Apple News
Apple’s Safari lead designer departs for The Browser Company
Apple has lost Marco Triverio, a lead designer on its Safari browser team, to The Browser Company — the innovative startup behind the popular Arc browser and the newer AI-focused Dia browser.
The Browser Company’s CEO, Josh Miller, noted that Triverio’s hire means they now have lead designers from every Safari era overlapping with Arc and Dia’s development (2020–2025). This follows a similar departure in 2024 when another key Safari designer joined the same firm.
The Browser Company is known for rethinking browser interfaces with features like unique tab management, customization, collaborative tools, and heavy AI integration.
Hartley Charlton for MacRumors:
The move was confirmed by The Browser Company chief executive Josh Miller in a post on LinkedIn, marking the latest in a series of hires from Apple’s Safari design leadership.
The Browser Company has positioned itself as an alternative to traditional browsers by emphasizing significant new interaction models rather than incremental updates. The apps are often compared to Apple software due to their focus on visual clarity, animation, and user experience design.
For Apple, Triverio’s exit adds to a broader pattern of senior staff departures that became more visible throughout 2025.
MacDailyNews Take: The exodus continues.
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Apple defeats AliveCor’s Apple Watch heart rate antitrust suit on appeal
In a significant legal victory for Apple, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has affirmed a lower court’s summary judgment in favor of the tech giant, effectively ending medical device maker AliveCor’s antitrust claims related to the Apple Watch’s heart rate monitoring features.
The ruling, issued on January 8, 2026, rejects AliveCor’s allegations that Apple illegally monopolized the market for heart rate analysis apps on the Apple Watch by restricting third-party access to certain heart rate data through watchOS updates.
Background of the Dispute
The legal battle between Apple and AliveCor dates back to 2021, when AliveCor filed an antitrust lawsuit accusing Apple of anticompetitive practices under Section 2 of the Sherman Act. AliveCor claimed that Apple deliberately changed its heart rate algorithm in watchOS 5, shifting from the Heart Rate Path Optimizer to a new Heart Rate Neural Network algorithm. This change, according to AliveCor, degraded the performance of its SmartRhythm feature — an AI-powered tool designed to detect irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation — while Apple rolled out its own competing Irregular Rhythm Notification feature.
AliveCor argued that Apple had a duty to continue providing access to the older algorithm’s data, allowing third-party developers to compete fairly in the purported market for watchOS heart rate analysis apps.
A U.S. District Court initially granted summary judgment in Apple’s favor in 2024, dismissing the case. AliveCor appealed, leading to today’s Ninth Circuit decision.
Key Points from the Appeals Court Ruling
The three-judge panel affirmed the dismissal but on alternate grounds. Writing for the court, Judge Michelle Friedland emphasized that Apple’s actions constituted a “lawful refusal to deal” with a competitor. Under established antitrust precedent, companies generally have no obligation to share proprietary technology or continue aiding rivals, absent specific exceptions that AliveCor failed to prove.The court stated: “Because AliveCor has not done so here, AliveCor’s Section 2 claims fail as a matter of law.”
This outcome aligns with broader legal principles protecting a company’s right to innovate and modify its own products, even if it disadvantages competitors.
Broader Context: Patent Disputes Resolved in Apple’s Favor
Today’s antitrust ruling follows Apple’s earlier success in a parallel patent infringement case against AliveCor. In March 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the invalidation of AliveCor’s key heart monitoring patents by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). That decision eliminated any threat of an Apple Watch import ban sought through the International Trade Commission (ITC).With both the patent and antitrust fronts now closed in Apple’s favor, the multi-year legal saga appears concluded, barring any potential appeal by AliveCor to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Reactions and Implications
Apple has consistently maintained that its watchOS updates improved accuracy and user safety, not suppressed competition. In response to prior rulings, the company stated: “At Apple, our teams are constantly innovating to create products and services that empower users with health, wellness, and life-saving features… today’s outcome confirms that is not anticompetitive.”
AliveCor has not yet issued a public statement on the latest appeals decision, but the company has previously expressed disappointment in similar setbacks and vowed to explore further legal options.
The case highlights ongoing tensions in the wearable health tech space, where Apple’s dominant position in smartwatches intersects with innovation from smaller players. Legal experts note that the Ninth Circuit’s emphasis on the “refusal to deal” doctrine reinforces protections for platform owners to evolve their ecosystems without mandatory sharing of improvements.
This victory bolsters Apple’s ability to advance health features in future Apple Watch models, potentially accelerating developments in cardiac monitoring and other wellness tools that have become hallmark selling points for the device.
MacDailyNews Take: Victory!
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The New York Times profiles John Ternus, ‘the man who could be Apple’s next CEO’
As Apple approaches a potential leadership transition, John Ternus, 50, the company’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, has emerged as a leading contender to succeed longtime CEO Tim Cook. According to insiders cited in a New York Times report published Thursday, Ternus’s low-profile yet influential style is marked by careful decision-making that balances innovation with profitability, positioning him as a natural heir for ensuring continuity at the tech company.
Ternus, who joined Apple in 2001 and rose through the hardware ranks, gained prominence for strategic choices like limiting advanced features to premium iPhone models to manage costs effectively. With Cook, now 65, reportedly signaling fatigue and accelerating succession planning in recent years — while preparing multiple internal candidates — Ternus stands out among peers, potentially shaping Apple’s future amid evolving challenges in hardware innovation and global operations.
Kalley Huang and Tripp Mickle for The New York Times:
Threading the needle between adding new bells and whistles to Apple’s products while watching the bottom line has defined the careful, low-profile style of Mr. Ternus, who joined Apple in 2001. He is now considered by some company insiders to be the front-runner to replace Tim Cook, Apple’s longtime chief executive, if Mr. Cook decides to step aside.
Apple last year began accelerating its planning for Mr. Cook’s succession, according to three people close to the company who spoke on the condition of anonymity about Apple’s confidential deliberations. Mr. Cook, 65, has told senior leaders that he is tired and would like to reduce his workload, the people said. Should he step down, Mr. Cook is likely to become the chairman of Apple’s board, according to three people close to the company…
Despite his low profile, Mr. Ternus appears to have shot to the front of the pack to be Apple’s next C.E.O., according to four people close to the company…
Mr. Ternus’s rising profile has caused debate among Apple alumni and rank-and-file employees about whether he would lead like Mr. Cook, who succeeded by making the company more predictable and incremental, or Mr. Jobs, who laid the foundation for the company’s success with risky bets and visionary products.
“If you want to make an iPhone every year, Ternus is your guy,” said Cameron Rogers, who worked on product and software engineering management at Apple from 2005 to 2022.
The question for Apple is whether the company needs an innovator or another deft manager.
MacDailyNews Take: As we wrote last July:
What should happen at Apple:
- Tim Cook retires (yesterday, preferably)
- Cook does not get Chairman of the Board position
- Apple hires a charismatic, visionary CEO in the mold of Jobs
- Company returns to path of inventive innovation
What likely will happen at Apple:
- Tim Cook hangs on for years
- When he finally retires as CEO, he becomes Chairman
- Apple hires another bland, myopic CEO in the mold of Cook
- Company continues on path of iterative stagnation
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Apple TV series ‘The Studio’ leads as the most-nominated series for the 32nd Annual Actor Awards
Apple TV this week was recognized with 12 nominations across seven programs for the 32nd Annual Actors Awards, presented by the Screen Actors Guild, including five total nods for this year’s most-nominated series “The Studio,” which also recently became the most Emmy-winning freshman comedy in history, with nominations for Outstanding Ensemble in a Comedy Series; Outstanding Male Actor in a Comedy Series for Seth Rogen and Ike Barinholtz; and Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series for Kathryn Hahn and Catherine O’Hara. Following last week’s Critics Choice Award wins for Best Editing and Best Sound, Apple Original Films’ “F1” also scored top category nods, including Outstanding Stunt Ensemble. Global hit and award-winning series “Severance” landed Actors Awards nods for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series and Outstanding Female Actor in a Drama Series for Britt Lower for culture-defining phenomena, while Apple’s smash hit “Pluribus” scored its first nod for Outstanding Female Actor in a Drama Series for Rhea Seehorn following its record-breaking first season. Billy Crudup and Gary Oldman are nominated for Outstanding Male Actor in a Drama Series for “The Morning Show” and “Slow Horses,” respectively, while Kristen Wiig received an Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series nomination for “Palm Royale.” The winners will be revealed on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Los Angeles.
Additionally, today Apple landed eight nominations for the 78th Annual Directors Guild Awards, including Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Dramatic Series for “Severance” for Ben Stiller; Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Comedy Series for “The Studio” for Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg; Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Movies for Television for “The Gorge” for Scott Derrickson; and Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Documentary Series for “Mr. Scorsese” for Rebecca Miller, as well as four commercial nominations. The 78th Annual Directors Guild Awards will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, in Los Angeles.
Apple was also honored with eight nominations for the 31st Annual Art Directors Guild Awards, including Contemporary Feature Film for “F1”; Half-Hour Single-Camera Series for “The Studio” and “Murderbot”; One-Hour Contemporary Single-Camera Series for “Pluribus,” “Severance” and “Slow Horses”; and One-Hour Period Single-Camera Series for “Palm Royale,” with an additional nod from the British Film Designers Guild for Best Production Design — Major Motion Picture — Contemporary for “F1.” The 30th Annual Art Directors Guild Awards will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, in Los Angeles, while the 15th Annual British Film Designers Guild Awards will also be revealed on Saturday, February 28, 2026, in London.
Plus, Apple TV earns nominations for the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Award across titles including Outstanding New TV Series for “Pluribus”; Outstanding Drama Series for “Severance” and “The Buccaneers”; Outstanding Comedy Series for “Loot” and “Palm Royale”; Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series for “Chief of War” and “Prime Target”; Outstanding Film — Streaming or TV for “Echo Valley”; Outstanding Documentary for “Come See Me in the Good Light”; Outstanding Children’s Programming for “BE@ARBRICK” and Outstanding Kids & Family Programming — Live Action for “Jane.” The 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards will be presented on Thursday, March 5, 2026, in Los Angeles.
To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have been honored with 672 wins and 3,085 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning and history-making comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” and Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
Apple received 12 nominations for the 32nd Annual Actor Awards, presented by the Screen Actors Guild, including:
“F1”
• Outstanding Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture
“The Studio”
• Outstanding Ensemble in a Comedy Series
• Outstanding Male Actor in a Comedy Series — Seth Rogen
• Outstanding Male Actor in a Comedy Series — Ike Barinholtz
• Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series — Kathryn Hahn
• Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series — Catherine O’Hara
“Severance”
• Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series
• Outstanding Female Actor in a Drama Series — Britt Lower
“Pluribus”
• Outstanding Female Actor in a Drama Series — Rhea Seehorn
“The Morning Show”
• Outstanding Male Actor in a Drama Series — Billy Crudup
“Slow Horses”
• Outstanding Male Actor in a Drama Series — Gary Oldman
“Palm Royale”
• Outstanding Female Actor in a Comedy Series — Kristen Wiig
Apple landed eight nominations for the 78th Annual Directors Guild Awards, including:
“Severance”
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Dramatic Series — Ben Stiller: “Cold Harbor”
“The Studio”
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Comedy Series — Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg: “The Oner”
“The Gorge”
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Movies for Television — Scott Derrickson
“Mr. Scorsese”
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Documentary Series — Rebecca Miller: “All This Filming Isn’t Healthy”
“I’m Not Remarkable” — Apple
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Commercials — Kim Gehrig
“Someday” — Apple AirPods 4
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Commercials — Spike Jonze
“Garrett” — Apple iPhone 16 Pro
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Commercials — Andreas Nilsson
“Big Flex” — Apple iPhone 16 Pro
• Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Commercials — Andreas Nilsson
Apple landed eight nominations for the 30th Annual Art Directors Guild Awards, including:
“F1”
• Contemporary Feature Film – Production Designers: Ben Munro, Mark Tildesley
“Pluribus”
• One-Hour Contemporary Single-Camera Series — “Grenade” – Production Designer: Denise Pizzini
“Severance”
• One-Hour Contemporary Single-Camera Series — “Chikhai Bardo” – Production Designer: Jeremy Hindle
“Slow Horses”
• One-Hour Contemporary Single-Camera Series — “Incommunicado,” “Tall Tales” – Production Designer: Choi Ho Man
“The Studio”
• Half-Hour Single-Camera Series — “The Note” – Production Designer: Julie Berghoff
“Murderbot”
• Half-Hour Single-Camera Series — “FreeCommerce” – Production Designer: Sue Chan
“Palm Royale”
• One-Hour Period Single-Camera Series — “Maxine Drinks Martini’s Now,” “Maxine Serves a Swerve” – Production Designer: Jon Carlos
Apple — “Someday” by Spike Jonze
• Short Format and Music Videos — “AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation” – Production Designer: Shane Valentino
Apple scored one nomination for the 15th Annual British Film Designers Guild Awards:
“F1”
• Best Production Design – Major Motion Picture — Contemporary
Apple earned 11 nominations for the 37th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, including:
“Pluribus”
• Outstanding New TV Series
“Severance”
• Outstanding Drama Series
“The Buccaneers”
• Outstanding Drama Series
“Loot”
• Outstanding Comedy Series
“Palm Royale”
• Outstanding Comedy Series
“Chief of War”
• Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series
“Prime Target”
• Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series
“Echo Valley”
• Outstanding Film — Streaming or TV
“Come See Me in the Good Light”
• Outstanding Documentary
“BE@RBRICK”
• Outstanding Children’s Programming
“Jane”
• Outstanding Kids & Family Programming — Live Action
All titles are currently streaming on Apple TV.
“F1”
Dubbed “the greatest that never was,” Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) was FORMULA 1’s most promising phenom of the 1990s until an accident on the track nearly ended his career. Thirty years later, he’s a nomadic racer-for-hire when he’s approached by his former teammate Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), owner of a struggling FORMULA 1 team that is on the verge of collapse. Ruben convinces Sonny to come back to FORMULA 1 for one last shot at saving the team and being the best in the world. He’ll drive alongside Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), the team’s hotshot rookie intent on setting his own pace. But as the engines roar, Sonny’s past catches up with him and he finds that in FORMULA 1, your teammate is your fiercest competition — and the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone.
“The Studio”
In “The Studio,” Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the newly appointed head of embattled Continental Studios. As movies struggle to stay alive and relevant, Matt and his core team of infighting executives battle their insecurities as they wrangle narcissistic artists and craven corporate overlords in the ever-elusive pursuit of making great films. With their power suits masking their never-ending sense of panic, every party, set visit, casting decision, marketing meeting and award show presents them with an opportunity for glittering success or career-ending catastrophe. As someone who eats, sleeps and breathes movies, it’s the job Matt’s been pursuing his whole life, and it may very well destroy him.
“Severance”
In “Severance,” Mark Scout (Adam Scott) leads a team at Lumon Industries, whose employees have undergone a severance procedure that surgically divides their memories between their work and personal lives. This daring experiment in “work-life balance” is called into question as Mark finds himself at the center of an unraveling mystery that will force him to confront the true nature of his work … and of himself. In season two, Mark and his friends learn the dire consequences of trifling with the severance barrier, leading them further down a path of woe.
“Pluribus”
“Pluribus” is a genre-bending original in which the most miserable person on Earth must save the world from happiness.
“Slow Horses”
This darkly funny espionage drama follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve in a dumping ground department of MI5 due to their career-ending mistakes. Led by their brilliant but irascible leader, the notorious Jackson Lamb (Academy Award winner Sir Gary Oldman), they navigate the espionage world’s smoke and mirrors to defend England from sinister forces.
“The Morning Show”
Season four of “The Morning Show” opens in spring 2024, almost two years after the events of season three. With the UBA-NBN merger complete, the newsroom must grapple with newfound responsibility, hidden motives and the elusive nature of truth in a polarized America. In a world rife with deepfakes, conspiracy theories and corporate cover-ups — who can you trust? And how can you know what’s actually real? Along with Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, the star-studded season four ensemble cast includes Billy Crudup, Karen Pittman, Nicole Beharie, Nestor Carbonell, Mark Duplass, Greta Lee, Marion Cotillard, Jeremy Irons, Aaron Pierre, William Jackson Harper, Boyd Holbrook and returning fan-favorite Jon Hamm.
“The Buccaneers”
In the first season of “The Buccaneers,” a group of fun-loving young American girls exploded into the tightly corseted London of the 1870s, setting hearts racing and kicking off an Anglo-American culture clash. Now the Buccaneers are no longer the invaders — England is their home. In fact, they’re practically running the place. Nan is the Duchess of Tintagel, the most influential woman in the country. Conchita is Lady Brightlingsea, heroine to a wave of young American heiresses. And Jinny is on every front page, wanted for the kidnap of her unborn child. All of the girls have been forced to grow up and now have to fight to be heard, as they wrestle with romance, lust, jealousy, births and deaths … themes consuming all women of any age, no matter what year it is. Last time we got a taste of England. This time we’re in for a veritable feast.
“Murderbot”
Based on Martha Wells’ bestselling Hugo and Nebula Award-winning book series, “Murderbot” is a sci-fi thriller/comedy about a self-hacking security construct who is horrified by human emotion yet drawn to its vulnerable clients. Murderbot must hide its free will and complete a dangerous assignment when all it really wants is to be left alone to watch futuristic soap operas and figure out its place in the universe.
“Loot”
In “Loot,” Molly Wells (Maya Rudolph) embarks on a journey of self-discovery after getting an $87 billion divorce settlement from her wealthy tech billionaire husband of 20 years, John Novak (Adam Scott), and we find her thriving in her role as the head of her philanthropic organization, the Wells Foundation. Molly has landed the jet for season three, with viewers left on the edge of their seats following the season two finale that saw Wells and her trusted assistant Nicholas (Joel Kim Booster) board Molly’s private jet with her orders to take her as far away as possible after blowback from her fellow billionaires about stepping up philanthropy, and her awkward exchange with her will-they, won’t-they colleague Arthur (Nat Faxon).
The new season continues to follow the antics of the beloved group of misfits at the Wells Foundation as they work together so Molly can live up to her promise of giving away all of her vast fortune. Alongside Rudolph, the returning ensemble cast includes Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, Faxon, Ron Funches and Joel Kim Booster.
“Palm Royale”
“Palm Royale” is a true underdog story that follows Maxine Simmons (Kristen Wiig) as she endeavors to break into Palm Beach high society. As Maxine attempts to cross that impermeable line between the haves and the have-nots, “Palm Royale” asks the same question that still baffles us today: “How much of yourself are you willing to sacrifice to get what someone else has?” Set during the powder keg year of 1969, “Palm Royale” is a testament to every outsider fighting for their chance to truly belong.
“Chief of War”
Performed by a predominantly Polynesian cast led by Jason Momoa, “Chief of War” follows the epic and unprecedented telling of the unification and colonization of Hawai‘i at the turn of the 18th century. The ensemble cast includes Luciane Buchanan, Temuera Morrison, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Cliff Curtis, newcomer Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale‘o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka and Te Kohe Tuhaka.
“Prime Target”
“Prime Target” features a brilliant young math postgraduate, Edward Brooks (played by Leo Woodall), who is on the verge of a major breakthrough. If he succeeds in finding a pattern in prime numbers, he will hold the key to every computer in the world. Soon, he begins to realize an unseen enemy is trying to destroy his idea before it’s even born, which throws him into the orbit of Taylah Sanders, a female NSA agent (played by Quintessa Swindell) who’s been tasked with watching and reporting on mathematicians’ behavior. Together, they start to unravel the troubling conspiracy Edward is at the heart of.
“Come See Me in the Good Light”
“Come See Me in the Good Light” is a poignant and unexpectedly funny love story about poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley facing an incurable cancer diagnosis with joy, wit, and an unshakable partnership. Through laughter and unwavering love, they transform pain into purpose, and mortality into a moving celebration of resilience.
“Mr. Scorsese”
“Mr. Scorsese” is a film portrait of a man through the lens of his work, exploring the many facets of a visionary who redefined filmmaking, including his extraordinary career and unique personal history. With exclusive, unrestricted access to Martin Scorsese’s private archives, the documentary series is anchored by extensive conversations with the filmmaker himself and never-before-seen interviews with friends, family and creative collaborators including Robert De Niro, Daniel Day-Lewis, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mick Jagger, Robbie Robertson, Thelma Schoonmaker, Steven Spielberg, Sharon Stone, Jodie Foster, Paul Schrader, Margot Robbie, Cate Blanchett, Jay Cocks and Rodrigo Prieto, along with his children, wife Helen Morris and close childhood friends. From acclaimed director Rebecca Miller, “Mr. Scorsese” examines how his own colorful life experiences informed his artistic vision as each film he made stunned the world with originality. Starting with his New York University student films and continuing to the present day, this documentary explores the themes that have fascinated Scorsese and informed his work, including the place of good and evil in the fundamental nature of humankind.
“The Gorge”
Two highly-trained operatives (Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy) are appointed to posts in guard towers on opposite sides of a vast and highly classified gorge, protecting the world from an undisclosed, mysterious evil that lurks within. They bond from a distance while trying to stay vigilant in defending against an unseen enemy. When the cataclysmic threat to humanity is revealed to them, they must work together in a test of both their physical and mental strength to keep the secret in the gorge before it’s too late.
“Echo Valley”
In the edge-of-your-seat thriller “Echo Valley,” Kate (Oscar winner Julianne Moore) is a mother struggling to make peace with her troubled daughter Claire (multi-Emmy nominee Sydney Sweeney) — a situation that becomes even more perilous when Claire shows up on Kate’s doorstep, hysterical and covered in someone else’s blood. As Kate pieces together the shocking truth of what happened, she learns just how far a mother will go to try to save her child in this gripping tale of love, sacrifice and survival from BAFTA-winning director Michael Pearce and Emmy-nominated writer Brad Ingelsby.
“Jane”
Jane is a 9-year-old budding environmentalist on a quest to save endangered animals. Using her powerful imagination, Jane takes her best friends David and Greybeard the chimpanzee on epic adventures to help protect wild animals all around the world because, according to her idol Dr. Jane Goodall: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, can they be saved.”
“BE@RBRICK”
“BE@RBRICK” follows Jasmine and her bandmates as they pursue their dreams and inspire others to do the same. But it won’t be easy to do when living in a world where everyone’s role is chosen for them and where the painted-on look you receive when you graduate from high school determines who you’ll be for the rest of your life. Jasmine realizes that in order for her world to change, she and her friends may have to make it happen themselves.
Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut.
MacDailyNews Take: Kudos to Apple TV, Seth Rogen et al. for gaming the system so proficiently. If “make us an awards magnet” was the assignment, Seth Rogen understood it and aced the test.
“The Studio” is custom-made to win awards. There’s nothing more that Hollywood loves than itself. “The Studio” should rack up awards for as many seasons as it lasts. – MacDailyNews, September 15, 2025
There are myriad examples of movies and TV shows about the business of making movies/TV shows that reaped industry praise and awards — i.e., Hollywood celebrating and congratulating itself (and, yes, some of the following deserved to be recognized):
Movies:
• Sunset Boulevard (1950)
• Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
• The Player (1992)
• The Artist (2011)
• Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) (2014)
• Argo (2012)
• La La Land (2016)
• Babylon (2022)
TV:
• The Larry Sanders Show (1992–1998)
• Entourage (2004–2011)
• 30 Rock (2006–2013)
• Episodes (2011–2017)
• The Studio (2025–)
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Elon Musk’s lawsuit over OpenAI for-profit conversion can go to trial, U.S. judge says
Billionaire visionary Elon Musk persuaded a judge on Wednesday to allow a jury trial on his allegations that ChatGPT maker OpenAI violated its founding mission in its high-profile restructuring to a for-profit entity.
Musk was a cofounder of OpenAI in 2015 but left in 2018 and now runs an AI company that competes with it. U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California, said at a hearing that there was “plenty of evidence” suggesting OpenAI’s leaders made assurances that its original nonprofit structure was going to be maintained.
The judge said there were enough disputed facts to let a jury consider the claims at a trial scheduled for March, rather than decide the issues herself.
The court battle comes amid a broader showdown over dominance in the market for generative artificial intelligence. Musk’s xAI and its chatbot Grok are competing with OpenAI and other technology developers.
Musk is seeking unspecified monetary damages from what he calls “ill-gotten gains” by OpenAI… Steven Molo, a lead trial attorney for Musk and xAI, said after the hearing that “we look forward to presenting all the evidence of the defendants’ wrongdoing to the jury.”
Musk contends he contributed about $38 million, roughly 60% of OpenAI’s early funding, along with strategic guidance and credibility, based on assurances that the organization would remain a nonprofit dedicated to the public benefit.
The lawsuit accuses OpenAI co-founders Sam Altman and Greg Brockman of plotting a for-profit switch to enrich themselves, culminating in multibillion-dollar deals with Microsoft, opens new tab and a recent restructuring.
MacDailyNews Take: This will be an interesting trial and, since Apple Intelligence (Siri) uses OpenAI’s ChatGPT when it can’t handle things (which often occurs), also of interest in Apple Park.
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Apple TV unveils trailer for cult hit series ‘Drops of God’ season two
Time to top up your glass: a new season of the globe-trotting wine odyssey “Drops of God” is about to be served. On Thursday, Apple TV debuted the riveting trailer for season two of the hit multilingual French-Japanese drama from Legendary Entertainment, starring Fleur Geffrier and Tomohisa Yamashita. Set in the high-stakes world of fine wines and gastronomy, the series, which won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama, is inspired by the New York Times bestselling Japanese manga series of the same name. The eight-episode second season will premiere on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 with the first episode, followed by one episode weekly until March 11, 2026.
In season two of “Drops of God,” Camille and Issei are thrust into their most perilous challenge yet: to uncover the origin of the world’s greatest wine, a mystery so profound that even their legendary father, Alexandre Léger, could not solve it. What begins as a pursuit of legacy, becomes a search for truth that spans continents and centuries, unearthing forgotten histories, hidden rivalries and secrets buried for generations. As the search pushes them to the edges of the world, and to the darkest corners of themselves, Camille and Issei must decide how much they are willing to sacrifice. The answer could shatter their bond as siblings … or destroy them both.
Since its worldwide debut, “Drops of God” has received broad acclaim from critics and fans alike, quickly achieving a perfect 100% critics’ score and Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The “unusual, stylish, hugely entertaining drama” has been hailed as a “hidden gem” and praised as a “taut, elegant, flat-out fun series” that is “shockingly mesmerizing” and a “thrill to watch.”
From Legendary Entertainment, “Drops of God” is produced by Les Productions Dynamic in association with 22H22 and Adline Entertainment. The series is produced by Klaus Zimmermann and directed by Oded Ruskin. “Drops of God” is inspired by the New York Times bestselling Japanese manga series, created and written by award-winning Tadashi Agi, with artwork by Shu Okimoto and published by Kodansha Ltd.
Based in Tokyo, Kodansha Ltd. is Japan’s leading publishing house, having delivered stories into ready hands across the globe with a wide variety of content, from comic books to novels, fashion magazines, news journals and picture books for children, as well as video games, anime series and movies. Kodansha Ltd. was founded in 1909 to “Inspire Impossible Stories,” and is globally recognized as the licensor of some of the world’s most loved comic book IPs, including “AKIRA,” “Attack on Titan” and “The Ghost in the Shell.”
Apple TV offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all of a user’s favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 672 wins and 3051 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedies “The Studio” and “Ted Lasso,” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”
MacDailyNews Note: Apple TV is available on the Apple TV app in over 100 countries and regions, on over 1 billion screens, including iPhone, iPad, Apple TV 4K, Apple Vision Pro, Mac, popular smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, VIZIO, TCL and others, Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, PlayStation and Xbox gaming consoles, and at for $12.99 per month with a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. For a ltv.apple.com,imited time, customers who purchase and activate a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV or Mac can enjoy three months of Apple TV for free.
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Chase to replace Goldman Sachs as Apple Card issuer
Apple and Chase on Wednesday announced that Chase will become the new issuer of Apple Card, with an expected transition in approximately 24 months.
Apple Card users can continue to enjoy the award-winning experience of Apple Card, which includes up to 3 percent unlimited Daily Cash back on every purchase, easy-to-navigate spending tools, Apple Card Family, access to a high-yield Savings account, and more. Mastercard will remain the payment network for Apple Card, and Apple Card users can continue to access Mastercard’s global acceptance and benefits.
“We’re incredibly proud of how Apple Card has transformed the credit card experience for customers by delivering innovative tools that empower users to make healthier financial decisions,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, in a statement. “Chase shares our commitment to innovation and delivering products and services that enhance consumers’ lives. We look forward to working together to continue to provide a best-in-class experience and exceptional customer service with Apple Card.”
“Apple is an iconic brand recognized globally for its innovation, design excellence, and commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences,” said Allison Beer, Chase’s chief executive officer of Card & Connected Commerce, in a statement. “We share a commitment to supporting consumer financial health, and we’re proud to deepen our relationship by welcoming them as the newest partner in our industry-leading co-brand credit card program. We’re excited to innovate together in the future.”
“We’re thrilled to work with Apple and Chase to continue our longstanding partnership on Apple Card. The innovation on Apple Card has taken the consumer payments experience to the next level, and we look forward to delivering simple, secure, and seamless payments at global scale,” said Linda Kirkpatrick, Mastercard’s president of the Americas, in a statement.
Introduced in 2019, Apple Card is designed with users’ financial health in mind, and has become a top choice among consumers for its innovative features, seamless user experience, and commitment to customer privacy and security. With absolutely no fees, Apple Card makes it easy to track purchases and manage spending from Apple Wallet, while offering up to 3 percent Daily Cash back on every purchase, which users can choose to have automatically deposited onto their Apple Cash card in Wallet and can be used for in-store, online, and in-app purchases with Apple Pay.
With Apple Card Family, users can also share an Apple Card account with anyone added to their Family Sharing group. Another benefit is Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI), which allows users to pay for new Apple products over time, interest-free, when they choose to check out with ACMI at Apple. Additionally, users can open a Savings account through Apple Card, and once it is set up, will have all their future Daily Cash automatically deposited there, providing users with even more options.
MacDailyNews Note: During this transition, Apple Card users can continue to use their card as they normally do. More information, including FAQs, is available at learn.applecard.apple/transition. Additional details will be shared with users as the transition date approaches.
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OpenAI launches ‘ChatGPT Health’ featuring Apple Health integration
OpenAI today announced the launch of ChatGPT Health, a dedicated feature within ChatGPT designed to empower users with personalized health and wellness insights by securely integrating personal medical records and popular fitness apps.
ChatGPT Health creates a separate, isolated space in the ChatGPT interface where users can connect their health data sources. This allows the AI to provide grounded, context-aware responses to queries like tracking cholesterol trends, preparing for doctor visits, or generating realistic diet and exercise plans. Features include file uploads, photo analysis, voice mode, and deep research capabilities, all tailored to individual health information.
A standout integration is with Apple Health, enabling seamless syncing of data such as movement, sleep patterns, and activity metrics—particularly on iOS devices. Users can grant explicit permission for ChatGPT to access this information, helping the AI offer more accurate advice on daily routines or long-term patterns. Additional partnerships include MyFitnessPal for nutrition tracking, Peloton for workouts, AllTrails for outdoor activities, Weight Watchers for meal ideas, and others like Function and Instacart.
For medical records, OpenAI has teamed up with b.well to connect U.S. providers’ data, though this is currently limited to American users.
The company emphasizes that ChatGPT Health is a supportive tool, not a replacement for professional medical care. “We’re building this to help people navigate their health information more effectively,” the announcement states, while strongly advising users to consult clinicians for diagnoses or treatments.
Privacy and safety are central to the design. Health conversations, memories, and files are fully isolated from regular ChatGPT interactions and are never used to train models. Data is encrypted, compartmentalized, and protected with enhanced safeguards. Users retain full control, able to disconnect apps or delete data at any time.Developed with input from over 260 physicians across 30 specialties, ChatGPT Health has undergone rigorous evaluations for safety and clarity. Initially rolling out to a small group, it will expand to all eligible ChatGPT users (Free, Go, Plus, and Pro plans) on web and iOS in the coming weeks via a waitlist.
This move positions OpenAI deeper into personal health management, building on its broader AI ecosystem. As wearable and app data proliferates, ChatGPT Health aims to consolidate scattered information into actionable insights.
MacDailyNews Take: As we wrote nearly a decade ago:
One of the biggest issues in healthcare in the U.S. today is that there is no “Quarterback” – someone running the effort, coordinating the various specialists, making sure everyone is on the same page with the treatment plan(s), drug interactions, allergies, etc. A “playbook” showing the full picture of the patient’s health data would be very useful – and let the disparate medical personnel each quarterback on their own. Hopefully, Apple can step in, build, and fulfill this need with the company’s vaunted security and privacy. — MacDailyNews, August 22, 2016
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Pioneer launches SPHERA, world’s first aftermarket CarPlay in-dash receiver with Spatial Audio
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. has launched SPHERA, described as the world’s first aftermarket Spatial Audio in-dash receiver capable of Dolby Atmos playback through Apple CarPlay, bringing immersive audio to millions of existing vehicles.
Previously, in-vehicle Dolby Atmos experiences were limited to factory-equipped systems. SPHERA changes that by enabling drivers to access Dolby Atmos content from popular streaming services, enhancing music, audiobooks, and podcasts with greater depth, clarity, and detail using a vehicle’s existing speakers.
Building on a prototype demonstrated at last year’s CES, SPHERA represents Pioneer’s latest innovation in car audio.
“For over 80 years, Pioneer has achieved many technological ‘firsts’—from the world’s first car CD player to the first aftermarket CarPlay integration,” said Chris Ono, CEO & Chairman of Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. “SPHERA is the next bold chapter in that legacy. Guided by our corporate mission, ‘Move the Heart and Touch the Soul’, we developed a product that brings the rich, detailed sound of Dolby Atmos that moves the soul, to a solution that can be installed in many vehicles on the road today. With SPHERA, we are expanding access to immersive sound, allowing more drivers than ever to enjoy music with the clarity and emotion its creators intended.”
The receiver features an optimized 4-channel solution powered by Dolby technology, delivering a rich Dolby Atmos experience through front and rear speakers without requiring additional hardware.
SPHERA also incorporates Pioneer’s PURE Autotuning technology, which automatically calibrates time alignment, frequency response, and channel levels to accommodate varying vehicle acoustics, ensuring optimal performance and fidelity to the original content.
The unit includes a 10.1-inch HD capacitive display with Pioneer’s Quick Swipe interface and split-screen mode for intuitive control. Additional features include an integrated Luminous Bar with Enhanced Visual Mode for navigation and Music Synchronization Mode, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Its design supports universal aftermarket installation in a wide range of vehicles.
MacDailyNews Note: SPHERA will be available in Spring 2026 through authorized retailers such as Best Buy and Crutchfield, with pricing starting at $1,300.
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Apple stock remains our top pick in tech hardware – Evercore ISI
Apple drew investor attention on Wednesday after Evercore ISI reaffirmed it as the firm’s top stock pick in the technology hardware sector, highlighting robust iPhone demand.
The stock traded slightly lower during the morning session.“AAPL remains our top pick across our hardware coverage, as we believe it’s poised to outperform [near-term] expectations on a strong iPhone cycle and the potential around an AI Siri upgrade,” analysts at Evercore ISI stated in a client note.
The firm expressed continued optimism toward Dell and Hewlett Packard Enterprise within the hardware industry, noting that Dell stands out as “best-in-class in supply chain procurement,” while HPE is better equipped to navigate the memory cycle “better than historically given its mix shift post Juniper ([more than 50% networking revenues]).”
MacDailyNews Take: Poised to move some 250+ million iPhone units in calendar 2026 — with an estimated margins in the mid-to-high 30% range — Apple deserves to be everyone’s “top pick in tech hardware.”
Evercore ISI’s current price target for Apple is $325, with an “Outperform” (Buy) rating.
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Apple iPhone Air designer joins AI startup Hark
In a striking sign of the ongoing talent exodus from Big Tech to the booming AI sector, Abidur Chowdhury — the Apple designer who played a pivotal role in creating the sleek, ultra-thin iPhone Air and even narrated its launch video — has departed the company to join Hark, a ambitious new AI startup, as head of design.
Founded by serial entrepreneur Brett Adcock (who also leads the humanoid robotics firm Figure AI), Hark is self-funded with $100 million of Adcock’s personal capital and is rapidly building a team of top engineers from Google, Meta, and beyond—with plans to release its first AI model this summer.
Nick Turner for Bloomberg News:
Adcock, a serial entrepreneur, self-funded Hark with $100 million of his own money. He has said that he sees the business growing alongside Figure, which is developing a general-purpose humanoid robot. Hark is working on AI models, with the first one slated for release this summer.
Hark now has 30 engineers from companies such as Google and Meta, Adcock said in a memo Tuesday to Figure AI staff. The company aiming to reach 100 in the first half of the year, he said.
MacDailyNews Note: Last November, Bloomberg News reported that Chowdhury was leaving Apple. Now we know where’s he’s gone.
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Apple explores multispectral imaging cameras for future-gen iPhones
According to a recent supply chain rumor from China, Apple is investigating multispectral imaging technology for potential use in future iPhone cameras. This advancement could enhance features like Visual Intelligence, improve material identification, and advance overall image processing capabilities.
Weibo leaker “Digital Chat Station” reported that Apple is presently assessing related components in the supply chain. However, the tipster noted that official testing has not started yet, indicating the tech is still in an early exploratory phase.
Multispectral imaging differs from traditional smartphone photography, which relies solely on standard red, green, and blue light. Instead, the technology captures image data across multiple, distinct wavelength bands, which can add sensitivity to near-infrared or other narrow spectral ranges. This could potentially allow cameras to detect information that is largely invisible to conventional sensors.
If adopted in future iPhones, one potential advantage could be improved material and surface differentiation. By analysing how different materials reflect light across wavelengths, the iPhone’s camera could more accurately distinguish skin, fabric, vegetation, or reflective surfaces, enabling cleaner subject recognition and more reliable portrait effects.
MacDailyNews Note: In the same Weibo post, “Digital Chat Station” reiterated that the main camera on the iPhone 18 Pro models will feature a variable aperture, and the telephoto lens will come with a larger aperture. However, the leaker added that Apple has not yet started prototyping 200-megapixel sensors for future iPhones.
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macOS 26.2 and iPadOS 26.2 double 5GHz Wi-Fi bandwidth for Wi-Fi 6E devices
Apple has quietly enhanced Wi-Fi performance on certain Wi-Fi 6E-compatible Macs and iPads with the release of iPadOS 26.2 and macOS Tahoe 26.2. These updates enable support for wider 160MHz channels on 5GHz networks — up from the previous 80MHz limit —potentially delivering faster speeds and better throughput on compatible routers. The changes are reflected in updated Wi-Fi specifications within Apple’s platform deployment guide.
The M4 iPad Pro models, M3 iPad Air models, A17 Pro iPad mini, M2 to M5 MacBook Pro models, M2, M3, and M4 MacBook Air models, and other Wi-Fi 6E Macs and iPads now support 160MHz maximum channel bandwidth when connected to 5GHz Wi-Fi networks, the same theoretical maximum throughput supported by 6GHz networks. Previously, these devices were limited to 80MHz.
In ideal conditions, a 160MHz maximum means that iPad and Mac users should see faster file transfers, quicker uploads, and smoother streaming. Wi-Fi 6E devices can take advantage of 6GHz networks, but 5GHz networks remain far more common. 6GHz networks require new router hardware, along with a machine that can take advantage of a 6GHz network.
MacDailyNews Take: Bonus!
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Apple tests Background Security Improvements in iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, and macOS Tahoe 26.3
Apple is currently testing a Background Security Improvement update, a feature originally introduced in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS Tahoe 26.1. Developers and public beta testers running iOS 26.3, iPadOS 26.3, or macOS Tahoe 26.3 can now download and install this specialized update specifically for evaluation and testing.
According to Apple, Background Security Improvements provide additional security protections between software updates for Safari, WebKit, and other system libraries.
Background Security Improvements can be installed by going to the Privacy and Security section of the Settings app, scrolling down, and selecting the “Install” option. If Automatically Install is toggled on, Background Security Improvements will be automatically installed when they come out.
Apple says that users who opt not to install the Background Security Improvements will receive the updates in a standard software update.
MacDailyNews Note: Apple notes, “This Background Security Improvement is for testing purposes only and does not contain any security fixes.”
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Apple TV’s axed series ‘The Last Frontier’ continues to dominate global streaming charts
At the dawn of 2026, Apple TV+’s recently canceled thriller “The Last Frontier” is defying expectations by maintaining a strong presence on the platform’s global streaming charts. Despite Apple abruptly axing the Jason Clarke-led series after its single season concluded in December 2025, the show — centered on a U.S. Marshal facing chaos after a prison plane crash in remote Alaska — continues to captivate audiences worldwide, proving that cancellation doesn’t always mean the end of a show’s momentum.
As of Jan. 6, per FlixPatrol, “The Last Frontier,” from creators Jon Bokenkamp and Richard D’Ovidio, is the No. 2 most-watched television series on Apple TV worldwide.
The Last Frontier debuted its first and only season in October 2025. The show has a 48% Rotten Tomatoes critic score and a 51% audience score. Apple TV abruptly canceled the series following its Season 1 finale in December 2025.
The show, in spite of its poor reviews, had been a ratings hit for Apple TV. The cast of The Last Frontier, in addition to Clarke, included [Haley Bennett], Simone Kessell, Dallas Goldtooth, Tait Blum, and Alfre Woodard.
MacDailyNews Take: Maybe Apple pulled the trigger on “The Last Frontier” a bit too soon?
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Top Apple product deals on Amazon right now (January 2026)
As we kick off 2026, Amazon is offering some impressive post-holiday discounts on popular Apple products. While Apple rarely slashes prices directly, third-party retailers like Amazon are clearing inventory with solid savings—especially on recent models like the MacBook Air M4, iPads, AirTags, and accessories. Here are the biggest percentage discounts currently available, focusing on new (not renewed) items with the highest savings percentages.
- AirTag 4-Pack – ~34% off
Original: $99
Current: $64.98
One of the steepest percentage deals right now. Perfect for tracking keys, bags, or luggage. -
AirTag Single – ~34% off
Original: $29
Current: $19.00
Same great tracking tech at a budget-friendly price. -
Apple Pencil Pro – ~27% off
Original: $129
Current: $94.97
Record-low price for this advanced stylus with squeeze gestures and haptic feedback—ideal for iPad users. -
MacBook Air (M4, 13-inch, 16GB RAM, 256GB) – ~20% off
Original: $999
Current: $799
A strong discount on the latest MacBook Air, praised for its performance and portability. Higher configs also see similar savings. -
iPad (11-inch, A16 chip, 128GB) – ~14% off
Original: $349
Current: $299
Entry-level iPad at a solid entry price, great for everyday use.
MacDailyNews Note: These discounts are among the deepest we’ve seen entering the new year, with AirTags leading in percentage savings. Prices can fluctuate quickly on Amazon, so check the links for the latest availability. Many of these match or beat holiday lows, making now a great time to upgrade your Apple ecosystem. Note: Deals are for U.S. Amazon.com as of January 6, 2026.
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India’s iPhone exports go from zero to $50 billion in 5 years
India has achieved a significant milestone in global technology manufacturing by exporting iPhones valued at $50 billion over the last five years, fueled primarily by Apple’s belated diversification from China. Recent reports highlight how Apple’s suppliers in India have substantially increased output to satisfy rising worldwide demand, with exports accelerating due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and supply chain restructuring.
“The journey began modestly in fiscal year 2020, when iPhone exports from India were virtually nonexistent. By fiscal 2025, however, the figure had skyrocketed, with Apple shipping out devices valued at over $16 billion in just the first nine months alone. This exponential growth is not merely a statistical blip but a testament to concerted efforts by both the Indian government and Apple to build a robust ecosystem. The PLI [Production Linked Incentive] scheme, introduced in 2020, offers financial incentives to manufacturers meeting production targets, effectively luring giants like Apple, Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron to expand operations in states such as Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.”
Industry analysts point out that Apple’s move is part of a broader “China Plus One” strategy, aimed at mitigating risks from U.S.-China trade frictions and potential disruptions. In India, this has translated into massive investments in assembly lines and component sourcing. For instance, Foxconn’s mega facility in Devanahalli near Bengaluru has significantly boosted output, contributing to a growth rate that saw premium iPhone models accounting for 75% of smartphone exports from the country.
The PLI scheme has been pivotal, disbursing incentives that have propelled Apple’s three main vendors to dominate the payout landscape, receiving about 75% of the total funds allocated for smartphones. This has not only accelerated exports but also fostered job creation, with estimates suggesting over 350,000 direct and indirect positions generated in the sector.
Apple’s pivot to India is deeply intertwined with global geopolitical dynamics. Rising tensions between the U.S. and China, including tariffs imposed during the Trump administration and sustained thereafter, have prompted companies to diversify. India, with its vast workforce and improving infrastructure, has emerged as an attractive alternative.
MacDailyNews Take: The less dependence on Chinese Communist Party-controlled China, the better.
Sped up by the Trump admin’s trade policies, the days of China being “the factory of the world” are ending – and that, in the long run, is a Very Good Thing. – MacDailyNews, August 19, 2025
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Apple to report Q126 earnings on Thursday, January 29th
Apple will report FY26 Q1 earnings (October-December 2025) on Thursday, January 29, 2026 after market close.
Apple’s conference call to discuss first fiscal quarter results and business updates is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET.
Join Apple here on January 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET to listen to the conference call live.
Apple’s official guidance given during the company’s Q425 conference call emphasized record-breaking overall revenue, double-digit iPhone growth, and sustained Services growth.
MacDailyNews Note: As usual, we’ll bring you Apple’s results as soon as they are released, right around 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 29, 2026 and then follow with live notes from Apple’s conference call at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET.
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Apple’s iPhone 17e said to sport Dynamic Island, downclocked A19, MagSafe
Apple’s rumored entry-level “iPhone 17e,” expected to launch in spring 2026, is once again tipped to feature significant upgrades over its predecessor, including the pill-shaped Dynamic Island display cutout and a downclocked A19 chip for improved performance. According to fresh leaks from Chinese sources, the device will also add MagSafe support while maintaining a $599 starting price.
The current iPhone 16e features a “notch” at the top of the display, similar to the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, and contains Apple’s A18 chip with a 4-core GPU, instead of the 5-core GPU version found in the iPhone 16.
However, according to “Smart Pikachu,” a Weibo account that has previously shared accurate supply-chain details on Android hardware, these two elements are set to be replaced on the forthcoming iPhone 17e.
Aside from Neural Engine improvements, performance from a downclocked A19 chip could be roughly comparable to Apple’s A17 Pro chip, while the Dynamic Island would add the newer interactive area at the top of the screen that displays ongoing activities, incorporating the camera and other front-facing sensors. Otherwise, the iPhone 17e is expected to retain a 6.1-inch OLED display with a 60Hz refresh rate, according to the leaker.
Elsewhere, rumors suggest the iPhone 17e will gain a magnetic ring that will allow it to connect to MagSafe chargers, which is not an option with the iPhone 16e.
MacDailyNews Take: After having MagSafe and the Dynamic Island for so long now, we can’t imagine having a smartphone without them!
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Evercore ISI reiterates ‘Outperform’ rating on Apple stock citing App Store revenue growth
Evercore ISI has maintained its Outperform rating on Apple with a $325.00 price target, pointing to stabilizing App Store revenue growth. This implies significant upside potential from the current share price of $266.31.
The App Store recorded 6% year-over-year revenue growth in December, marking the second consecutive month at this growth rate. Gaming, which represents 44% of App Store revenues, declined 4% year-over-year in December, following a 2% decline in the previous month, and was either down or flat for seven of the twelve months in 2025. This performance aligns with Apple’s overall revenue growth of 6.43% over the last twelve months.
China and Japan, Apple’s largest Asian markets for gaming, showed particular weakness with gaming revenues down 13% and 15% year-over-year, respectively. In contrast, other App Store categories showed stronger performance, with Entertainment growing 3%, Social Networking up 11%, Music increasing 15%, and Photo & Video rising 18% year-over-year.
By region, U.S. App Store revenues grew 3% year-over-year, while China and Japan, Apple’s second and third largest regions, declined 5% and 3% respectively, primarily due to weaker gaming revenues. Growth accelerated month-over-month across the Social Networking, Music, and Photo & Video categories.
Evercore ISI estimates that the App Store represents approximately 20% of Apple’s Services revenues and expects Apple will supplement softer App Store growth with faster-growing areas such as Apple Pay, iCloud, and Licensing, as it did in Q4:FY25, which saw approximately a 4% difference between App Store revenues and reported Services growth.
MacDailyNews Note: Apple is scheduled to report its next quarterly earnings — for fiscal Q1 2026 (covering October–December 2025) — on January 29, 2026, after market close.
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