Apple (AAPL, Financials) is reportedly preparing to release its thinnest iPhone yet, aiming to introduce the new modelunofficially dubbed the “iPhone 17 Air”by 2025, multiple media outlets reported.
The gadget marks a major design breakthrough for the firm as it is estimated to be only 6 millimeters thick, almost 25% thinner than existing versions. Apple plans to get this ultra-slim profile by using its own “Sinope” modem, smaller than current models, according to The Verge.
Engineering difficulties abound in the ambitious makeover, including juggling the smaller area with preserving battery life and performance. Including a SIM tray might complicate manufacturing even in areas like China where actual SIM cards are still somewhat ubiquitous. Experts say Apple’s success with the new design will depend on overcoming these obstacles without sacrificing the expected functionality.
Beyond hardware, Apple is focusing especially on artificial intelligence to support its product range. Recently, the business unveiled “Apple Intelligence,” a set of artificial intelligence capabilities included into all of its products. Improved Siri driven by OpenAI’s ChatGPT and tools for creative projects and document summarizing are among the enhancements This action fits with general tech sector trends as businesses use artificial intelligence to increase customer involvement and accelerate gadget upgrading cycles.
Apple seems to be benefiting from its deliberate actions. Reflecting a 6% year-over-year rise, the corporation reported record sales of $94.9 billion in its fiscal fourth quarter. Strong sales of the Apple 16 and other key products, like the Apple Watch Series 10, drove this expansion. The quarter was not without difficulties, however, as Apple took a $10.2 billion income tax hit connected to an ongoing spat in Ireland.
Looking forward, Apple is investigating cutting-edge product lines like foldable tablets. Reports show the corporation is creating an 18.8-inch folding iPad that combines Macs’ and iPads’ features. Industry experts see Apple positioned for a competitive advantage in developing regions as they predict a release by 2028.
The emphasis of Apple’s leadership still is operational excellence and creativity. Recognized for its financial success and innovative product strategy, the firm just topped the Drucker Institute’s Management Top 250 ranking over Microsoft Corp. (MSFT, Financials). Reiterating Apple as a “Top Pick,” Morgan Stanley (MS, Financials) analysts point to the possibility of record-breaking sales as artificial intelligence and design improvements change its product line.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
