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Apple Forecasts Strong Holiday Quarter as iPhone 17 Demand Surges

e CEO Tim Cook announced forecasts for the company’s upcoming holiday quarter that surpass Wall Street expectations, driven by robust demand for the new iPhone 17 lineup despite ongoing supply challenges. Cook expects iPhone sales to grow by double digits year-over-year and total revenue to rise between 10% and 12% in Apple’s fiscal first quarter of 2026.

The company’s previous quarter saw iPhone sales fall short of projections due to shipping delays and supply constraints, particularly in China, where the launch of the ultra-thin iPhone Air was delayed. However, the shortfall was offset by strong sales in other product categories, such as AirPods featuring AI-powered translation capabilities.

Apple’s quarterly revenue reached $102.47 billion with profits of $1.85 per share, beating Wall Street’s expectations. Shares rose 3.7% in after-hours trading following the announcement.

Cook said supply constraints on several iPhone 17 models persist, but the company is working rapidly to fulfill orders. “It’s a good problem to have,” he remarked, emphasizing Apple’s confidence in returning to growth in China during the next quarter.

The company’s broader strategy focuses on integrating advanced AI features into its ecosystem. While rivals have surged ahead in AI, Cook confirmed that Apple is making “good progress” on major Siri upgrades expected next year. With its new iPhone Air, enhanced Pro models, and strong holiday demand, Apple is poised for one of its most profitable quarters yet.

Apple to Launch AirPods with Integrated Camera Next Year; Major Upgrades Delayed Until 2026

Apple is reportedly shifting its AirPods upgrade strategy, with no major new features expected until 2026. Last year, Apple introduced the AirPods 4, which brought active noise cancellation (ANC) to the base true wireless earbuds lineup for the first time. However, this year’s update seems to be on pause, as the company focuses on a more ambitious product set for 2026 and beyond.

According to TF Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to hold off on substantial upgrades to the standard AirPods until 2026. While the core TWS models may see limited changes, the premium AirPods Max line could get a refresh sooner. Kuo revealed that Apple is working on a lighter version of the AirPods Max, which could enter mass production around 2027, signaling a gradual evolution rather than drastic changes.

Alongside these product improvements, Apple is expected to launch a completely new type of AirPods next year: earbuds equipped with built-in infrared (IR) cameras. This new model is anticipated to offer innovative features by detecting environmental cues and enabling “in-air” gesture controls. The IR cameras could significantly enhance user interaction by recognizing hand movements and gestures, offering a more intuitive way to control audio and other device functions.

The introduction of IR cameras in AirPods aligns with previous rumors suggesting that Apple is developing wearable devices with advanced sensing capabilities, including Apple Watch models and possibly smart glasses. This leap toward more interactive, sensor-driven earbuds could open up new possibilities for how users engage with their devices, making the AirPods not just audio accessories but also sophisticated input tools for the future.

Apple to Start AirPods Production in India at Foxconn Plant for Export in April, Report Says

Apple is reportedly set to begin production of its AirPods at Foxconn’s Hyderabad facility, with manufacturing set to start in April. Initially, the production will be focused on exports, rather than catering to the Indian market. This move is seen as part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its manufacturing network and reduce its reliance on China. The decision follows Apple’s ongoing efforts to ramp up production in India, where it has been assembling various models of the iPhone 16 series, including the recently launched iPhone 16e.

According to a report by PTI, citing an anonymous industry source, the production of AirPods at the Foxconn plant is expected to begin in April. However, the wireless earphones will initially be produced exclusively for export, with no plans to sell them locally in India at this stage. This will make AirPods the second major Apple product to be assembled in India, joining the iPhone models that have already been manufactured in the country.

The move to assemble AirPods in India is seen as a significant milestone for Apple, marking another step in the company’s diversification strategy. By shifting production to India, Apple is positioning itself to mitigate risks related to its heavy reliance on Chinese manufacturing. The geopolitical tensions between China and other countries have raised concerns about the stability of global supply chains, prompting Apple to explore alternatives in other regions, including India.

In addition to Foxconn, other major Apple suppliers like Pegatron and Tata Electronics have also been increasing their presence in India, helping to expand Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the country. This shift not only supports Apple’s goal of reducing dependency on China but also provides a boost to India’s growing role in global electronics manufacturing. As the tech giant continues to invest in Indian production, it’s clear that the country will play an increasingly important role in Apple’s future manufacturing plans.