Author: sparta

Omdia Reports: iPhone 20 Standard Model Scheduled for Early 2027 Release, Leading Up to Significant Redesign for 20th Anniversary Edition

a 20th anniversary iPhone variant set for 2027 is anticipated to showcase a significant redesign to commemorate the milestone, akin to what the company executed in 2017 with the iPhone X. We have consistently referred to this iPhone version as the iPhone 20, a temporary title that aligns with the iPhone X example, but research organization Omdia has just provided an unexpected development. ETNews indicates that senior analyst Heo Moo-yeol mentioned at a conference on Wednesday that Apple is set to unveil the inaugural iPhone 20 model in early 2027, alongside the budget-conscious iPhone 18e. In the latter part of 2027, the “iPhone 20 Air, Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone Fold 2” will be launched.

Omdia hints at an extensive rebranding for the iPhone, which goes beyond simply omitting the iPhone 19 name. Initially, the iPhone 19 would be what we would anticipate Apple to utilize in 2027, following the release of the iPhone 18 series expected next year. However, since 2027 celebrates the 20th anniversary of the iPhone, Apple will be keen to unveil an iPhone 20. Interestingly, Apple bypassed the iPhone 9 series in 2017 when it introduced the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.

Furthermore, Omdia’s forecast corresponds with other insights suggesting that Apple will revamp its iPhone lineup next September. The first iPhone Fold will be part of the iPhone 18 series. Consequently, the standard iPhone 18 will be deferred to the first half of 2027. However, if Heo’s

Read More
Nikkei Indicates Major Decrease in iPhone Air Orders, Nearing ‘Final Production’ Stages

### iPhone Air Demand: Evaluating Recent Patterns

There has been significant doubt about the demand for the iPhone Air, especially as delivery times have stayed steady since its introduction. A recent report from Nikkei has intensified worries, showing that Apple has considerably decreased its orders to suppliers, a typical sign of a product approaching the end of its production phase.

#### Initial Indicators Suggested Weak iPhone Air Demand

A crucial sign of success for a new Apple product is the rate at which delivery times extend. For favored iPhone models, this can happen mere minutes after their launch. Yet, the iPhone Air has kept immediate availability for both delivery and in-store pickup since its debut, indicating a lack of consumer enthusiasm. Analysts and market research firms have also pointed out subdued demand for the iPhone Air. For example, Morgan Stanley anticipated increased production for other iPhone variants but excluded the iPhone Air from their forecasts. Likewise, Counterpoint Research noted strong demand for the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro Max, while again failing to mention the iPhone Air.

#### Production Cut Sharply – Nikkei

As per a new report from Nikkei Asia, Apple has significantly slashed its production orders for the iPhone Air to levels akin to those typically observed at the conclusion of a product’s life cycle. This decision follows initial reports of robust demand upon the model’s launch in China. Sources suggest that production orders have declined markedly, with forecasts now resembling a near end-of-production scenario.

> “Apple is significantly reducing iPhone Air production orders

Read More
Apple’s Launch of Foldable iPad Pushed Back to 2029 Because of Elevated Expenses

an iPhone Fold smartphone expected to debut in 2026, alongside an iPhone Flip clamshell said to arrive in 2028, and a foldable iPad that could be introduced as early as 2029. This timeline may seem unusual to those closely following Apple rumors, but it aligns with claims from two distinct reports this week. Initially, Kim Ki-hyun, director of the market research company Stone Partners, shared insights at the ETNews Tech Summit in Korea and mentioned that the foldable tablet had been postponed until after 2029. While Kim did not disclose many specifics about the gadget, he noted that the foldable iPad would incorporate an LTPO+ OLED display. Following this, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman provided a report indicating that the launch of the foldable iPad had been pushed to 2029, attributing this to development obstacles faced by Apple.

In early September, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, recognized for his accurate forecasts regarding unreleased Apple devices, mentioned that the foldable iPad might see a release in 2028. Gurman indicated that Apple’s latest plan targeted a 2028 launch, but this is now deemed unachievable. The company has encountered various engineering difficulties related to the device’s weight, display technology, and additional features. The tablet-laptop hybrid is expected to debut in 2029 or later, provided Apple does not decide to abandon the project. Bloomberg also highlights that some individuals connected to the initiative are uncertain about the eventual release of the foldable iPad. Apple has a history of discontinuing products that no longer seem viable, as evident with the Apple Car and the more affordable, lightweight Vision Pro.

Read More

Android 16 Beta 3.1 Launched for Android Users Featuring Bootloader Resolution

Google has promptly addressed a bootloop problem impacting testers of Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3 by releasing a 3.1 patch. This update seeks to fix the “failed to load” issues that numerous Pixel users faced. The patch is being made available to all qualifying devices, with designated versions for Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a. For users who continue to face difficulties, Google has outlined several remedies, including allowing the device to recover, activating USB debugging, or applying the update through Recovery mode. The bootloop issue surfaced shortly after the comprehensive QPR2 Beta 3 update, which brought new features such as app shortcut buttons and updates to Live Caption. Google swiftly tackled the issue by pausing the initial rollout and developing a remedy. Initial reports indicate that the patch effectively resolves the problem.

Read More
AI Sports Eyewear Rise as Robust Contenders to Oakley’s Meta Vanguard

The $379 BleeqUp Ranger is loaded with impressive technology and is built for outdoor use. Sports eyewear is undergoing an AI transformation, and BleeqUp has emerged as a new player making noteworthy strides in this space. The brand launched the Ranger earlier this year, targeting cycling enthusiasts while proving equally effective for various outdoor pursuits. Marketed as a 4-in-1 smart sunglasses, they can record video, provide built-in audio, function as a walkie-talkie, and accommodate prescription lenses.

I’ve been using these glasses for nearly six months, with intensive use over the last two months during outdoor workouts, and they’ve performed remarkably well. Priced at $379, they offer a significant saving compared to Meta’s similar product. I primarily used them with my iPhone 17 Pro, and BleeqUp also offers an Android app that lets you connect the glasses to virtually any smartphone.

Starting with the design; the Ranger is lightweight at just 49g, comparable to standard sunglasses. It isn’t overly bulky, and I appreciate BleeqUp’s design choices. One major concern with smart wearables is their appearance, but the Ranger closely resembles conventional sunglasses at first glance.

The frames are made from plastic, and I encountered no issues with their construction or fit. I received the standard orange lenses, but they can be upgraded to Zeiss lenses for an extra $20, which I recommend. All lenses provide UV400 protection, and after daily use, I noticed no scratches.

The Ranger features onboard controls for capturing images and videos, and adjusting music playback is straightforward. Charging occurs by connecting the pogo pins to the supplied cable, and the glasses boast a 260mAh battery, offering an hour of video recording or up to six hours of music playtime, which is acceptable.

BleeqUp includes a hard-shell carrying case with the glasses, primarily to keep the charging cable secure. With 32GB of internal storage, you can record up to five hours of video, powered by a custom Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 platform.

They capture 16MP photos and 1080p video at 30fps, although the image quality doesn’t rival that of my DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro; these glasses aren’t meant to compete with specialized action cameras. They aim to provide all-in-one sunglasses capable of shooting footage, and they succeed reasonably well in that regard.

I appreciate the inclusion of EIS, and the app automatically generates highlights from the captured content. However, connecting to the app was occasionally challenging, requiring several attempts to transfer data to my phone outdoors. Aside from that, I didn’t encounter many problems.

Regarding audio, the Ranger is equipped with xMEMS solid-state audio drivers, which is quite intriguing. I’ve tested several earbuds featuring xMEMS drivers, and they produce quality sound while conserving space compared to traditional audio drivers. The open-ear design provides good sound quality while allowing ambient noises to be heard.

In summary, the Ranger is an excellent option for any outdoor event, and its integrated design makes it a solid pick for those seeking sunglasses with added functionality.

Read More
Samsung Introduces $1,800 Galaxy XR Headset to Rival Apple’s Vision Pro

Samsung’s Galaxy XR Merges AI and Immersion to Transform How We Work and Engage

Samsung is officially diving into extended reality (XR) with the introduction of Galaxy XR, its inaugural AI-native headset and the first product for the Android XR ecosystem. Unveiled today, this device initiates a broad collaboration between Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm to integrate artificial intelligence with immersive computing, a strategy that could revolutionize how individuals work, engage, and navigate digital environments.

At its essence, the Galaxy XR operates on Android XR, a novel platform co-created by the three technology leaders, featuring Google’s Gemini AI embedded within. This signifies that it’s not merely a headset operating Android applications but also an AI-enabled gadget that comprehends your environment, interacts intuitively through voice, vision, and gestures, and assists you in managing tasks in a human-like manner. Envision it as a spatial computing companion that doesn’t just follow commands but perceives what you perceive and responds in kind.

Samsung refers to the Galaxy XR as the inaugural stage in its XR journey, with additional form factors — including AI glasses — already in development. The headset’s design prioritizes comfort for extended use, utilizing lightweight materials, a well-balanced frame, and a detachable light shield. The battery pack is separate, contributing to a lighter experience on the head while providing up to 2.5 hours of usage on a single charge.

Internally, it operates on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform, featuring 16GB of RAM and a Micro-OLED display presenting 29 million pixels at rates of up to 90Hz. The visuals are described as sharp, fully immersive, and complemented by a rich audio experience from a dual-speaker arrangement. It also precisely tracks your head, hands, and eyes through a combination of cameras and sensors.

Your Favorite Android Applications, Reimagined in 3D

Right out of the box, Galaxy XR accommodates familiar Android experiences in a 3D form — Google Maps, YouTube, Google Photos, and even Circle to Search — all tailored for the new platform. You can navigate urban landscapes in 3D, delve into YouTube videos with real-time AI assistance, or simply draw a circle in the air to recognize objects around you. The new Media Auto Spatialization from Google Photos adds dimension to your 2D images and videos.

The headset also serves as a personal cinema, allowing you to stream in 4K, watch multiple sports events simultaneously, or engage in AI-enhanced XR gaming where Gemini offers coaching and game strategy insights. For creators, tools like Adobe’s Project Pulsar simplify 3D editing and cinematic layering to be straightforward and user-friendly.

From Play to Productivity: XR Enters the Enterprise Arena

Samsung is not limiting its focus to consumer use. The company is also extending Galaxy XR into the enterprise sector, partnering with entities like Samsung Heavy Industries to utilize it for virtual shipbuilding training. Moreover, it is collaborating with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Spaces ecosystem to assist developers in realizing XR business applications.

And if the headset doesn’t appear futuristic enough, Samsung is also hinting at forthcoming AI glasses created in collaboration with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, fusing smart technology with luxury fashion.

The Galaxy XR will be available starting October 21, 2025, for $1,800, through samsung.com and Samsung Experience Stores. Optional accessories like the Galaxy XR Controller and Travel Case will retail for $250 each. Early adopters will receive The Explorer Pack, a bundle worth over $1,000, which includes a year-long subscription to Google AI Pro, YouTube Premium, Google Play Pass, and an assortment of premium XR content.

Read More
Samsung Introduces Fresh Rival to Ray-Ban Meta

Samsung is making significant progress in the smart glasses sector by teaming up with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, two brands that are recognized for their cutting-edge eyewear designs. Both companies are employing distinctive strategies to incorporate smart technology into their offerings, while Samsung supplies the technological foundation.

Gentle Monster is concentrating on style-driven designs that include AI-native technology, striving to merge aesthetics with practicality. Their eyewear will showcase Gemini-centric AI functions, enabling users to operate them via voice commands. Furthermore, these glasses are anticipated to come equipped with cameras for capturing first-person views.

In contrast, Warby Parker is capitalizing on its esteemed reputation for providing outstanding customer experiences through elegantly crafted eyewear. Their partnership with Samsung hints at a concentration on developing smart glasses that could feature a display within the lenses, akin to Meta’s Ray-Ban Display Glasses. This collaboration seeks to deliver a smooth fusion of technology and style, potentially presenting a variety of designs that may or may not integrate display functionalities.

Both brands are integral to Samsung’s extensive XR roadmap, which encompasses AI glasses, VR headsets, and more, in partnership with Google. While particular models, pricing, and launch dates remain undisclosed, these collaborations mark a pivotal step by Samsung to compete with established players like Meta in the smart glasses field.

Read More
Samsung’s Galaxy XR Headset: The Cutting-Edge ‘Computer for Your Face’

The Samsung Galaxy XR, driven by the Android XR platform, is set to make a notable impression in the productivity headset arena, overcoming the challenges encountered by earlier models like the Meta Quest Pro. The Galaxy XR, also referred to as Project Moohan, was presented at a recent demonstration event in New York City, where its cutting-edge features and capabilities were showcased.

The Galaxy XR distinguishes itself with outstanding hardware, featuring a comfortable, lightweight design and a remarkable resolution of 3,552 x 3,840 pixels. This top-notch display heightens the immersive experience, positioning it as a formidable player in the VR headset industry. Nevertheless, the real power of the Galaxy XR is found in its software ecosystem, propelled by Google’s Android XR platform.

A key advantage for the Galaxy XR is its vast app support. In contrast to the Meta Quest Pro, which faced challenges with limited app collaborations, the Galaxy XR provides an extensive selection of productivity, gaming, streaming, social, and browsing applications. This varied app ecosystem enables users to interact with numerous applications at once, making the headset ideal for prolonged use.

The incorporation of Google’s Gemini AI further enriches the Galaxy XR experience. Gemini streamlines app navigation, delivers contextual information, and even facilitates personalized interactions in gaming situations. This AI-driven methodology ensures that users can fully leverage the headset’s capabilities across different scenarios.

Samsung’s emphasis on both casual and enterprise applications positions the Galaxy XR as a multipurpose device. From engaging Google Maps tours to corporate training simulations, the headset serves a wide-ranging audience. Moreover, the assurance of compatibility with all Android platform applications guarantees that users can tap into a vast content library from the beginning.

Despite its promise, the Galaxy XR encounters obstacles regarding adoption. The headset’s price of $1,799 may deter some consumers, particularly when viewed as a supplementary device alongside existing gadgets like laptops or tablets. However, for those in search of a comprehensive VR experience with substantial app support and AI integration, the Galaxy XR offers an enticing option.

Samsung’s strategic collaboration with Google and its dedication to creating AI smart glasses reflect a progressive outlook on the XR market. Although the Galaxy XR may not immediately cater to the mass market, its innovative characteristics and extensive app ecosystem establish it as a frontrunner in the productivity headset domain. As Samsung continues to enhance its XR solutions, the Galaxy XR is poised to lead the charge for future advancements in the field.

Read More
Apple Vision Pro Equipped with M5 Chip Produced in Vietnam During Ongoing Supply Chain Shift

**Apple Vision Pro: A New Chapter in Manufacturing in Vietnam**

When the revised Apple Vision Pro debuts in stores tomorrow, it will not just showcase the robust M5 chip and the new Dual Knit Band, but will also bear a noteworthy label alteration: “Product of Vietnam.” This signifies a crucial moment in Apple’s initiative to diversify its supply chain.

### Apple’s Balancing Act Persists

The initial Apple Vision Pro was produced in China, but the revised iteration indicates a transition towards Vietnam for assembly. This choice corresponds with Apple’s sustained efforts to diminish reliance on Chinese manufacturing amidst escalating geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. As reported by Bloomberg, while the Vision Pro will carry the label of a product of Vietnam, the Dual Knit Band sold separately will remain produced in China. This dual sourcing illustrates the intricacies of global supply chains and the necessity for adaptability in production.

### Tackling Geopolitical Tensions

Apple’s launch occurs at a vital moment as it encounters pressure from both the U.S. government, which promotes increased domestic manufacturing, and the Chinese government, where Apple holds substantial investments. CEO Tim Cook’s recent trip to China, where he reaffirmed Apple’s dedication to investing in the nation, underscores the delicate equilibrium Apple must uphold in its operations.

Since the beginning of the trade war, Apple has strategically transitioned the production of devices aimed at the U.S. market to countries like Vietnam, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, while still depending significantly on China to meet global demand. The choice to manufacture the Vision Pro in Vietnam may be driven by the headset’s comparatively low production volume and the modest hardware updates in the updated model.

### A Symbolic Transition

The assembly of the Apple Vision Pro (M5) in Vietnam represents a noteworthy advancement in Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its manufacturing capabilities. As the company aims to broaden its range of wearables and head-mounted devices, this move could set the stage for additional production transitions in the future.

In summary, the revised Apple Vision Pro not only highlights technological progress but also signifies a strategic shift in Apple’s manufacturing strategy, reflecting the company’s resilience in a complex global environment.

Read More
Apple Returns to Court to Tackle Fortnite Legal Dispute Regarding App Store Rules

**Apple vs. Epic Games: A Legal Dispute Regarding App Store Practices**

In an ongoing narrative that has drawn the focus of the tech world, Apple has heightened its accusations against Epic Games, claiming that the gaming firm is trying to take advantage of the App Store ecosystem without adding to its infrastructure. This dispute dates back to 2020 when Epic Games filed a lawsuit against Apple after being expelled from the App Store for deploying a software update to Fortnite that circumvented Apple’s In-App Purchase system.

**Background of the Disagreement**

The legal struggle has undergone several court hearings, with critical decisions affecting both entities. In April 2025, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers determined that Apple had not adhered to her previous 2021 ruling, which required Apple to permit alternative payment options in its App Store without enforcing its usual 27% commission. This decision marked a crucial turning point in the ongoing conflict, suggesting a transformation in the functioning of digital marketplaces.

In retaliation, Apple has escalated its case to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, contending that the judge exceeded her authority by expanding her initial ruling. Apple is aiming to reverse the April ruling, asserting that the injunction breaches constitutional confines and principles established regarding civil contempt.

**Current Updates**

On October 21, 2025, Apple re-entered the courtroom to present its case, aspiring for a more advantageous verdict than in 2024 when the court upheld Judge Rogers’ previous ruling. The details of the deposition remain under wraps, but both sides are anticipated to offer additional insights as the situation progresses.

Apple’s appeal underscores the necessity for a reevaluation of the injunction, claiming that it imposes excessive limitations on the company’s activities. The legal representatives assert that the injunction not only contravenes established legal frameworks but also violates Apple’s constitutional rights.

**Conclusion**

As the legal processes proceed, the ramifications of this case extend well beyond Apple and Epic Games, with the potential to alter the framework of app distribution and payment systems in the digital marketplace. Participants throughout the tech sector are intently observing the developments, as the result could establish significant precedents for how app stores function and how developers interact with platform providers. Further updates are expected as both parties get ready to express their positions in the imminent days.

Read More