Author: sparta

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Trifold and Android XR Headset Scheduled for Launch This Year

Samsung has stopped hesitating.

(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Samsung’s XR headset is officially scheduled for release later this year, coinciding with the launch of the company’s tri-fold phone.
  • The TriFold will operate on Android XR, feature dual Micro OLEDs with eye tracking capabilities, and fold inward using two hinges.
  • Samsung also hinted that the Galaxy S25 FE and Tab S11 are anticipated to launch in the upcoming months.

In its Q2 2025 earnings call, Samsung validated that the Project Moohan XR headset is set to debut later this year. It will launch alongside a new tri-fold phone, preparing to make a direct challenge to Apple’s Vision Pro and providing Samsung with an edge that competitors currently lack.

In 2025, Samsung has already launched the Galaxy S25 series, Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and Galaxy Watch 8. Now, it has confirmed that a tri-fold phone is also on the horizon, aimed for release in the latter half of the year (via SeekingAlpha).

While we’ve been <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/more-evidence-of-samsungs-galaxy-z-trifold-hints-at-its-existence" data-before-rewrite-localise="https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/more-evidence-of-samsungs

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Apple Reaches Landmark with Sale of Three Billionth iPhone, As Per Tim Cook

**Apple Reaches Significant Achievement: Three Billion iPhones Distributed**

Apple has recently disclosed its fiscal Q3 2025 financial results, demonstrating remarkable growth and exceeding analyst predictions across numerous metrics, including revenue and earnings per share. A key highlight from the earnings conference was CEO Tim Cook’s announcement that Apple has officially distributed its three-billionth iPhone since the product’s launch in 2007.

This achievement is particularly remarkable as it highlights the iPhone’s lasting appeal and influence on the tech landscape. For reference, Apple achieved its one-billionth iPhone shipment in July 2016, nine years following the debut of the original iPhone. At that juncture, Cook underscored the iPhone’s position as “one of the most significant, transformative, and successful products in history.”

While Apple did not formally announce the shipment of its two-billionth iPhone, analysts estimate that this landmark was reached around September 2021. The absence of official announcements concerning unit sales since November 2018, when Apple stopped reporting these figures, has complicated the tracking of such milestones. The company’s then-CFO, Luca Maestri, noted that quarterly unit sales were not reflective of the overall health of the business.

During the recent earnings conference, Cook commented on the importance of the three-billionth shipment, stating, “We also recently marked a significant milestone. We shipped the 3 billionth iPhone since its launch in 2007.” This accomplishment showcases Apple’s ongoing innovation and the iPhone’s core role in the company’s product portfolio.

The iPhone continues to be a critical aspect of Apple’s business strategy, significantly influencing its revenue sources. As the company proceeds to enhance its product offerings and broaden its services, the iPhone’s legacy as a revolutionary device in the tech sector remains firmly established.

In summary, Apple’s accomplishment of shipping three billion iPhones stands as a testament to the device’s enduring impact and the company’s capability to adapt and prosper in a competitive landscape. As Apple progresses, it will be intriguing to observe how the iPhone continues to influence the future of technology and consumer electronics.

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Apple Announces $800 Million Rise in Costs Attributed to Tariffs Last Quarter, Expects More Than $1 Billion Effect in Q4

**Consequences of U.S. Tariff Conflict on Apple’s Operations: Insights from Q3 2025 Earnings Call**

In the current Q3 2025 earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook discussed the effects of the U.S. tariff conflict on the company’s business and offered forecasts for the next fiscal quarter, depending on the present tariff situation.

During the call, Cook disclosed that Apple faced about $800 million in costs associated with tariffs for the June quarter. Looking to the September quarter, he projected that, assuming global tariff rates and policies remain unchanged, the company might encounter an extra $1.1 billion in costs. Cook stressed that these projections should not be interpreted as fixed forecasts for future quarters due to the dynamic nature of trade regulations.

In the previous quarter, Apple had expected a $900 million impact from tariffs, making the $800 million for Q3 appear somewhat favorable. This decrease showcases Apple’s capacity to respond quickly to the changing circumstances, particularly by relocating a significant amount of U.S.-bound iPhone manufacturing from China to India.

Although Cook did not detail which products or areas experienced the most significant impact from the $800 million tariff cost, nor clarified if the anticipated $1.1 billion in Q4 expenses would be passed on to consumers, he mentioned that more information may come out later in the call.

In spite of the hurdles posed by tariffs, Apple announced a strong revenue of $94.04 billion for the June quarter, marking a 10% year-over-year increase, with significant growth in the iPhone, Mac, and Services sectors.

For a detailed analysis of Apple’s financial performance, additional information can be found in the complete earnings report linked in the original announcement.

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Meta’s AI Exhibits Remarkable Self-Enhancement Abilities

The CEO of Meta acknowledges that the enhancements are currently gradual, yet they are indisputable. While this may generate enthusiasm for certain individuals — like Zuckerberg — it poses a challenge for those advocating for improved AI safety regulations, particularly considering that some speculate that major tech companies are minimizing the dangers of AI altogether.

Zuckerberg continues to elaborate on the vision he has for AI as a”personal superintelligence” that enables a greater number of individuals, alongside Meta’s ambitions to distribute that power to as many users as possible. It appears to be a commendable objective, but what it effectively does is divert attention from a larger issue: AI is somehow evolving on its own.

Why self-improving AI is frightening

Apple Q3 2025 Financial Report: Revenue Hits $94.04 Billion, Signifying a 10% Growth (Charts Attached)

### Apple Q3 2025 Earnings Report

Apple has just released its earnings report for fiscal Q3 2025, which ended on June 29. The company recorded a stunning revenue of $94.04 billion, showing a 10% rise compared to the same quarter last year and exceeding the expected revenue of $89.22 billion. Below is a comprehensive overview of the financial performance.

#### Key Financial Metrics

– **Total Revenue**: $94.04 billion
– **Earnings Per Share (EPS)**: $1.57
– **Net Income**: $23.43 billion

#### Revenue Breakdown by Product Category

– **iPhone Revenue**: $44.58 billion
– **Mac Revenue**: $8.05 billion
– **iPad Revenue**: $6.58 billion
– **Wearables, Home, and Accessories Revenue**: $7.4 billion
– **Services Revenue**: $27.42 billion

#### Leadership Commentary

Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, voiced his pride in the company’s accomplishments, stating, “Today Apple is pleased to announce a record revenue for the June quarter with double-digit growth in iPhone, Mac, and Services, alongside growth across all geographic regions. At WWDC25, we were thrilled to showcase a stunning new software design that spans all of our platforms, and we introduced even more outstanding Apple Intelligence features.”

CFO Kevan Parekh remarked, “We are extremely satisfied with our record business performance for the June quarter, yielding an EPS growth of 12 percent. Our installed base of active devices has also reached a historic high across every product line and geographic area, due to our exceptional levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.”

#### Visual Representation

Apple’s Q3 2025 performance can be better understood through various charts that depict revenue growth and performance by product category.

#### Upcoming Events

For those keen on exploring the earnings call in detail, 9to5Mac will offer full coverage of the discussion featuring Tim Cook and Kevan Parekh. The live stream will be accessible [here](https://www.apple.com/investor/earnings-call/) starting at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET. Furthermore, Apple’s full earnings release can be found in

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Tim Cook Declares Boosted Commitment to AI and Possibility for Speedier Mergers and Acquisitions to Improve Roadmap

**Apple’s Q3 2025 Earnings Report: A Robust Performance and AI Aspirations**

Today, Apple disclosed its quarterly earnings, illustrating an exceptional performance that significantly surpassed Wall Street projections. The firm registered a notable 10% increase in year-over-year revenue, amounting to $94.04 billion. This favorable financial result demonstrates Apple’s resilience and agility in a competitive landscape.

Alongside the earnings announcement, Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the company’s escalating investments in artificial intelligence (AI). In a discussion with CNBC, Cook remarked, “We are substantially increasing our investments. We’re integrating it throughout our devices, platforms, and the company as a whole.” This declaration underscores Apple’s dedication to incorporating AI into its ecosystem, potentially enhancing user experience and operational productivity.

Cook disclosed that Apple has acquired about seven companies this year, although he pointed out that none of these acquisitions were particularly large in terms of financial ramifications. He conveyed a willingness to pursue mergers and acquisitions (M&A) that could expedite Apple’s AI roadmap, suggesting a strategic mindset to strengthen its capabilities in this vital sector.

Cook described AI as “one of the most significant technologies of our era,” emphasizing its capacity to revolutionize various sectors and daily life. However, these remarks arrive at a time when Apple is under scrutiny about its AI endeavors. Reports have emerged indicating difficulties within Apple’s AI initiatives, including a recent high-profile departure from its foundational models team to Meta’s “superintelligence” division. This marks the fourth significant exit from the team, raising worries about the stability and trajectory of Apple’s AI approach.

Apple Intelligence, which debuted last year, is poised to receive a variety of new features in the forthcoming iOS 26. Nevertheless, industry consensus indicates that Apple has considerable ground to cover in the AI arena, especially when contrasted with the progress made by rivals like OpenAI and Google. Setbacks in improving Siri’s capabilities have further intensified this perception, highlighting the urgency for Apple to innovate and close the gap.

As Apple continues to maneuver through the intricacies of AI development, the tech community remains keen to observe how the company will utilize its resources and expertise to achieve significant advancements in this transformative sector. Tim Cook’s remarks reflect a vision for a future where AI holds a central position in Apple’s offerings, but the journey ahead will demand strategic execution and creativity.

In summary, while Apple’s latest earnings report attests to its financial viability, the company’s aspirations in AI will be closely monitored as it aims to position itself as a leader in this swiftly changing landscape.

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Possible Worth of Your PS1 in 2025

PS5 Pro system. While some gamers are only just acquiring their initial PlayStation console, many have been dedicated fans since the original PlayStation, referred to as the PS1. Developed by Sony, it debuted in Japan in 1994 and then made its way to North America and Europe in 1995, achieving remarkable success. If you happen to own a PS1 console collecting dust at your place and no longer wish to use it, what could it potentially be worth?

The value you can receive for your PlayStation 1 standard console is approximately $40, which is not significant. The PS1 amazed players with its fully developed 3D environments, enhanced graphics, and more extensive games overall thanks to the CD-ROM format. Several of its titles are still regarded as treasured classics today, including Tomb Raider, Final Fantasy 7, Resident Evil 2, Silent Hill, and Metal Gear Solid. Nonetheless, depending on the state and the particular PS1 console — along with the games — you possess, it could hold much greater value.

What is the value of your PlayStation 1?

Meta Creates VR Headsets That Mimic Smart Glasses in Reaction to Consumer Interest

In 2025, Meta’s Reality Labs division is undergoing a substantial transformation in its hardware sales income, transitioning from virtual reality (VR) headsets to artificial intelligence (AI) glasses. This change is redefining the company’s strategy towards extended reality (XR) technologies.

Although Meta saw unprecedented Christmas sales in 2024 for its VR and augmented reality (AR) offerings, the subsequent year has revealed a marked shift. The company’s CFO, Susan Li, announced that revenue growth was chiefly fueled by a rise in sales of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, while Quest headset sales experienced a downturn. This shift was underscored in both the Q1 and Q2 2025 earnings discussions, signaling a change in consumer preferences.

Looking forward, Meta’s Reality Labs is gearing up for an important year with the expected launch of new smart glasses, including an additional pair of Oakley Meta glasses, a third iteration of Ray-Ban Meta Smart glasses, and the firm’s inaugural smart glasses featuring a display in the lenses.

The Quest 4, which was originally set for launch, has been delayed in order to introduce a revamped design akin to goggles rather than a conventional VR headset. This modification mirrors Meta’s strategic emphasis on smart glasses to enhance XR hardware revenue, particularly with the forthcoming rollout of Android XR.

The Quest 3 series has not achieved the sales figures of its predecessor, the Quest 2, which surpassed Xbox in units sold. Meta’s updated Horizon Store and commitment to transparency with developers have yet to yield the anticipated sales numbers. Nevertheless, collaborations with prominent brands such as Xbox have enhanced the visibility of the Quest brand.

In contrast, AI glasses have experienced considerable progress. By February 2025, Meta had sold over 2 million Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses and intends to ramp up production to 10 million per year. These glasses are priced comparably to the Meta Quest 3S but are less costly to produce, making them a profitable item for Meta.

The favorable reception of AI glasses came as a surprise, given that Meta AI was not prepared for the initial release in October 2023. However, by April 2024, the product had markedly improved, resulting in heightened sales throughout 2024.

Meta’s future plans include evolving VR headsets to resemble glasses, with various prototypes currently in the works. The Meta Quest 4 is anticipated to take on the appearance of Meta Orion smart glasses, providing a more attractive option for consumers who are hesitant to utilize conventional VR headsets.

To summarize, Meta’s transition from VR headsets to AI glasses is transforming its Reality Labs division, with smart glasses emerging as a vital revenue source. The company’s commitment to AR/VR technology positions it to introduce cutting-edge products ahead of its rivals, with significant potential for ongoing expansion in the smart glasses sector.

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iPhone 17 Pro: Camera Enhancements, Cost Details, and Extra Features Clarified

### Rumor Replay: Latest Apple Product Speculations

This is **Rumor Replay**, a weekly feature at *9to5Mac* providing a brief summary of the latest speculations regarding Apple products, along with insights and commentary. Today: upgrades to the iPhone 17 Pro camera, pricing details, colors, and more. Below are this week’s Apple speculations.

#### iPhone 17 Pro-Exclusive Camera Enhancements

Referencing an unnamed source, *MacRumors* stated that three camera enhancements exclusive to the iPhone 17 Pro are on the way:

1. 8x telephoto zoom
2. Additional Camera Control button at the top of the device
3. New ‘pro camera’ application

Additionally, a prototype iPhone 17 Pro unit observed in the wild may support the Camera Control assertion.

##### My Thoughts

Assessing this is challenging. On one side, it’s tempting to disregard an anonymous informant lacking a proven history of Apple leaks. Yet, their insistence that *MacRumors* omit their employer’s name adds credibility to the leak. While the prototype seen in the wild lacks definitive proof, it does provide a bit more credibility to the claim. I anticipate Apple will heavily focus on features for true “pros” this year, although I’m uncertain if the addition of an 8x telephoto lens or another Camera Control button genuinely qualifies. Overall, I remain quite doubtful of these assertions, but not entirely dismissive.

#### Complete iPhone 17 Color Range in Prototype Models

While discussions about the anticipated iPhone 17 color selection are nothing new, this week we got our first solid glimpses of prototype models showcasing the new hues. Majin Bu released a video displaying the iPhone 17 Pro colors, followed by Sonny Dickson posting an image of the complete iPhone 17 model range featuring nearly all its rumored colors.

##### My Thoughts

Prototype models rarely capture the true appearance of Apple’s final product, but these are the clearest views we’ve had of what to expect. My primary observation is that iPhone 17 Pro models appear poised to feature more ‘fun’ colors compared to other models for the first time in years. The orange and dark blue shades seem particularly vibrant, whereas the base colors for the iPhone 17 and 17 Air appear more subdued.

#### Anticipated Price Hikes for (Most) iPhone 17 Models

This week, an analyst ignited speculation regarding iPhone 17 pricing ahead of Apple’s earnings. He forecasted that the iPhone 17 Pro, Pro Max, and Air will see $50 price hikes compared to last year’s equivalent models. This likely means a price of $949 for the Air. However, the base iPhone 17 is expected to remain at $799.

##### My Thoughts

In recent years, Apple has been very careful with increasing flagship iPhone prices. However, given possible tariff implications and the introduction of an ultra-thin model, it seems probable that this is the year prices will finally rise. Frankly, $50 increases are not as severe as I was anticipating.

#### Apple Card, Likely Backed by Chase

In line with earlier expectations, *The Wall Street Journal* reported this week that Apple and Chase are nearing an agreement for Apple Card. Current Apple Card partner Goldman Sachs has openly shown a desire to exit the business, and Chase has consistently appeared to be the leading candidate for replacement.

##### My Thoughts

This is not at all surprising, but it does suggest we’re getting closer to an agreement being reached. It’s unclear how the change in financial institutions might affect Apple Card users, but hopefully, Apple will maintain the same kind of features and assurances it currently offers.

What are your reflections on this week’s Apple speculations? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Spotify’s Age Verification System Could Result in Account Loss

new assistance article details the complete procedure, including the potential consequences of not utilizing the system.

Additionally, we’ve noticed that Google is implementing AI-driven age verification on its platforms, which will restrict the types of content accessible to users overall. The troubling aspect of Spotify’s approach, however, is that if the age verification process concludes you do not fulfill the minimum age criteria for your market, your account may be suspended and ultimately erased. As is often the case with systems requiring users to verify their identities, many individuals have expressed their frustrations regarding Spotify’s decision on Reddit and various other platforms.

Ways to prevent losing your Spotify account