Apple plans to expand its smartphone product line. (The Information)

Chip crunch to drive up costs, curb cellphone output next year: researcher

Counterpoint Research predicts a 2.1% decline in global smartphone shipments next year due to a memory chip shortage, reversing this year's 3.3% gain. The shortage, driven by AI demands, is expected to raise handset prices by 6.9% globally. Companies like Apple and Samsung are better positioned to handle the impact, while Chinese brands may struggle. Strategies to mitigate effects include promoting premium models and reusing components.

Apple Plans To Expand Its iPhone Lineup To Seven Models By Fall 2027 From Five - The Information

Dec 16 (Reuters) -* APPLE PLANS TO EXPAND ITS IPHONE LINEUP TO SEVEN MODELS BY FALL 2027 FROM FIVE - THE INFORMATION Source text: [] Further company coverage:

Apple TV adds Google Cast streaming, but only on Android

Apple TV has added Google Cast support for its Android app, allowing Android users to stream content to their TVs. This feature is not available on the iOS version, and AirPlay is still unsupported on Android. The update addresses a missing feature since the app's launch and follows Netflix's recent removal of casting support from phones to smart TVs.

Smartphone Prices To Rise 7% Due To A.I. Chip Shortage

Smartphone prices are expected to rise by 7% in 2026 due to a shortage of A.I. chips, according to Counterpoint Research. The average selling price of smartphones could increase by 6.9% year-over-year, while global shipments may decline by 2.1%. DRAM prices, crucial for smartphones, could rise by 40%. Apple and Samsung are best positioned to handle these cost pressures. Some companies may downgrade components to minimize price hikes. Apple's stock has risen 12% this year.