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Apple Allocates Premium Expenses to Shift iPhone Manufacturing from China During Major Milestone

Apple’s Transition in iPhone Manufacturing: A Strategy Focusing on India

In recent years, Apple has made notable advancements in diversifying its iPhone production from China, signifying a crucial change in its manufacturing approach. This shift is not solely a response to geopolitical issues but also a strategic decision to boost operational strength and lessen risks linked to dependency on a single nation for manufacturing.

Apple’s 50/50 Target

At present, the bulk of iPhones are still assembled in China; nevertheless, Apple has been diligently striving to ramp up production in other locations, most notably India. The company’s ambitious target is to hit a 50% production balance between China and India within the upcoming year. This target underscores Apple’s dedication to establishing India as its secondary manufacturing center, which has gained traction in recent times.

A key achievement in this endeavor was marked when Apple successfully launched simultaneous production of the iPhone 17 series in both India and China. Previously, production in India would trail that of China, but this transition signifies a more unified approach to manufacturing across different areas.

Reportedly Halfway There

Recent updates indicate that Apple is making significant headway towards its goal. According to a Bloomberg article, Apple has achieved roughly 25% of its iPhone production in India, effectively hitting the midway mark in its aim. The company boosted its iPhone output in India by around 53% last year, assembling close to 55 million units in 2025, up from 36 million the year before. This increase aligns with Apple’s larger strategy to produce between 220 million and 230 million iPhones globally each year.

Apple Paying a Premium

Despite reaching this milestone, Apple encounters challenges related to the expenses of manufacturing iPhones in India. Reports suggest that the company is incurring higher costs for production in India compared to China. To manage these expenses, Apple has been negotiating for tax benefits and incentives with the Indian government. Importantly, Apple has successfully evaded tax obligations on production equipment supplied to local contract manufacturers, which could help ease some financial strains.

Conclusion

Apple’s strategic pivot in iPhone manufacturing mirrors a broader trend among multinational companies aiming to diversify their supply networks. By expanding its manufacturing presence in India, Apple seeks to lessen its reliance on China while navigating the intricacies of global trade and tariffs. As the company progresses towards its 50/50 production target, the effects on both Apple and the global smartphone sector will be closely monitored in the years ahead.

Apple Items Ceased Production in 2026: A Catalog of 7 Products

20 leaked Apple devices to anticipate in 2026. This also indicates that numerous older products will be removed from the lineup. In January, Apple ceased sales of its first-generation item tracker in favor of a new AirTag featuring several significant enhancements. Then in March, the company unveiled multiple new products that are set to replace former generations.

Within just a few days, Apple revealed the all-new iPhone 17e with MagSafe charging, a revamped MacBook Air powered by an M5 processor, M5 Pro and M5 Max versions of the MacBook Pro, and an incredibly affordable laptop series called the MacBook Neo, which will launch on March 11. As if these launches weren’t sufficient, Apple also presented the iPad Air M4, debuting just a year after the M3 variant was rolled out, along with two fresh displays that broaden the Studio Display brand while discontinuing the Pro Display XDR line. Here’s all you need to grasp about these phased-out products and their replacements.

First-generation AirTag

Crucial Hi-Fi Devices for Every Audiophile’s Desire List

this cutting-edge music creation device, for instance. While the majority of the gadgets featured in this list are ultimate selections, we will explore a broad spectrum of use cases that encompass dedicated music enjoyment as well as general movies and entertainment.

KEF LSX II Wireless HiFi Speaker System

In the realm of high-fidelity speakers, several brands consistently arise in the audiophile sector, such as Klipsch, Sonus Faber, Bowers & Wilkins, and naturally KEF. KEF is recognized for some of its premium passive speaker models that truly provide excellent headroom and response when paired with a quality amplifier.

For this recommendation, however, we’re opting for the LSX II wireless speaker system for several reasons. The speaker showcases KEF’s

REDMAGIC Hints at Upcoming Compact Gaming Tablet, Sparking Enthusiasm

Redmagic, a leading name in the gaming technology realm, has recently generated buzz among tech aficionados with a teaser for its forthcoming product. The company has suggested the launch of a new gaming tablet, the “Gaming Tablet 5 Pro,” which is set to be a compact yet powerful addition to their offerings. This announcement was presented on Redmagic’s Weibo page, displaying the gadget grasped by a robotic hand, indicating a sleek and avant-garde design.

The teaser arrives amidst the excitement of MWC 2026, attracting the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. The previous iteration, the Redmagic Astra, boasted a 9-inch display with a 165Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid gameplay. The upcoming Gaming Tablet 5 Pro is anticipated to uphold this trend of high-performance gaming devices, possibly incorporating Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC.

While the precise launch date is still unverified, rumors hint at a potential summer debut, following the trajectory of prior releases. The Redmagic Astra was unveiled in China in June, followed by a global rollout. Anticipation is building for the Gaming Tablet 5 Pro, as Redmagic continues to produce devices that meet the needs of mobile gamers, harmonizing performance with affordability. As the company urges its audience to “stay tuned,” the tech community eagerly looks forward to further news on this exciting new tablet.

Discovering Your Choices: A Handbook for the Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Gadgets

It’s been slightly more than a week since Samsung revealed the [Galaxy S26 series](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/samsung-galaxy-s26-series-hands-on), and now that things have calmed down, we want to find out which model you intend to purchase. Are you leaning towards the smallest Galaxy S26, the larger mid-range Galaxy S26 Plus, or the top-tier Galaxy S26 Ultra? Participate in our latest poll and tell us which model you’re opting for and why (or why you might decide against buying any of the Galaxy S26 models).

### What’s in store with the Galaxy S26 models

![Galaxy S26 series](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/kE5RwCUtEv5PuZ3cZDfRkZ-1200-80.jpg.webp)

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series doesn’t vary drastically from its predecessor regarding design. However, there are several significant changes among the devices, such as a more cohesive design language and an updated camera layout with the main trio of sensors arranged in a vertical housing.

In addition to the design, there are several noteworthy spec updates for each device. The S26 series utilizes the [Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/snapdragon-8-elite-gen-5-hands-the-galaxy-s26-the-ai-upgrade-weve-been-waiting-for), which demonstrates remarkable improvements over Qualcomm’s previous flagship chipset. As usual, the base S26 and Plus will come with the [Exynos 2600](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/samsung-exynos-2600-official) in select regions.

The baseline Galaxy S26 remains the most compact model, yet its display size has grown from 6.2 to 6.3 inches compared to the [Galaxy S25](https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy-s25-review). It also boasts a larger 4,300mAh battery and 256GB of base storage, which is double that of its predecessor.

![Galaxy S26 Plus](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/V6QbhnsqsqAAcYEqQ84jhZ-1200-80.jpg.webp)

The Galaxy S26 Plus undergoes the fewest alterations this generation, featuring quicker 20W wireless charging. Otherwise, it remains largely unchanged from its predecessor apart from the new Snapdragon chipset. Nevertheless, it still offers a sizable battery, fast 45W charging, and a huge display for those who require extra screen space.

Then we have the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which introduces the first Privacy Display on a smartphone. This innovative feature utilizes a distinct pixel arrangement on the display to conceal content from passersby. It can also be customized to work exclusively on certain applications or just on notifications, eliminating the need for a separate privacy screen protector.

The Galaxy S26 also showcases enhanced primary and telephoto cameras, with wider apertures for improved nighttime and low-light photography.

![Galaxy S26 Ultra](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/dXJr2dw5WWNdcAAaLxxPyW-1200-80.jpg.webp)

Naturally, these new smartphones are also equipped with enhancements to Galaxy AI, featuring an upgraded Circle to Search, a better conversational Bixby, new AI photo-editing capabilities, and an agentic [Gemini](https://www.androidcentral.com/tag/gemini) that can complete tasks on your behalf.

All of this appears and sounds impressive, although keep in mind that the prices for the S26 and S26 Plus have increased by $100 in the U.S., meaning you’re paying a higher premium for these enhancements.

So, which device are you excited to purchase, if any? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts! And if you’re planning to buy one, don’t forget to check our compilation of Galaxy S26 preorder deals.

Expecting the US Release of the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro Featuring Its E-Paper Display

It’s challenging to regard eye-friendly displays as credible when they are not present in North American flagship phones. TCL is beginning to alter that.

Contemporary smartphone screens, even the top OLEDs, aren’t flawless. They can flicker, typically due to low pulse-width modulation (PWM) rates, which may be bothersome or even painful for some users. Additionally, they aren’t optimal for usage in direct sunlight, as their glossy glass surfaces can cause glare, restricting visibility. If you wish to utilize your phone as an e-reader or reduce distractions, many flagships fall short in delivering the paper-like visual effects essential for an optimal experience.

One brand seeking to tackle these issues is TCL, although its devices seldom reach the U.S. I made an effort to purchase the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G, a budget model that was actually available in the States, and had to navigate slow performance, a limited camera system, and lower-end build quality. At MWC 2026, TCL unveiled the NXTPAPER 70 Pro, which is a significantly better option set to launch in the U.S. next month.

I had a chance to experience the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro firsthand, and if you give it a try, you might find it offers impressive features compared to your current device. Between the visually accessible display and integrated digital minimalism functionalities, the NXTPAPER 70 Pro could redefine how you interact with your smartphone.

Most devices aim to grab your attention as much as possible, enticing you with vivid colors, relentless notifications, and a plethora of distractions. In contrast, TCL’s forthcoming phone features a unique slider that enables you to filter out the noise instantly.

A lesser-known advantage of NXTPAPER phones is their integrated matte glass display. While most phones have a glossy finish that attracts fingerprints and increases glare, a matte screen protector can solve this issue—but it usually requires settling for a lower-quality plastic film. With this design, you enjoy the luxurious feel and resilience of glass while benefiting from anti-smudge and anti-glare properties.

TCL presented a compelling demonstration at IFA 2025 that illustrated the contrast between a NXTPAPER matte screen and a conventional glossy display in difficult lighting scenarios. The drawback? The flagship showcased, the NXTPAPER 60 Ultra, never made it to the U.S. This enhances the excitement surrounding the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro.

For the typical user, the key feature is the NXTPAPER key. It cycles through four color options: full color, Color Paper Mode, Ink Paper Mode, and Max Ink Mode. It’s crucial to clarify that this isn’t an e-ink display, but it effectively simulates that appearance through an LCD. Nevertheless, it does an impressive job. Color Paper Mode transforms the phone into a Kindle Colorsoft with a paper-like look and subdued colors, whereas Ink Paper Mode creates a similar aesthetic in a black-and-white setting.

Max Ink Mode is particularly fascinating. This mode not only provides a paper-like black-and-white viewing experience but also restricts app access and notifications. The intention is to allow you to use your phone as an e-reader devoid of distractions from other applications, such as social media or messaging apps. It’s akin to having a minimalist device that can switch to a fully-featured Android flagship with a simple toggle.

In addition to enhancing focus, Max Ink Mode significantly boosts battery life. TCL claims that you can achieve seven days of usage from the NXTPAPER 70 Pro when operating in Max Ink Mode for reading. In standby, the phone can last an impressive 26 days. We’ll need to verify these assertions ourselves, but based on my experiences with Max Ink Mode in previous NXTPAPER devices, I have confidence in those figures.

For individuals sensitive to PWM flicker, the fact that this smartphone provides a genuinely flicker-free experience will feel refreshing. The device utilizes DC dimming, with brightness adjustable down to 1 nit. It’s also designed to minimize blue light exposure and complies with several eye-friendly certifications:

– Low Visual Fatigue A+2.1 SGS certification
– Dim-Light Eye Protection SGS certification
– Flicker Free TÜV Certification

The noteworthy features extend beyond merely the eye-friendly display, as purchasing a NXTPAPER phone in the U.S. generally meant making sacrifices in various other aspects. In this scenario, you get a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, a 5,200mAh battery, and storage options up to 512GB. The main camera is a dependable 50MP sensor complemented by an 8MP ultrawide lens. On the front, there’s a 32MP selfie camera.

The design of the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro is commendable, although it somewhat resembles the Samsung