Apple Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Apple has unveiled the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, featuring a revolutionary camera system, the A15 Bionic chip, and a Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion. Key advancements include new Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras with enhanced low-light performance and macro photography capabilities. The Pro models offer improved video features like Cinematic mode and ProRes support. Battery life is significantly enhanced, with iPhone 13 Pro Max offering the longest ever. Pre-orders start on September 17, 2021, with sales commencing September 24, 2021.

Apple introduced the new 10.2-inch iPad (9th generation) featuring the A13 Bionic chip, priced at $329. It offers a 20% performance boost, Center Stage video calls with a 12MP Ultra Wide front camera, and True Tone display for enhanced viewing. With double the storage of the previous model, the iPad now starts at 64GB. iPadOS 15 enhances productivity with intuitive multitasking and Live Text features. The new iPad is available for order now and in stores from September 24, 2021. Apple aims for carbon neutrality in its operations by 2030.

Apple has unveiled the new iPad mini featuring an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, the A15 Bionic chip, and support for 5G. The device offers an 80% boost in graphics performance and includes advanced camera features like Center Stage. Users can expect faster connectivity with a USB-C port for data transfer up to 5Gbps. The iPad mini is available for order starting today, with prices starting at $499 for Wi-Fi models and $649 for Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The new device emphasizes portability and versatility for both everyday tasks and creative applications.

Apple has announced the opening of its first store in Hunan province, located in Changsha IFS mall, on September 4 at 10 a.m. CST. The store features a unique glass facade and offers free daily 'Today at Apple' sessions aimed at enhancing customer creativity. With nearly 100 trained staff members, the store is set to serve the local community while adhering to health measures. This strategic expansion aims to enhance Apple's accessibility in central China, showcasing its commitment to innovation and customer engagement.

Apple announced an upcoming update to the App Store, allowing developers of 'reader' apps to link to external websites for account management, following a resolution with the Japan Fair Trade Commission. This change enables users to set up and manage their accounts outside the app. Apple will implement this globally for all reader apps, ensuring user safety remains a priority. The update is part of Apple's broader strategy to enhance developer flexibility and user experience, building on recent initiatives like the News Partner Program.

Apple has partnered with Arizona, Georgia, and several other states to launch the ability for residents to securely add their driver’s licenses and state IDs to Apple Wallet. This feature aims to enhance convenience and security by allowing users to present their IDs on iPhones and Apple Watches without physically handing over their cards. The TSA will also support this initiative at select airport checkpoints. With a focus on privacy, the digital IDs will use biometric authentication and encrypted communication. This rollout marks a significant step toward a future with mobile identification.

Apple has announced the acquisition of Primephonic, a classical music streaming service. This deal aims to enhance the classical music experience for Apple Music subscribers by introducing Primephonic playlists and exclusive content. A dedicated classical music app combining Primephonic's features is expected next year. Current Primephonic subscribers will receive six months of free access to Apple Music, including high-quality classical albums. The acquisition reflects Apple's commitment to expand its music offerings and attract classical music enthusiasts.

Apple has announced changes to the App Store aimed at resolving a class-action lawsuit from US developers, pending court approval. Key elements include allowing developers to share purchase options outside iOS apps, expanding subscription price points from under 100 to over 500, and establishing a fund to assist qualifying developers earning less than $1 million. The App Store Small Business Program will continue for three years, and developers can appeal app rejection decisions. These updates intend to enhance the App Store as a profitable platform for developers while maintaining user trust.

Apple has launched the News Partner Program, aimed at enhancing its collaboration with journalism while ensuring customers access trusted news from top publishers. The program supports publishers' financial stability, promotes media literacy, and diversifies news coverage. Eligible publishers can utilize the Apple News Format (ANF) for better engagement and retain 100% of advertising revenue. Additionally, a 15% commission on qualifying in-app subscriptions is offered. Applications for the program are open now.