers listeners a succinct recap of the day’s leading headlines, making it a necessary part of any Apple lover’s routine.

    #### Accessing the Podcast

    Listeners can conveniently tune into **9to5Mac Daily** on various platforms, such as:
    – [iTunes and Apple’s Podcasts app](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080)
    – [Stitcher](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/9to5mac-daily)
    – [TuneIn](https://tunein.com/radio/9to5Mac-Daily-p1089524/)
    – [Google Play](https://play.google.com/music/m/I5d4dzs7dauazmfxvvrynyiuram?t=9to5Mac_Daily)
    – [Dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast apps

    New episodes are produced every weekday, ensuring that subscribers receive updated content consistently.

    #### Highlighted Content and Sponsorship

    The podcast frequently features conversations on a range of subjects, including the newest product launches, software enhancements, and industry developments. For example, a recent show spotlighted a sponsorship from **1Password**, providing listeners with a limited-time offer on their service, which includes a cutting-edge passkey feature for improved online security.

    #### Subscription Advantages

    Listeners can back the podcast and gain exclusive content by subscribing to **9to5Mac Daily Plus**. This subscription’s perks include:
    – Ad-free editions of every episode
    – Additional content that explores particular topics in greater detail

    #### Community Involvement

    The team behind **9to5Mac Daily** invites listener participation. Fans can express their opinions via email at [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) and are encouraged to rate the podcast on platforms such as [Apple Podcasts](https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/id1331816080?at=10laZc&pt=11l8808) and

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Apple’s Latest C1 Unveils Two Essential Features and Hints at Future Advancements
    Apple’s Latest C1 Unveils Two Essential Features and Hints at Future Advancements

    Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 Air will feature a notable innovation: the C1 modem, which was first introduced in the iPhone 16e. While the unveiling of a new modem might not immediately seem exciting, its development has been vital for both cost effectiveness and enhancements to user experience. Here are two prominent features made possible by Apple’s new C1 modem.

    ## #1: Improved Battery Life

    Greater battery longevity is a widely valued attribute in mobile devices. The iPhone 16 Pro has already made significant advancements in battery performance, but the C1 modem is set to offer even higher efficiency. Although Apple did not heavily emphasize the C1 during the iPhone 16e launch, it did showcase the modem’s energy efficiency:

    > “C1 is the first modem crafted by Apple and the most power-efficient modem ever featured on an iPhone, providing fast and dependable 5G cellular connectivity. Apple silicon — including C1 — the entirely new internal design, and the sophisticated power management of iOS 18 all play a role in exceptional battery life.”

    For users who often rely on 5G, the C1’s enhanced power efficiency substantially reduces battery drain. This enhancement is a primary reason for its inclusion in the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air, even while other new models are bypassed. The C-class modems are anticipated to become widespread across Apple’s devices, promising improved battery performance and sleeker designs.

    ## #2: Enhanced Data Responsiveness in Challenging Conditions

    Another significant benefit of the C1 modem is its synergy with iOS, enabling it to adapt to user requirements more adeptly than Qualcomm’s modems. This integration allows the modem to prioritize data usage according to the device’s ongoing activity.

    As stated by Apple:

    > “One of the strategies Apple hopes the C1 will employ to differentiate its iPhones is through deep integration with its processor chips. For instance, if an iPhone faces congested data networks, the device’s processor can inform the modem which traffic is most urgent and prioritize it over other data transfers, resulting in a phone that feels more responsive to user demands.”

    This feature ensures that during periods of network congestion, the C1 can smartly manage data requests, improving the user experience by guaranteeing that the most essential tasks are prioritized.

    ## Apple’s Modem Features: C1 is Just the Beginning

    These two advancements illustrate the potential of the C1 modem throughout Apple’s product range. However, they represent just the starting point. Apple is reportedly developing a C2 chip for next year and a C3 for 2027, which are anticipated to deliver even more sophisticated features. The excitement surrounding Apple’s C-class modem series is unmatched, signaling a pivotal transformation in mobile technology.

    What are your opinions on the features of Apple’s C1 modem? What enhancements do you wish to see in the future?

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Additional Information Surfaces Regarding Google’s Supposed ‘Gemini Spaces’ Breach
    Additional Information Surfaces Regarding Google’s Supposed ‘Gemini Spaces’ Breach

    It appears that the feature is still firmly in development, but this may provide us our initial insight into Google’s ambitions.

    Key points to note:
    – A source exploring Google’s Android Canary build uncovered a supposed early preview of the anticipated “Gemini Spaces” feature.
    – The feature, which resembles a complete overhaul of At a Glance, enables Gemini to present seemingly real-time data on sports and utilize your calendar events.
    – Gemini Spaces was reportedly spotted back in June; however, that code leak only hinted at its fundamental capabilities, like At a Glance-like functionalities, financial information, and sports data.

    Further details about Google’s purported Gemini version of At a Glance have seemingly emerged. Noted leaker AssembleDebug (Android Authority) investigated Google’s Android Canary release build and is said to have discovered more about “Gemini Spaces.” Delving deeper allegedly provided the leaker with Google’s preliminary design of the feature. Similar to At a Glance, Gemini Spaces will apparently function as a widget that users can position on their home and lock screens.

    Concerning the latter, the Gemini Spaces card will show above your Pixel’s lock screen clock if the larger digits are used. If the smaller clock is selected, the cards will be positioned directly beneath it. The cards on the home screen appear quite alike; however, the leaker showcased its Sports and Calendar event (birthday), which featured a transparent background for the latter.

    Another notable aspect is the dots located directly beneath the Gemini Spaces cards. These dots appear to signify that users can swipe through whatever Gemini has gathered for them. AssembleDebug managed to swipe between some sports scores and the calendar event, and it seems there’s potential for additional content (if only Google had it functioning). The leaker mentions that these cards should also show financial information along with what was already operational early on. Given Gemini’s involvement, it’s probable we will encounter a wide range of topics/genres available in its new “Spaces” cards.

    Gemini becomes essential

    In June, it was reported that Google was working on “Gemini Spaces.” These early reports indicated that the feature was akin to Samsung’s Now Bar, which presents real-time information based on your interests. It was initially said to be a feature for your lock screen, but as we have now observed, it seems Google intends for this to be a genuine Gemini-powered successor to At a Glance for your home screen as well.

    The original report primarily consisted of code; however, that early code indicated that Gemini Spaces aims to “expand beyond” the current capabilities of At a Glance: weather and calendar events. Only financial data and sports scores have been suggested, yet it’s easy to envision what else Gemini could provide for us. Perhaps discounts on products we favor or brief news snippets.

    What is even more intriguing is the extent to which Gemini is integrating into Android. According to Sameer Samat, president of Android Ecosystem, the AI has genuinely become part of Google’s vision for the future of Android. Not only is Google looking to combine ChromeOS with Android, but Gemini is taking a central role. According to Samat, Gemini has transformed Android into a “helpful experience,” which the company clearly intends to develop further.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on Anticipated iPhone Fold: Five Innovative Features Anticipated for Next Year’s Launch
    Anticipated iPhone Fold: Five Innovative Features Anticipated for Next Year’s Launch

    Following years of development and numerous speculations, Apple’s inaugural foldable iPhone seems ready to launch next year. Here are five newly rumored features for Apple’s first iPhone Fold.

    ## ~7.8-inch inner display, 5.5-inch outer display

    All current iPhones feature screens in the 6-inch range, spanning from the 6.1-inch iPhone 16 to the 6.9-inch iPhone 16 Pro Max. Apple’s forthcoming iPhone Fold will, within one device, present both smaller and larger display options compared to what’s available today.

    Speculated display dimensions include:
    – ~7.8-inch inner display
    – ~5.5-inch outer display

    What will the experience be like with these screens? It’s not difficult to envision. The inner display will be quite similar in size to the 7.9-inch dimension that the iPad mini had prior to its recent bezel-thinning redesign. The outer display will suit fans of the iPhone mini, as that discontinued variant had a 5.4-inch screen.

    ## Crease-free ‘book fold’ design

    Foldable smartphones aren’t a new concept. However, until recently, a significant drawback noted by reviewers has been the visible crease in folding displays. Reports suggest that Apple has developed a “crease-free” inner display.

    Removing the crease from the iPhone Fold is just one critical component of the innovative ‘book fold’ design. Another significant aspect is its thickness. Ming Chi Kuo states that the iPhone Fold “will measure 9–9.5mm thick when folded and 4.5–4.8mm when unfolded.” When opened, it will be thinner even than the upcoming iPhone 17 Air.

    ## Four cameras total

    Cameras rank among the most vital features of any iPhone. Reports indicate that the iPhone Fold will have a total of four cameras:
    – 2 rear cameras
    – 1 front camera when folded
    – 1 front camera when unfolded

    Both rear cameras are rumored to be 48MP, but it remains uncertain whether the second lens will be Ultra Wide or Telephoto. Apple is transitioning all iPhone 17 models to a new 24MP front-facing camera this year, making it likely that a very similar camera will be utilized for the iPhone Fold—potentially featuring a hole-punch design.

    ## Touch ID instead of Face ID

    Apple’s flagship iPhones have traditionally incorporated Face ID, beginning with the iPhone X nearly ten years ago. Despite the iPhone Fold’s expected ultra-premium pricing, it’s rumored to utilize Touch ID for user authentication. It’s probable that Touch ID will be integrated into the side button, akin to the iPhone 16e.

    Apple may simply be aiming to eliminate the need for dual sets of Face ID components—one for the outer display and another for the inner display. Cost considerations could play a role, but space limitations are likely the main challenge.

    ## Titanium design

    Interestingly, Apple is anticipated to move away from titanium constructions for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max this year. However, this material won’t be absent for long. Reports suggest that the iPhone Fold will utilize titanium in various elements of its design, including both the hinge and casing.

    ## iPhone Fold features: wrap-up

    Numerous analysts are optimistic that Apple’s new iPhone Fold will ignite greater mass-market acceptance for foldable devices in general. We’re still over a year away from gauging market reactions, but the first iPhone Fold appears poised to showcase some enticing hardware.

    The more significant question may be: what about the software? Will new windowing or multitasking capabilities in iOS render the expansive inner display valuable? One of Apple’s main advantages lies in its ability to harmonize hardware and software, so it’s intriguing to anticipate what the iPhone Fold will deliver in terms of software capabilities.

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    • Richard
    • Comments Off on NASA Obtains Nearest-Ever Images of the Sun
    NASA Obtains Nearest-Ever Images of the Sun

    NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has been gradually moving closer to the Sun since its launch in 2018, marking a new achievement by capturing the closest images of the Sun ever recorded. The probe, recognized as the fastest object ever made by humans, has been setting new records as it nears the Sun. In December, it approached within 3.8 million miles of the Sun, obtaining images of the Sun’s atmosphere during this near encounter.

    The probe is currently traveling through the Sun’s corona, showcasing human ingenuity and the quest to comprehend the universe. These images are essential for analyzing solar phenomena, such as coronal mass ejections and solar flares, which can influence spacecraft and Earth’s magnetic field. The Parker Solar Probe’s Wide-Field Imager captures solar material as it flows from the Sun, offering scientists valuable information about the origins of the solar wind.

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