AllYouCanTech

iPhone 17 Achieves Unprecedented Sales in Difficult Chinese Market

### iPhone 17 Sales Boost in China: A Market Overview

A recent market analysis report reveals that the iPhone 17 series is witnessing extraordinary sales in China, a market that has historically presented difficulties for Apple. The findings show that one out of every four smartphones sold in China during October was an iPhone, with total sales exceeding the previous record established in 2021.

#### Apple’s Intricate Relationship with China

Apple’s connection with China is complex. Although the company has worked to diversify its manufacturing to nations like India and Thailand, it still heavily relies on China as its main production center. This dependency has prompted Apple to make considerable concessions, such as taking down VPN apps from the Chinese App Store and permitting iCloud data to be hosted on servers linked to the Chinese government.

Alongside manufacturing obstacles, Apple experiences pressure from the Chinese authorities, who have at times motivated consumers to prefer local brands over iPhones. This presents a challenge to Apple’s standing in one of its major markets. Additionally, the attractiveness of iPhone applications in China does not align with that in other regions, complicating the company’s efforts to preserve its market presence.

#### Robust Growth Despite Challenges

Regardless of these difficulties, Counterpoint Research presents optimistic news for Apple. The overall Chinese smartphone market expanded by 8% year-on-year in October, while iPhone sales soared by a remarkable 37%. This increase was primarily fueled by the iPhone 17 series, with all three models showcasing mid-to-high double-digit growth rates when compared to the iPhone 16 series. Significantly, the base model of the iPhone 17 emerged as the top-selling variant.

This sales spike signifies the best beginning to a December quarter for Apple, with total sell-through far surpassing the previous peak in October 2021. The accomplishment of attaining a 25% market share in October is especially remarkable, reflecting Apple’s supremacy in the smartphone market, eclipsing rivals like Mi and Vivo, which captured 16% and 17% of sales, respectively.

#### Changes in Consumer Preferences

Counterpoint’s evaluation indicates that Apple has effectively drawn in former Huawei users, as Huawei’s sales decreased by 19% year-on-year. The iPhone 17’s strong results illustrate a shift in consumer preferences, with numerous customers choosing Apple’s products over local brands.

While the report emphasizes the success of the iPhone 17 models, it lacks specific information regarding the sales of the iPhone Air. Nonetheless, the overall trend implies that Apple’s strategy in China is producing favorable outcomes, even in a tough environment.

### Conclusion

The iPhone 17’s remarkable sales figures in China highlight Apple’s fortitude and capability to maneuver through a complicated market landscape. As the company continues to adjust to the challenges posed by the Chinese government and local competition, its recent achievements serve as evidence of the lasting allure of its products among consumers.

Apple @ Work Podcast: A Summary of the Present Condition of Passkeys

### The Significance of Password Management in Today’s Digital World

In a time when digital security is vital, the handling of passwords has become an essential part of protecting personal and organizational information. As cyber threats become more advanced, it is crucial to grasp the tools and methods available for effective password management.

#### The Growth of Password Management Tools

With the increase of online accounts, the typical individual now oversees countless passwords. This complexity frequently results in poor password behaviors, such as reusing passwords over various sites or choosing easily guessable passwords. To address these challenges, password management tools have surfaced as indispensable resources. These applications securely keep and encrypt passwords, enabling users to create strong, unique passwords for every account without the hassle of remembering them.

#### Dashlane’s Perspectives on Password Security

In a recent segment of Apple @ Work, Rew Islam from Dashlane talked about the company’s latest publication titled “The 2025 Dashlane Passkey Power 20.” This report underscores the changing landscape of password management and the growing acceptance of passkeys as a safer substitute for conventional passwords. Passkeys eliminate the requirement for passwords by utilizing cryptographic keys stored on devices, significantly diminishing the risk of phishing schemes and credential theft.

#### The Advantages of Utilizing Passkeys

1. **Improved Security**: Passkeys provide greater security than standard passwords because they are not vulnerable to typical attacks like brute force or phishing.

2. **User Ease**: With passkeys, users can validate their identity without the burden of recalling complex passwords, resulting in a more seamless user experience.

3. **Lowered Risk of Data Leaks**: By removing passwords, organizations can greatly reduce the likelihood of data leaks resulting from compromised credentials.

#### The Responsibility of Organizations in Password Management

Organizations have a vital role in encouraging secure password practices among their employees. Adopting password management solutions and informing staff about the significance of strong, unique passwords can assist in minimizing security risks. Additionally, organizations should contemplate implementing passkey technology as part of their cybersecurity plan to stay ahead of possible threats.

#### Conclusion

As the digital environment continues to advance, our strategies for password management must adapt as well. Tools like Dashlane are leading the charge towards a more secure future, where reliance on conventional passwords decreases in favor of innovative technologies like passkeys. By emphasizing password security, both individuals and organizations can enhance the protection of their sensitive information in an increasingly interconnected environment.

For more insights and to keep informed on the latest developments in password management, consider tuning into previous episodes of the Apple @ Work podcast and examining the resources offered by industry pioneers such as Dashlane and Mosyle.

Apple’s iPhone Air Designer Leaving for Anonymous AI Startup

**Apple’s Brain Drain Persists: The Exit of Abidur Chowdhury**

Apple Inc. has been facing considerable turnover within its staff, especially in its artificial intelligence (AI) and design sectors. The latest update features Abidur Chowdhury, an industrial designer renowned for his key contributions to the creation of the iPhone Air, who has exited the organization to join an undisclosed AI startup.

### The Persistent Talent Exodus

Reports suggest that Apple has been struggling with a “brain drain,” particularly from its AI divisions. High-profile engineers and researchers are departing for rival companies such as Meta, Anthropic, and OpenAI. This trend is not limited to AI, as it also impacts Apple’s design team. Noteworthy exits include Evans Hankey, who succeeded Jony Ive in industrial design, along with several other veteran designers who have joined Jony Ive’s new team at io, recently acquired by OpenAI.

Chowdhury’s exit is a part of this broader trend. His departure has raised eyebrows internally, considering his ascending role within Apple’s design team. While his LinkedIn profile still reflects Apple as his current employer, sources have confirmed that he has transitioned to explore opportunities in the AI field.

### Chowdhury’s Influence at Apple

During his tenure at Apple, Chowdhury was instrumental in the creation of the iPhone Air, a product that has received considerable attention since its debut. However, it’s worth noting that his departure is said to be unrelated to the product’s release. His contributions to the design team have been acknowledged, and his exit signifies another major loss for Apple as it faces a competitive talent landscape.

### The Prospects of Apple’s Design Division

The ongoing departures raise concerns regarding the future of Apple’s design division and its capability to uphold its innovative edge. With critical personnel leaving for competing firms, Apple could encounter difficulties in preserving its status for avant-garde design and technology. The exit of experienced designers like Chowdhury may affect upcoming product innovations and the overall creative trajectory of the company.

As the tech sector continues to transform, the race for top talent remains intense. Apple’s capacity to attract and keep skilled professionals will be vital in sustaining its leadership position in the industry.

### Conclusion

Abidur Chowdhury’s departure from Apple underscores a wider trend of talent migration within the tech sphere, especially in the areas of AI and design. As Apple navigates this persistent challenge, the ramifications for its future creativity and product evolution will be closely monitored by industry analysts and consumers alike.

“News on Possible Follow-Up to ‘F1 The Movie’: Perspectives from Tim Cook and Director Joseph Kosinski”

As Apple gears up for the release of “F1 The Movie” for streaming on Apple TV, excitement is already mounting for a possible sequel. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the film is scheduled to debut on December 12, after its previous availability for purchase or rental in August. With its success, both fans and participants in the project are keen to consider the continuation of the narrative.

Director Joseph Kosinski shared his eagerness for a sequel, expressing a wish to explore the characters and storylines introduced in the initial film. He indicated a desire to witness the future journeys of Sonny Hayes and the evolution of the APXGP team, implying that the story has more to reveal.

Apple CEO Tim Cook also suggested the possibility of a sequel during an interview at the Emmys, recognizing the film’s achievement as a summer hit and the exceptional talent involved. His remarks demonstrate a mutual interest among the creative team to broaden the F1 universe.

The consideration of a sequel is understandable, particularly since Apple recently secured exclusive streaming rights for F1 races in the U.S., which could enhance the franchise’s attractiveness. As fans eagerly await the streaming debut of “F1 The Movie,” the chance of a sequel contributes to the thrill surrounding the film.

For those looking to watch “F1 The Movie,” it will be accessible on Apple TV, which provides a subscription service that includes a selection of popular shows and films. The dialogue about a sequel emphasizes the film’s influence and the possibilities for future storytelling within the realm of Formula 1.

Apple Secures Legal Win as Supreme Court Declines to Examine Challenge on Lapsed Patent

**Apple, Google, and LG Electronics Triumph in Patent Case as Supreme Court Rejects Appeal**

Today, Apple, Google, and LG Electronics marked a substantial legal success as the U.S. Supreme Court decided against hearing an appeal concerning an expired patent, bringing an end to a heated legal struggle initiated by Gesture Technology Partners.

### A Brief Overview

The legal conflict dates back to 2021 when Gesture Technology Partners launched a lawsuit against Apple, Google, and LG Electronics. The claim alleged that these technology leaders violated U.S. Patent No. 7,933,431, which is titled “Camera Based Sensing in Handheld, Mobile, Gaming, or Other Devices.” This patent pertains to technology concerning input devices for computers, especially those utilized in 3-D graphics, functioning by optically detecting human input through cameras.

However, the patent had already lapsed in 2020, one year before Gesture Technology Partners initiated legal action against the three corporations. Regardless of the patent’s expiration, the entity pursued damages for asserted infringements that took place when the patent was still in effect.

Throughout the legal proceedings, the Patent Trial and Appeal Board invalidated 31 of the patent’s 33 claims, and later, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled the entire patent as invalid.

### Today’s Developments

As per Reuters, the Supreme Court’s choice not to entertain the appeal effectively sustains the lower court’s decision. Apple, Google, LG, and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) filed briefs encouraging the Court to uphold the Federal Circuit’s ruling, asserting that even expired patents can be reviewed by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board due to ongoing implications for public rights.

On the other hand, Gesture Technology Partners argued that expired patents should be contested solely in federal court, beyond the jurisdiction of the PTAB. Nevertheless, with the Supreme Court opting not to intervene in the matter, the lower court’s ruling remains unaltered.

This result not only represents a notable victory for the involved tech firms but also establishes a precedent concerning the authority of the PTAB over expired patents, potentially affecting future patent litigation cases.

Apple Unveils Support for External Voice Assistants through Side Button in Japan

### Apple Unveils Side Button Personalization for Voice Applications in Japan

A recent update from Apple’s Developer blog indicates that users in Japan will soon have the option to reassign the side button on their iPhones to activate third-party voice-driven conversational applications instead of Siri. This feature is included in the upcoming iOS 26.2 update, which is currently undergoing beta testing.

#### Currently Exclusive to Japan?

Recent findings in the iOS 26.2 beta 3 code demonstrate that Apple is working on a new capability that enables users to customize the assistant triggered by the side button. A new system application, known as ‘SystemVoiceAssistant,’ is tied to this feature, hinting at a major transformation in user interactions with their devices.

As stated in Apple’s documentation, this feature will initially be available exclusively in Japan. Developers can utilize the App Intents framework to enable users to access their app’s features directly via the side button. This implies that users could potentially launch a voice-driven app instantly by pressing the side button.

#### Guidelines for Developers

Apple has provided detailed instructions for developers to activate their voice-driven conversational applications for this new capability:

1. **Include Entitlement**: Developers need to add the `com.apple.developer.side-button-access.allow` entitlement within their app’s Xcode project.

2. **Develop App Intent**: An app intent that complies with the `activate` app intent schema must be developed.

3. **Set Up Audio Session**: In the `perform()` implementation of the app intent, developers should proceed to the scene that offers voice functionality and establish an audio session.

Apple highlights that, as users anticipate immediate engagement with the voice assistant upon pressing the side button, developers should ensure their applications are prepared to respond promptly.

#### Prospective Availability

Although Apple has not verified that this feature will be accessible with the official rollout of iOS 26.2, the recent code revisions imply that a launch is probable soon. The documentation also provides sample code to help developers in implementing this new capability.

At this moment, the feature is confined to Japan, and it is yet to be determined if Apple will extend this feature to additional regions in the future. Developers and users are encouraged to express their opinions regarding the possibility of wider availability in the comments section of the announcement.

For further details and to access Apple’s sample code, visit the

iPadOS 26.2 Beta 3 Brings Major Improvements to Slide Over and Split View Functions

### iPadOS 26.2 Updates: Reviving Slide Over and Split View Functions

iPadOS 26 brought a substantial transformation to the multitasking experience on the iPad, but it also stirred controversy by eliminating the Slide Over feature and essential elements of Split View. This choice faced a substantial backlash from users who appreciated these functionalities for their productivity.

In response to user input, Apple launched iPadOS 26.1, which reintroduced a revised version of Slide Over. Nonetheless, the improvements did not entirely meet the expectations of all users, as some functions were still missing. With the recent launch of iPadOS 26.2 beta 3, Apple has implemented further enhancements to both Slide Over and Split View, addressing some of the issues raised by the iPad community.

#### Noteworthy New Features in iPadOS 26.2

One of the most distinguished updates in iPadOS 26.2 is the reinstatement of the capability to drag apps from the dock into Slide Over or Split View mode. This feature enables users to swiftly and intuitively place an app in a floating window or alongside another app, improving the multitasking abilities of the iPad.

When dragging an app icon, users will notice a visual preview that shows whether the app will be positioned in Split View, Slide Over, or as a complete window. This feature reflects the user experience from iPadOS 18, making it recognizable and easy to navigate for longtime iPad users.

Despite these advancements, certain restrictions persist. The Slide Over feature still does not allow for stacking multiple apps, and it necessitates the new windowing mode introduced in iPadOS 26, implying it is incompatible with Full Screen Apps mode.

#### Summary

The updates in iPadOS 26.2 signify a crucial move towards reinstating the multitasking experience that numerous users valued prior to iPadOS 26. Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback illustrates its dedication to enhancing the iPad experience. As users continue to acclimate to the evolving features of iPadOS, these enhancements in Slide Over and Split View are likely to be embraced by those seeking a more effective multitasking setting.

iOS 26.2 Leak Indicates Possibility of Users Setting a Different Assistant as Default Instead of Siri on iPhone

**iOS 26.2 Beta 3: New Features and Possible Adjustments**

iOS 26.2 beta 3 has been unveiled, presenting intriguing updates, including improvements to AirDrop and the Measure app. Nonetheless, the most notable alteration suggested in this beta version is the opportunity for users to substitute Siri with third-party voice assistants when activating them through the iPhone’s side button.

### Third-Party Assistant Compatibility

The code within iOS 26.2 beta 3, as reported by 9to5Mac, suggests that Apple is gearing up to permit users to call upon third-party AI assistants via the side button, effectively replacing Siri. This functionality is associated with a new system app known as ‘SystemVoiceAssistant,’ which seems to facilitate the selection of various voice assistants.

The code contains references to a ‘Side Button App’ and several strings that imply users will have the ability to assign a voice-enabled app to the side button. Some notable code strings are:

– “Assign a voice-enabled app to the Side Button”
– “ASSISTANT_AVAILABILITY_PROMPT” = “%@ will be accessible once it completes downloading.”
– “APP_NOT_AVAILABLE_FOR_SIDE_BUTTON_IN_REGION = “%@ cannot be used with the Side Button in your region.”

The final string indicates that the availability of this functionality may be region-dependent, which could be vital for its rollout.

### Adherence to EU Regulations

This update holds particular importance as it aligns with Apple’s initiatives to adhere to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union. iOS 26.2 is anticipated to be the final significant software update before the holiday period, creating a strategic moment for Apple to enact necessary compliance actions prior to the year-end deadline.

While Apple has not officially validated these alterations, it seems probable that the option to utilize third-party assistants via the side button may be confined to users in the EU.

### Conclusion

With the launch of iOS 26.2 beta 3, users might soon have the capability to exchange Siri for their preferred voice assistant, boosting the adaptability and personalization of the iPhone experience. As the release date draws near, it will be captivating to observe how these features are executed and whether they will be accessible globally or limited to specific locales. Users are invited to express their opinions on whether they would opt to replace Siri with another assistant in the comments.

Latest Additions and Enhancements in iOS 26.2 Beta 3

Apple is still in the process of testing the forthcoming iPhone software update, having released iOS 26.2 beta 3 today. The pre-release update incorporates an unexpected number of modifications and enhancements. Here’s a summary of what’s new thus far:

## AirDrop Codes

Apple is working on a new AirDrop feature that enables users to AirDrop between devices without needing to have each other saved as contacts for 30 days. iOS 26.2 beta 3 is the initial version to unveil preliminary indications of this functionality in the AirDrop section of Settings.

[Discover more about the forthcoming AirDrop codes feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2s-new-airdrop-feature-upgrade-revealed-in-beta-3/)

## Liquid Glass Level

Recently, Apple launched a completely new Liquid Glass-themed Level design within the Measure app in iOS 26.2 beta 2. In iOS 26.2 beta 3, Apple has further enhanced the design to ensure visibility of the numbers displayed in various scenarios.

[Learn more about the newly designed feature here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## iPadOS Split View and Slide Over

Apple reintroduced Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1, and now they’re enhancing another multitasking feature that was overlooked from iOS 18. Beginning with iPadOS 26.2 beta 3, users can drag an app icon out of the Dock to activate Slide Over or Split View during multitasking.

[Read more about these multitasking updates here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/slide-over-ipados-26-2-update-feature/)

## Default Voice Assistant Code

Leaked coding suggests that Apple is developing a feature that will allow users to replace invoking Siri as the default action when pressing the side button. This will likely be exclusively available in the EU due to regulatory requirements.

[Explore more about the leaked code references here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/17/ios-26-2-leak-shows-iphone-might-let-you-replace-siri-as-default-assistant/)

Today’s updates build on what we saw in iOS 26.2 beta 1 and 2.

## Games App Navigation

The Games app has introduced sorting and filtering options to the library, controller navigation, and real-time score updates during gameplay.

[Read more about the enhancements to the games app here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2s-apple-games-app-has-three-new-improvements/)

## Measure Redesign

The Level feature within the Measure app incorporates a Liquid Glass design.

[Find out more about the redesign here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-adds-a-cool-liquid-glass-effect-to-the-native-level-tool/)

## Messages CarPlay Update

Users can now disable pinned conversations for Messages in CarPlay Settings.

[Read more about this update here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/ios-26-2-lets-you-disable-new-carplay-feature-in-messages/)

## More

– The animations when tapping buttons to access menus have become significantly smoother.

## Edge Light Feature on macOS 26 Tahoe

Apple is rolling out a new built-in feature for Mac named Edge Light. It creates a virtual ring light using the screen of your Mac to improve lighting during video calls.

[Learn more about Edge Light on the Mac and its functionality here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/12/macos-26-2-adds-new-edge-light-feature/)

## Sleep Score Changes

Apple is modifying how Sleep Score functions for sleep tracking. Very High will replace Excellent as the top tier, and the criteria for each category have also been adjusted. This change is a response to user feedback indicating that the Sleep Score range was too broad and that Excellent conveyed an overly favorable impression.

[Discover more about the change here.](https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/watchos-26-2-sleep-score-changes-apple-watch/)

## Apple Podcasts App Enhancements

Apple is leveraging AI to enhance the Apple Podcasts app experience. Commencing with iOS 26.2, the app can utilize AI to automatically create chapters, link to referenced podcasts, and gather show links.

Data Brokers Trade Your Sensitive Information Every Day to the Highest Bidder

### The Concealed Expense of Free Applications: Grasping Data Privacy

In the current digital era, the saying “if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product” is especially applicable for numerous free applications and services. Although these platforms provide their offerings without any financial charge, they frequently capitalize on user data, selling personal details to data brokers. This article explores the ramifications of this approach and provides guidance on safeguarding your personal information.

#### The Data Collection Environment

Countless free apps and online services gather a broad spectrum of personal information, ranging from basic identifiers like email addresses to more sensitive data such as location information and browsing behaviors. Privacy policies, which are often lengthy and laden with legal terminology, usually specify the types of data gathered and the reasons for its utilization. A frequently encountered phrase in these policies is the vague “sharing certain data with trusted partners,” which effectively enables companies to sell your information to data brokers.

#### Dangers Linked to Data Sharing

The repercussions of data sharing can differ. On one hand, advertisers leverage this information to offer personalized advertisements, boosting their marketing efficiency. Conversely, the data amassed can be a treasure trove for cybercriminals and identity thieves. Data brokers, who compile and sell personal details, are prime targets for hackers. A determined individual can often unearth a trove of personal information, including phone numbers, home addresses, and workplaces, with little effort.

#### The Struggle of Data Deletion

Erasing personal data from the internet is a formidable challenge. It involves reaching out to various companies and maneuvering through complex removal procedures, which are frequently designed to be cumbersome. This endeavor is not only labor-intensive but also perpetual, as new data is constantly added to differing platforms.

#### Strategies for Data Privacy

To address the obstacles of data removal, services like [Incogni](https://bit.ly/444f32v) provide a remedy. Incogni focuses on eliminating personal information from data brokers and people search websites, offering a continual service that adjusts to changes in your personal situation, such as relocating or changing employment. With an unlimited plan, users can report newly identified data, and Incogni will manage the removal process, alleviating the hassle of dealing with individual companies.

#### Conclusion

As the digital environment keeps evolving, recognizing the consequences of data sharing is vital for protecting your personal information. By taking initiative and utilizing services designed to defend your data, you can make substantial strides toward preserving your privacy in an increasingly connected world. For those interested,