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So, What’s Really Happening With the iPhone Air 2 Amid Conflicting Reports?

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Highlights

  • Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says the iPhone Air 2 was never scheduled for 2025–2026, so it hasn’t been delayed due to poor sales.
  • Apple’s priority is upgrading to a 2nm A20 chip for better performance and battery life.
  • Gurman doubts the addition of a second rear camera.

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Caption – iPhone Air. (Image credit – Apple)

The past week has been full of confusion for iPhone Air enthusiasts. A report from The Information claimed that Apple had indefinitely halted the iPhone Air 2 because of weaker-than-expected sales. Just a day later, another report countered this, suggesting the device had only been pushed back by six months from a planned fall 2026 launch to spring 2027.

Now, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has released new information that clarifies Apple’s actual plans for the iPhone Air 2.

What Bloomberg Says About the iPhone Air 2?

Gurman reports that the second-generation iPhone Air hadn’t actually been earmarked for next year, at least not in recent months,” which contradicts claims that Apple delayed the device due to low sales. Instead, it suggests the iPhone Air 2 was never part of Apple’s 2025–2026 lineup to begin with.

While The Information suggested the delay was needed to add a second rear camera, Gurman says Apple’s primary focus for the iPhone Air 2 is a major internal upgrade. It is transitioning to a new 2-nanometer processor. This next-gen chip is expected to be the A20 and built on TSMC’s second-gen 2nm (N2) process. It is anticipated to bring significant improvements to battery efficiency and overall performance. Multiple supply chain reports have also pointed to major advancements in this node.

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Caption – iPhone Air. (Image credit – Apple)

As for the rumoured second camera, Gurman is skeptical. He writes, “Adding a second rear camera for ultrawide shots is technically possible, but I find that idea strange. The phone’s ‘plateau’ area (where the camera is located) is already crowded. Redoing that entire section just to add the least-used iPhone camera seems like a lot of work for a phone that few people are buying. The only scenario where this makes sense is if the foldable iPhone’s dual rear-camera design eventually trickles down to standard models.”

Apple reportedly designed the original iPhone Air expecting it to account for 6% to 8% of new iPhone sales. It is roughly the same performance as the iPhone 16 Plus.

When Will the iPhone Air 2 Launch?

Gurman does not provide a specific release date. Instead, he outlines Apple’s broader roadmap.

“Apple plans to unveil three high-end models — the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max and a new foldable — in fall 2026. Then, roughly six months later, it will roll out the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e and potentially a refreshed iPhone Air. I expect this pattern to continue for years to come, with Apple launching between five and six new models annually,” Gurman explains.

This confirms that Apple never intended the iPhone Air to follow an annual update cycle, which is why it wasn’t branded as an “iPhone 17 Air.”

Why the iPhone Air Matters?

Gurman also reiterates that the iPhone Air plays a crucial role in Apple’s development of the upcoming iPhone Fold. The Air acts as both a “technology expertise and a prototype,” sharing many of the foldable’s core technologies, which includes –

  • materials
  • internal components
  • miniaturisation techniques
  • battery design
  • software optimisations

In short, the iPhone Air line is a stepping stone toward Apple’s foldable future. So, all said and done, it appears the second-generation model is progressing according to Apple’s long-term plan and not isn’t delayed due to sales.

FAQs

Q1. Has Apple delayed the iPhone Air 2 due to poor sales?

Answer. No. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman clarifies that the iPhone Air 2 was never scheduled for 2025–2026, so reports of delay due to weak sales are inaccurate.

Q2. What upgrades are expected in the iPhone Air 2?

Answer. Apple is reportedly focusing on a major internal upgrade: a 2nm A20 chip built on TSMC’s N2 process, aimed at boosting battery efficiency and performance.

Q3. How does the iPhone Air relate to Apple’s foldable plans?

Answer. The iPhone Air serves as a prototype platform for Apple’s foldable iPhone, sharing key technologies like materials, miniaturisation, battery design, and software optimisations.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/apple-delays-iphone-air-2-launch-no-new-release-timeline-shared-report/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/apple-developing-iphone-air-2-with-dual-48mp-cameras-claims-leaker/

OPPO Find X9 Series India Prices Surface Online Ahead of November 18 Launch

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Highlights

  • OPPO Find X9 series will debut in India on November 18.
  • Leaked prices show Find X9 Pro at ₹99,999 and Find X9 starting at ₹74,999.
  • Find X9 comes in 12GB+256GB and 16GB+512GB options (Space Black, Titanium Grey), Find X9 Pro in 16GB+512GB (Titanium Charcoal, Silk White).

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Caption – Oppo Find X9 series launch teaser. (Image credit – Oppo)

It has already been confirmed that the OPPO Find X9 series will debut in India on November 18. Ahead of the launch, almost every major detail including specifications, variants, and colour options has already been revealed through official teasers and earlier reports. The series featuring Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro was also unveiled in China last month. The only missing information until now was the pricing. And now even that has been revealed via an unexpected leak.

OPPO Find X9 and Find X9 Pro India Prices (Leaked)

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Caption – OPPO Find X9 and Find X9 Pro appear in retailer listing. (Screenshot by Gizmochina)

Popular Indian retailer Poorvika has seemingly revealed the pricing of the upcoming Oppo series. The listing on the retailer’s page offers an early look at the price tags before OPPO’s official announcement.

According to Poorvika’s listings, the OPPO Find X9 Pro will reportedly be priced at Rs 99,999 for the 16GB + 512GB configuration. The model will be available in Titanium Charcoal and Silk White colour options.

Meanwhile, the standard OPPO Find X9 is listed at Rs 84,999 for the 16GB + 512GB variant in Space Black and Titanium Grey colours. A lower-tier version featuring 12GB RAM + 256GB storage appears at Rs 74,999, also in the same two colours. These colour choices match earlier expectations for the Indian market.

These leaked prices also align with a previous exclusive report shared by tipster Abhishek Yadav @yabhishekhd on X (formerly Twitter). Yadav suggested that the 12GB + 256GB Find X9 would be priced at ₹74,999, while the Find X9 Pro would cost ₹99,999.

There is nothing surprising in retailer listings getting leaked online ahead of launch events. While these prices are likely accurate, they should be treated as preliminary until OPPO officially confirms them at the November 18 launch event.

OPPO Find X9 Series – Specifications (Revealed)

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Caption – Oppo Find X9 and Find X9 Pro. (Image credit – Oppo)

The OPPO Find X9 is expected to feature a 6.59-inch AMOLED display, paired with a 7,025mAh battery. On the rear, it reportedly carries a triple-camera setup with all sensors at 50 megapixels, including a periscope telephoto lens for enhanced zoom capabilities.

The Find X9 Pro, meanwhile, will offer a larger 6.78-inch AMOLED display and a 7,500mAh battery. Its triple camera module includes a high-end 200-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, delivering improved long-range imaging performance.

Both smartphones are said to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset and run Android 16 topped with ColorOS 16. Charging support includes 80W wired and 50W wireless fast charging. For selfies, the Find X9 is expected to include a 32-megapixel front camera, while the Find X9 Pro may feature a 50-megapixel front shooter.

FAQs

Q1. What is the India launch date for the OPPO Find X9 series?

Answer. The OPPO Find X9 series is officially set to launch in India on November 18, 2025.

Q2. What are the leaked prices for OPPO Find X9 and Find X9 Pro?

Answer. The Find X9 Pro (16GB+512GB) is listed at ₹99,999, while the Find X9 starts at ₹74,999 for the 12GB+256GB variant and ₹84,999 for the 16GB+512GB model.

Q3. What are the key specifications of the OPPO Find X9 and X9 Pro?

Answer. Both phones feature AMOLED displays, MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chip, Android 16, triple rear cameras, and fast charging. The X9 Pro includes a 200MP periscope lens and 50MP front camera.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/oppo-launches-lumo-lab-in-india-ahead-of-find-x9-series-debut/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/oppo-find-x9-and-find-x9-pro-launches-in-china-with-dimensity-9500-chip-200mp-camera-and-7500mah-battery/

Poco F8 Series Teased Again, New Poster Hints at November 27 Launch in Hong Kong

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Highlights

  • Poco Hong Kong’s latest teaser shows a rectangular camera module with four circular cutouts, resembling the Redmi K90 series.
  • A promotional poster hints at a November 27 launch in Hong Kong for the Poco F8 lineup, including F8 Pro and F8 Ultra.
  • The Poco F8 Pro may use Snapdragon 8 Elite, while F8 Ultra could feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, both with 16GB RAM and Android 16.

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Caption – Latest Poco F8 Series Teasers.

Poco Hong Kong has once again sparked excitement around the upcoming Poco F8 series. It has recently dropped a second teaser on Instagram, offering a clearer look at the rear camera design.

The brand first hinted at a new smartphone in October by sharing a sketch that revealed only a rectangular camera module. At that time, no other Poco devices were reportedly in development. This made everyone online assume that the teaser was actually linked to the much-anticipated Poco F8 lineup. Now, the recent sketch shows a clearer image.

Poco F8 Series Teaser

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Caption – Latest Poco F8 Series Teaser. (Image credit – Poco Hong Kong)

The new teaser posted by the official account of Poco Hong Kong on Instagram shows the rear design of the phone clearly. It shows four circular cutouts arranged in a 2×2 grid, positioned next to a larger circular cutout. All cutouts are placed inside a rectangular camera deco. This layout closely resembles the camera module of the recently launched Redmi K90 series in China.

Interestingly, Redmi K90 and Redmi K90 Pro Max are expected to launch globally as the Poco F8 Pro and Poco F8 Ultra. Now, this new teaser strongly suggests that the Poco F8 lineup including the Poco F8 Pro and Poco F8 Ultra could be unveiled very soon, at least in Hong Kong.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by POCO Hong Kong (@poco.hongkong)

Poco F8 Pro and Poco F8 Ultra – What Else We Know?

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Caption – New Poco smartphone teaser. (Image credit – @Gadgetsdata on X)

Adding to the speculation, tipster Gadgets Data @Gadgetsdata on X (formerly Twitter) has shared a promotional poster with a tag that mentions “11.27 – Coming Soon.” This likely indicates a November 27 launch in Hong Kong. The tipster also claims that, compared to the Redmi K90 and K90 Pro Max, the upcoming Poco F8 models may feature smaller batteries, though the exact battery capacities remain unknown.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by POCO Hong Kong (@poco.hongkong)

Model numbers for the Poco F8 Pro (2510DPC44G) and Poco F8 Ultra (25102PCBEG) further reinforce the connection to the Redmi K90 and K90 Pro Max, as both sets of devices have surfaced in various certification listings.

Additionally, a recent Geekbench listing reveals that the Poco F8 Pro prototype was tested with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, while the Poco F8 Ultra was spotted running the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC. Both devices appeared with 16GB RAM and Android 16.

With Poco now actively teasing the lineup, more official details about the Poco F8 series are expected to emerge in the coming days.

FAQs

Q1. When is the Poco F8 series expected to launch?

Answer. A promotional poster hints at a November 27 launch in Hong Kong, with Poco actively teasing the lineup.

Q2. What does the Poco F8 teaser reveal about design?

Answer. The teaser shows a rectangular camera module with four circular cutouts in a 2×2 grid, resembling the Redmi K90 series.

Q3. What are the expected specs of Poco F8 Pro and Ultra?

Answer. Leaks suggest the Poco F8 Pro may use Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the F8 Ultra could feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, both with 16GB RAM and Android 16.-

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/poco-f8-pro-retail-box-image-leaks-with-sound-by-bose-branding-tipster-claims-no-charger-in-the-box/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/poco-pad-x1-with-snapdragon-7-gen-3-and-android-15-spotted-on-geekbench/

Redmi Note 15 Series India Launch Scheduled For December, Redmi 15C Launch Timeline Also Revealed

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Highlights

  • Redmi Note 15 series is set to launch in India in December with first sale on January 9, 2026.
  • Expected models include Note 15 Pro+ and Note 15 Pro, possibly with tweaked cameras and pricing similar to Note 14 series.
  • Redmi 15C may also arrive in India, either in the 4G variant with Helio G81-Ultra or 5G with Dimensity 6300 version.

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Caption – Redmi Note 15 Series. (Image credit – Redmi)

Latest reports suggest that the Redmi Note 15 series is gearing up for its India launch. A well-known tipster has now shared the expected timeline for the arrival of these smartphones. The series debuted in China earlier this year and is likely to include the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ and Redmi Note 15 Pro in India.

Alongside this, details about the launch schedule of the Redmi 15C for the Indian market have also surfaced. Here’s a quick roundup of new updates on both Redmi series phones.

Redmi Note 15 Series India Launch

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Caption – Redmi Note 15 Series. (Image credit – Redmi)

Popular tipster Abhishek Yadav @yabhishekhd on X (formerly Twitter) claims that the Redmi Note 15 series will launch in India in December. According to a recent post by Yadav, the first sale of the new Redmi Note devices is expected to begin on January 9, 2026.


This schedule aligns with the same tipster’s earlier report. Yadav has previously mentioned that Redmi plans to introduce the Note 15 lineup in India, but sales would not commence before January 2026.

As per previous leaks, the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ and Redmi Note 15 Pro may carry similar pricing to their predecessors. For reference, the Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G launched at Rs. 29,999 for the base 8GB RAM + 128GB storage model, while the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G was priced at Rs. 23,999 for the same configuration.

Reports also suggest that the Indian variants of the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ and Note 15 Pro could feature slightly different camera setups compared to the models released in China.

Redmi 15C India Launch

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Caption – Redmi 15C. (Image credit – Redmi)

The same tipster has also provided an update on the Redmi 15C’s India launch plans. The smartphone was first introduced in China in September, but it remains unclear whether the Indian market will receive the 4G or 5G version.

Both variants are available in select global regions with varying hardware.

The Redmi 15C 5G comes equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, whereas the Redmi 15C 4G uses a MediaTek Helio G81-Ultra processor. Despite the differences, both models feature an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance and house large 6,000mAh batteries with 33W fast charging support.

FAQs

Q1. When will the Redmi Note 15 series launch in India?

Answer. The Redmi Note 15 series is expected to launch in India in December 2025, with the first sale likely starting on January 9, 2026.

Q2. Which models are expected in the Redmi Note 15 series for India?

Answer. India is likely to get the Redmi Note 15 Pro+ and Redmi Note 15 Pro, possibly with slight camera changes compared to the Chinese variants.

Q3. What are the key specs of the Redmi 15C?

Answer. The Redmi 15C may launch in 4G (Helio G81-Ultra) or 5G (Dimensity 6300) variants, both featuring IP64 rating and a 6,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/redmi-note-15-launched-in-china-with-snapdragon-6-gen-3-120hz-amoled-display-and-5800mah-battery/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/redmi-15c-5g-debuts-with-dimensity-6300-chipset-6000mah-battery-and-120hz-display/

Poco Pad M1 Tipped to Feature Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, 12,000mAh Battery and 120Hz Display

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Highlight

  • Leak suggest Poco Pad M1 could launch at EUR 349 (Rs. 36,000) for 8GB RAM + 256GB storage.
  • It could be a rebranded Redmi Pad 2 Pro.
  • Expected specs – Snapdragon 7s Gen 4, 12.1‑inch 120Hz LCD, 12,000mAh battery, Android 15 with HyperOS 2, quad speakers, 8MP front and rear cameras.

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Caption – Poco Pad M1 render. (Image credit – @Sudhanshu1414 on X)

It appears Poco Pad M1 is in the works as the successor to last year’s Poco Pad. A new leak has revealed its possible pricing and full specifications. Here’s a quick look at what to expect from the upcoming tablet based on the recent leak.

Poco Pad M1 – Key Specs (Leaked)

The latest details come from tipster Sudhanshu Ambhore @Sudhanshu1414 on X (formerly Twitter), who claims that the Poco Pad M1 with 8GB RAM and 256GB internal storage will be priced at EUR 349 (around Rs. 36,000).

The tablet is rumoured to sport a 12.1-inch display offering a resolution of 1,600 x 2,560 pixels and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. In terms of cameras, it may include an 8-megapixel rear shooter along with an 8-megapixel front camera for selfies and video calls.

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Caption – Poco Pad M1 renders. (Image credit – @Sudhanshu1414 on X)

The upcoming tablet from Xiaomi’s sub-brand is said to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset and could arrive with LPDDR4X RAM. It may also include a large 12.1-inch LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a massive 12,000mAh battery. The device is expected to run Android 15 out of the box.

On the software side, the tablet might ship with HyperOS 2 based on Android 15 and feature quad speakers for enhanced audio output.

Connectivity options on the device may include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and a USB 2.0 port. The tablet is tipped to measure 279.8 x 181.65 x 7.5mm and weigh 610g. It may also carry an IP54 rating, offering limited protection against dust and water.

Launch Timeline and Other Details

The device was recently spotted on the TDRA (Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority) website, indicating that its launch may be around the corner. The listing appeared to be for the Wi-Fi-only model.

Reports further suggest that the Poco Pad M1 could arrive as a rebranded version of the Redmi Pad 2 Pro. It was debuted in September with a starting price of EUR 299.90 (approximately Rs. 31,000) for the variant featuring 6GB RAM and 128GB storage.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key specifications of the Poco Pad M1?

Answer. The Poco Pad M1 is tipped to feature a 12.1-inch LCD display with 120Hz refresh rate, Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 chipset, 8MP front and rear cameras, 12,000mAh battery, and Android 15 with HyperOS 2.

Q2. How much will the Poco Pad M1 cost?

Answer. According to leaks, the Poco Pad M1 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage may be priced at EUR 349 (approximately ₹36,000).

Q3. When is the Poco Pad M1 expected to launch?

Answer. The tablet was recently spotted on the TDRA certification site, suggesting that its launch is imminent. It may debut as a rebranded Redmi Pad 2 Pro.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/poco-pad-x1-with-snapdragon-7-gen-3-and-android-15-spotted-on-geekbench/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/poco-pad-5g-launched-in-india-price-specifications-availability-features/

Tim Cook Could Exit as Apple CEO as Early as Next Year, Former COO Jeff Williams Officially Retires

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Highlights

  • John Ternus is emerging as the leading candidate to replace Tim Cook, though no final decision has been made.
  • A new CEO is unlikely to be named before the January earnings report.
  • Former COO Jeff Williams officially retired after nearly 30 years at Apple.

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Caption – Tim Cook during an Apple event.

Apple is reportedly accelerating its succession planning for the post–Tim Cook era. According to a new report from the Financial Times, sources familiar with the matter claim that the company’s board and senior leadership have “recently intensified” discussions around who will take over Apple’s top job.

Apple Intensifies CEO Succession Planning

As per the FT report, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Hardware Engineering, John Ternus is currently viewed as the leading candidate to succeed Cook. However, the FT clarifies that no final decisions have been made.” The shift in succession planning is not being driven by performance concerns. Instead, the report notes that this transition has been long-planned and unrelated to Apple’s current business momentum.

The FT further adds, “People close to Apple say the long-planned transition is not related to the company’s current performance, ahead of what is expected to be a blockbuster end-of-year sales period for the iPhone. (…) The company is unlikely to name a new CEO before its next earnings report in late January, which covers the critical holiday period.”

Despite the increased focus, insiders cautioned that the timing of any CEO announcement “could change.”

Interestingly, Tim Cook turned 65 on November 1, which also led to speculation about his possible departure from an active role at Apple.

Jeff Williams Retires After Nearly Three Decades at Apple

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Caption – Jeff Williams during an Apple Keynote.

The report arrives just hours after Apple’s former Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams completed his final day at the company. Williams, who announced his retirement in July, had overseen Apple’s global operations for over 10 years. Earlier this year, he stepped down from his day-to-day COO responsibilities, passing them to Sabih Khan, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations.

In a statement at the time, Tim Cook said, “Jeff and I have worked alongside each other for as long as I can remember, and Apple wouldn’t be what it is without him. He’s helped to create one of the most respected global supply chains in the world; launched Apple Watch and overseen its development; architected Apple’s health strategy; and led our world class team of designers with great wisdom, heart, and dedication. I am and will always be beyond grateful for his numerous contributions to Apple over the years and his loyal friendship. Jeff’s true legacy can be seen in the amazing team he’s created and, while he’ll be greatly missed, he leaves the work of the future in incredible hands.”

Williams’ portfolio extended far beyond operations. He also led customer service and support, Apple Watch hardware/software engineering, the design organisation, and the company’s broader health initiatives. Bloomberg recently reported that many of his responsibilities are being redistributed across the leadership team. Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services Eddy Cue will now oversee health and fitness teams, Craig Federighi will take over watchOS, and John Ternus will lead Apple Watch hardware engineering.

Apple Leadership Changes

Williams’ retirement marks the beginning of a larger wave of executive transitions at Apple. Several senior leaders including CEO Tim Cook are expected to step down within the foreseeable future, suggesting a significant generational shift at the top.

In addition, Apple recently completed another major transition. Longtime CFO Luca Maestri stepped down, handing the reins to Kevan Parekh, previously the company’s Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis.

FAQs

Q1. Is Tim Cook stepping down as Apple CEO soon?

Answer. Apple has intensified its CEO succession planning, with John Ternus seen as the leading candidate. While no final decision has been made, a transition could happen as early as next year.

Q2. Who has retired from Apple recently?

Answer. Former Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams officially retired after nearly 30 years at Apple. His responsibilities are now distributed among senior leaders including Eddy Cue, Craig Federighi, and John Ternus.

Q3. What other leadership changes are happening at Apple?

Answer. Alongside Williams’ retirement, Apple CFO Luca Maestri has stepped down, succeeded by Kevan Parekh. These moves signal a broader generational shift in Apple’s executive team.

Also Read

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https://www.mymobileindia.com/most-of-iphones-sold-in-the-us-now-made-in-india-vietnam-leads-in-apples-other-products-reveals-tim-cook/

iPhone 17 Series Drives Apple’s China Sales Up by 22% in First Month: Report

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Highlights

  • iPhone 17 drove a 22% year-on-year sales increase in China during its first month.
  • Nearly 80% of Apple’s China sales since 19 September came from iPhone 17 models, despite a 2.7% decline in the overall smartphone market.
  • iPhone 17 features a 6.3″ 120Hz display, A19 chip with Apple Intelligence, dual 48MP cameras, Ceramic Shield 2, and fast charging.

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Caption – iPhone 17 series makes a strong entry into the Chinese market. (Image credit – Apple)

Apple has regained momentum in China thanks to the strong debut of its iPhone 17 lineup. According to new data from Counterpoint Research, iPhone sales rose by 22% in the first month after launch compared to the same period last year.

Apple’s Sharp Recovery in China

This performance marks a notable rebound for Apple in the world’s largest smartphone market. After the iPhone 16 series launched in September 2024, Apple saw a 5% decline in first-month sales. The latest growth indicates that Chinese consumers are embracing the iPhone 17 lineup despite intensifying competition from domestic brands.

Counterpoint’s report highlights that the iPhone 17 models were the primary contributors to the surge, making up nearly 80% of Apple’s total sales since hitting shelves on 19 September. The launch drew large crowds, including hundreds of buyers queuing outside Apple’s flagship store in Beijing.

Analysts believe this consumer enthusiasm underscores Apple’s solid brand loyalty in China, even as rivals like Xiaomi and Huawei continue to expand their market presence.

Growth Amid Weak Market Conditions

Despite Apple’s strong performance, overall smartphone demand in China remains subdued. Counterpoint notes that the national smartphone market declined 2.7% year-on-year in Q3 due to cautious consumer spending.

Against this backdrop, the iPhone 17’s success provided a timely lift for Apple during a period of slowed market activity.

iPhone 17 – A Quick Look at Key Specs

The iPhone 17 introduces contoured edges, slimmer bezels, and Ceramic Shield 2 protection for the front panel. It features a 15.93 cm (6.3-inch) Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion support up to 120 Hz.

The phone includes a 48 MP Fusion Main camera with a 2x optical-quality telephoto capability, along with a 48 MP Fusion Ultra Wide camera that delivers four times the resolution of its predecessor. The default output for Ultra Wide photos is set at 24 MP. Storage starts at 256 GB.

Powering the device is the A19 chip, which supports Apple Intelligence features, Live Translation, Image Playground, and enhanced gaming performance. Apple claims full-day battery life and a quick 10-minute charge with a high-wattage adapter can deliver up to eight hours of video playback.

Anyhow, the iPhone 17’s strong early traction suggests that Apple’s latest flagship lineup is resonating well with Chinese buyers.

FAQs

Q1. How did the iPhone 17 impact Apple’s sales in China?

Answer. iPhone sales in China rose by 22% in the first month after launch, reversing the 5% decline seen with the iPhone 16 series.

Q2. What percentage of Apple’s China sales came from iPhone 17 models?

Answer. Nearly 80% of Apple’s total sales in China since 19 September were driven by iPhone 17 models.

Q3. What are the key features of the iPhone 17?

Answer. The iPhone 17 offers a 6.3″ 120Hz Super Retina XDR display, dual 48MP Fusion cameras, A19 chip with Apple Intelligence, Ceramic Shield 2, and fast charging.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/iphone-17-pro-in-blue-and-iphone-air-in-black-facing-scratch-issues-users-in-china-question-apples-durability-claims/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/apple-reaches-4-trillion-valuation-as-iphone-17-sales-break-record/

Google DeepMind Launches SIMA 2, A Gemini-Powered AI Agent That Learns and Evolves Inside 3D Virtual Worlds

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Highlights

  • Google DeepMind’s SIMA 2 launched to learn, reason, and evolve inside 3D virtual worlds.
  • It learns through trial and error, interprets visuals, simulates actions, and engages users like a gaming companion.
  • SIMA 2 can now explain its intentions, plan tasks, and adapt to entirely new environments without prior exposure.

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Caption – Google’s DeepMind unveils SIMA 2.

Google DeepMind has officially unveiled SIMA 2, the next-generation version of its AI agent built to operate, learn, and reason inside 3D virtual environments. It is powered by Gemini and the upgraded agent marks a major leap from its predecessor. It brings it closer to human-level task performance in complex digital worlds.

SIMA is short for Scalable Instructable Multiworld Agent and was introduced last year as a generalist AI capable of following simple instructions across a variety of virtual game environments. According to Google, SIMA represented a major advancement in teaching AI to convert natural language into meaningful in-world actions.

With SIMA 2, Google DeepMind is now aiming at a broader goal like building an interactive, self-improving AI agent that can think, communicate, and learn like a companion inside games.

The company describes SIMA 2 as a major milestone in its journey toward building generally capable and helpful AI systems. It is potentially even a step toward Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).

SIMA 2 integrates tightly with Gemini, enabling it to understand human-language instructions, plan tasks, hold conversations with users, and improve autonomously. Thanks to advanced reasoning capabilities, the agent can now analyse goals, respond intelligently, and refine its skills over time.

In tests involving games it had never encountered before such as ASKA and MineDojo. SIMA 2 reportedly completed 45–75% of tasks, a substantial improvement over SIMA 1’s 15–30% task completion rate in similar scenarios.

The agent learns entirely through trial and error without direct human training data. DeepMind explains that SIMA 2 uses Gemini models to generate new tasks, evaluate attempts, and learn from mistakes. It navigates virtual worlds by interpreting on-screen visuals, simulating keyboard and mouse actions, and engaging users like a real gaming partner.

Google also tested SIMA 2 in environments generated via its Genie 3 model, where the AI adapted successfully to completely unfamiliar worlds without prior exposure or training.

DeepMind highlights that SIMA 2’s architecture, backed by Gemini‘s strong reasoning abilities, allows it to comprehend high-level objectives and carry out complex, goal-oriented actions.

The company further detailed its hybrid training approach in an official blog post. “We trained SIMA 2 using a mixture of human demonstration videos with language labels as well as Gemini-generated labels. As a result, SIMA 2 can now describe to the user what it intends to do and detail the steps it’s taking to accomplish its goals,” the post reads.

FAQs

Q1. What is SIMA 2 and how is it different from SIMA 1?

Answer. SIMA 2 is a Gemini-powered AI agent designed to learn, reason, and evolve inside 3D virtual worlds. It significantly improves task performance, completing 45–75% of tasks in unfamiliar games, compared to SIMA 1’s 15–30%.

Q2. How does SIMA 2 learn and interact in virtual environments?

Answer. SIMA 2 learns autonomously through trial and error, interprets on-screen visuals, simulates keyboard/mouse actions, and uses Gemini to generate tasks, evaluate outcomes, and refine its skills.

Q3. Can SIMA 2 explain its actions to users?

Answer. Yes, thanks to hybrid training with human demo videos and Gemini-generated labels, SIMA 2 can describe its intentions and explain the steps it’s taking to achieve its goals.

Also Read –

https://www.mymobileindia.com/google-unveils-gemini-2-5-a-smarter-ai-model-that-thinks-before-answering/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/report-reveals-google-ceo-pichais-big-2025-goal-includes-scaling-gemini-for-consumers/

Elon Musk Introduces Encrypted X Chat, Replacing DMs and Adding Large File Transfers

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Highlights

  • Elon Musk’s X has launched X Chat in beta, replacing Direct Messages.
  • It is a fully encrypted communication stack supporting secure messaging, audio/video calls, and large file transfers.
  • X Chat offers end-to-end encryption for all conversations (including old messages), screenshot blocking, message editing/deletion, and no ads or tracking.

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Caption – (Photo by Dima Solomin on Unsplash)

In a recent development, X (formerly Twitter) has begun rolling out X Chat. It is a completely new encrypted communication stack that replaces the platform’s existing Direct Messages (DM). Elon Musk, the platform’s owner and Chief Technical Officer, confirmed that the feature is now available in beta for a limited group of users.

X Chat Rolls Out in Beta

Caption – X Chat.

X Chat was introduced on X via a newly created account @chat. In the introduction post, the account wrote, “Say hello to Chat – all-new secure messaging on X.” The post also listed some of the features, which includes the following –

  • end-to-end encrypted chats and file sharing
  • edit, delete, or make messages disappear
  • block screenshots and get notified of attempts
  • no ads. no tracking. total privacy.

Musk too announced the update recently on X and wrote, “X just rolled out an entire new communications stack with encrypted messages, audio/video calls and file transfer. While Musk previously hinted that X Chat would launch as a standalone platform, the company has instead integrated it directly into X for now.

Full End-to-End Encryption for All Conversations

Encryption has been a major focus of X Chat. Currently, DMs are not encrypted by default with only paid users able to access an encrypted chat tab. With X Chat, this distinction disappears entirely and every conversation is now encrypted including older messages that previously lacked protection.

Musk has publicly compared the platform’s new encryption capabilities to those offered by Signal and WhatsApp.

Mandatory PIN Setup

Users who gain access to the beta will first be prompted to create a four-digit PIN, which is required to open and view messages. The PIN must be entered each time the Chat interface is accessed.

Meanwhile, Head of X Developer Platform, Christopher Park noted in a separate post that X has launched multiple new products in recent weeks. These include Grokipedia, X Chat, and the X API beta.

The company is also preparing to roll out major enhancements such as an upgraded Grok Imagine capable of generating videos up to 15 seconds, the launch of X Money, and a fully Grok-powered feed on the platform.

In any case, X Chat is now live in beta and it is quite clear that the platform is accelerating to transform itself into a comprehensive communication and services platform.

FAQs

Q1. What is X Chat and how is it different from Twitter DMs?

Answer. X Chat is a new encrypted messaging system replacing Twitter’s Direct Messages. It offers end-to-end encryption, file sharing, audio/video calls, and enhanced privacy features like screenshot blocking and disappearing messages.

Q2. Is X Chat available to all users?

Answer. No, X Chat is currently in beta and available only to a limited group of users. A wider rollout is expected later.

Q3. What security features does X Chat include?

Answer. X Chat requires a 4-digit PIN to access messages, encrypts all conversations (including old ones), blocks screenshots, and notifies users of any attempts.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/elon-musk-launches-xchat-features-encrypted-chats-disappearing-messages-no-phone-number-calls-and-more/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/elon-musks-starlink-internet-in-india-could-start-at-under-%e2%82%b91000-per-month-reports/

Vivo X300 and X300 Pro Confirmed To Launch in India on December 2

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Highlights

  • Vivo X300 and X300 Pro will officially launch in India on December 2.
  • X300 features a 6.31″ OLED display and 200MP triple rear camera, X300 Pro offers a 6.78″ OLED screen, Sony LYT-828 sensor, and optional Zeiss Telephoto Extender kit.
  • Powered by Dimensity 9500 chipsets, both models will be the first Vivo phones to run OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 out of the box.

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Caption – Vivo X300 series launch teaser in India. (Image credit – Vivo)

Vivo has officially announced that the Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro will debut in India on December 2. This announcement now finally puts an end to weeks of speculation. The series, already introduced in China and Europe last month, is also scheduled to arrive in Southeast Asian markets later this month. Here’s what we know.

Vivo X300 Series Coming to India

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Caption – Vivo India confirming X300 series India launch date. (Image credit – Vivo)

Ahead of the launch, Vivo has begun teasing key highlights of the X300 lineup. Vivo India’s official account on X has been consistently sharing video and image teasers of the upcoming lineup.

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Caption – India-specific Vivo X300 colour option. (Image credit – Vivo)

Another teaser confirms that the Vivo X300 will debut in a new red colour option in India, a shade not offered in any other global market so far.

Vivo X300 and X300 Pro – Specifications (Expected)

The Indian variants of the X300 and X300 Pro are expected to feature the same hardware as the Chinese models.

The compact Vivo X300 features a 6.31-inch OLED 1.5K 120Hz display, along with a 50MP front camera. On the back, it carries a triple-camera setup consisting 200MP Samsung HPB main sensor. 50MP ultra-wide lens and 50MP periscope telephoto lens.

It is powered by a 6,040mAh battery, supporting 90W wired and 40W wireless charging.

Meanwhile, the higher-end Vivo X300 Pro sports a 6.78-inch OLED 1.5K 120Hz screen and a 50MP front camera. Its rear camera system includes 50MP Sony LYT-828 primary camera, 50MP ultra-wide lens and 200MP Samsung HPB periscope telephoto camera.

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Caption – Vivo X300 Pro photography kit. (Image credit – Vivo)

One of the most notable additions will be the Zeiss Telephoto Extender kits, an optional attachment for X300 Pro. This accessory promises enhanced optical zoom capabilities and a more professional photography experience for users.

Battery capacity on the Pro model increases to 6,510mAh, paired with the same 90W wired and 40W wireless charging options.

Both smartphones are equipped with the Dimensity 9500 chipset and will be the first Vivo devices to ship with OriginOS 6-based Android 16 out of the box.

FAQs

Q1. When will the Vivo X300 series launch in India?

Answer. Vivo has confirmed that the X300 and X300 Pro will officially launch in India on December 2, 2025.

Q2. What are the key camera features of the Vivo X300 and X300 Pro?

Answer. The X300 features a 200MP Samsung HPB main sensor, while the X300 Pro includes a 50MP Sony LYT-828 primary camera and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens. Both have 50MP ultra-wide and front cameras.

Q3. What chipset and software power the Vivo X300 series?

Answer. Both models are powered by the Dimensity 9500 chipset and will be the first Vivo phones to run OriginOS 6 based on Android 16 out of the box.

Also Read

https://www.mymobileindia.com/vivo-x300-series-confirmed-to-launch-in-india-soon-expected-price-specs-and-features-revealed/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/vivo-x300-series-goes-global-with-dimensity-9500-chip-200mp-cameras-and-up-to-90w-charging-india-launch-in-coming-months/