Author: sparta

Apple Anticipates Unprecedented Holiday Quarter in Its Corporate History

Apple has recently disclosed its quarterly earnings for Q4 2025, showcasing a record revenue of $102.47 billion, representing an 8% increase from the same timeframe last year. The company has also indicated an even greater milestone anticipated in the forthcoming holiday quarter.

### Apple Forecasting 10-12% Growth During Holidays for Record Quarter

The iPhone 17 series has demonstrated strong demand, contributing to positive projections for the next quarter ending in December. Apple CEO Tim Cook remarked, “We anticipate total company revenue to increase by 10 to 12% year over year, we project iPhone revenue to rise by double digits, year over year, and we foresee that making the December quarter the best in the company’s history.” This growth outlook is considerably more optimistic than analysts’ predictions, which had earlier estimated revenue of $132.31 billion for the holiday quarter.

Should Apple attain an 11% growth, it could result in around $136.73 billion in revenue, exceeding previous forecasts. Last year, the holiday quarter set a benchmark for Apple with $124.30 billion in total revenue, and with the iPhone 17 series outperforming its predecessor, the iPhone 16, anticipations for ongoing success remain elevated.

The strong reception of the new iPhone models, launched in September, has strengthened Apple’s confidence in its guidance for the upcoming quarter. The projections suggest that Apple is prepared to not only meet but possibly surpass its previous financial records.

### Conclusion

Apple’s recent earnings report and positive forecasts for the holiday quarter underscore the company’s strong performance and the appeal of its products. As the iPhone 17 continues to attract attention, analysts and investors will be keenly observing to determine if Apple can reach its ambitious growth goals.

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9to5Mac Daily: October 30, 2025 – Update on AirPods Pro Litigation and Other Updates

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Go-To Source for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapid-moving realm of technology, keeping abreast of the latest updates and trends is crucial, particularly for Apple aficionados. 9to5Mac Daily presents a handy way to stay informed on the day’s leading stories, furnishing listeners with thoughtful commentary and analysis on Apple-centric issues.

**Podcast Accessibility**

Listeners can tune into 9to5Mac Daily via multiple platforms, such as [iTunes](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/9to5mac-daily/id1331816080), Apple’s Podcasts app, [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), and through a [dedicated RSS feed](https://feedpress.me/9to5macdaily) for Overcast and other podcast applications. New episodes are produced every weekday, ensuring that subscribers receive prompt updates on the latest activities within the Apple ecosystem.

**Sponsorship and Deals**

The podcast is backed by CardPointers, a service crafted to assist users in maximizing their credit card rewards. Fans of 9to5Mac Daily can benefit from an exclusive deal, obtaining a 30% discount and a $100 Savings Card, making it an excellent tool for individuals aiming to boost their financial gains.

**Content Highlights**

Every episode of 9to5Mac Daily explores the most urgent stories influencing Apple users and the broader tech landscape. From product unveilings and software enhancements to industry evaluations and insider insights, the podcast addresses a comprehensive array of topics pertinent to its audience.

**Subscription Choices**

For those seeking to enrich their listening journey, subscribing to 9to5Mac Daily Plus provides various perks, including ad-free episode versions and access to extra content. This subscription model sustains the podcast and enables listeners to enjoy a more seamless experience.

**Engagement and Feedback**

Listeners are invited to express their opinions and feedback regarding the podcast. They can get in touch via email at

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Tim Cook Unveils Broadened AI Integrations for Apple Expanding Beyond OpenAI

### Apple’s Standing in the AI Sphere: Insights from Tim Cook

Alongside Apple’s Q4 earnings conference call, CEO Tim Cook discussed the company’s current position and future ambitions in the artificial intelligence (AI) realm during an interview with CNBC. His statements illuminated Apple’s persistent endeavors and hurdles in embedding AI technologies within its ecosystem.

#### Expansion Aspirations on the Agenda

Apple’s recent collaboration with OpenAI marks a key advancement in its AI strategy, as emphasized by Craig Federighi, Senior Vice President of Software. Federighi pointed out that Apple plans to incorporate various AI models, including Google’s Gemini, into its offerings. This announcement surfaced in the context of Google’s antitrust challenges, implying that both entities might be anticipating judicial outcomes before solidifying partnerships.

Even with the favorable resolution of Google’s antitrust matters, Apple has yet to verify any new alliances with AI providers. Nonetheless, the company is eagerly gearing up for the rollout of Model Context Protocol (MCP) across its platforms, such as iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. MCP, crafted by Anthropic, aims to promote interoperability between diverse AI models and user applications.

Moreover, Apple is broadening its Image Playground feature to accommodate additional third-party AI models beyond just ChatGPT. However, definitive plans for further collaborations have yet to be revealed. When asked by CNBC, Cook mentioned that Apple aspires to work with more partners over time, although he refrained from providing specific information.

#### 9to5Mac’s Perspective

Cook’s comments arise amid Apple’s efforts to tackle its perceived deficiencies in the AI sector. While the company has successfully launched machine learning features—such as car crash detection, real-time translation through AirPods, and high blood pressure alerts on the Apple Watch—there is an increasing public demand for more sophisticated, interactive AI offerings. These offerings, often leveraging large language models (LLMs), are anticipated to carry out tasks on behalf of users.

Apple has encountered setbacks in meeting timelines for new AI functionalities and has witnessed a significant talent drain, with essential AI staff departing for rivals such as Meta, OpenAI, and Anthropic. Cook’s ambiguous promise of collaborating with additional partners does little to ease worries surrounding Apple’s immediate AI strategy. It serves as a reminder that tangible advancements and short-term initiatives remain undisclosed, particularly following a company-wide meeting designed to reassure employees about Apple’s dedication to AI progress.

As the sector advances, a pressing question lingers: Is Apple poised to announce a novel AI partnership? The excitement persists as stakeholders await greater insights into Apple’s AI strategy.

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Sales Catalysts in Apple’s Q4 2025: Examining Upgraders Versus Newcomers by Product Segment

On the earnings conference call today, Apple CEO Tim Cook and CFO Kevan Parekh provided insights into the sales performance of the company’s key product categories for Q4 2025. Below is a comprehensive summary of the insights shared.

### iPad

While discussing iPad revenue, Parekh pointed out that sales remained unchanged compared to the previous year, indicating a tough comparison with the same quarter last year when the release of new iPad Air and iPad Pro models significantly drove up sales. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the performance was better than anticipated.

Parekh remarked, “The install base hit an all-time record with a September quarter high for upgraders, and over half of the customers who bought an iPad in the quarter were new to the product.” This shows that despite record upgrades, a significant portion of iPad sales went to first-time buyers.

### Apple Watch

Apple does not report Apple Watch revenue as a separate figure, choosing instead to categorize it under “Wearables, Home, and Accessories.” Still, Parekh reiterated a familiar point: most sales of the Apple Watch were to newcomers. He commented, “Both the Apple Watch and AirPods install bases attained new all-time highs. More than half of the customers acquiring an Apple Watch in the quarter were new to the product. Additionally, we set a September record for upgrades on the Apple Watch.” This indicates that the Apple Watch is continuing to broaden its user base, signifying strong demand from new users.

### Mac

The Mac category saw a 13% year-over-year rise in revenue, although Parekh did not go into great detail about this segment. He noted, “the Mac install base achieved another all-time high, with nearly half of those who bought a Mac being first-time purchasers.” This suggests that, unlike the iPad and Apple Watch, the majority of Mac customers were existing users choosing to upgrade instead of new customers transitioning from different platforms.

### iPhone

For the quarter that concluded on September 27, the iPhone brought in $49 billion in revenue, which marks a 6% rise from the same quarter last year. Parekh mentioned that this represented a slight 1% increase from Q4 2024, which indicates stable sales as the new iPhone season approaches. He stated, “the iPhone active install base surged to an all-time high, and we established a September quarter record for upgraders.” Similar to the Mac, this suggests that the majority of iPhone sales were driven by existing users upgrading their devices rather than new customers moving from Android.

### Summary

In summary, although every product category witnessed unprecedented highs in their install user bases, the sales dynamics differed. Most sales of iPhones and Macs stemmed from upgrades, while a significant portion of iPad and Apple Watch sales were credited to first-time buyers. This trend underscores Apple’s capability to draw in new users while also retaining and upgrading their current customer base.

Did you upgrade or acquire an Apple product for the first time last quarter? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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Google’s Pixel Watch 4: The Smartwatch We’ve Been Looking Forward to for Years

**Android Central Verdict: Google Pixel Watch 4**

**Rating: 4 out of 5 stars**

Google has been working towards a water-droplet smartwatch for quite some time, and the Pixel Watch 4 has finally arrived. The domed, 3,000-nit display may feel odd at first but quickly becomes appealing, especially when combined with the transformative Wear OS 6 update. Minor battery enhancements and significant charging improvements ensure you won’t find yourself needing to remove the Watch 4 often. Additionally, there are considerable advancements in fitness tracking and the Gemini experience.

**Pros:**
– Wear OS 6 is exceptional
– Minor battery improvement along with faster charging
– Eye-catching domed design with an extended display
– Dual-frequency GPS offers notably better accuracy
– Gemini Raise to Wake operates effortlessly
– Newly designed for easier repairs

**Cons:**
– Design lacks ruggedness, does not feature sapphire glass
– Expensive Fitbit Premium subscription after trial period
– The dome of the display might not be to everyone’s liking

**Why you can trust Android Central:**
Our specialized reviewers dedicate extensive time to testing and comparing products and services to help you make the best choice for yourself.

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Google Unveils Surprising October Update for Pixel Users

Not the one you’ve been anticipating, however

(Image credit: Derrek Lee / Android Central)

Essential information

  • Google has surprisingly initiated a second October 2025 update for Pixel smartphones, which encompasses the Pixel 10.
  • The minor 30MB update primarily enhances performance and introduces no new significant features or alterations.
  • It’s likely that Google accelerated this update to address a critical security vulnerability prior to the November launch.
  • The substantial update in November is anticipated to incorporate theme packs, GIF creation in Pixel Studio, and additional tools.

Note

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Tim Cook Provides Update on Advancement Progress of Next-Generation Siri

### Apple’s Upcoming Siri: What to Anticipate

During the latest earnings call, CEO Tim Cook shared an update regarding the highly awaited next-generation Siri. He showed enthusiasm about the advancements being made toward a more tailored Siri experience, with an expectation for a launch next year. This remark aligns with earlier statements from Cook, reinforcing the company’s dedication to improving its virtual assistant.

#### Advancements in Personalization

Cook highlighted that Apple is “making impressive strides” in crafting a more personalized Siri experience. The confirmation of a release timeline is especially notable, considering prior delays in Siri’s enhancement. The company has encountered criticism for failing to achieve earlier expectations concerning Siri’s functions, making this affirmation a comforting sign for both investors and users.

#### AI Features and Innovations

Alongside the Siri update, Cook showcased several AI features that Apple has adeptly implemented into its offerings. Among these is the Workout Buddy feature for Apple Watch, which utilizes AI to deliver personalized insights derived from users’ workout data and fitness backgrounds. Additional features include Live Translation for seamless real-time communication across languages and Visual Intelligence to enrich users’ learning and exploration capabilities.

Cook mentioned that these developments are part of a larger strategy to embed AI into daily activities, ensuring features remain robust, intuitive, and private. The implementation of on-device foundational models is also allowing developers to craft new user experiences, further enhancing Apple’s ecosystem.

#### Issues and Future Directions

Despite the optimistic perspective, there are indications of internal worries regarding the performance of the forthcoming Siri version among Apple staff testing iOS 26.4. As the company intends to unveil this new version concurrently with the update, the timeline is still liable to adjustments based on continuous testing and input.

#### Conclusion

As Apple progresses in refining Siri and broadening its AI functionalities, the approaching year is set to be crucial for the company’s virtual assistant. With an emphasis on personalization and groundbreaking features, Apple seeks to elevate user experience while tackling past critiques. The tech community will be keenly observing how these advancements develop in the upcoming months.

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Top 5 Highly-Rated Electronics on Amazon Priced Below $10

Addtam outlet extender is an excellent purchase at only $9.99. It converts one duplex wall outlet into six widely spaced AC outlets, in addition to four dedicated USB ports (including two USB-C). This allows you to connect bulkier adapters and charge smartphones, tablets, or other devices without requiring a separate USB wall charger. It can charge up to 10 electronic devices at once. Furthermore, it features built-in surge protection to shield your devices from damage due to power fluctuations.

It has achieved an impressive rating of 4.7/5 from more than 7,000 customer reviews, highlighting the value it provides for less than $10. Happy customers have endorsed its usefulness as a fantastic addition to various rooms in the home, like the living room and bathroom. It’s

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Retroid Unveils Pocket 6, Fulfilling Community Anticipations for an Alternative Gadget

It’s been quite an eventful week for Retroid.

(Image credit: Retroid)

Essential Information

  • Retroid has unveiled the Pocket G2 along with the Pocket 6.
  • The Pocket G2 is currently available for purchase, and will be on sale for the upcoming two weeks.
  • Following its initial announcement of the Pocket 6, Retroid changed its stance based on community input.

Surprisingly, it has been nearly a year since Retroid introduced the Pocket 5 and Pocket Mini. Both devices were equipped with the Snapdragon 865, categorizing them as the most advanced gaming handhelds from the company. Earlier this week, two new models were launched, with the Pocket G2 and Pocket 6 set to be the upcoming flagship devices from Retroid.

Beginning with the Pocket G2, this device is fundamentally the Retroid Pocket 5, but features a new design and enhanced internal components. Specifically, the Snapdragon 865 is swapped out for the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, which was announced at GDC 2025 alongside the G3 Gen 3 and G1 Gen 2. Performance-wise, the G2 Gen 2 appears to sit between the Snapdragon 865 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.

<div

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Google Maps Unveils New Battery-Saving Feature for Improved Performance

New Energy-Saving Mode Converts Google Maps to Monochrome for Extended Battery Life

Google Maps is finally addressing its battery consumption issue with a new power-saving mode that prioritizes navigation when your device is low on battery. This feature intends to display only vital information such as upcoming turns, distance, and ETA while minimizing visual distractions. Maps will transition to a monochrome setting, eliminating colors and additional UI components to decrease power usage.

Google Maps tends to drain battery life. While it’s the application you depend on most when you’re lost or on a lengthy journey, it’s also the one that can rapidly deplete your battery, potentially leaving you with a dead screen. Although your phone’s overall battery saver mode aims to assist, it frequently exacerbates the situation by restricting GPS functionality precisely when you need it most.

Google has evidently listened to our shared concerns, as the company appears to be developing a specialized power-saving mode integrated directly into the Google Maps app for Android, employing a rigorous strategy to maintain your phone’s charge.

Initial code discovered by the team at Android Authority implies a complete reimagining of how Maps functions when your battery is low. The feature was noted in the latest Google Maps for Android (version 25.44.03.824313610), where code snippets mention a “Power saving mode” that presents solely “key information such as next turns.”

Rather than depending on your device’s general battery saver, Maps’ integrated mode is crafted to safeguard what is crucial: navigation. When activated, the display reportedly shifts to a monochrome view, removing its vibrant graphics and other interface features.

Stripped to the Essentials

The application continues to present key details like your next turn, distance, and estimated arrival time, but eliminates everything else to minimize power consumption. This new mode could be activated by pressing the power button during navigation, making its use quick and instinctive.

Preliminary code indicates this mode functions across driving, walking, and cycling navigation, although public transit routes may not be supported at this time. It also seems that this feature operates separately from Android’s system-wide battery saver, allowing its use at any time, even when the standard saver mode is disabled.

This could significantly benefit anyone needing Maps to last through extensive journeys or hikes. However, there are a few drawbacks. Landscape mode might not be operational, which could pose challenges for drivers who utilize their phones horizontally. The black-and-white interface may also obscure critical elements like traffic or highlighted routes, but it’s a reasonable exchange for enhanced battery longevity.

While there isn’t an official launch date available yet, it may preview in a future beta before making its way into the stable version. Once it becomes available, it could be one of those minor yet genuinely beneficial updates that make a significant improvement the next time you are navigating with 5% battery remaining and no charger available.

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