AllYouCanTech

Apple Reports Initial iPhone Quarterly Growth in Two Years, Counteracting Decrease in China

**Apple’s Comeback in China: A Two-Year Battle and Signs of Renewal**

Over the last two years, Apple has encountered considerable obstacles in the Chinese market, largely due to the U.S.-China trade conflict and local government incentives that favor domestic smartphone makers. Nevertheless, recent occurrences suggest that Apple might be regaining its strength in this vital market.

### A Two-Year Extended Decline in China

Apple’s performance in China has been lackluster, with the company having reported year-over-year revenue growth in just one quarter since Q3 2022. The other quarters experienced drops as severe as 13%. This decline was worsened by intensified trade disputes between the U.S. and China, resulting in a reduction in shipments. In Q1, Apple was the sole major smartphone producer to report a drop in shipments, starkly contrasting with its rivals.

In spite of these obstacles, signs of recovery started to surface. In April, iPhone sales exhibited a slight increase, and Apple strategically decided to engage in the Chinese government’s subsidy program, which contributed to boosting demand. This action, along with other elements, played a part in indicating an early sign of sales recovery.

### Prospects May Be Improving

Recent figures from Counterpoint Research indicate that Apple is witnessing a turnaround in China. The research firm reported an 8% rise in iPhone sales for the quarter ending in June, representing the first sales increase in two years. Ethan Qi, an associate director at Counterpoint, pointed out that Apple’s pricing modifications in May were well-placed, coinciding with the 618 shopping festival, a major event in China’s e-commerce landscape where retailers provide substantial discounts.

The timing of these price adjustments seems to have positively impacted consumer purchasing behavior, enabling Apple to take advantage of the heightened shopping activity during this timeframe.

As Apple approaches the release of its fiscal Q3 earnings results on July 31, which will encompass the months of April, May, and June, the company and its stakeholders will be closely monitoring to see if this upward sales trend persists.

In summary, although Apple has endured a tough two-year stretch in China, recent data implies that the company is starting to bounce back, propelled by strategic pricing tactics and favorable market conditions. The upcoming months will be vital in assessing whether this recovery can be maintained.

New AirTag Functionality Improves Travel Experience: Here’s How It Operates

### Retrieve Lost Luggage More Quickly with Updated AirTag Feature

The vacation period has arrived, and for numerous travelers, this might be the initial journey since Apple rolled out a fresh capability for AirTag in iOS 18.2. One of the most favored applications for AirTag is as a luggage tracker. Airlines misplace luggage daily, and AirTag offers a straightforward method for you to swiftly locate your belongings. Recently, this procedure has been greatly simplified with a feature known as Share Item Location.

Within the Find My app, users can now temporarily share an AirTag or any other item’s location with another person. This feature includes a specific component for airlines, as Apple has collaborated with them to incorporate AirTag-enabled luggage retrieval into their customer service systems. If your luggage is misplaced, you can share the AirTag’s location with the airline, enabling them to locate it more quickly. Once your luggage is returned, the airline’s access to the location link is automatically terminated.

### Steps to Use Share Item Location

If your AirTag or another Find My-compatible device goes missing during your travels, follow these instructions to reclaim it:

1. Launch the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
2. Navigate to the Items tab.
3. Choose the AirTag or other lost item.
4. Scroll down to find ‘Share Item Location.’
5. Follow the instructions to initiate sharing.

This procedure will create a URL that can be sent to your airline, allowing them to track the AirTag directly. Each airline has its own way of sharing the link, but typically, they provide a sharing option as part of their customer support process.

Airlines that support this feature include prominent U.S. carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, and United. Furthermore, many additional airlines have joined, including the recent involvement of JetBlue.

Have you tried AirTag’s new feature to locate a lost item yet? How effective was it? Share your experiences in the comments.

### Top AirTag Discounts and Accessories

*FTC: We utilize income-generating auto affiliate links.*

Latest Speculations: Forthcoming MacBook Equipped with iPhone Processor, Apple Eyewear, and Additional Features

# Apple Product Speculations: A Preview

This article consolidates the most recent speculations about Apple products, emphasizing possible new launches and updates that may influence the company’s future offerings.

## New ‘MacBook’ Speculation with A18 Pro Chip

Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that Apple is set to unveil a new 13-inch MacBook equipped with an A18 Pro chip, designed to offer a more budget-friendly option compared to the MacBook Air. This upcoming model is anticipated to come in vibrant hues like blue, pink, yellow, and silver, with a projected price bracket of $699 to $799. The expected release timeframe is late 2025 or early 2026.

### Key Points
The arrival of an economical MacBook could greatly enhance Mac adoption, especially among current iPhone users. By employing a strategy similar to its iPad series, Apple seeks to broaden its appeal to a larger audience for its Mac products.

## Vision Products Roadmap

Kuo has also detailed Apple’s strategy for head-mounted devices, showcasing a serious dedication to creating Vision-style products. Noteworthy upcoming releases include:

– **M5 Vision Pro**: Anticipated later this year
– **Vision Air**: Slated for 2027
– **Vision Pro 2**: Expected in 2028
– **Apple Glasses**: Projected for 2027
– **XR Glasses**: Intended for 2028

The M5 Vision Pro is predicted to incorporate only minor enhancements, while the Vision Air and Vision Pro 2 are expected to be lighter and more user-friendly.

### Key Points
Apple’s emphasis on Vision products indicates a long-term vision, though it may take a while for these devices to achieve mainstream acceptance. The weight and pricing of the current Vision Pro are obstacles that require resolution before widespread use can take place.

## Upcoming iPad Pro and iPad Fold Developments

Apple is rumored to unveil an M5 iPad Pro this fall, with future iterations expected to have thinner bezels akin to those on the Samsung Tab Ultra. Nevertheless, the development of the iPad Fold has reportedly been put on hold, with its launch now deferred to 2028.

### Key Points
Thinner bezels on the iPad Pro signify a natural progression of the device. However, the postponement of the iPad Fold is disappointing for users looking forward to an expanded iPad experience, especially with advancements in iPadOS.

## iPhone 17 Logo and Display Size Adjustments

Recent insights regarding the iPhone 17 series mention a minor repositioning of the Apple logo on the Pro and Pro Max variants, along with an increase in display size for the base model from 6.1 inches to 6.3 inches.

### Key Points
While the logo adjustment is subtle, the expansion of screen size for the iPhone 17 could serve to distinguish it from subsequent models. This modification could streamline Apple’s display offerings and improve user experience.

## Conclusion

The speculations surrounding Apple’s future products indicate a strategic emphasis on affordability and innovation. The anticipated MacBook, Vision devices, and updates to the iPad and iPhone series highlight Apple’s persistent commitment to broadening its ecosystem and attracting a larger consumer base. As these developments emerge, they will influence the consumer technology landscape in the forthcoming years.

Apple Set to Announce Q3 2025 Earnings Results on Thursday, July 31

### Apple Quarterly Results Announcement: Anticipations

Apple has officially revealed that it will disclose its quarterly results for the months of April, May, and June on July 31st. This disclosure coincides with anticipation from investors and analysts who are keenly looking forward to understanding the company’s performance during the third fiscal quarter.

#### Performance from Last Year

In the same quarter last year, Apple recorded a historic revenue of $85.8 billion, signifying a 4.8% increase compared to the previous year. The revenue distribution across product categories indicated remarkable growth in several areas:

– **iPad Revenue**: Rose by 24%, propelled by the release of the M4 iPad Pro and M2 iPad Air.
– **Mac Revenue**: Increased by 2%.
– **iPhone Revenue**: Saw a minor drop of 1%.
– **Wearables, Home, and Accessories**: Experienced a 2% decline.
– **Services**: Maintained its trajectory of double-digit growth, reflecting a 14% rise from the prior quarter.

#### Projections for This Quarter

During the Q2 2025 earnings conference call, Apple CFO Kevan Parekh shared forecasts for the forthcoming quarter. He mentioned that the company anticipates overall revenue growth in the low to mid-single digits year over year. Furthermore, the gross margin is expected to fall between 45.5% and 46.5%, taking into account roughly $900 million in costs associated with tariffs.

Although no new products are set for launch in Q3 2025, Apple has reportedly succeeded in boosting iPhone sales in China, a market that has struggled for almost two years. In the United States, there has been a noted upswing in iPhone sales, likely attributed to the reduction of trade tensions that earlier impacted sales during Trump’s administration.

After the earnings report, Apple will conduct a conference call at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET to examine the results and provide additional business updates.

#### Current Apple Offers on Amazon

As Apple readies for its quarterly report, a variety of products are being offered at markdowns on Amazon:

– **MacBook Air (M4), 13″ 16GB/256GB**: $849, down from $999
– **MacBook Pro (M4), 14″ 16GB/512GB**: $1,429, reduced from $1,599
– **iPad (A16), 11″, 128GB**: $299, down from $349
– **iPad Pro (M4), 11″, 256GB**: $899, reduced from $999

As the date draws near, all attention will be on Apple to determine if it can fulfill or surpass the expectations set forth by analysts and investors.

Apple Investigates the Creation of Its Proprietary Cloud Services Platform to Rival AWS

# Apple’s Project ACDC: A Possible Disruptor in Cloud Services

The technology realm is lively with conjecture following a report from *The Information* about Apple’s potential plans to introduce its own developer cloud services, referred to as Project ACDC (Apple chips in data centers). This endeavor could position Apple in competition with major players like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google, who now lead the cloud services sector.

## Grasping Project ACDC

Per the report by Aaron Tilley, Project ACDC intends to deliver cloud services akin to Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. The fundamental concept revolves around leasing servers driven by Apple’s proprietary silicon chips, which have already shown success in boosting the performance of Apple’s devices. This initiative signifies Apple’s assurance in its chip technology, which has notably enhanced the performance of its smartphones and laptops.

The report suggests that Apple has been considering this initiative for numerous years, with the aim of presenting a more affordable and efficient substitute to current cloud services. By utilizing its in-house chips, Apple believes it can offer enhanced performance, especially for artificial intelligence (AI) tasks.

## The In-House Journey to ACDC

A primary driving force behind Project ACDC is the performance leverage that Apple silicon brings. Apple executives have acknowledged that their chips excel at AI inference operations, which are becoming increasingly crucial as the need for high-volume AI processing escalates. The efficiency of Apple’s chips supports improved performance at reduced costs, rendering them an appealing option for developers.

Apple has already initiated the use of its chips within its data centers, beginning with the introduction of Private Cloud Compute, which caters to server-side requests for Apple Intelligence. The Siri team was among the first to benefit from this technology, enjoying enhanced accuracy and lowered costs in comparison to traditional Intel-based servers. Subsequently, other services such as Photos and Apple Music have also adopted Apple silicon for performance improvement.

Remarkably, Apple has contemplated broadening this cloud infrastructure to external developers. Rather than forming a distinct enterprise sales force, the current Developer Relations team would oversee access, aiming to provide a more seamless and user-friendly experience than competitors such as AWS and Azure.

## Present Status of Project ACDC

Despite the encouraging advancements, the status of Project ACDC remains ambiguous. The exit of Michael Abbott, the Apple executive who spearheaded the initiative, in 2023 has cast doubt on its future. Although discussions are said to have persisted into the first half of 2024, it remains unclear if the project is still underway.

This prospective cloud service aligns with Apple’s wider strategy to diversify its income sources, particularly as it confronts regulatory scrutiny regarding App Store fees and its lucrative search arrangement with Google. A developer-centric cloud service built on Apple silicon could open a fresh path for expansion, enabling developers to circumvent reliance on costly GPU instances from external suppliers.

## Conclusion

Apple’s pursuit of Project ACDC underscores the company’s aspiration to harness its technological advancements in silicon for new revenue avenues. If triumphant, this initiative could transform the cloud services landscape, providing developers with a persuasive alternative to current providers. As the situation progresses, it will be intriguing to observe how Apple maneuvers this potential expansion into cloud services.

Are you a developer? Which cloud provider do you currently utilize, and would Project ACDC catch your interest? Share your insights in the comments.

iOS 26 Unveils New Functionality in Messages App to Address Unwanted Texts

Apple’s Messages application underwent major updates last year, and with the launch of iOS 26, users can look forward to even more improvements, especially focused on addressing the ongoing problem of spam messages.

### Messages Can Automatically Screen Your Texts for Spam in iOS 26

Although the new Liquid Glass design of iOS 26 has attracted considerable attention, the update also introduces numerous features across various applications, including Apple Wallet, Music, Notes, Reminders, and Photos. Among these advancements, the Messages app is noteworthy for its capability to filter out unwanted spam messages.

One of the key features added in iOS 26 aims to ease the annoyance caused by spam texts. As part of Apple’s wider strategy to tackle spam outreach, the Messages app now provides an option to mute texts from unknown numbers and categorize them into a separate area within the app.

When users activate this new screening option, two major adjustments take place:

1. **Silenced Notifications**: Texts flagged as potential spam will no longer produce notifications, minimizing disruptions.

2. **Separate Section for Spam**: These messages will be stored in a dedicated space, allowing users to view them without crowding their main conversation interface.

This functionality not only decreases interruptions but also guarantees that users can still check any filtered messages if needed. The Messages app features a filtering tool positioned in the top-right corner, allowing users to toggle between different categories of texts. The sections available are:

– Messages
– Unknown Senders
– Spam
– Recently Deleted

Users can choose to enable or disable spam screening for both Unknown Senders and Spam categories. Even though messages from unknown senders are cleared from the main view, a visual notification will inform users when there are screened texts that may need their attention, ensuring that significant messages are not missed.

As iOS 26 is launched, users are advised to consider making use of the new spam screening tools in Messages to improve their messaging experience and lessen unwanted distractions.

June Experiences Growth in App Store Earnings and Downloads, Even with a Drop in User Expenditure on Games

**App Store Performance Insights: Revenue Growth and Changing User Spending Trends**

Bank of America has recently reviewed the latest performance statistics from the App Store, uncovering a significant trend: while revenue is rising at a quicker pace than downloads, users are altering their spending behaviors.

As per the report, which cites data from SensorTower, global App Store revenue saw a 12% year-over-year increase in June, whereas downloads only improved by 4%. This expanding gap signifies a favorable shift in monetization techniques, with users increasingly directing their expenditures towards non-gaming categories.

A noteworthy point from the report indicates that gaming, despite remaining the largest revenue-generating category, made up only 45% of total App Store revenue in the quarter, a reduction from over 50% in previous years. This transition implies that users are broadening their spending distribution across diverse app categories.

### Productivity Apps on the Increase

Bank of America observed that categories like Photo & Video, Lifestyle, Books, Education, and Utilities each gained roughly 100 basis points (or 1%) in market share. Notably, Productivity apps experienced a rise of 200 basis points (or 2%), marking the highest percentage change among categories. This diversification in expenditure could provide a long-term benefit for Apple, as developers start to investigate new monetization approaches beyond conventional gaming.

### Regulatory Landscape and Stock Forecast

Regarding the regulatory environment, especially in light of the Epic Games case, Bank of America reported no significant effect on App Store revenue to date. The firm sustained a “Buy” rating on Apple stock, setting a target price of $235, fueled by expectations of robust capital returns, leadership potential in on-device AI, and growth prospects in upcoming product categories.

This analysis follows closely after JPMorgan revised Apple’s stock price target from $240 to $230 while keeping an “Overweight” rating, reflecting a favorable outlook on the company’s long-term strategy.

### Conclusion

The information provided by Bank of America suggests a transforming environment in App Store spending, with users increasingly choosing to invest in non-gaming apps. This trend, alongside a stable regulatory atmosphere and optimistic stock forecast, indicates a bright future for Apple as it navigates the changing app economy.

New Titles Added to Apple Arcade: Angry Birds Bounce and Three Additional Games Launched

As promised, Apple Arcade has recently expanded its ever-growing subscription-based library of ad-free games by adding four new titles. Here’s the complete list:

### Angry Birds Bounce
Join forces with Red, Chuck, Bomb, and the entire crew on an exciting new expedition. Angry Birds Bounce merges the timeless appeal of Angry Birds with a creative arcade brick-breaker twist. When the pigs invade their islands, the birds must bounce back — quite literally — merging into formidable flocks and propelling themselves to vanquish a horde of piggies and reclaim their territory. Featuring strategic rogue-lite gameplay, every level presents a fresh challenge where players will perfect precision shots, unlock thrilling power-ups, and create distinctive combos throughout each run. [Play Angry Birds Bounce on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4lc6qtl)

### Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD+
The newest entry in the acclaimed tower defense series enhances the fast-paced, engaging gameplay of its predecessors while elevating the intensity with increased power, chaos, and strategy like never before. For the first time in the series, players can command two heroes in every stage. With 15 epic heroes to select from, 17 unique towers, 32 upgradable characters, 22 intricate campaign stages, and more than 40 enemy types, Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD+ provides exhilarating gameplay, the signature humor that fans adore, and limitless replayability. The game includes all downloadable content and is available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. [Play Kingdom Rush 5: Alliance TD+ on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4lcHMZl)

### Suika Game+
The trending puzzle game where players drop fruits into a box is making its way to Apple Arcade. The objective of Suika Game – Aladdin X+ is to merge matching fruits into larger creations, culminating in the ultimate treat: a watermelon. The game’s lively physics introduce an entertaining challenge. While dropping and combining bouncing fruits, players must carefully prevent them from spilling out of the box. They will compete with players globally and strive for the top of the daily, monthly, or all-time leaderboards. [Play Suika Game+ on Apple Arcade](https://apple.co/4lWX30L)

### Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets+
Creativity merges with responsibility as players delve into vibrant 3D realms to color, care for, and interact with more than 90 cute digital pets. Inspired by the best-selling Crayola toy, this game enables young players to develop empathy and responsibility through engaging pet care activities such as grooming, feeding, and washing, while also enhancing attention and memory skills with detail-oriented gameplay. With limitless creative enjoyment using digital Crayola art tools and imaginative adventures across colorful 3D landscapes, Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Pets+ transforms the conventional pet toy into an immersive digital experience.

Speculations about MacBook Incorporating iPhone Processor, AI Siri Partnerships, and Fresh EU App Store Guidelines

### Apple’s Anticipated Economical MacBook Air and App Store Modifications

In recent conversations, Benjamin and Chance explore the thrilling rumor emerging from Ming-Chi Kuo about Apple’s intentions to launch a new, cost-effective MacBook Air. This forthcoming model is expected to feature the A18 Pro CPU, which may significantly boost performance while keeping a lower price tag. This initiative corresponds with Apple’s goal to attract a wider demographic, particularly students and cost-conscious consumers who desire the reliability of Mac products without the premium expense.

#### A Transformative Phase for the MacBook Air

The expected MacBook Air featuring the A18 Pro CPU could signify a crucial transformation in Apple’s laptop lineup. The A-series chips have already demonstrated their prowess in mobile devices, and their incorporation into laptops could offer users enhanced processing capabilities and energy efficiency. This advancement may redefine the entry-level laptop sector, rendering high-performance computing more attainable.

#### App Store Guidelines in the EU

Alongside hardware enhancements, Apple has unveiled a convoluted new set of App Store guidelines in the European Union that has left many baffled. These modifications are likely a reaction to escalating regulatory examinations and rivalry within the app market. The particulars of these guidelines remain ambiguous, but they are anticipated to affect developers and consumers alike, potentially changing how apps are distributed and monetized in the EU.

#### AI Fusion with Siri

Moreover, Apple seems to be investigating the possibility of augmenting Siri’s functionalities by incorporating third-party AI models. This willingness to embrace external technologies could result in a more adaptable and competent virtual assistant, addressing long-standing criticisms about Siri’s performance when compared to rivals. By utilizing third-party advancements, Apple could significantly enhance user experience and capability.

### Conclusion

As Apple prepares for these possible transformations, the tech community observes attentively. The amalgamation of a new, wallet-friendly MacBook Air, intricate App Store guidelines, and progress in AI for Siri could influence the trajectory of Apple’s product ecosystem. For those keen on remaining informed about these changes, subscribing to platforms like 9to5Mac Happy Hour Plus can provide deeper insights and exclusive material.

9to5Mac Daily: July 3, 2025 – Daily Highlights of iOS 26

**9to5Mac Daily: Your Destination for Daily Apple News and Insights**

In the rapidly evolving tech landscape, keeping abreast of the latest developments is vital, particularly for Apple fans. 9to5Mac Daily is a podcast aimed at offering listeners a summary of the day’s key stories, centering on Apple and its ecosystem. Accessible on multiple platforms, such as iTunes, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, and via a specific RSS feed, this podcast guarantees that you won’t miss any critical news.

**What to Anticipate from 9to5Mac Daily**

Each episode of 9to5Mac Daily is produced on weekdays, providing listeners with a reliable source of information. The podcast spans various subjects, from product announcements and software upgrades to industry patterns and insider perspectives. By subscribing, you can ensure that fresh episodes reach your selected podcast player immediately upon release.

**Sponsorship and Highlights**

The podcast is backed by Bitwarden, a password management solution that includes features like Apple Watch authenticator integration, secure autofill options, and enterprise-level security tools. This collaboration underscores the significance of security in today’s digital landscape, particularly for users overseeing multiple accounts.

**Exclusive Material and Contributions**

Listeners can choose to back the podcast directly through 9to5Mac Daily Plus. By subscribing, you can access ad-free versions of episodes and unlock bonus material, enhancing your overall listening journey.

**Interaction and Community**

9to5Mac Daily promotes listener interaction. You can share your opinions by emailing the team or by reviewing the podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Overcast. This input aids in refining the show and enables more individuals to learn about the insightful discussions featured in each episode.

**Final Thoughts**

For anyone keen on Apple news and technology, 9to5Mac Daily serves as an essential resource. With its dedication to delivering timely updates and captivating content, it proves to be a must-listen for tech devotees. Whether you’re on the go, working out, or just unwinding at home, tuning into 9to5Mac Daily keeps you informed and connected with the Apple community.