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Samsung Faces the Possibility of Overlooking a Significant Chance with the Galaxy S26

the standard iPhone 17 variant is more difficult to acquire than the iPhone 17 Pro Max, marking an unforeseen twist for a new iPhone lineup. Normally, the Pro variants encounter longer shipping delays. The iPhone 17 series also enabled Apple to surpass Samsung, becoming the leading smartphone vendor globally in 2025.

The South Korean powerhouse is set to introduce the Galaxy S26 series, its competitor to the iPhone 17. Nonetheless, a recent report from Korean media outlet ETNews indicates that Samsung has opted for a conservative approach. The entry-level Galaxy S26 version will not feature any enhancements in its camera system compared to the previous model, with Samsung reportedly maintaining the same cameras to reduce expenses and remain at the $799 pricing level of the iPhone 17. It is reported that Samsung aimed to upgrade the camera specifications for the most affordable Galaxy S26 variant and also considered increasing its launch price.

The company appears to have reconsidered its strategy following the iPhone 17 release. The report from ETNews mentions that the most economical Galaxy S26 version will retain the trio of lenses found in its predecessor: a 50-megapixel wide, a 12-megapixel ultra-wide, and a 10-megapixel telephoto camera setup. Some adjustments might be required internally, as Samsung initially envisioned a different camera module design for the Galaxy S26. The ETNews report verifies a mid-November article from another Korean source, stating that Samsung was taken aback by the $799 iPhone 17, prompting them to scale back the base Galaxy S26 to align with Apple’s pricing.

Samsung’s scrapped Galaxy S26 design

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Shelly Introduces Cost-Effective Matter-Compatible Smart Plug Gen4 Valued Below $20

### The Shelly Plug Gen4: A Revolutionary Advancement in Smart Home Automation

Smart plugs have emerged as essential tools for individuals aiming to improve their smart home journey without the complications usually linked to sophisticated automation systems. The recently launched Shelly Plug Gen4 embodies this movement, presenting an economical and adaptable option for smart home aficionados.

#### Key Features of the Shelly Plug Gen4

One of the prominent characteristics of the Shelly Plug Gen4 is its compatibility with Matter, a universal connectivity standard that enables devices to interact across various ecosystems. This allows the plug to effortlessly merge with major smart home platforms such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Apple Home/HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant. This interoperability makes it a perfect selection for users who might have gadgets from different manufacturers.

The plug functions over Wi-Fi and Zigbee, offering flexibility in how it connects within a smart home arrangement. It also allows for local control, ensuring users can manage their devices even without an internet connection.

#### Automation and Customization

The Shelly Plug Gen4 is more than just a basic on/off switch; it is crafted to promote automation and energy management. Users can develop custom routines and scripts using JavaScript or leverage pre-existing scripts from the Shelly library. This degree of customization appeals to tech-oriented users who relish modifying their smart home configurations.

Moreover, the plug can manage loads up to 1800 watts, making it appropriate for a diverse array of appliances, from lamps to office equipment, without the danger of tripping circuit breakers.

#### User-Friendly Setup

Establishing the Shelly Plug Gen4 is uncomplicated. Users merely plug it into an outlet, download the Shelly app, and select either local or cloud control options. The app interface is crafted to be intuitive, enabling even novices to smart home technology to navigate it effortlessly.

#### Additional Features

The Shelly Plug Gen4 encompasses a built-in lux sensor, which can initiate automations based on surrounding light levels. This feature is particularly beneficial for creating mood lighting or for practical uses such as turning on lights during dark conditions. The customizable LED ring on the device can also be modified to indicate status or function as a night light, providing an additional layer of functionality.

#### Conclusion

At a cost of under $20, the Shelly Plug Gen4 delivers an impressive range of features that make it an attractive option for anyone wanting to elevate their smart home. Its Matter compatibility, user-friendly nature, and customization possibilities establish it as a significant enhancement to any smart home ecosystem. As users start to receive and experiment with the device, it is expected that the Shelly Plug Gen4 will be recognized as a standout in the domain of smart home automation. For those interested, it is available for acquisition on Shelly’s official website.

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Instagram Unveils Fresh Functionalities for Improved Feed Management

### Grasping Instagram’s Updated “Your Algorithm” Feature

A frequently voiced annoyance with algorithm-based applications such as Instagram is that users lack control over their feeds. Instead, they are presented with what the app presumes they wish to view, which often misses the mark. To tackle this concern, Meta has launched a fresh feature named “Your Algorithm,” designed to provide users with greater sway over their content journey.

#### The Change in Instagram’s Strategy

Before this enhancement, Instagram’s Reels feed functioned much like TikTok, showcasing a flow of content driven by algorithmic forecasts without any user involvement. Nevertheless, Meta is now taking measures to modify this situation. As reported by Wired, the new feature enables users to access a list reflecting what Instagram deems their primary and recent interests. This insight into the algorithm marks a significant deviation in social media norms.

#### The Functionality of “Your Algorithm”

With the roll-out of “Your Algorithm,” users can now shape the content they encounter in Reels. Upon entering this new section, users will discover a summary of their interests informed by recent actions within the app. This overview is produced using AI and encompasses subjects that users can opt to see more or less frequently. Illustrative topics might include “Horror films,” “Chess,” and “College football.”

Furthermore, users are empowered to share their algorithmic overview with their Instagram followers, promoting a sense of community and interaction centered around shared passions.

#### Constraints of the Feature

Despite the enhanced control provided by “Your Algorithm,” users cannot entirely break free from the impact of AI. The feature still depends on algorithmic evaluation to establish which interests are showcased, implying that while users can steer their experience, the foundational AI continues to play a substantial role in content organization.

#### Final Thoughts

Meta’s “Your Algorithm” feature marks a crucial advancement towards granting Instagram users more authority over their feeds. By enabling users to view and influence their interests, Meta is responding to a widespread grievance regarding algorithm-guided platforms. As this feature becomes more widely available, it will be intriguing to observe its effects on user engagement and satisfaction within the platform.

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Top Downloaded Applications and Games on iPhone in 2025

# Most Downloaded Apps and Games of 2025 in the United States

In a recent update, Apple disclosed the most downloaded apps and games of 2025 in the United States, following the App Store Awards that honored applications for their technical brilliance and cultural significance. This year, the prominent free iPhone app was ChatGPT, while HotSchedules emerged as the leading paid iPhone app.

## Top Free iPhone Apps
1. **ChatGPT**
2. **Threads**
3. **Google**
4. **TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE**
5. **WhatsApp Messenger**
6. **Instagram**
7. **YouTube**
8. **Google Maps**
9. **Gmail – Email by Google**
10. **Google Gemini**

## Top Paid iPhone Apps
1. **HotSchedules**
2. **Shadowrocket**
3. **Procreate Pocket**
4. **AnkiMobile Flashcards**
5. **Paprika Recipe Manager 3**
6. **SkyView®**
7. **TonalEnergy Tuner & Metronome**
8. **AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch**
9. **Forest: Focus for Productivity**
10. **RadarScope**

## Top Free iPhone Games
1. **Block Blast!**
2. **Fortnite**
3. **Roblox**
4. **Township**
5. **Pokémon TCG Pocket**
6. **Royal Kingdom**
7. **Clash Royale**
8. **Vita Mahjong**
9. **Whiteout Survival**
10. **Last War: Survival**

## Top Paid iPhone Games
1. **Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!**
2. **Balatro**
3. **Heads Up!**
4. **Plague Inc.**
5. **Geometry Dash**
6. **Bloons TD 6**
7. **Stardew Valley**
8. **Papa’s Freezeria To Go!**
9. **Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C**
10. **Red’s First Flight**

## Top Free iPad Apps
1. **YouTube**
2. **ChatGPT**
3. **Netflix**
4. **Disney+**
5. **Amazon Prime Video**
6. **TikTok – Videos, Shop & LIVE**
7. **Google Chrome**
8. **Goodnotes: AI Notes, Docs, PDF**
9. **Canva: AI Photo & Video Editor**
10. **HBO Max: Stream Movies & TV**

## Top Paid iPad Apps
1. **Procreate**
2. **Procreate Dreams**
3. **forScore**
4. **ToonSquid**
5. **Nomad Sculpt**
6. **Shadowrocket**
7. **AnkiMobile Flashcards**
8. **Bluebeam Revu for iPad**
9. **Teach Your Monster to Read**
10. **Feather: Draw in 3D**

## Top Free iPad Games
1. **Roblox**
2. **Block Blast!**
3. **Fortnite**
4. **Perfect Tidy**
5. **Magic Tiles 3: Piano Game**
6. **Mini Games: Calm & Chill**
7. **Goods Puzzle: Sort Challenge**
8. **hole.io**
9. **Subway Surfers**
10. **Township**

## Top Paid iPad Games
1. **Minecraft: Dream it, Build it!**
2. **Geometry Dash**
3. **Stardew Valley**
4. **Balatro**
5. **Bloons TD 6**
6. **Plague Inc.**
7. **Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp C**
8. **Poppy Playtime Chapter 3**
9. **Purple Place – Classic Games**
10. **Papa’s Sushiria To Go!**

## Top Apple Arcade Games
1. **NFL Retro Bowl ’26**
2. **NBA 2K25 Arcade Edition**
3. **Balatro+**
4. **Snake.io+**
5. **Sneaky Sasquatch**
6. **Hello Kitty Island Adventure**
7. **Fruit Ninja Classic+**
8. **Bloons TD 6+**
9. **PGA TOUR Pro Golf**
10. **Solitaire by MobilityWare+**

These rankings illustrate the choices and trends among users, highlighting a blend of productivity, entertainment, and creativity across various app categories. For a comprehensive view, users can check out these lists directly on the App Store.

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China Unveils State-of-the-Art Aircraft Carrier Featuring Electromagnetic Catapults

China achieved a significant milestone in pursuing its military objectives both regionally and globally with the launch of its third aircraft carrier since 2012. Commissioned in a November ceremony at the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) Yulin Naval Base on Hainan island, the Type 003 carrier, named Fujian, is recognized as the largest non-nuclear warship globally. It is also noted as the world’s most sophisticated non-American aircraft carrier, symbolizing a substantial advancement in Beijing’s naval prowess. The Fujian, featuring the nation’s inaugural Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), significantly enhances the combat effectiveness of the PLAN by boosting the frequency of aircraft launches and enabling larger jets to be deployed. This homegrown launch system marks the first instance of a nation outside the U.S. developing such technology. Prior to the Fujian’s deployment to the South China Sea, the U.S. Navy’s USS Gerald R. Ford had been the sole vessel equipped with the new catapult system.

The significance of the Fujian’s launch grows when viewed against the backdrop of China’s increasingly aggressive naval strategy. Since the beginning of this century, the PLAN has progressively transformed its fleet from an assortment of outdated Soviet-era vessels into the largest naval force in existence. While technologically lagging behind its Western counterparts, China’s capabilities are advancing rapidly. The addition of the Fujian represents another key achievement for a naval initiative aimed not only at establishing regional supremacy but also at enhancing its global influence. Although advancements in China’s carrier capabilities could be countered by the upcoming U.S. Navy nuclear supercarrier, analysts warn that the Fujian’s addition will bring the world’s largest navy closer to challenging the global military presence of its Western adversaries.

PLAN makes a technological advancement

Chinese officials are optimistic that the Fujian will signal a new era for its naval, aerial, and ground forces. Displacing approximately 80,000 tons, the steam-powered Fujian stands as the third largest aircraft carrier class worldwide, trailing only the Gerald R. Ford and the soon-to-be-retired USS Nimitz, while surpassing the United Kingdom’s HMS Queen Elizabeth by 15,000 tons. The roughly 1,036-foot hull can accommodate up to 60 aircraft, a significant upgrade to China’s carrying capabilities. It also features a modernized arsenal, which satellite imagery indicates includes sophisticated missile defense and close-in weapon systems.

While these enhancements are remarkable, the distinguishing feature of the Fujian is its three EMALS. The two prior Chinese aircraft carriers employed short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) launch systems. Based on Russian designs, these ski jump-style launchers are restricted in the variety of aircraft they can support. In contrast, electromagnetic catapults can launch both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, such as China’s Z-20 helicopters, J-35 and J-15 fighter jets, as well as the KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft. The latter is particularly significant as it converts the Fujian into a mobile intelligence center. Alongside increasing both the variety and quantity of aircraft, EMALS can also launch heavier payloads and fuel tanks, thereby extending the range and firepower of PLAN’s aerial defenses. Additionally, EMALS may allow Beijing to execute deck-loaded strikes, whereby carriers launch swarms of aircraft simultaneously for decisive operations. Collectively, these advancements will yield substantial benefits, with Lyle Goldstein, director of Asia engagement at the Washington think tank Defense Priorities, stating to the Washington Post that the introduction of an electromagnetic catapult is “doubling or tripling — maybe even quadrupling — the combat lethality” of China’s aircraft carriers.

A global perspective

In a discussion with The Washington Post, Tian Shichen, president of the Global Governance Institute and a former PLAN captain, compared Beijing’s new carriers to NASA’s Apollo program, suggesting that their enduring impact will likely stem from how their underlying technologies modernize China’s fleet. Malcom Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute previously conveyed similar high-level insights to the South China Morning Post, foreseeing that the most significant progression may not be any single technology but rather the evolution of China’s capacity to operate “big deck” carriers. This is particularly relevant as Beijing initiates the development of its fourth carrier. Expected to be the country’s first nuclear-powered carrier, the Type 004’s vast range, combined with the bolstered inventory of logistical support ships, destroyers, and cruisers, will likely enhance Beijing’s expanded geopolitical objectives. The PLAN has also invested significantly in the firepower typical of these strike groups, incorporating YJ-21 hypersonic “carrier killer” anti-ship missiles on its cruisers, implementing electromagnetic catapults on its amphibious assault vessels, and deploying a variety of new fighter jets and early warning aircraft.

Worries about this buildup are highlighted by the PLAN’s recent training exercises, which saw Chinese carriers navigating contested waters in the South China Sea.

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Pebble’s Groundbreaking Phone Add-On Removes the Requirement for Recharging

We have moved beyond solely depending on smartphones for our mobile computing requirements. iPhones and Android devices are frequently complemented by unique wearable accessories: Wireless earphones allow us to enjoy music, converse with friends, and interact with AI. Smartwatches showcase notifications, operate applications, and track crucial health and fitness metrics. Smart rings can also assist with the latter, minimizing the necessity for a wrist wearable. In this competitive environment where concepts are frequently reused, the wearable brand Pebble has introduced an unexpected accessory; a ring devoid of health sensors. Instead, the Pebble Index 01 is a smart AI ring designed to help you effortlessly remember things by capturing your thoughts through voice and transmitting that information to your smartphone.

The ring is capable of storing five minutes of voice recordings and utilizes private AI models to transcribe those thoughts on iPhone or Android devices via the Pebble app. The surprises continue: The Pebble Index 01 boasts a battery life so extensive that you won’t ever need to recharge it. Simply return it to Pebble for recycling when needed, and you might consider ordering a new one. The price is reasonable as well, with the Pebble Index 01 starting at $75 during the preorder phase. Once shipping commences in March 2026, the price will rise to $99. The Pebble Index 01 comes in eight ring sizes (6 to 13) and three colors (silver, gold, and black).

Regarding the actual battery life, the Pebble Index 01 can last up to two years with typical use, assuming you utilize it around 10-20 times daily to record thoughts of 3-6 seconds. Overall, the ring can capture approximately 12-15 hours of audio throughout its lifespan.

How secure is the Pebble Index 01’s AI?

Pebble chose a “single-use” design rather than a rechargeable battery like health-monitoring smart rings for usability reasons. The company aimed to ensure the device is perpetually ready for use; users should not need to worry about charging it. Additionally, eliminating charging capabilities helped Pebble reduce costs. The Pebble Index 01 is equipped with a button, a microphone, a Bluetooth chip, and built-in memory that stores thoughts when a phone is not nearby. The wearable is constructed from stainless steel 316 and silicone rubber (for the button), and it is water-resistant up to one meter (3.2 feet).

To operate the Pebble Index 01, wear it on your index finger with the button easily accessible by your thumb. Press the button to record your thoughts wherever you are. The device doesn’t have always-on features, with Pebble stating it is “exceptionally private and secure.” An open-source speech-to-text system manages voice recordings. AI models function locally on the phone, with support for 99 languages, via the Pebble app. The link between the smart ring and your iPhone or Android device is encrypted, and the entire operation works offline with no cloud processing necessary. However, optional cloud storage may be utilized, and in the future, it might also be encrypted.

The primary function of the Pebble Index 01 is to capture voice notes and save them on your phone, where you can incorporate them into notes and reminders. The button supports both single and double clicks, allowing for some customization: One of the gestures could be linked to music playback, smartphone control, and even ChatGPT access in the future.

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The Quickest Electric Cars Featuring Impressive Maximum Velocities

electric supercar that ranks among the quickest, achieving 0-to-60 mph in merely 1.72 seconds. Nonetheless, the Owl is a restricted-production model, and it isn’t the type of car that many can park in their garage. However, electric vehicles with comparable acceleration performance are offered by Tesla, Porsche, and even Ford. There are also a few other options out there that you might be surprised to discover can match its speed.

Tesla Model S Plaid

Although the standard version of the Tesla Model S is noted for its dependability among electric vehicles, the Model S Plaid offers enhanced speed with a 0-to-60 time of only 1.99 seconds. It features a tri-motor system consisting of carbon-sleeved rotors and an advanced battery setup that enables it to achieve a maximum horsepower of 1,020. As many sedan manufacturers concentrate more on practicality rather than performance, figures like these are rare in a typical vehicle. The Model S Plaid reaches a peak speed of 200 mph and provides a range of up to 368 miles on a full charge.

The base Model S may not be as quick as the Plaid variant, but it still manages to zip from 0-to-60 in 3.1 seconds. If it weren’t for the Plaid model, the acceleration of the standard Model S would certainly attract attention on its own. It boasts a top speed of 130 mph, with the dual-motor setup capable of producing a peak performance of 670 horsepower. Not only does the Tesla Model S rank among the swiftest electric vehicles available, but we also consider it to be one of the

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Adobe Photoshop, Express, and Acrobat Now Available at No Cost on ChatGPT

Beginning today, functionalities from three of Adobe’s key products will be incorporated into ChatGPT, at no cost. Here’s how it works.

Adobe has announced that effective today, users of ChatGPT can send natural language commands to modify images, produce animations, and manage, combine, extract, or edit text and content from PDFs with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Express, and Adobe Acrobat.

The company asserts that while these features effectively showcase the capabilities of its products to users who may not be familiar with their comprehensive tools, they also provide a quicker way to make rapid edits, even for experienced users.

Ely Greenfield, Chief Technology Officer and Digital Media business head at Adobe, remarked on today’s launch, stating that their advancements in conversational interfaces enable the integration of Adobe’s applications into external platforms like ChatGPT. This connectivity allows users to engage in creative tasks—editing images, designing invitations, modifying documents—while offering the accuracy and control characteristic of Adobe’s tools, all within the chat environment. Users can smoothly switch from ChatGPT to Adobe’s native apps for complete functionality.

### Adobe Photoshop on ChatGPT

With this integration, users can upload an image to ChatGPT and request edits, such as modifying brightness levels. If the outcome doesn’t meet expectations, users can manually tweak it using sliders for brightness, contrast, and exposure, similar to the actual Photoshop interface.

ChatGPT and Photoshop can also detect elements in the image, enabling more precise requests, like applying a charcoal drawing effect to an image while omitting certain components. Users can ask for effects like glitch, glow, or motion blur, and receive previews to refine further. If needed, users can hit an “Open in Photoshop” button to access the web-based version of Photoshop directly from ChatGPT.

### Adobe Express for ChatGPT

Users can submit prompts to create design concepts via Adobe Express, such as crafting a birthday card according to particular themes and preferences. Adobe Express will supply several design alternatives, which can be tailored based on user suggestions. Users can also ask for animated versions of their designs, and if desired, they can open the web-based version of Adobe Express for more extensive editing.

### Adobe Acrobat for ChatGPT

Users can upload PDFs to ChatGPT for manual edits or formatting. In addition, users can ask to merge multiple PDFs, and ChatGPT will offer a drag-and-drop interface for effortless organization and editing. Users can also extract text, compress files, or create new versions of PDFs, reflecting the functionalities of the full Adobe Acrobat application.

All features launching today are available for free to all 800+ million ChatGPT users globally. Adobe has confirmed that these integrations are accessible starting on December 10 on ChatGPT desktop, web, and iOS, with Adobe Express for ChatGPT also arriving on Android. Support for Photoshop and Acrobat on Android is forthcoming.

Adobe intends to keep introducing new features to its applications on ChatGPT in the upcoming weeks.

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Apple Reportedly Breached US Sanctions by Ignoring App Guidelines

Apple has been charged with breaching U.S. sanctions by permitting various applications from sanctioned firms to persist on its App Store. This discovery emerged from an inquiry by the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), which revealed that both Apple and Google featured apps associated with entities sanctioned by the U.S. government, with the issue being more evident in Apple’s case.

The TTP’s discoveries prompt serious doubts regarding Apple’s dedication to keeping the App Store as a “secure and reliable space” for its users, a statement the company has maintained since the App Store’s launch in 2008. Apple has promoted its platform as a safe environment, highlighting its initiatives to thwart fraudulent activities and safeguard users against harmful conduct. Nevertheless, the existence of apps from entities such as Russian banks backing the invasion of Ukraine and a Chinese paramilitary organization accused of human rights violations challenges this assertion.

The investigation disclosed that 52 prohibited apps were located on the Apple App Store, while 18 were detected in Google’s counterpart. Significantly, the developers of these applications did not make an effort to hide their identities, indicating that both companies could have readily recognized and eliminated the offending apps. This circumstance is particularly concerning as it is illegal for U.S. companies to engage in commerce with sanctioned organizations.

Apple’s track record regarding sanctions adherence is also significant. In 2019, the company incurred penalties from the U.S. government for similar infractions and subsequently vowed to improve its sanctions vetting mechanisms. However, the TTP’s latest findings suggest that Apple has not adequately enhanced its compliance practices in the years following.

While Apple contests the assertion that hosting these applications amounts to a violation of U.S. sanctions, it did remove the apps in the wake of the TTP’s report. This scenario highlights the persistent difficulties tech companies confront in reconciling user security with regulatory adherence, especially in a swiftly changing digital environment.

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Apple’s Initial Foldable iPhone Poised to Influence Market Despite High Price Tag

the Galaxy Z Fold 8 expected next summer, aligning with Samsung’s typical schedule for foldable phone releases. Shortly afterward, Apple is likely to reveal its first-generation foldable iPhone, commonly dubbed the iPhone Fold, as it will directly challenge Samsung’s Fold-style devices. Even with a 7-year delay and a considerably higher sticker price, the iPhone Fold could outperform its competitors, including Samsung handsets.

Recent projections from IDC indicate that the iPhone Fold will capture over 22% of the foldable market in the upcoming year. The analysts further predict that Apple will secure 34% of the market value for foldables, attributed to an average price of $2,400. The current Galaxy Z Fold 7 retails for $2,000, excluding any promotions. Recently, Samsung announced the Galaxy Z TriFold, which is anticipated to be priced around $3,000 in the U.S., although this price has yet to be confirmed. IDC highlights that the Galaxy Z TriFold is expected to stimulate interest in the foldable category next year, while Huawei’s foldable shipments are projected to nearly double, but the iPhone Fold is poised to be the true “game-changer.”

The outlook predicts a 30% growth in the foldable segment next year, in contrast to a 6% increase in the previous forecast. In comparison, traditional phone shipments are expected to decline by 1.4%. Based on IDC’s data, the foldables market is set to continue its upward trajectory over non-foldables through 2029. Apple’s market share is anticipated

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