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Report: Tony Fadell, Co-Inventor of iPod, Surfaces as Possible Contender for Apple CEO Role

### New Report Provides Insight into Potential Successors for Apple CEO

As discussions heat up regarding Tim Cook’s future retirement from his position as CEO of Apple, a new report explores possible successors, spotlighting various candidates and the underlying dynamics within the organization. The report, written by Aaron Tilley and Wayne Ma for *The Information*, examines the ramifications of recent changes in leadership at Apple, including the exits of key executives such as John Giannandrea, Alan Dye, Lisa Jackson, and Katherine Adams.

#### The Succession Scenario

The changes in Apple’s executive team have sparked intensified conversations about Cook’s future. Among the mentioned candidates, one particularly notable figure is Tony Fadell, a previous Apple hardware executive and co-creator of the iPod. As per sources, Fadell has shown interest in the CEO role, suggesting he would consider a return to Apple. Nonetheless, views on his candidacy vary, with some insiders considering him a divisive figure due to his earlier time at the company, which concluded in 2010.

Fadell’s advocates argue that his entrepreneurial drive and background—especially as the co-founder of Nest, sold to Google for $3.2 billion—could introduce a refreshing approach to Apple. They assert that a shift in leadership could be advantageous for the company, particularly from someone with a strong vision for products.

#### Other Possible Contenders

While Fadell’s name stands out, the report also identifies John Ternus, Apple’s current hardware lead, as a leading candidate for the CEO position. However, there are doubts regarding Ternus’s preparedness for such a prominent role, leading some to contemplate that an announcement about succession may not be on the immediate horizon.

#### Reactions from the Industry

The speculation regarding Apple’s leadership change mirrors broader apprehensions about the company’s trajectory amidst considerable executive departures. Analysts and industry watchers are closely monitoring who will ultimately take over for Cook, especially considering the hurdles Apple faces in preserving its innovative prowess.

Despite the excitement, some commentators, including those from 9to5Mac, voice skepticism regarding the thoroughness of the report’s findings. They highlight that much of the speculation surrounding Fadell is anchored in informal conversations rather than solid proof from within Apple, making it challenging to evaluate the practicality of his candidacy.

### Conclusion

As Apple traverses a period of considerable transformation, dialogue about its forthcoming CEO is likely to heat up. The possible return of Tony Fadell introduces an intriguing element to the story, but until more concrete information surfaces, the company’s future leadership remains ambiguous. The tech community will be attentive as events develop in the upcoming months.

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Upcoming ChatGPT Update Anticipated Following ‘Code Red’ Announcement

**OpenAI’s Reaction to Google’s Gemini: Anticipating the GPT-5.2 Update**

In a swiftly changing environment of generative AI, OpenAI has recently positioned itself as a competitor following the debut of Google’s Gemini generative AI model. Reports suggest that OpenAI has issued a “code red” in reaction to this rivalry, leading to an expedited schedule for the launch of its next significant update, GPT-5.2.

### Overview of OpenAI’s Model Enhancements

OpenAI’s progress with its generative AI models has experienced notable growth over the last few months. The company introduced GPT-5 on August 7, 2025, featuring enhancements that optimized user experience by efficiently directing queries to different sub-models, facilitating quicker responses or more detailed answers. Merely three months following that, on November 12, OpenAI unveiled GPT-5.1, characterized as a “warmer, more intelligent” version.

### Expectation for GPT-5.2

The forthcoming GPT-5.2 update is anticipated to be released on December 9, 2025, merely a week away. Sources acquainted with OpenAI’s intentions indicate that this update is crafted to directly address the capabilities presented by Google’s Gemini 3, which has received notable attention for its remarkable performance and accolades from industry figures, including Sam Altman and Elon Musk.

### Emphasis of the Update

According to sources, GPT-5.2 will emphasize enhancements in “speed, reliability, and customizability” instead of launching numerous new features. This targeted approach aims to bridge the performance divide that Gemini 3 has established within the competitive AI arena.

### Latest Features and Enhancements

Alongside the impending update, OpenAI has been proactive in refining its current model. Recent features encompass the introduction of group ChatGPT sessions and the integration of text and voice modes, allowing users to transition effortlessly between varied interaction styles. These advancements illustrate OpenAI’s dedication to continuously adapting its offerings to fulfill user requirements.

### Final Thoughts

As OpenAI gears up to unveil GPT-5.2, the AI community is keenly observing how this update will compare against Google’s Gemini 3. With an emphasis on boosting speed, reliability, and customizability, OpenAI strives to strengthen its foothold in the generative AI domain and effectively address the challenges posed by its rivals.

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Fresh Season Unveiled for Apple TV Comedy Boasting 96% Rotten Tomatoes Score

**Platonic Season 3 is Officially in Development at Apple TV**

Apple TV’s comedic series “Platonic” has attracted considerable attention and praise, especially after the success of its second season, which premiered this summer. Featuring Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, the show has earned enthusiastic reviews, leading Apple to announce that a third season is underway.

**A Strong Year for Apple TV Comedies**

The triumph of “Platonic” falls within a larger trend of successful comedies on Apple TV. The network has experienced an impressive year, with various standout series. Notably, “The Studio” became the most-nominated debut comedy at the Emmys and secured the ‘Best Comedy’ award. Additionally, “Platonic” has enhanced its reception with its second season, building on the favorable impressions from its initial run.

**Renewal Announcement**

In a recent statement, Apple revealed the renewal of “Platonic” for a third season. Co-creators Nick Stoller and Francesca Delbanco conveyed their enthusiasm for returning to the series, emphasizing the special chemistry between Rogen and Byrne. Matt Cherniss, head of programming for Apple TV, commended the pair for their talent in crafting humor around midlife crises and recognized the show’s progress in its second season.

**Plot Overview**

“Platonic” centers on the relationship between two former best friends, Nick (Rogen) and Francesca (Byrne), who reunite after a significant time apart. Their reignited friendship triggers a series of comedic and tumultuous incidents that disrupt their lives, offering a humorous perspective on the struggles of midlife.

**Looking Ahead**

Although Apple has not disclosed a specific release date for the forthcoming season, speculation indicates that it might premiere in late 2026 or more likely in 2027. Fans can presently catch up on the first two seasons of “Platonic” streaming on Apple TV.

**Subscription Information**

Apple TV is priced at $12.99 per month and offers a range of popular shows and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “Pluribus.” The service is also accessible through the Apple One bundle.

As excitement grows for the third season of “Platonic,” viewers are keen to witness how Nick and Francesca’s friendship develops and what comedic situations lie ahead for them.

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Present Promotions: $450 Discount on 512GB iPad Pro, $200 Price Cut on 24GB M5 MacBook Pro, Savings on Apple Watch Ultra Bands, and Additional Offers

### Major Savings on Apple Products: iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, and More

As the holiday shopping period progresses, considerable savings on Apple products have surfaced, creating a perfect moment for customers to invest in premium technology. Notably, Amazon is presently providing an astonishing $450 discount on the 512GB M4 iPad Pro, in addition to various offers on MacBook Pro models and accessories.

#### $450 Reduction on Apple’s 512GB M4 iPad Pro

The 512GB 13-inch M4 iPad Pro Wi-Fi + Cellular version is now listed at **$1,249.97**, down from its usual price of **$1,699**. This markdown signifies the lowest price ever recorded for this model on Amazon. The M4 chip continues to power various current-generation devices, guaranteeing that this iPad remains a powerful choice for users.

Although the newer M5 iPad Pro models are on the market, they arrive at a steeper price point, with the M5 model commencing at **$1,440** without cellular capability. For those who place a premium on performance and connectivity, the M4 iPad Pro stays a compelling selection.

#### Price Cuts on the 24GB M5 MacBook Pro

In addition to the iPad Pro offers, Apple’s latest M5 MacBook Pro series is also experiencing noteworthy price cuts. A 14-inch M5 MacBook Pro with 24GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD is currently available for **$1,599**, representing a **$200 discount** from the standard price of **$1,799**. This version is especially attractive for users who require ample RAM for multitasking and resource-intensive applications.

While Amazon has a 24GB model equipped with a 1TB SSD at a greater price, the 512GB variant offered at B&H presents a more economical choice without compromising on performance.

#### Accessory and Charging Promotions

In conjunction with the major discounts on Apple devices, a variety of accessories are also being discounted. Noteworthy offers include:

– Apple’s **240W USB-C cable** for **$18**.
– The new **Crossbody Strap** for iPhones at nearly **30% off**.
– Reductions on **Apple Watch Ultra bands**.

These accessories enhance the primary devices and improve the overall user experience.

#### iPhone 16 Pro Max Savings

For those aiming to upgrade their smartphones, the **1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max** is priced at **$1,019**, which is **$580 less** than the original price of **$1,599**. This offer is part of Amazon’s Renewed Premium program, offering a dependable choice for buyers in search of high-quality refurbished devices.

#### Conclusion

With substantial savings on sought-after Apple products, this is an ideal moment for consumers to think about upgrading their technology. Whether it’s the powerful iPad Pro, the versatile MacBook Pro, or the latest iPhone, these offers provide significant discounts while guaranteeing access to high-performance devices.

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iPhone 17’s Cheapest Variant Encounters Shortage, Surpassing Pro Max in Popularity

**iPhone 17 Out of Stock: Most Affordable Model Now Scarcer Than Pro Max**

As we enter the first week of December, an unprecedented event in iPhone history is unfolding. The iPhone 17 remains sold out across the U.S. and several critical international markets, particularly the standard iPhone 17 model. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is now more accessible than the standard iPhone 17 in various regions, including the U.S. This is atypical for Apple’s latest iPhones, where typically the Pro and Pro Max versions are the first to sell out and most likely to face inventory issues during the December quarter.

This year, the base iPhone 17 marks a significant triumph for Apple. As highlighted below, customers are facing delivery wait times of three to seven business days for the iPhone 17. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is available in several markets, although select storage configurations might be out of stock. The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone Air do not show any shortages in the markets we surveyed on Friday.

BGR has been monitoring iPhone 17 delivery schedules since the preorder phase commenced. Each Friday, barring Black Friday, we have provided the shipping estimates for the four new iPhone models based on insights gathered from Apple’s online stores in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, and Japan. The method is consistent across all markets. We replicate the process of placing an order on Apple’s online store for each of the four iPhone models. We assess all color and storage configurations for each variant, and Apple’s system generates a shipping estimate.

**Availability Improves for All iPhone 17 Variants**

The stock information from this week indicates that Apple has been addressing iPhone 17 demand. Shipping projections for the iPhone 17 Pro Max have shown improvement since two weeks ago. Even in the U.S., the 256GB, 512GB, and 2TB versions are readily available. Notably, the 1TB model is experiencing a wait time of 3-5 days in North America, increasing to 7-10 days in China. The figures below illustrate the varying shipping estimates visible on Apple.com according to the iPhone 17 Pro Max storage choice made.

For the base iPhone 17, shipping estimates have enhanced in North America and China, yet stock limitations have resurfaced in other regions. Currently, both storage configurations (256GB and 512GB) in all five color selections are sold out in the markets we monitor. Shipping timelines are 3-5 business days for Europe and Asia and 5-7 business days for North America. Interestingly, the iPhone 17 is once again sold out in Japan, a market where the device was available two weeks prior:

– **iPhone 17 Pro Max**: 3-5 business days (U.S. – 1TB model Canada – 1TB/2TB model), 3-5 to 7-10 business days (China – 1TB model) in stock (U.S.*, Canada*, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China*, Japan)
– **iPhone 17 Pro**: in stock (U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, Japan)
– **iPhone 17**: 3-5 business days (U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, Japan), 5-7 business days (U.S., Canada)
– **iPhone Air**: in stock (U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Switzerland, Germany, Ireland, China, Japan)

An IDC report released earlier this week highlighted that the iPhone 17 series will contribute to a record quarter and year for Apple. Additionally, the iPhone 17 has supported the overall smartphone market in surpassing growth anticipations. Our assessments indicate that demand for the iPhone 17 continues to be robust in December.

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Five Intelligent Home Upgrades for Instant Comfort Enhancement

essential smart home devices and accessories. In this article, we will present a few suggestions for minor smart home enhancements that can significantly improve your day-to-day comfort. We have discovered some reasonably priced gadgets that you’ll enjoy using regularly. They are supported by excellent user feedback, ensuring you’re making a reliable purchase.

We have concentrated on prevalent issues to compile a list of items you may not have considered before. For example, a wall charger featuring built-in retractable cords for your iPhone, a humidifier that also functions as an essential oil diffuser, and motion-sensing lights that facilitate navigation around your home at night. Continue reading the article below for additional information on these and other minor smart home enhancements that will enhance your comfort in your space.

4 in 1 Retractable Wall Charger

A majority of us rely heavily on our phones and other gadgets throughout the day. An efficient method to charge them can make life considerably more pleasant, which is exactly why you need this wall charger with retractable cords. It includes integrated Lightning and USB-C type cables that you can effortlessly extend and connect to your phone. Once finished, the cables retract neatly back into the wall charger to avoid a mess of cords in your living area. It offers up to 40W fast charging capability for the latest iPhones, iPads, and even laptops.

Additionally, it features a USB and USB-C port, allowing you to plug in your own cables as necessary. This means you can charge up to 4 devices at once. Priced at $29.99, this wall charger is

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Speculated iPhone Fold Might Showcase Unique eSIM Design

eSIM-exclusive iPhones with the iPhone 17 lineup, another speculation supports that Apple’s highly anticipated iPhone Fold will adopt the same approach. The most recent leaker to reaffirm this speculation is the Weibo user Instant Digital. With machine learning translation, Instant Digital states: “The foldable iPhone will likely arrive without a SIM card slot, functioning solely with eSIM. It’s complex, but hopefully, mainland China enhances the eSIM experience shortly.”

Since the leaker resides in China, they reflect apprehensions regarding the eSIM-exclusive design. Unlike other regions, China is the sole country where Apple provides a dual SIM option for its iPhone devices, with the iPhone Air being the first Apple smartphone in the region to be eSIM-exclusive. Nevertheless, eSIM compatibility is still restricted to China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom, and users must visit a physical store to activate their eSIM. Regardless, Apple intends to pursue an eSIM configuration to maximize space in the iPhone while slightly enhancing battery performance.

Here are the newest iPhone Fold speculations

Motorola and Bose Join Forces on Smart Home Speaker to Rival Google Home Speaker

The Google Home Speaker is expected to debut in Spring 2026, but Motorola’s upcoming Soundflow smart speaker may also join the competition.

Google's forthcoming smart speaker
This is Google’s forthcoming smart speaker, though Motorola and Bose could potentially launch theirs first. (Image credit: Google)

Key Information

  • Motorola and Bose seem to be developing a smart speaker to compete with offerings from Google, Amazon, and Sonos.
  • The anticipated Motorola x Bose Soundflow speaker appears to feature a wireless, cylindrical design.
  • An LED ring and microphone button indicate that the Motorola Soundflow will support voice assistant capabilities.

Google is significantly enhancing its smart home ecosystem, with the rollout of Gemini for Home currently underway and new hardware being introduced. The company has already updated the Nest line with fresh smart home cameras and doorbells, and a Google Home Speaker is set to debut in Spring 2026 as a modern alternative to the Nest Mini and Nest Audio speakers. Besides the major players in the smart home sector like Google, Amazon, and Apple, there are always unexpected entrants, and Motorola could soon be among them.

According to Android Headlines, Motorola seems poised to launch a smart speaker in partnership with Bose, potentially competing with Google’s smart speaker lineup. The publication has revealed leaked images of this new smart speaker, which might be named Motorola Soundflow. It’s a wireless Bluetooth speaker that is expected to include smart features, possibly utilizing Gemini or another voice assistant.

Leaked image of Motorola Soundflow
(Image credit: Android Headlines)

The wireless speaker features a cylindrical shape with mesh fabric fully wrapping its sides. It has a base adorned with the Motorola logo, along with an LED light ring positioned at the top. Indeed, the light-blue LEDs atop the anticipated Motorola Soundflow speaker are reminiscent of the blue illumination of Amazon’s Echo smart speakers. The combination of the light ring and a microphone button at the top indicates that this will indeed function as a smart speaker.

Unlike Google Home and Nest speakers, the Motorola Soundflow seems to be entirely wireless. This positions it similarly to products like the Sonos Roam 2, a wireless smart speaker that supports Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa. It also brings to mind the Amazon Echo Tap, a lesser-known wireless smart speaker that was phased out in 2018.

Bose has been broadening its audio partnerships to enhance its sound in other brands’ products, including Motorola. In the past, Bose collaborated with Motorola on the Moto Buds Loop. This year, Bose also partnered with Baseus to create more affordable earbuds and headphones featuring classic Bose audio quality.

Not many specifics are available regarding the Motorola Soundflow speaker, so we’ll have to wait for an official reveal. If competitors like the Sonos Roam 2 are any guideline, the Motorola smart speaker could be priced between $100 and $200. If the brand wishes to undercut its more established rivals, we may see a price point below that range.

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Netflix Secures Warner Bros. Content in Historic $82.7 Billion Deal

‘Netflix and relax’ has received a new enhancement!

(Image credit: Android Central)

Essential Information

  • Netflix has taken over Warner Bros. content, transforming the streaming industry with beloved shows now available in one place.
  • This acquisition positions Netflix as a leading contender in streaming, posing a challenge to smaller rivals.
  • Customers may enjoy the advantages of package deals, while HBO Max will continue to function independently during the adjustment phase.

Earlier today (Dec. 5), Netflix revealed its $82.7 billion takeover of Warner Bros., gaining more than a century of film history for the streaming service. Netflix faced competition from other firms, including Paramount Skydance and Comcast. Ultimately, Netflix clinched the agreement with Warner Bros. after several weeks of discussions, thanks to its aggressive, predominantly cash proposal,<a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2025/12/05/netflix-seals-82-7bn-deal-to-acquire-warner-bros-and-hbo/#:~:text=Netflix%20has%20struck%20a%20definitive,billion%20(%E2%82%AC71.0%20billion)." data-url="https://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2025/12/05/netflix-seals-82-7bn-deal-to-acquire-warner-bros-and-hbo/#:~:text=

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Apple Designer Shares Excitement for the Approaching Design Era

Responses regarding Alan Dye’s exit from Apple continue to emerge, and the most recent from a renowned long-time Apple designer suggests a very promising future for the new design phase under Steve Lemay.

### Apple Designer Behind the iPhone X Gestural UI, Dynamic Island is an Enthusiastic Supporter of Steve Lemay

Earlier this week, Bloomberg revealed that Alan Dye, Apple’s VP of Human Interface Design, was departing the company for a new position at Meta. The announcement of Dye’s departure followed closely behind another significant restructuring at Apple: AI head John Giannandrea’s retirement. Additionally, Apple disclosed yesterday that Katherine Adams and Lisa Jackson would also be leaving soon.

However, the reactions to Dye’s transition have generated the most buzz. According to some sources, it’s actually a thrilling change. John Gruber mentioned that insiders at Apple have been “happy — if not downright thrilled — at the news that

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