Author: sparta

CIRP Report: AirPods Gain Market Share Even With Overall Market Growth Stagnation

**AirPods: An Examination of Their Market Standing and Current Trends**

A recent analysis from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) shows that although AirPods remain the frontrunners in the wireless earbuds segment for iPhone users, Apple could be encountering difficulties with diminishing growth.

### From 59% to 57%, and Then Back Up

The analysis reveals that 44% of iPhone users currently own Bluetooth earbuds, marking a modest rise from 41% last year and 39% the year before. Out of these users, 59% have AirPods, which is a 2% uptick from last year but aligns with the same percentage recorded in 2023. This indicates that while Apple has reclaimed some market share, overall growth has plateaued over the last two years. Around 1 in 4 iPhone users utilize AirPods, suggesting potential market opportunities that Apple has not yet fully explored.

### Recent Discounts: Inventory Management or Tactical Initiative?

Notably, recent substantial discounts on AirPods during Amazon Prime Day were echoed by retailers like Best Buy and Walmart. AirPods Pro 2 were listed at $149, a significant drop from the typical price of $249. Though these discounts weren’t directly initiated by Apple, they might have been strategically arranged to enhance sales for one of two reasons:

1. There is speculation that Apple and Amazon are looking to clear AirPods inventory in anticipation of a new model launch.
2. Both entities may simply be aiming to boost sales volume, using their margin flexibility to provide competitive pricing.

The analysis further emphasizes that as the iPhone upgrade cycle extends, AirPods offer Apple a chance to capitalize on a product line that evolves more swiftly. AirPods are commonly reordered on platforms like Amazon, whether to substitute lost items or to upgrade older models.

### Conclusion

While AirPods retain their position as the premier wireless earbuds for iPhone users, market dynamics indicate that Apple must address challenges related to growth and competition. The recent pricing tactics may indicate a proactive strategy to maintain sales momentum within a competitive environment.

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Prime Video’s Upcoming Thrilling Original Might Be the Next Reacher

Prime Video is preparing to launch an exhilarating new series, “Butterfly,” which has the potential to become its next major success after “Reacher.” Featuring Daniel Dae Kim, recognized for his performances in “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-O,” the series offers a captivating spy storyline interwoven with family themes and the ramifications of past choices lingering in the present. Kim portrays David Jung, a former U.S. intelligence operative residing in South Korea, whose previous decisions place him at risk from a young agent of a clandestine spy organization. “Butterfly” delves into identity, redemption, and the personal sacrifices tied to a life in espionage, reflecting the gripping tone of other Prime Video successes like “Reacher” and “The Terminal List.”

The series will be exclusively available on Prime Video, with all six episodes debuting on August 13. Daniel Dae Kim not only stars but also takes on the role of an executive producer, striving to merge American and Korean creative talents. The ensemble includes Reina Hardesty, Piper Perabo, and Louis Landau, complemented by prominent South Korean actors Park Hae-soo, Kim Ji-hoon, and Kim Tae-hee. Created by Ken Woodruff and novelist Steph Cha, “Butterfly” is inspired by a graphic novel by Arash Amel from BOOM! Studios.

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Google Search’s AI Mode Evolves into a Tailored Assistant

With your approval, it has the ability to contact businesses for price inquiries and availability!

(Photo credit: Google)

  • Google provided details on a new update for Search and AI Mode designed to enhance its effectiveness.
  • Google Search is now capable of making calls to businesses for pricing and appointment availability upon user request.
  • AI Mode is upgraded with Google’s more sophisticated Gemini 2.5 Pro model, which offers improved reasoning for mathematics and coding inquiries as well as Deep Search capabilities.

Google is initiating a significant update for its Search functionality, delivering a considerable enhancement to AI Mode.

A new update is being deployed today (July 15) focused on Google Search and its AI Mode, according to a Keyword update. With regards to the former, Google claims this update aims to position its AI to help users “complete tasks more quickly.” Nothing is quicker than allowing AI to contact businesses and schedule appointments on your behalf, which is what this update enables.

Google emphasizes the autonomous capabilities coming to Search, empowering its AI to call businesses for pricing and visit availability information. For those searching for a pet groomer, Google mentions that users should soon see a “Have AI check pricing” button directly underneath the map. The AI will then guide you through a “request.” It’s a brief questionnaire, allowing the AI to gather all necessary information about you and your pet before making the call.

Speculations Indicate Future iPhone Fold Will Boast Reduced Price and Super-Slim Design

### The Awaited iPhone Fold: Insights on Pricing and Design

As the tech industry prepares for the launch of the iPhone 17 series this autumn, the buzz regarding Apple’s forthcoming foldable device, the iPhone Fold, is already escalating. Latest rumors indicate that the iPhone Fold could be more budget-friendly and slimmer than previously assumed, sparking enthusiasm among Apple fans.

#### Pricing Forecasts for the iPhone Fold

Recent evaluations from UBS suggest that the iPhone Fold might be offered at a price point of approximately $1,800, which is considerably less than the earlier expected range of $2,000 to $2,400. This possible price adjustment is based on a teardown analysis of Samsung’s Z Fold SE, revealing a bill of materials (BOM) cost of $790. UBS estimates that Apple could attain a BOM cost of $759 by employing cost-reduction strategies on components like memory, application processors, and camera modules, even with the usage of high-quality materials that may increase casing and hinge expenses.

Analysts foresee that Apple’s cost management could enable a contribution margin of 53% to 58%, positioning the iPhone Fold’s pricing strategy in line with Samsung’s foldable offerings while still being above the iPhone 16 series. Despite analyst Ming Chi-Kuo’s earlier prediction of a price over $2,000, the revised predictions offer a more hopeful perspective for prospective purchasers.

#### Design Details: Apple’s Slimmest Product to Date

Aside from pricing, there are compelling updates on the design of the iPhone Fold. Ming Chi-Kuo had earlier indicated that the device would be between 9 to 9.5 mm thick when folded and 4.5 to 4.8 mm when opened. A recent disclosure from Weibo leaker Instant Digital supports these assertions, confirming that the iPhone Fold will be around 4.8 mm thick when unfolded. If true, this would designate the iPhone Fold as Apple’s slimmest device thus far, surpassing the current record holder, the 13-inch M4 iPad Pro, which stands at 5.1 mm.

Although the iPhone Fold may be bulkier than Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7, which measures 8.9 mm when folded, its design is still set to establish a new benchmark for slimness within Apple’s product range.

#### Conclusion

As Apple continues to enhance its foldable technology, the iPhone Fold is emerging as a noteworthy addition to its collection. With the chance of a more affordable price and an elegant design, the enthusiasm surrounding this device is palpable. As we look forward to further updates and official announcements, the tech community remains eager to witness how the iPhone Fold will transform the smartphone experience.

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Apple’s TV App Unveils Fresh Design in iOS 16 and tvOS 16: Major Enhancements and Capabilities

**Apple TV App Unveils Liquid Glass Aesthetic and Fresh Features in iOS 26 and tvOS 26**

Apple is poised to reveal a major overhaul of its TV app, centered around the “Liquid Glass” concept, as part of the forthcoming iOS 26 and tvOS 26 releases. This transformation arrives during a banner year for Apple TV+, highlighted by the return of hit series like “Slow Horses” and “The Morning Show” for new seasons.

### Key Aesthetic Updates

The redesign brings forth several important modifications aimed at bolstering user satisfaction:

– **Revamped Poster Graphics**: The TV app will showcase refreshed vertical poster graphics, offering a more cinematic appearance. This alteration not only updates the visual appeal but also enhances usability by presenting additional content on-screen at once.

– **Enhanced Content Display**: With the redesigned layout, users can anticipate seeing a greater array of shows and films showcased simultaneously, enriching the browsing experience and simplifying the discovery of fresh content.

– **Updated App Icon**: The app icon will undergo a transformation, corresponding with the overarching Liquid Glass motif and presenting a contemporary look.

– **Liquid Glass UI Components**: Specific user interface components, including buttons and menus, will embrace the Liquid Glass design, contributing a refined and contemporary flair to the app.

– **Reworked Playback Controls**: The video player controls will receive updates as well. The new transparent controls will hover over the video content, allowing users to view their films and shows without distraction.

### Improved Viewing Experience

The Liquid Glass design prominently benefits the video player controls. By being see-through, these controls guarantee that viewers can fully appreciate the action displayed while still having quick access to playback features. This considerate design decision elevates the overall viewing experience, making it more engaging.

### Conclusion

The forthcoming modifications to the Apple TV app in iOS 26 and tvOS 26 underscore Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience and adjusting to the changing landscape of digital media consumption. With the Liquid Glass theme, users can anticipate a visually impressive and functional app that enriches their viewing enjoyment. As the launch date nears, user feedback will be vital in guiding future enhancements and functionalities.

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Leaked Images Uncover Future Modifications for Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and Galaxy S25 FE

Samsung is said to be implementing subtle design modifications to its forthcoming devices, the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and Galaxy S25 FE. Leaked images indicate that the Tab S11 Ultra will incorporate a revamped selfie camera cutout resembling an Infinity-U display, akin to the more affordable Galaxy A26. This model may also see a slight battery enhancement, increasing to around 11,374mAh. Importantly, the absence of the S Pen slot on the rear has generated speculation regarding its possible relocation.

The Galaxy S25 FE seems to retain the design of the S25 series, with the main distinction being silver rings surrounding its triple camera setup instead of the bolder black rings found on flagship models. Both devices are rumored to launch soon, potentially in August or September, in line with Samsung’s upcoming product announcements. The Tab S11 Ultra is anticipated to be equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 9400 Plus chip, although its performance scores are reportedly not on par with those of smartphones. On the other hand, the Galaxy S25 FE has received Qi2 certification, with leaked visuals showcasing minor alterations to its camera design.

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Google Sets Date for Pixel 10 Launch Event on August 20

The upcoming Google Pixel series is fast approaching. Made by Google 2025 is officially scheduled for August 20, as revealed in the invitations sent out by Google on Wednesday. This year, the event will take place in New York City, following last year’s gathering in Google’s base of Mountain View, California. The tech giant stated on the invitation that it intends to present “the latest on our Pixel phones, watches, buds, and more.”

Regarding the timing, you can tune in to the Made by Google 2025 keynote live at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET on Wednesday, August 20. This is a week later than last year’s event, but still much earlier than in prior years. For example, Made by Google 2023 began on October 4, and in 2022, the event occurred on October 6.

What to anticipate at Made by Google 2025

There is no doubt that this year’s event will present the new Pixel series, likely featuring the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. The most significant enhancement over last year’s models will be the Tensor G5 chipset, mass produced by TSMC instead of Samsung. Initial reports suggest it’s a substantial upgrade from the Tensor G4.

On the other hand, fans hoping for a revamped appearance may feel let down. Leaks suggest that Google does not intend to implement any major design modifications to the phones this year. All four models appear nearly identical to their predecessors. This generation focuses on the improved performance of the chipset and the introduction of Android 16.

In addition to new phones, Google is also anticipated to reveal the Pixel Watch 4 — rumored to be slightly thicker than the third-generation model to accommodate a larger battery — and the more affordable Pixel Buds 2a wireless earbuds.

We will provide additional coverage leading up to the Pixel 10 launch event on August 20.

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Thinking Machines Lab Set to Introduce Initial AI Product Incorporating Major Open Source Element

I have been keeping an eye on Thinking Machines Lab ever since we learned that Mira Murati, a former high-ranking executive at OpenAI, departed from the ChatGPT developer to launch her own AI project. I have been curious about what kind of AI product Murati and her expanding team of AI researchers would create.

Less than a year after Murati’s exit from OpenAI, we have news of a commercial AI product from Thinking Machines Lab, which emerged following a record-setting seed funding round. Reports indicated that Thinking Machines Lab was aiming for $2 billion in funding at a valuation of $10 billion. Murati’s startup exceeded that expectation, securing over $2 billion in seed funding at a valuation of $12 billion.

It’s not surprising that Murati had to make a public statement concerning the company’s commercial plans. Thinking Machines Lab must have some exciting AI innovations if it managed to persuade investors to invest such a large sum. On the other hand, AI remains the hottest trend right now. Investors are eager to finance the right project, and Thinking Machines Lab may be just that.

While we lack specific details about the upcoming Thinking Machines Lab product(s), Murati confirmed that the company will unveil its first product in the coming months, which will feature an open-source aspect:

“We’re creating multimodal AI that engages with how you intuitively interact with the world – via conversation, sight, and the complex ways we collaborate. We’re thrilled that in the upcoming months we’ll be able to present our first product, which will include a notable open-source element and be beneficial for researchers and startups that are developing customized models. Soon, we’ll also disseminate our leading science to assist the research community in gaining a better grasp of frontier AI systems.”

This announcement is certainly thrilling for any AI aficionado. It will also be intriguing to see if Thinking Machines Lab can outpace OpenAI by launching an open-source AI model sooner. For context, OpenAI has had to delay its open version of ChatGPT twice already, with a release now anticipated this summer.

Murati, who served as OpenAI’s CTO before leaving the organization in September (and held the role of interim CEO during Sam Altman’s removal in the fall of 2023), shared the above news in a post on X that also confirmed the substantial funding round. Murati mentioned that Thinking Machines Lab raised $2 billion, “led by a16z

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