After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Having called in nearly 100 workers on Wednesday, January 12th, Foxconn seems to be aiming at a full-fledged re-opening of its plant that employs over 15,000 personnel.&nbsp;

Having visited and reported from the earlier dormitories that were found to be in shoddy, poor condition, WION also visited the new Foxconn offsite dorms that are being spruced up.&nbsp;

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Thread: Visited &amp; reported from a new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> offsite dorm that is being readied to accommodate women workers, who assemble <a href="https://twitter.com/Apple?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Apple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iPhone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iPhone</a> at the facility near <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> 
 
Campus was Much more spacious, far better than old dorm <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tngovernment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tngovernment</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Industry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Industry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/factory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#factory</a> 
(1/n) <a href="https://t.co/NrEQNGcXND">pic.twitter.com/NrEQNGcXND</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481642108729847809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Situated on a vast campus, the new dorm facilities that are being spruced up to accommodate female workers, were far better in every aspect, when compared to the old dorms that WION had visited. The buildings were much larger, and there was adequate open space and green cover in the buildings. The rooms were found to be up to 400 sq ft in size and were meant to accommodate six female workers in bunker beds that were to be installed.&nbsp;

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(2/n) in this vast campus, there are 180 rooms being readied for now.. each 400sqft room will have bunker beds for 6 women.. mats, water heater, FA box, meals, water to be provided.. campus will be under cctv surveillance <a href="https://t.co/pxXbHey5vM">pic.twitter.com/pxXbHey5vM</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481643290122686465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to the contractor responsible for the new facility, the female workers would be provided with beds, bed sheets, water heaters, shoe stands, rugs, first aid box etc.. Besides the meals provided during their working hours at the factory, they would also be provided food and water at the dorms. To ensure further safety and security, the entire campus would also be under CCTV camera surveillance.

The above amenities being provided at the new dorms are a significant improvement over the old dorms, where upto seven women had to stay in room that was hardly 150sqft in size. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation. There were no beds or mattresses in sight, in any of the rooms in the old dorm.&nbsp;

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(3/n) for contrast, here’s a look at the old dorms where they used to stay 
 
It was the inadequate facilities here and the unhygienic food that led to Major issues and protest, eventual shutdown of factory for up to 4 weeks <a href="https://t.co/EIQCeaKz8K">pic.twitter.com/EIQCeaKz8K</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481644044908642309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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To another corner of the building was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was was just an open space with large vessels and hardly any kitchen-like facility or a semblance of cleanliness and hygiene standards. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered by a tin sheet. Just a few steps away from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside, nearby was also a passage that led to the common washrooms.&nbsp;

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(4/n) this is the rear of the old dorm building, no concrete wall.. just tin sheet... to the right, we can see a shabby washroom and just near it is the area used for cooking <a href="https://t.co/Rcj0OWug74">pic.twitter.com/Rcj0OWug74</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481644767834689536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The new dorm that WION visited was among the many dorms that were being readied for the impending arrival of women workers, who are expected to arrive in batches. According to persons who were on site to inspect the dorms, a total of 17 new dorms were being readied as part of Foxconn offsite facilities.&nbsp;

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(5/n) painting, cleaning, other civil work underway at new dorm.. beds brought in.. cctv cams being installed.. facility being readied to accommodate up to 1000women workers 
 
17 such new dorms are being readied as part of the corrective measures that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> Is undertaking <a href="https://t.co/fGXPNtJE6Q">pic.twitter.com/fGXPNtJE6Q</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481647337290477570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, speaking to media, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu said that the Foxconn labour issue had be resolved amicably and he was happy to learn of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai, resuming operations after the return of women workers. He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues. According to him, the Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided adequate facilities and even received an assurance from Foxconn in that regard.&nbsp;

After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

After almost a month-long shutdown, owing to poor living and dining facilities provided to workers, Taiwanese manufacturing giant Foxconn is gradually resuming operations at its iPhone assembly facility in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Having called in nearly 100 workers on Wednesday, January 12th, Foxconn seems to be aiming at a full-fledged re-opening of its plant that employs over 15,000 personnel. Having visited and reported from the earlier dormitories that were found to be in shoddy, poor condition, WION also visited the new Foxconn offsite dorms that are being spruced up. Thread: Visited & reported from a new #foxconn offsite dorm that is being readied to accommodate women workers, who assemble @Apple #iPhone at the facility near #Chennai Campus was Much more spacious, far better than old dorm #TamilNadu #tngovernment #Industry #factory (1/n) pic.twitter.com/NrEQNGcXND — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × Situated on a vast campus, the new dorm facilities that are being spruced up to accommodate female workers, were far better in every aspect, when compared to the old dorms that WION had visited. The buildings were much larger, and there was adequate open space and green cover in the buildings. The rooms were found to be up to 400 sq ft in size and were meant to accommodate six female workers in bunker beds that were to be installed. (2/n) in this vast campus, there are 180 rooms being readied for now.. each 400sqft room will have bunker beds for 6 women.. mats, water heater, FA box, meals, water to be provided.. campus will be under cctv surveillance pic.twitter.com/pxXbHey5vM — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × According to the contractor responsible for the new facility, the female workers would be provided with beds, bed sheets, water heaters, shoe stands, rugs, first aid box etc.. Besides the meals provided during their working hours at the factory, they would also be provided food and water at the dorms. To ensure further safety and security, the entire campus would also be under CCTV camera surveillance. The above amenities being provided at the new dorms are a significant improvement over the old dorms, where upto seven women had to stay in room that was hardly 150sqft in size. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation. There were no beds or mattresses in sight, in any of the rooms in the old dorm. (3/n) for contrast, here’s a look at the old dorms where they used to stay It was the inadequate facilities here and the unhygienic food that led to Major issues and protest, eventual shutdown of factory for up to 4 weeks pic.twitter.com/EIQCeaKz8K — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × To another corner of the building was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was was just an open space with large vessels and hardly any kitchen-like facility or a semblance of cleanliness and hygiene standards. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered by a tin sheet. Just a few steps away from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside, nearby was also a passage that led to the common washrooms. (4/n) this is the rear of the old dorm building, no concrete wall.. just tin sheet... to the right, we can see a shabby washroom and just near it is the area used for cooking pic.twitter.com/Rcj0OWug74 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × The new dorm that WION visited was among the many dorms that were being readied for the impending arrival of women workers, who are expected to arrive in batches. According to persons who were on site to inspect the dorms, a total of 17 new dorms were being readied as part of Foxconn offsite facilities. (5/n) painting, cleaning, other civil work underway at new dorm.. beds brought in.. cctv cams being installed.. facility being readied to accommodate up to 1000women workers 17 such new dorms are being readied as part of the corrective measures that #foxconn Is undertaking pic.twitter.com/fGXPNtJE6Q — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 13, 2022 × On Wednesday, speaking to media, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Thangam Thennarasu said that the Foxconn labour issue had be resolved amicably and he was happy to learn of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai, resuming operations after the return of women workers. He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues. According to him, the Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided adequate facilities and even received an assurance from Foxconn in that regard.

India: Full-fledged operations in sight, Foxconn readies new dorms for workers assembling iPhones

The Foxconn plant that assembles iPhones on the outskirts of Chennai city is witnessing the return of workers and resumption of operations, the Tamil Nadu state government officials said on Wednesday.

The workers are returning to the plant after nearly a month after the operations were suspended owing to concerns raised over hygiene, safety and standards the plant’s offsite dormitories.

Nearly 150 women workers had fallen ill after dining at one of the offsite dorms, leading to massive protests by the workers.&nbsp;

Following the protests, the factory was placed on probation by Apple, and the state government had to intervene to address workers’ welfare.

When the issue led to severe criticism against the Taiwanese and American tech giants, Foxconn and Apple finally acknowledged that the workers’ dorm rooms and dining areas didn’t meet their requirements. Foxconn had even apologised for its shortcomings.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media, Tamil Nadu’s industries minister Thangam Thennarasu said the issue was resolved amicable and expressed happiness over the resumption of operations of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai.

He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues.

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After Govt intervention, urging compny to take care of employees' needs, CM said that <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> will resume ops from 12th Jan. happy to learn that women workers are back &amp; are resuming work &amp; factory will function without any issues, says <a href="https://twitter.com/TThenarasu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TThenarasu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tamilnadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tamilnadu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/factory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#factory</a> <a href="https://t.co/drxlw3MONc">pic.twitter.com/drxlw3MONc</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1481148613158137857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Thennarasu informed that Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter and urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided with adequate facilities, following which&nbsp;Foxconn assured to take care of the matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement issued recently, Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) said they had implemented a range of corrective actions to ensure that concerns over hygiene issues are not raised again.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/they-help-make-iphone-but-heres-where-they-stayed-inside-foxconn-chennai-offsite-dorm-room-441487">They help make iPhone, but here's where they stayed: Inside Foxconn Chennai offsite dorm room</a>

The tech giant said that they have put in place a rigorous monitoring system to ensure that workers raise any concerns they may have, including anonymously.

“We will gradually begin to welcome back team members as each offsite dormitory becomes ready and is approved. We continue to support our employees and thank them for their patience as we work through the improvements,” it said.

Apple had also issued a statement saying that Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur facility remains on probation and that they would continue to monitor the conditions very closely.

"For the past several weeks, teams from Apple, along with independent auditors, have been working with Foxconn to ensure a comprehensive set of corrective actions are implemented in the offsite accommodations and dining rooms at Sriperumbudur. Workers will start to return gradually as soon as we are certain our standards are being met in every dormitory and dining area”.

The Foxconn plant that assembles iPhones on the outskirts of Chennai city is witnessing the return of workers and resumption of operations, the Tamil Nadu state government officials said on Wednesday.

The Foxconn plant that assembles iPhones on the outskirts of Chennai city is witnessing the return of workers and resumption of operations, the Tamil Nadu state government officials said on Wednesday. The workers are returning to the plant after nearly a month after the operations were suspended owing to concerns raised over hygiene, safety and standards the plant’s offsite dormitories. Nearly 150 women workers had fallen ill after dining at one of the offsite dorms, leading to massive protests by the workers. Following the protests, the factory was placed on probation by Apple, and the state government had to intervene to address workers’ welfare. When the issue led to severe criticism against the Taiwanese and American tech giants, Foxconn and Apple finally acknowledged that the workers’ dorm rooms and dining areas didn’t meet their requirements. Foxconn had even apologised for its shortcomings. Speaking to the media, Tamil Nadu’s industries minister Thangam Thennarasu said the issue was resolved amicable and expressed happiness over the resumption of operations of the Foxconn plant in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai. He added that the factory would continue to function without any issues. After Govt intervention, urging compny to take care of employees' needs, CM said that #foxconn #Chennai will resume ops from 12th Jan. happy to learn that women workers are back & are resuming work & factory will function without any issues, says @TThenarasu #tamilnadu #factory pic.twitter.com/drxlw3MONc — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 12, 2022 × Thennarasu informed that Chief Minister MK Stalin had intervened in the matter and urged Foxconn and all relevant government departments to ensure that the workers were provided with adequate facilities, following which Foxconn assured to take care of the matter. In a statement issued recently, Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) said they had implemented a range of corrective actions to ensure that concerns over hygiene issues are not raised again. Also read | They help make iPhone, but here's where they stayed: Inside Foxconn Chennai offsite dorm room The tech giant said that they have put in place a rigorous monitoring system to ensure that workers raise any concerns they may have, including anonymously. “We will gradually begin to welcome back team members as each offsite dormitory becomes ready and is approved. We continue to support our employees and thank them for their patience as we work through the improvements,” it said. Apple had also issued a statement saying that Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur facility remains on probation and that they would continue to monitor the conditions very closely. "For the past several weeks, teams from Apple, along with independent auditors, have been working with Foxconn to ensure a comprehensive set of corrective actions are implemented in the offsite accommodations and dining rooms at Sriperumbudur. Workers will start to return gradually as soon as we are certain our standards are being met in every dormitory and dining area”.

After a month, workers finally return to Foxconn’s protest-hit Chennai factory, operations resume

After dominating the smartphone market in the 2000s, Blackberry is sailing into oblivion. Their devices will stop working on January 4th - one day after their rival Apple hit $3 trillion in market cap. Palki Sharma traces the tale of two brands.

Gravitas: Your Blackberry phones will stop working today

Apple has become the world's first company to hit a three trillion dollar stock market value yesterday as investors are bullish on iPhone makers future prospects and are hopeful that the US firm will keep launching best-selling products.

Apple touches $3 trillion market value

If recent reports are to be believed, Apple might finally dump the notch display in its iPhones, and may release the upcoming iPhone 14 series with a punch-hole camera.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest podcast 'Power On’ revealed that Apple is most likely to ditch the notch on some 2022 devices.

According to Gurman, who specializes in Apple products, the tech company would release a redesigned MacBook Air with an M2 chip and wireless charging for the 2022 iPad Pro.

Gurman claimed the new M2 chip would be "marginally faster" than the M1. It should have an octa-core CPU and 9- or 10-core GPU, which would be an upgrade over the 8-core GPU on the current Air.

A new, internally-developed chip is also expected for the Mac Pro and an AR/VR headset, which is likely to make an appearance at WWDC in the summer.

Meanwhile, there are reports that Apple will be launching iPhone 14 series in two models—iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro.

It is being said that the tech giant has decided to drop the mini series after it didn’t see great sales numbers compared to the other models.

There are also claims hinting towards the inclusion of an under-display fingerprint. Face ID and fingerprint scanning together would help to improve the authentication process on the next-gen iPhones.&nbsp;

As far as the chipset is concerned, iPhone 14 may come with the A16 Bionic chipset. Apart from that, there are also claims that 2022 models would feature a Type-C USB port.

(With inputs from agencies)

If recent reports are to be believed, Apple might finally dump the notch display in its iPhones, and may release the upcoming iPhone 14 series with a punch-hole camera.

If recent reports are to be believed, Apple might finally dump the notch display in its iPhones, and may release the upcoming iPhone 14 series with a punch-hole camera. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest podcast 'Power On’ revealed that Apple is most likely to ditch the notch on some 2022 devices. According to Gurman, who specializes in Apple products, the tech company would release a redesigned MacBook Air with an M2 chip and wireless charging for the 2022 iPad Pro. Gurman claimed the new M2 chip would be "marginally faster" than the M1. It should have an octa-core CPU and 9- or 10-core GPU, which would be an upgrade over the 8-core GPU on the current Air. A new, internally-developed chip is also expected for the Mac Pro and an AR/VR headset, which is likely to make an appearance at WWDC in the summer. Meanwhile, there are reports that Apple will be launching iPhone 14 series in two models—iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro. It is being said that the tech giant has decided to drop the mini series after it didn’t see great sales numbers compared to the other models. There are also claims hinting towards the inclusion of an under-display fingerprint. Face ID and fingerprint scanning together would help to improve the authentication process on the next-gen iPhones. As far as the chipset is concerned, iPhone 14 may come with the A16 Bionic chipset. Apart from that, there are also claims that 2022 models would feature a Type-C USB port. (With inputs from agencies)

iPhone 14 may come with punch hole display: Report

India’s anti-trust watchdog has ordered a probe against Apple App Store’s unfair business activities, saying that the iPhone maker may have violated certain antitrust laws.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has alleged that the tech company abused its position to prohibit third-party app stores to be listed on the App Store, levying a commission of 30% for in-app purchases and not allowing other payment mechanisms.

The CCI order states that Apple prohibits developers from informing the users that they have the ability to purchase the subscription on the web as well.&nbsp;

“Thus, Apple prohibits app developers to include a button/link in their apps which take/steer the user to a third party payment processing solution other than Apple’s IAP (in-app purchase). This prima facie results in denial of market access for the potential app distributors/app store developers in violation of competition norms,” the order read.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-hit-with-eu-antitrust-charge-over-app-store-practices-381696">Apple hit with EU antitrust charge over App Store practices</a>

The Commission, in its order, has stated that it has taken a prima facie view that Apple has violated provisions of Section 4 of the Competition Act, which deals with the abuse of a dominant position by an enterprise.

It has directed the Director-General to open an investigation into the company, a report for which needs to be submitted within 60 days of the order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-anti-trust-regulators-fine-apple-123-billion-286882">French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion</a>

“At this stage, it appears that the lack of competitive constraint in the distribution of mobile apps is likely to affect the terms on which Apple provides access to its App Store to the app developers, including the commission rates and terms that thwart certain app developers from using other in-app payment systems,” the CCI said in its order.

Notably, the tech company is facing similar charges in other countries, including EU and UK.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s anti-trust watchdog has ordered a probe against Apple App Store’s unfair business activities, saying that the iPhone maker may have violated certain antitrust laws.

India’s anti-trust watchdog has ordered a probe against Apple App Store’s unfair business activities, saying that the iPhone maker may have violated certain antitrust laws. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has alleged that the tech company abused its position to prohibit third-party app stores to be listed on the App Store, levying a commission of 30% for in-app purchases and not allowing other payment mechanisms. The CCI order states that Apple prohibits developers from informing the users that they have the ability to purchase the subscription on the web as well. “Thus, Apple prohibits app developers to include a button/link in their apps which take/steer the user to a third party payment processing solution other than Apple’s IAP (in-app purchase). This prima facie results in denial of market access for the potential app distributors/app store developers in violation of competition norms,” the order read. Also read | Apple hit with EU antitrust charge over App Store practices The Commission, in its order, has stated that it has taken a prima facie view that Apple has violated provisions of Section 4 of the Competition Act, which deals with the abuse of a dominant position by an enterprise. It has directed the Director-General to open an investigation into the company, a report for which needs to be submitted within 60 days of the order. Also read | French anti-trust regulators fine Apple $1.23 billion “At this stage, it appears that the lack of competitive constraint in the distribution of mobile apps is likely to affect the terms on which Apple provides access to its App Store to the app developers, including the commission rates and terms that thwart certain app developers from using other in-app payment systems,” the CCI said in its order. Notably, the tech company is facing similar charges in other countries, including EU and UK. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s anti-trust agency orders probe against Apple for unfair business practices

American tech giant Apple has placed its iPhone contract manufacturer Foxconn’s Chennai unit on probation, over cleanliness and hygiene issues at their staff dormitory and dining areas.

WION visited one such dormitory where the women staff had been staying. During the visit, it was found that the women were made to stay in crammed spaces and poor conditions.

During the visit, a team of Tamil Nadu Police personnel were seen occupying the rooms who had placed their belongings there. However, the cops refused to divulge the reason for their presence there.

&nbsp;

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Thread: (1/n)What I witnessed at an offsite dormitory where <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Foxconn</a> women workers stayed, near the Sriperumbudur factory 
 
Each dorm room was barely 150sqft and up to 7 women used to stay in the room, without bed/mattress, under a single fan. No attached bath/wash<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ViMpvUKEm">pic.twitter.com/8ViMpvUKEm</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1476599202436157441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The dormitories building was a short walk away from and fairly unnoticeable from the nearby main road. Painted in pale yellow, the three-storeyed appeared fairly clean, but offered a vastly different picture while entering the rooms. With over 50 rooms, the building was once occupied by over 250 women workers.

All of 150sqft and fitted with a lone ceiling fan, each room is learnt to have been used by up to seven women workers. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation.

There were no beds or mattresses in any of the rooms. Neither did they have attached bathrooms or toilets. The toilets, bathrooms and the washing area were at the corner of the building.&nbsp;

At the other corner of the building, there was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was just an open space with large vessels that hardly had any kitchen facilities. Here too, the cleanliness and hygiene standards were questionable. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered with a tin sheet.

Just a few steps from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside. Nearby, there was a passage that led to the common washrooms. The rear portions of the building seemed to lack a concrete boundary wall&nbsp;instead, there were only tin sheets erected to purportedly serve the same purpose.&nbsp;

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(6/n) 
Some pics from around the place to give an overall feel of why the women were totally distraught by the facilities provided or the lack thereof... 
 
Hope <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/foxconn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#foxconn</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Apple?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Apple</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_cook?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tim_cook</a> ensure accountability and TN Govt supervises the facility and supports the women... <a href="https://t.co/0rHAV5nQPe">pic.twitter.com/0rHAV5nQPe</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1476605277952626703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Foxconn technology group issued a statement saying, “The safety and wellbeing of our employees is our top priority. We have been investigating recent issues at our Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu and have found that some offsite dormitory facilities do not meet the required standards.”

Besides apologising for the plight of their employees, the company also said they were taking immediate steps to enhance the facilities and services at remote dormitory accommodations.

In addition to restructuring the local management team, Foxconn said that it would also continue to pay its employees while making necessary improvements before restarting operations.&nbsp;

According to an Apple spokesperson, the tech giant has dispatched independent auditors to undertake additional detailed assessments following recent concerns about food safety and accommodation conditions at Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur unit.

It was also said that some of the remote dormitory accommodations and dining rooms being used for employees did not meet their requirements.

“Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur facility has been placed on probation and we will ensure our strict standards are met before the facility reopens. We will continue to monitor conditions closely” the statement added.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, nearly 150 women workers of Foxconn staying at an offsite dormitory had fallen ill and were admitted to hospitals, owing to food poisoning. They alleged that the food provided to them at the dining facility in the dormitory was unhygienic.

Turning up in large numbers, the women workers had blocked the arterial Chennai-Bengaluru highway and protested against their Foxconn management, demanding better facilities.&nbsp;

According to Kannan, deputy general secretary, Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), Tamil Nadu, the details of the recent instance of food poisoning were not shared with the victims’ parents, which then led to protest.

“Not only iPhone but all brands of phones are also being manufactured at the Foxconn Sunguvarchatram plant. Nearly 10,000 employees are engaged in production activity here, but they all have been hired on a contract basis, despite doing a job that is of perennial nature. This is a major concern for workers to come out and protest,” Kannan told WION.

On behalf of CITU, he emphasised that the Tamil Nadu government, Apple and Foxconn management come forward and resolve the issue immediately.

American tech giant Apple has placed its iPhone contract manufacturer Foxconn’s Chennai unit on probation, over cleanliness and hygiene issues at their staff dormitory and dining areas.

American tech giant Apple has placed its iPhone contract manufacturer Foxconn’s Chennai unit on probation, over cleanliness and hygiene issues at their staff dormitory and dining areas. WION visited one such dormitory where the women staff had been staying. During the visit, it was found that the women were made to stay in crammed spaces and poor conditions. During the visit, a team of Tamil Nadu Police personnel were seen occupying the rooms who had placed their belongings there. However, the cops refused to divulge the reason for their presence there. Thread: (1/n)What I witnessed at an offsite dormitory where #Foxconn women workers stayed, near the Sriperumbudur factory Each dorm room was barely 150sqft and up to 7 women used to stay in the room, without bed/mattress, under a single fan. No attached bath/wash#Chennai pic.twitter.com/8ViMpvUKEm — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 30, 2021 × The dormitories building was a short walk away from and fairly unnoticeable from the nearby main road. Painted in pale yellow, the three-storeyed appeared fairly clean, but offered a vastly different picture while entering the rooms. With over 50 rooms, the building was once occupied by over 250 women workers. All of 150sqft and fitted with a lone ceiling fan, each room is learnt to have been used by up to seven women workers. Despite having a window, owing to a fairly high compound wall blocking it, the ground floor rooms had hardly any natural ventilation. There were no beds or mattresses in any of the rooms. Neither did they have attached bathrooms or toilets. The toilets, bathrooms and the washing area were at the corner of the building. At the other corner of the building, there was a space that was used as a cooking area. It was just an open space with large vessels that hardly had any kitchen facilities. Here too, the cleanliness and hygiene standards were questionable. Parts of the cooking area were surrounded by the compound walls whereas another side was covered with a tin sheet. Just a few steps from the cooking area was a closed toilet that looked extremely unclean even from the outside. Nearby, there was a passage that led to the common washrooms. The rear portions of the building seemed to lack a concrete boundary wall instead, there were only tin sheets erected to purportedly serve the same purpose. (6/n) Some pics from around the place to give an overall feel of why the women were totally distraught by the facilities provided or the lack thereof... Hope #foxconn and @Apple @tim_cook ensure accountability and TN Govt supervises the facility and supports the women... pic.twitter.com/0rHAV5nQPe — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) December 30, 2021 × Foxconn technology group issued a statement saying, “The safety and wellbeing of our employees is our top priority. We have been investigating recent issues at our Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu and have found that some offsite dormitory facilities do not meet the required standards.” Besides apologising for the plight of their employees, the company also said they were taking immediate steps to enhance the facilities and services at remote dormitory accommodations. In addition to restructuring the local management team, Foxconn said that it would also continue to pay its employees while making necessary improvements before restarting operations. According to an Apple spokesperson, the tech giant has dispatched independent auditors to undertake additional detailed assessments following recent concerns about food safety and accommodation conditions at Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur unit. It was also said that some of the remote dormitory accommodations and dining rooms being used for employees did not meet their requirements. “Foxconn’s Sriperumbudur facility has been placed on probation and we will ensure our strict standards are met before the facility reopens. We will continue to monitor conditions closely” the statement added. Earlier this month, nearly 150 women workers of Foxconn staying at an offsite dormitory had fallen ill and were admitted to hospitals, owing to food poisoning. They alleged that the food provided to them at the dining facility in the dormitory was unhygienic. Turning up in large numbers, the women workers had blocked the arterial Chennai-Bengaluru highway and protested against their Foxconn management, demanding better facilities. According to Kannan, deputy general secretary, Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), Tamil Nadu, the details of the recent instance of food poisoning were not shared with the victims’ parents, which then led to protest. “Not only iPhone but all brands of phones are also being manufactured at the Foxconn Sunguvarchatram plant. Nearly 10,000 employees are engaged in production activity here, but they all have been hired on a contract basis, despite doing a job that is of perennial nature. This is a major concern for workers to come out and protest,” Kannan told WION. On behalf of CITU, he emphasised that the Tamil Nadu government, Apple and Foxconn management come forward and resolve the issue immediately.

They help make iPhone, but here's where they stayed: Inside Foxconn Chennai offsite dorm room

Apple and its iPhone assembler Foxconn found that some remote dormitories and dining rooms used for employees at a Foxconn plant in southern India do not meet required standards, spokespeople for the two companies said on Wednesday.

Earlier this month, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the Foxconn plant that makes iPhones in Sriperumbudur town, near the southern city of Chennai, and live in one of the dormitories had to be treated for food poisoning.

Production at the Taiwanese contract manufacturing giant`s plant was halted on Dec 18, Reuters has reported.

Foxconn said on Wednesday it was restructuring its local management team to ensure it can achieve and maintain the standards needed, and was taking immediate steps to improve facilities. All employees would continue to be paid while it makes necessary improvements to restart operations.

An Apple spokesperson said it had dispatched independent auditors to assess conditions at the dormitories "following recent concerns about food safety and accommodation conditions at Foxconn Sriperumbudur."

"We found that some of the remote dormitory accommodations and dining rooms being used for employees do not meet our requirements and we are working with the supplier to ensure a comprehensive set of corrective actions are rapidly implemented."

Foxconn`s Sriperumbudur facility has been placed "on probation" and Apple will ensure its strict standards are met before the facility reopens, the spokesperson for the U.S. company said, adding that it holds suppliers accountable to the highest standards in the industry and regularly conducts assessments to ensure compliance

Apple and its iPhone assembler Foxconn found that some remote dormitories and dining rooms used for employees at a Foxconn plant in southern India do not meet required standards, spokespeople for the two companies said on Wednesday.

Apple and its iPhone assembler Foxconn found that some remote dormitories and dining rooms used for employees at a Foxconn plant in southern India do not meet required standards, spokespeople for the two companies said on Wednesday. Earlier this month, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the Foxconn plant that makes iPhones in Sriperumbudur town, near the southern city of Chennai, and live in one of the dormitories had to be treated for food poisoning. Production at the Taiwanese contract manufacturing giant`s plant was halted on Dec 18, Reuters has reported. Foxconn said on Wednesday it was restructuring its local management team to ensure it can achieve and maintain the standards needed, and was taking immediate steps to improve facilities. All employees would continue to be paid while it makes necessary improvements to restart operations. An Apple spokesperson said it had dispatched independent auditors to assess conditions at the dormitories "following recent concerns about food safety and accommodation conditions at Foxconn Sriperumbudur." "We found that some of the remote dormitory accommodations and dining rooms being used for employees do not meet our requirements and we are working with the supplier to ensure a comprehensive set of corrective actions are rapidly implemented." Foxconn`s Sriperumbudur facility has been placed "on probation" and Apple will ensure its strict standards are met before the facility reopens, the spokesperson for the U.S. company said, adding that it holds suppliers accountable to the highest standards in the industry and regularly conducts assessments to ensure compliance

Foxconn, Apple say worker dorms for India iPhone plant don't meet required standards

A&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters.

The factory, which employs some 17,000 people, had been due to resume some operations on Monday but is now expected to restart production with 1,000 workers on Thursday, the official said, adding that the state government had conducted inspections of workers' hostels.

Last week, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the plant and live in one of the hostels had to be treated for food poisoning. Some of the protestors were rounded up by the police but later released.

The incident has thrown a spotlight on living conditions for the workers - most of them women - who reside in hostels near the factory which is located in the southern city of Chennai.

The Taiwanese contract manufacturer for Apple Inc and other big tech names as well as 11 of its contractors including those who provide food and living facilities were summoned for a meeting, said the official. The official was not authorised to speak on the matter and declined to be identified.

The state government asked&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;to review services provided to the workers including power backup at the hostels, food and water, and the Directorate Of Industrial Safety And Health also recommended providing recreational facilities such as a TV, a library and indoor games, the official added.

According to a separate government source,&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;has told state bureaucrats it had "ramped up production too quickly" and would gradually ensure that workers' facilities were upgraded before they go back to full capacity.

Representatives for&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;and Apple were not immediately available for comment.

The gates of the factory, which is on the outskirts of the southern city of Chennai, were open on Monday morning and some vehicles were moving in and out but the area was mostly deserted.

The impact on Apple from the closure of the plant, which makes iPhone 12 models and has started trial production of the iPhone 13, is expected to be minimal, analysts have said. But the factory is strategic in the long term as Apple tries to cut its reliance on China's supply chain amid trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

The disruption comes as Apple is dealing with pandemic-related supply chain bottlenecks that have hit production. In October, the company warned that the impact of these supply chain problems would worsen during the holiday quarter.

The unrest at&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;is the second such involving an Apple supplier factory in India in a year. In December 2020, thousands of contract workers at a factory owned by Wistron Corp destroyed equipment and vehicles over the alleged non-payment of wages, causing damages estimated at $60 million.

Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple has bet big on India since it began iPhone assembly in the country in 2017.&nbsp;Foxconn, Wistron and another supplier, Pegatron, have together committed roughly $900 million over five years to make iPhones in India.

A Foxconn iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters.

A Foxconn iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters. The factory, which employs some 17,000 people, had been due to resume some operations on Monday but is now expected to restart production with 1,000 workers on Thursday, the official said, adding that the state government had conducted inspections of workers' hostels. Last week, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the plant and live in one of the hostels had to be treated for food poisoning. Some of the protestors were rounded up by the police but later released. The incident has thrown a spotlight on living conditions for the workers - most of them women - who reside in hostels near the factory which is located in the southern city of Chennai. The Taiwanese contract manufacturer for Apple Inc and other big tech names as well as 11 of its contractors including those who provide food and living facilities were summoned for a meeting, said the official. The official was not authorised to speak on the matter and declined to be identified. The state government asked Foxconn to review services provided to the workers including power backup at the hostels, food and water, and the Directorate Of Industrial Safety And Health also recommended providing recreational facilities such as a TV, a library and indoor games, the official added. According to a separate government source, Foxconn has told state bureaucrats it had "ramped up production too quickly" and would gradually ensure that workers' facilities were upgraded before they go back to full capacity. Representatives for Foxconn and Apple were not immediately available for comment. The gates of the factory, which is on the outskirts of the southern city of Chennai, were open on Monday morning and some vehicles were moving in and out but the area was mostly deserted. The impact on Apple from the closure of the plant, which makes iPhone 12 models and has started trial production of the iPhone 13, is expected to be minimal, analysts have said. But the factory is strategic in the long term as Apple tries to cut its reliance on China's supply chain amid trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. The disruption comes as Apple is dealing with pandemic-related supply chain bottlenecks that have hit production. In October, the company warned that the impact of these supply chain problems would worsen during the holiday quarter. The unrest at Foxconn is the second such involving an Apple supplier factory in India in a year. In December 2020, thousands of contract workers at a factory owned by Wistron Corp destroyed equipment and vehicles over the alleged non-payment of wages, causing damages estimated at $60 million. Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple has bet big on India since it began iPhone assembly in the country in 2017. Foxconn, Wistron and another supplier, Pegatron, have together committed roughly $900 million over five years to make iPhones in India.

Foxconn's iPhone factory in India remains closed as workers suffer mass food poisoning

A Foxconn iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three day. The production is expected to restart on Thursday.

Foxconn India iPhone plant extends closure

The Tamil Nadu government has formally requested the local unit of Taiwanese hardware manufacturing firm Foxconn, to provide better basic amenities for its workers. Among the facilities enlisted as part of the suggestions were - better hostels, spacious living areas, adequate bathrooms and toilets, potable water, living spaces with proper ventilation and overall improved infrastructure in hostels/dormitories.&nbsp;

This comes nearly a week after hundreds of Foxconn workers protested and blocked the crucial Chennai-Bengaluru highway, as over 150 women workers had fallen sick after consuming the food provided in the hostels.&nbsp;

According to the protestors, there were long-standing issues between the management and the contractual workers, which the management allegedly refused to address or resolve. Among the issues highlighted were the basic living facilities, better working conditions, hygienic food and water etc.

According to the government, they are keen on bringing investments and job opportunities to the state, but are also keen on voicing out for the welfare of workers (especially women). In line with this, top government officials, including IAS and IPS officers had met with representatives of Foxconn on Thursday and offered suggestions.&nbsp;

Among the points highlighted to the company were, District Collector's certificate of approval for the living spaces provided to workers, provision of hygienic meals that are cooked within the premises of the hostel, ensuring timely approval of emergency leave for contractual workers and also utilising services of manpower agencies for seeking replacement/backup workforce to make up for those absent.&nbsp;

According to the government, the company had agreed to implement the suggestions and has also expressed its intention to expand its operations and offer more job opportunities.&nbsp;

Nearly 14,000 men and women are employed in the Foxconn unit that manufactures electronic components, iPhones for Apple and handsets for other leading smartphone brands.

Many of the women workers are staying in the nearby dormitories. It was after consuming their meals from one such dormitory that over 150 workers were affected by food poisoning and had to be taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.&nbsp;

According to workers, the management did not offer any response when queried about the health condition of women workers who were admitted to the hospital.&nbsp;

There were also rumours of a few women workers having died, owing to food poisoning. This is said to have been a major trigger for the protest. However, the government authorities formally dismissed the claims of workers having died and assured action against rumour mongers.

The Tamil Nadu government has formally requested the local unit of Taiwanese hardware manufacturing firm Foxconn, to provide better basic amenities for its workers.

The Tamil Nadu government has formally requested the local unit of Taiwanese hardware manufacturing firm Foxconn, to provide better basic amenities for its workers. Among the facilities enlisted as part of the suggestions were - better hostels, spacious living areas, adequate bathrooms and toilets, potable water, living spaces with proper ventilation and overall improved infrastructure in hostels/dormitories. This comes nearly a week after hundreds of Foxconn workers protested and blocked the crucial Chennai-Bengaluru highway, as over 150 women workers had fallen sick after consuming the food provided in the hostels. According to the protestors, there were long-standing issues between the management and the contractual workers, which the management allegedly refused to address or resolve. Among the issues highlighted were the basic living facilities, better working conditions, hygienic food and water etc. According to the government, they are keen on bringing investments and job opportunities to the state, but are also keen on voicing out for the welfare of workers (especially women). In line with this, top government officials, including IAS and IPS officers had met with representatives of Foxconn on Thursday and offered suggestions. Among the points highlighted to the company were, District Collector's certificate of approval for the living spaces provided to workers, provision of hygienic meals that are cooked within the premises of the hostel, ensuring timely approval of emergency leave for contractual workers and also utilising services of manpower agencies for seeking replacement/backup workforce to make up for those absent. According to the government, the company had agreed to implement the suggestions and has also expressed its intention to expand its operations and offer more job opportunities. Nearly 14,000 men and women are employed in the Foxconn unit that manufactures electronic components, iPhones for Apple and handsets for other leading smartphone brands. Many of the women workers are staying in the nearby dormitories. It was after consuming their meals from one such dormitory that over 150 workers were affected by food poisoning and had to be taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. According to workers, the management did not offer any response when queried about the health condition of women workers who were admitted to the hospital. There were also rumours of a few women workers having died, owing to food poisoning. This is said to have been a major trigger for the protest. However, the government authorities formally dismissed the claims of workers having died and assured action against rumour mongers.

India: Provide better facilities for workers, Tamil Nadu govt tells iPhone assembly unit Foxconn

American multinational company Apple, founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, is the world's second most valuable company after Microsoft.

But the tech giant is making the same mistakes committed by Finnish telecommunications and information technology company Nokia.

Slowing sales, controversies, and a lack of innovation might push Apple towards a decline.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-apple-bribe-chinese-communists-435267/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

From garage start-up to megalith worth $2 trillion

The company has impacted hundreds of millions of lives since its 1976 founding in a garage.

Apple raced to success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but foundered after the departure of Jobs and Wozniak.

The company was reinvigorated in the late 1990s, and Jobs was brought back into the fold as the chief executive.

With his passion for minimalist design and marketing genius, Jobs changed the course of personal computing during two stints at Apple and then brought a revolution to the mobile market.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/apple-packs-ipad-pros-with-faster-chips-slims-imacs-and-jumps-into-tracking-tags-378985" hreflang="en">Apple packs iPad Pros with faster chips, slims iMacs and jumps into tracking tags</a>

He oversaw the launch of the iPod, and later the world-changing iPhone, that put the internet in people's pockets. It was dubbed the “Jesus phone” for its quasi-religious following.

However, after his death in 2011 due to a rare form of pancreatic cancer, it lost a visionary leader.

Jobs’ death came just one day after Cook presented a new iPhone at the kind of gala event that became Jobs’ trademark.&nbsp;

Perhaps coincidentally, the new device got lukewarm reviews, with many saying it wasn’t a big enough improvement over the existing version of one of the most successful consumer products in history.

Apple still faces challenges in the absence of the man who was its chief product designer, marketing guru and salesman nonpareil.&nbsp;

Phones running Google’s Android software are gaining share in the smartphone market, and there are questions over what the next big thing is in Apple’s product line.

While the company's greatest challenge is to reposition the company’s fabled marketing apparatus to safeguard the brand, experts believe Cook is likely sticking to established battle plans at this critical juncture.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-metaverse-to-nft-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-about-tech-buzzwords-of-2021-439134" hreflang="en">From metaverse to NFT: Here is all you need to know about tech buzzwords of 2021</a>

Blast from the past

Finnish telecoms network equipment maker Nokia failed to keep pace with changing customer needs and adaptation to market dynamics.

In the popular narrative of Nokia’s eclipse, it is Apple’s iPhone that steals the light, but the company also lost its shine in the basic phone market, which had been a reliable generator of profits and carried the promise of years of strong growth in emerging markets.

The company abandoned its own Symbian smartphone operating system in 2011 in favor of the largely untried Windows Phone alternative after Stephen Elop joined as chief executive from Windows maker Microsoft.&nbsp;

Nokia’s decline was partly down to a lack of entrepreneurial leadership and the failure to face up to bad news, according to the book by Risto Siilasmaa, Nokia’s chairman, who joined the company’s board in 2008.

Microsoft Corp bought Nokia’s phone business and license its patents for 5.44 billion euros ($7.2 billion) in 2013 and sold them for $350 million to Foxconn three years later.

Traded magic for profit?

The fall of Nokia and the rise of Apple as a smartphone giant are deeply intertwined.

Apple, which throughout the global recession near-unfailingly smashed Wall Street forecasts, is beginning to lose its aura of invincibility.

Apple took a $6 billion hit to its sales during the fiscal fourth quarter due to persistent global supply chain problems. The company has missed Wall Street targets twice in under a year.&nbsp;

CEO Tim Cook may now have to worry more about economic and product launch cycles, and the whims of fickle consumers.

The blockbuster smartphone that adds a special gloss to the Apple brand is a highly cyclical product. Buyers emerge in droves every time a new version is launched, lining up at stores overnight, and snarling supply for the device.

Its popularity has heightened speculation around the device every year as over 100 million yearly customers decide when to switch to a new model, whether to buy now or hold out for a better but same-priced phone.

The now-more predictable line-up also means consumers are more attuned to product life cycles and launch timelines, something that Apple goes to great lengths to keep secret.

Apple dodged a bullet in 2021 when a US federal court said Fortnite maker Epic Games failed to show the iPhone giant held an illegal monopoly, but the firm was still ordered to loosen control over its App Store that serves as a sole gateway onto its coveted mobile devices and takes commissions of purchases.

It is unlikely to meet production goals for its new iPhone before the holidays because of a global electronic chip shortage, according to a recent report.&nbsp;

Apple is facing criticism and lawsuits over the tight control of its "ecosystem" from iPhone hardware to the apps allowed on handsets.

It has become reliant on customer upgrades in the face of a saturated market more than a decade ago.&nbsp;

Customers have delayed replacing their phones and are instead fixing their old gadgets amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The company has started a 'Self Service Repair' programme in the United States offering to sell tools and parts to people who want to work on damaged iPhone 12 or 13 model handsets.

It will initially focus on parts more prone to damage, such as screens, batteries, and cameras.

The programme will be rolled out in other countries during the course of next year, and be expanded to include some Mac computers, said the Silicon Valley-based company.

 
&nbsp;

American multinational company Apple, founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, is the world's second most valuable company after Microsoft. But the tech giant is making the same mistakes committed by Finnish telecommunications and information technology company Nokia.

American multinational company Apple, founded by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne, is the world's second most valuable company after Microsoft. But the tech giant is making the same mistakes committed by Finnish telecommunications and information technology company Nokia. Slowing sales, controversies, and a lack of innovation might push Apple towards a decline. From garage start-up to megalith worth $2 trillion The company has impacted hundreds of millions of lives since its 1976 founding in a garage. Apple raced to success in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but foundered after the departure of Jobs and Wozniak. The company was reinvigorated in the late 1990s, and Jobs was brought back into the fold as the chief executive. With his passion for minimalist design and marketing genius, Jobs changed the course of personal computing during two stints at Apple and then brought a revolution to the mobile market. Also see | Apple packs iPad Pros with faster chips, slims iMacs and jumps into tracking tags He oversaw the launch of the iPod, and later the world-changing iPhone, that put the internet in people's pockets. It was dubbed the “Jesus phone” for its quasi-religious following. However, after his death in 2011 due to a rare form of pancreatic cancer, it lost a visionary leader. Jobs’ death came just one day after Cook presented a new iPhone at the kind of gala event that became Jobs’ trademark. Perhaps coincidentally, the new device got lukewarm reviews, with many saying it wasn’t a big enough improvement over the existing version of one of the most successful consumer products in history. Apple still faces challenges in the absence of the man who was its chief product designer, marketing guru and salesman nonpareil. Phones running Google’s Android software are gaining share in the smartphone market, and there are questions over what the next big thing is in Apple’s product line. While the company's greatest challenge is to reposition the company’s fabled marketing apparatus to safeguard the brand, experts believe Cook is likely sticking to established battle plans at this critical juncture. Also see | From metaverse to NFT: Here is all you need to know about tech buzzwords of 2021 Blast from the past Finnish telecoms network equipment maker Nokia failed to keep pace with changing customer needs and adaptation to market dynamics. In the popular narrative of Nokia’s eclipse, it is Apple’s iPhone that steals the light, but the company also lost its shine in the basic phone market, which had been a reliable generator of profits and carried the promise of years of strong growth in emerging markets. The company abandoned its own Symbian smartphone operating system in 2011 in favor of the largely untried Windows Phone alternative after Stephen Elop joined as chief executive from Windows maker Microsoft. Nokia’s decline was partly down to a lack of entrepreneurial leadership and the failure to face up to bad news, according to the book by Risto Siilasmaa, Nokia’s chairman, who joined the company’s board in 2008. Microsoft Corp bought Nokia’s phone business and license its patents for 5.44 billion euros ($7.2 billion) in 2013 and sold them for $350 million to Foxconn three years later. Traded magic for profit? The fall of Nokia and the rise of Apple as a smartphone giant are deeply intertwined. Apple, which throughout the global recession near-unfailingly smashed Wall Street forecasts, is beginning to lose its aura of invincibility. Apple took a $6 billion hit to its sales during the fiscal fourth quarter due to persistent global supply chain problems. The company has missed Wall Street targets twice in under a year. CEO Tim Cook may now have to worry more about economic and product launch cycles, and the whims of fickle consumers. The blockbuster smartphone that adds a special gloss to the Apple brand is a highly cyclical product. Buyers emerge in droves every time a new version is launched, lining up at stores overnight, and snarling supply for the device. Its popularity has heightened speculation around the device every year as over 100 million yearly customers decide when to switch to a new model, whether to buy now or hold out for a better but same-priced phone. The now-more predictable line-up also means consumers are more attuned to product life cycles and launch timelines, something that Apple goes to great lengths to keep secret. Apple dodged a bullet in 2021 when a US federal court said Fortnite maker Epic Games failed to show the iPhone giant held an illegal monopoly, but the firm was still ordered to loosen control over its App Store that serves as a sole gateway onto its coveted mobile devices and takes commissions of purchases. It is unlikely to meet production goals for its new iPhone before the holidays because of a global electronic chip shortage, according to a recent report. Apple is facing criticism and lawsuits over the tight control of its "ecosystem" from iPhone hardware to the apps allowed on handsets. It has become reliant on customer upgrades in the face of a saturated market more than a decade ago. Customers have delayed replacing their phones and are instead fixing their old gadgets amid the coronavirus pandemic. The company has started a 'Self Service Repair' programme in the United States offering to sell tools and parts to people who want to work on damaged iPhone 12 or 13 model handsets. It will initially focus on parts more prone to damage, such as screens, batteries, and cameras. The programme will be rolled out in other countries during the course of next year, and be expanded to include some Mac computers, said the Silicon Valley-based company.

Is Apple making the same mistakes made by Nokia?

Apple products, especially iPhones, are known to enjoy fanfare across the globe. People wait in serpentine queues for long hours just to get their hands on the new gadgets, no matter how expensive they are.

Prices of Apple electronics, including iPhones, vary around the world. Import duty, among other taxes, levied by the countries make these products costlier.

But despite the steep price charged by the US-based tech behemoth, the demand for Apple products continue to soar.

Among the countries where Apple products cost more include Turkey.

According to web analytics platform Statcounter, as of November 2021, Apple’s market share in Turkey was around 16.67 per cent. In the previous year of the same month, the market share hovered around 15.58 per cent

Even though Samsung still rules the roost, Apple has been steadily gaining its market share in the transcontinental country.

But on November 24, Apple stopped the online sale of its products, ranging from iPhones to Macs, in Turkey.

Though the Turkish consumers were able to browse through Apple online store, they were unable to add products to their cart and instead were greeted with this message: “Not currently available”.

The reason for this is the monetary policy adopted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which has resulted in the country’s currency, the lira, to crash as much as 45&nbsp;per cent this year.

Volatile currency

Turkey’s currency has been plunging to all-time lows against the US dollar and the euro in recent months.

Lira has lost more than 45 per cent of its value against the dollar this year. In November alone, the Turkish currency lost nearly 30 per cent of its value against the dollar.

In 2019, 1 US dollar was equal to 5.53 Turkish lira. But in November 2021, the lira fell to 13.10 against 1 US dollar.

The sharp devaluation of the Turkish lira and the resultant high inflation forced Apple to halt sales from its Turkish website temporarily.&nbsp;

As the currency had been falling over 40 per cent, the tech company had to adjust the prices of its products in order to extract the value of the original amount.

And on November 26, the US tech giant resumed its sales in Turkey and hiked the prices of its products between 25 per cent to 40 per cent.

The currency’s freefall is triggering a cascade of problems for the nation’s economy even as Erdogan presses ahead with a widely criticized effort to cut interest rates despite surging consumer prices.

The crash in the currency is the result of the country’s central bank cutting borrowing costs by 4 percentage points since September, in line with Erdogan’s wishes, even though inflation accelerated to around 20 per cent.

Erdogan, who has been at the helm of affairs for 19 years, has long argued that high interest rates cause inflation, contrary to general principles of economics.

Mainstream economics holds that lower interest rates lead to higher inflation because when money is cheaper to borrow, it loses its value relative to other currencies, and encourages consumers to spend more and businesses to produce more.

Rising cost of living

With inflation running at more than 21%, according to official figures, the prices of basic goods have soared and many people in the country of more than 83 million are struggling to make ends meet.

But the Turkish president has been pushing for low borrowing costs to stimulate the economy, boost growth and exports, and create jobs.

He has vowed to break the cycle of an economy dependent on short-term “hot money” lured by high interest rates.

A devout Muslim, whose religion regards usury and charging interest as a sin, Erdogan describes interest rates as “the mother and father of all evil.”

Recently, he had fired three central bank governors who resisted lowering rates.

The Turkish leader has blamed the currency crash on foreign forces bent on destroying Turkey’s economy and says his government is waging “an economic war of independence.”

Apple products, especially iPhones, are known to enjoy fanfare across the globe. People wait in serpentine queues for long hours just to get their hands on the new gadgets, no matter how expensive they are.

Apple products, especially iPhones, are known to enjoy fanfare across the globe. People wait in serpentine queues for long hours just to get their hands on the new gadgets, no matter how expensive they are. Prices of Apple electronics, including iPhones, vary around the world. Import duty, among other taxes, levied by the countries make these products costlier. But despite the steep price charged by the US-based tech behemoth, the demand for Apple products continue to soar. Among the countries where Apple products cost more include Turkey. According to web analytics platform Statcounter, as of November 2021, Apple’s market share in Turkey was around 16.67 per cent. In the previous year of the same month, the market share hovered around 15.58 per cent Even though Samsung still rules the roost, Apple has been steadily gaining its market share in the transcontinental country. But on November 24, Apple stopped the online sale of its products, ranging from iPhones to Macs, in Turkey. Though the Turkish consumers were able to browse through Apple online store, they were unable to add products to their cart and instead were greeted with this message: “Not currently available”. The reason for this is the monetary policy adopted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which has resulted in the country’s currency, the lira, to crash as much as 45 per cent this year. Volatile currency Turkey’s currency has been plunging to all-time lows against the US dollar and the euro in recent months. Lira has lost more than 45 per cent of its value against the dollar this year. In November alone, the Turkish currency lost nearly 30 per cent of its value against the dollar. In 2019, 1 US dollar was equal to 5.53 Turkish lira. But in November 2021, the lira fell to 13.10 against 1 US dollar. The sharp devaluation of the Turkish lira and the resultant high inflation forced Apple to halt sales from its Turkish website temporarily. As the currency had been falling over 40 per cent, the tech company had to adjust the prices of its products in order to extract the value of the original amount. And on November 26, the US tech giant resumed its sales in Turkey and hiked the prices of its products between 25 per cent to 40 per cent. The currency’s freefall is triggering a cascade of problems for the nation’s economy even as Erdogan presses ahead with a widely criticized effort to cut interest rates despite surging consumer prices. The crash in the currency is the result of the country’s central bank cutting borrowing costs by 4 percentage points since September, in line with Erdogan’s wishes, even though inflation accelerated to around 20 per cent. Erdogan, who has been at the helm of affairs for 19 years, has long argued that high interest rates cause inflation, contrary to general principles of economics. Mainstream economics holds that lower interest rates lead to higher inflation because when money is cheaper to borrow, it loses its value relative to other currencies, and encourages consumers to spend more and businesses to produce more. Rising cost of living With inflation running at more than 21%, according to official figures, the prices of basic goods have soared and many people in the country of more than 83 million are struggling to make ends meet. But the Turkish president has been pushing for low borrowing costs to stimulate the economy, boost growth and exports, and create jobs. He has vowed to break the cycle of an economy dependent on short-term “hot money” lured by high interest rates. A devout Muslim, whose religion regards usury and charging interest as a sin, Erdogan describes interest rates as “the mother and father of all evil.” Recently, he had fired three central bank governors who resisted lowering rates. The Turkish leader has blamed the currency crash on foreign forces bent on destroying Turkey’s economy and says his government is waging “an economic war of independence.”

Apple briefly stopped selling its products in Turkey, but why?

Apple Inc has told its component suppliers that demand for the iPhone 13 lineup has slowed, people familiar with the matter said, signalling that some consumers have decided against trying to get the hard-to-find item.

Apple: Demand for iPhone 13 weakens

Apple has said that it will alert the users whenever their iPhones and other Apple products are targeted by “state-sponsored” spyware attacks.&nbsp;

When Apple detects that a user has been targeted by state-sponsored hacking, it will send an iMessage and an email to the addresses on file, and a ‘Threat Notification’ will be displayed when the user signs into Apple ID, Apple said.

“State-sponsored attackers are very well-funded and sophisticated, and their attacks evolve over time. Detecting such attacks relies on threat intelligence signals that are often imperfect and incomplete,” Apple said in a statement.

“It’s possible that some Apple threat notifications may be false alarms, or that some attacks are not detected. We are unable to provide information about what causes us to issue threat notifications, as that may help state-sponsored attackers adapt their behavior to evade detection in the future,” it added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pegasus-snooping-row-apple-files-lawsuit-against-israels-nso-431515">Pegasus snooping row: Apple files lawsuit against Israel's NSO</a>

Apple has listed out some best practices for all users to better protect themselves from any malware or cyberattacks:

<ul>
	<li>Update devices to the latest software, as that includes the latest security fixes</li>
	<li>Protect devices with a passcode</li>
	<li>Use two-factor authentication and a strong password for Apple ID</li>
	<li>Install apps from the App Store</li>
	<li>Use strong and unique passwords online</li>
	<li>Don’t click on links or attachments from unknown senders</li>
</ul>

The latest move by the Cupertino-based tech behemoth comes after it filed a lawsuit against the Israel-based NSO Group, following revelations that it licensed its Pegasus software to governments and other nation-state clients to snoop on people.

Mounting more trouble for the NSO group, the United States has blacklisted the firm, restricting exports from American groups over claims that the Israeli firm “enabled foreign governments to conduct transnational repression.”

The NSO has consistently denied any wrongdoing and insisted its software is intended only for use by authorities in combating terrorism and other crimes.

"Pedophiles and terrorists can freely operate in technological safe-havens, and we provide governments the lawful tools to fight it. NSO group will continue to advocate for the truth," the firm said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Apple has said that it will alert the users whenever their iPhones and other Apple products are targeted by “state-sponsored” spyware attacks. When Apple detects that a user has been targeted by state-sponsored hacking, it will send an iMessage and an email to the addresses on file, and a ‘Threat Notification’ will be displayed when the user signs into Apple ID, Apple said.

Apple has said that it will alert the users whenever their iPhones and other Apple products are targeted by “state-sponsored” spyware attacks. When Apple detects that a user has been targeted by state-sponsored hacking, it will send an iMessage and an email to the addresses on file, and a ‘Threat Notification’ will be displayed when the user signs into Apple ID, Apple said. “State-sponsored attackers are very well-funded and sophisticated, and their attacks evolve over time. Detecting such attacks relies on threat intelligence signals that are often imperfect and incomplete,” Apple said in a statement. “It’s possible that some Apple threat notifications may be false alarms, or that some attacks are not detected. We are unable to provide information about what causes us to issue threat notifications, as that may help state-sponsored attackers adapt their behavior to evade detection in the future,” it added. Also read | Pegasus snooping row: Apple files lawsuit against Israel's NSO Apple has listed out some best practices for all users to better protect themselves from any malware or cyberattacks: Update devices to the latest software, as that includes the latest security fixes Protect devices with a passcode Use two-factor authentication and a strong password for Apple ID Install apps from the App Store Use strong and unique passwords online Don’t click on links or attachments from unknown senders The latest move by the Cupertino-based tech behemoth comes after it filed a lawsuit against the Israel-based NSO Group, following revelations that it licensed its Pegasus software to governments and other nation-state clients to snoop on people. Mounting more trouble for the NSO group, the United States has blacklisted the firm, restricting exports from American groups over claims that the Israeli firm “enabled foreign governments to conduct transnational repression.” The NSO has consistently denied any wrongdoing and insisted its software is intended only for use by authorities in combating terrorism and other crimes. "Pedophiles and terrorists can freely operate in technological safe-havens, and we provide governments the lawful tools to fight it. NSO group will continue to advocate for the truth," the firm said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pegasus snooping effect: Apple to alert users whenever iPhones get hacked by spyware

Apple Inc has allowed some of its users to self-repair their iPhones and Mac computers, finally ditching its controversial move which allowed only its approved technicians from handling its devices and software.

“Available first for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 lineups, and soon to be followed by Mac computers featuring M1 chips, Self Service Repair will be available early next year in the US and expand to additional countries throughout 2022. Customers join more than 5,000 Apple Authorised Service Providers (AASPs) and 2,800 Independent Repair Providers who have access to these parts, tools, and manuals,” the company said in a statement.

The change of heart from the tech company comes after pressure from the Biden administration and the activists from the ‘right to repair’ movement, who have been advocating for the right of consumers to be able to repair their own electronics and other products.

The decision would likely deal a major blow to other large tech companies, Microsoft, Amazon and Tesla, who have been lobbying against the right to repair.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-issues-emergency-security-updates-to-close-a-spyware-flaw-413956">Apple issues emergency security updates to close a spyware flaw</a>

Their argument is that opening up their intellectual property to third party repair services could lead to exploitation and impact the safety and security of their devices.

Apple said that the initial phase of the program will focus on the most commonly serviced modules, such as the iPhone display, battery, and camera.

“The ability for additional repairs will be available later next year,” it said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-google-and-a-deal-that-controls-the-internet-337885">Apple, Google and a deal that controls the internet</a>

Apple said it will launch an online store for self-service repairs early next year which will have more than 200 individual parts and tools for making the most common repairs on the iPhone 12 or iPhone 13.

Earlier in July, US President Joe Biden had signed an executive order calling on the Federal Trade Commission to curb restrictions imposed by manufacturers that limit consumers’ ability to repair their gadgets on their own terms.

The UK, too, had introduced right-to-repair rules, making it much easier for consumers to buy and repair daily-use gadgets such as TVs and washing machines.

(With inputs from agencies)

Apple Inc has allowed some of its users to self-repair their iPhones and Mac computers, finally ditching its controversial move which allowed only its approved technicians from handling its devices and software.

Apple Inc has allowed some of its users to self-repair their iPhones and Mac computers, finally ditching its controversial move which allowed only its approved technicians from handling its devices and software. “Available first for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 lineups, and soon to be followed by Mac computers featuring M1 chips, Self Service Repair will be available early next year in the US and expand to additional countries throughout 2022. Customers join more than 5,000 Apple Authorised Service Providers (AASPs) and 2,800 Independent Repair Providers who have access to these parts, tools, and manuals,” the company said in a statement. The change of heart from the tech company comes after pressure from the Biden administration and the activists from the ‘right to repair’ movement, who have been advocating for the right of consumers to be able to repair their own electronics and other products. The decision would likely deal a major blow to other large tech companies, Microsoft, Amazon and Tesla, who have been lobbying against the right to repair. Also read | Apple issues emergency security updates to close a spyware flaw Their argument is that opening up their intellectual property to third party repair services could lead to exploitation and impact the safety and security of their devices. Apple said that the initial phase of the program will focus on the most commonly serviced modules, such as the iPhone display, battery, and camera. “The ability for additional repairs will be available later next year,” it said in a statement. Also read | Apple, Google and a deal that controls the internet Apple said it will launch an online store for self-service repairs early next year which will have more than 200 individual parts and tools for making the most common repairs on the iPhone 12 or iPhone 13. Earlier in July, US President Joe Biden had signed an executive order calling on the Federal Trade Commission to curb restrictions imposed by manufacturers that limit consumers’ ability to repair their gadgets on their own terms. The UK, too, had introduced right-to-repair rules, making it much easier for consumers to buy and repair daily-use gadgets such as TVs and washing machines. (With inputs from agencies)

Apple finally gives in to ‘right to repair’ movement, allows users to self-repair iPhones, Macs

Any gadget user would think Apple's phones and laptops would be hurt the hardest by worldwide supply shortages, but that isn't the case.

The $19 Polishing Cloth is Apple's most backordered new product, according to The New York Times.

You'll have to wait 10 to 12 weeks to acquire your Apple-branded polishing experience if you get the microfiber cloth from the corporate shop as of this writing – in other words, you won't have your Apple-branded polishing experience until January 2022 at the earliest. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-unveils-a-19-polishing-cloth-to-clean-your-macbook-iphone-422529">Also read | Apple unveils a $19 ‘polishing cloth’ to clean your MacBook, iPhone</a> 
&nbsp;

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<h5>You can buy a new MacBook Pro and wait two months for the screen to be (officially) cleaned of smudges.</h5>
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The 6.3-by-6.3-inch cloth was released in October, which is when Apple usually unveils new goods.

But, unlike some of Apple's other recent launches, such as the long-awaited M1 MacBook Pro and a redesigned iPad Mini, the Polishing Cloth arrived quietly and without fanfare.

Despite the fact that the cloth was not technically a new product, it rapidly became a best-seller.

The fabric was previously only available for Apple's XDR Pro Displays, but it's now available for all Apple devices.&nbsp;

If you're cleaning a standard screen, it's no secret that you can find far, much less expensive options.

The deficit, on the other hand, demonstrates both the official product's cachet and the breadth of supply limitations influencing technology, often in surprising ways.

If you can't even receive a polishing cloth in a timely manner, you know the sector is suffering from widespread supply problems.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Any gadget user would think Apple's phones and laptops would be hurt the hardest by worldwide supply shortages, but that isn't the case. The $19 Polishing Cloth is Apple's most backordered new product, according to The New York Times.

Any gadget user would think Apple's phones and laptops would be hurt the hardest by worldwide supply shortages, but that isn't the case. The $19 Polishing Cloth is Apple's most backordered new product, according to The New York Times. You'll have to wait 10 to 12 weeks to acquire your Apple-branded polishing experience if you get the microfiber cloth from the corporate shop as of this writing – in other words, you won't have your Apple-branded polishing experience until January 2022 at the earliest. Also read | Apple unveils a $19 ‘polishing cloth’ to clean your MacBook, iPhone You can buy a new MacBook Pro and wait two months for the screen to be (officially) cleaned of smudges. × The 6.3-by-6.3-inch cloth was released in October, which is when Apple usually unveils new goods. But, unlike some of Apple's other recent launches, such as the long-awaited M1 MacBook Pro and a redesigned iPad Mini, the Polishing Cloth arrived quietly and without fanfare. Despite the fact that the cloth was not technically a new product, it rapidly became a best-seller. The fabric was previously only available for Apple's XDR Pro Displays, but it's now available for all Apple devices. If you're cleaning a standard screen, it's no secret that you can find far, much less expensive options. The deficit, on the other hand, demonstrates both the official product's cachet and the breadth of supply limitations influencing technology, often in surprising ways. If you can't even receive a polishing cloth in a timely manner, you know the sector is suffering from widespread supply problems. (With inputs from agencies)

Worst shipping delay: $19 polishing cloth is Apple's most back-ordered product

An Apple employee who was fired&nbsp; last month after leading fellow workers in publicly sharing instances of what they called harassment and discrimination has filed a charge with the US&nbsp;National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

In documents related to the charge that were viewed by Reuters, former Apple program manager Janneke Parrish alleged that Apple fired her to stymie her efforts to organise fellow workers.

"Apple Inc. terminated Parrish's employment based upon false and pretextual reasons and in fact terminated her employment in (an) attempt to nip-in-the-bud the successful organising campaign that Parrish and her coworkers established to address and redress employees'&nbsp;workplace concerns," Parrish wrote in a cover letter accompanying her charge with the labor board.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apples-most-back-ordered-new-product-is-not-what-you-expect-425165">Apple's most back-ordered new product is not what you expect</a>

In an interview last month, Parrish said the iPhone maker informed her that she had been terminated for deleting material on company equipment while she was under investigation over the leaking of a company town hall to media. She told Reuters she denies leaking.

Apple said in response to the interview comments at the time that it did not discuss specific employee matters. It has said that it is "deeply committed to creating and maintaining a positive and inclusive workplace" and that it takes "all concerns" from employees seriously.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-officials-request-apple-pulls-down-quran-app-in-china-421257" hreflang="en">After officials’ request, Apple pulls down Quran app in China</a>

Apple has recently experienced other examples of employee unrest. In September, two Apple employees told Reuters they had also filed charges Apple has said that it is "deeply committed to creating and maintaining a positive and inclusive workplace" and that it takes "all concerns" from employees seriously against the company with the NLRB.

The workers accused Apple of retaliation and halting discussion of pay among employees, among other allegations.

The NLRB investigates all charges it receives and prosecutes employers if it finds the cases have merit. 
&nbsp;

An Apple employee who was fired last month after leading fellow workers in publicly sharing instances of what they called harassment and discrimination has filed a charge with the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).

An Apple employee who was fired last month after leading fellow workers in publicly sharing instances of what they called harassment and discrimination has filed a charge with the US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). In documents related to the charge that were viewed by Reuters, former Apple program manager Janneke Parrish alleged that Apple fired her to stymie her efforts to organise fellow workers. "Apple Inc. terminated Parrish's employment based upon false and pretextual reasons and in fact terminated her employment in (an) attempt to nip-in-the-bud the successful organising campaign that Parrish and her coworkers established to address and redress employees' workplace concerns," Parrish wrote in a cover letter accompanying her charge with the labor board. Also Read | Apple's most back-ordered new product is not what you expect In an interview last month, Parrish said the iPhone maker informed her that she had been terminated for deleting material on company equipment while she was under investigation over the leaking of a company town hall to media. She told Reuters she denies leaking. Apple said in response to the interview comments at the time that it did not discuss specific employee matters. It has said that it is "deeply committed to creating and maintaining a positive and inclusive workplace" and that it takes "all concerns" from employees seriously. Also read | After officials’ request, Apple pulls down Quran app in China Apple has recently experienced other examples of employee unrest. In September, two Apple employees told Reuters they had also filed charges Apple has said that it is "deeply committed to creating and maintaining a positive and inclusive workplace" and that it takes "all concerns" from employees seriously against the company with the NLRB. The workers accused Apple of retaliation and halting discussion of pay among employees, among other allegations. The NLRB investigates all charges it receives and prosecutes employers if it finds the cases have merit.

Fired Apple employee files complaint with US labour agency

Apple this month unveiled an array of new gadgets: more powerful MacBook laptop computers, AirPod wireless headphones with longer battery life and HomePod Mini speakers in three more colors.

But a different and unheralded Apple release is garnering so much interest that it has become the company’s most back-ordered new product: a $19, 6.3-by-6.3-inch cloth to wipe smudges and fingerprints off screens.

The cloth, imprinted with the Apple logo in the corner, is made with “soft, nonabrasive material” to clean the screens of iPhones, iPads and MacBooks “safely and effectively,” according to the product page. The listing adds that the Polishing Cloth — capital P, capital C — is “compatible” with 88 different Apple products. For most U.S. shoppers, shipment is delayed until Jan. 11, at the earliest.

Charging $19 for a piece of cloth about the size of two stacked dollar bills is bold even by Apple’s standards, a company whose legions of loyal customers are conditioned to stomach steep prices. An Apple-branded set of four wheels to “improve mobility” for the Mac Pro, the company’s most expensive desktop computer, is priced at $699, for instance.

But the Polishing Cloth stands out because it is far more expensive than widely available alternatives. MagicFiber, a popular brand of microfiber cloth that uses ultrafine fibers to clean glass without scratching the surface, offers a pack of six for $9 on Amazon.

“You have to give them credit for the chutzpah to charge $19,” Walter Gonzalez, president and founder of Goja, the parent company of MagicFiber, said of Apple.

Even so, the price has not stopped Apple fans from rushing to be early adopters.

Albert Lee, 47, a director at a consulting firm in New York, said he bought the cloth at an Apple Store on Tuesday. He was picking up a new MacBook Pro, a high-end laptop computer, when the Polishing Cloth caught his eye. He bought four and then posted a picture of his bounty on Twitter.

“It’s just a point of sheer excess,” Lee acknowledged, calling the splurge an impulse buy of “the most elite cloth.” He added: “I just spent $4,000 on a laptop. What’s another $19?”

On Twitter, the cloth has been fodder for jokes and even a parody account since Apple quietly put it on sale on Oct. 18. Later that week, when Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, posted a tweet promoting a new retail store in Turkey, Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, needled him by replying, “Come see the Apple Cloth” with a trademark logo.

(Musk’s company is also not shy about testing the strength of its brand and the fealty of its customers. Tesla’s website offers a company-branded “handblown” decanter for $150 and a $60 umbrella with an “ergonomically designed handle.”)

Technically, the cloth is not a new product. Apple had previously provided it free for customers who bought one of its high-end monitors, Pro Display XDR. The $5,999 display has a special type of glass that reduces glare, but may scratch if wiped with a conventional cloth. Apple said it designed its own cloth for that special glass and decided to sell the product separately when some customers asked to buy extras.

An Apple official said in an interview, based on the condition that The New York Times not quote or identify her, that the company was not surprised by the demand for the Polishing Cloth. The official said the cloth was very effective and had been designed to be special, including a custom light gray color. Apple said the cloth was made of a nonwoven microfiber but declined to elaborate.

Federico Viticci, editor-in-chief of MacStories, a website dedicated to Apple news and apps, said he initially thought the Polishing Cloth was a joke.

“I’ve been cleaning my iPhone screen and my iPad screen with the cloth that comes with my eyeglasses or my T-shirt, or a paper towel like normal people,” he said.

But Viticci, who is based in Italy, said he ended up buying the Polishing Cloth because “I kind of realized the meme potential here.” His tweets about the product have since gotten hundreds or thousands of likes and retweets, with subscribers to his site asking for exclusive cloth photos.

Patrick Tomasso, 32, a Toronto-based YouTube creator of tech and photography-related videos, said he also thought that Apple charging 25 Canadian dollars for the cloth was “ridiculous” since many tech products include a free microfiber cloth.

But when he noticed that it was not shipping until next year, he said he got a “bit of FOMO” — fear of missing out — and quickly snapped up two sheets from a nearby Apple store. As a spoof, Tomasso then made an “unboxing video” of himself opening the “most revolutionary Apple product.”

In the video, he noticed that the Polishing Cloth’s color looked different in person — more gray, less white — and that there was a big crease in the middle that might need to be ironed.

His assessment? It’s a nice cloth worth maybe $5.

“I probably would not buy it again but I like the fact that I own one,” Tomasso said. Then he paused and added, “But I hate that I like that I own one.”

Apple this month unveiled an array of new gadgets: more powerful MacBook laptop computers, AirPod wireless headphones with longer battery life and HomePod Mini speakers in three more colors.

Apple this month unveiled an array of new gadgets: more powerful MacBook laptop computers, AirPod wireless headphones with longer battery life and HomePod Mini speakers in three more colors. But a different and unheralded Apple release is garnering so much interest that it has become the company’s most back-ordered new product: a $19, 6.3-by-6.3-inch cloth to wipe smudges and fingerprints off screens. The cloth, imprinted with the Apple logo in the corner, is made with “soft, nonabrasive material” to clean the screens of iPhones, iPads and MacBooks “safely and effectively,” according to the product page. The listing adds that the Polishing Cloth — capital P, capital C — is “compatible” with 88 different Apple products. For most U.S. shoppers, shipment is delayed until Jan. 11, at the earliest. Charging $19 for a piece of cloth about the size of two stacked dollar bills is bold even by Apple’s standards, a company whose legions of loyal customers are conditioned to stomach steep prices. An Apple-branded set of four wheels to “improve mobility” for the Mac Pro, the company’s most expensive desktop computer, is priced at $699, for instance. But the Polishing Cloth stands out because it is far more expensive than widely available alternatives. MagicFiber, a popular brand of microfiber cloth that uses ultrafine fibers to clean glass without scratching the surface, offers a pack of six for $9 on Amazon. “You have to give them credit for the chutzpah to charge $19,” Walter Gonzalez, president and founder of Goja, the parent company of MagicFiber, said of Apple. Even so, the price has not stopped Apple fans from rushing to be early adopters. Albert Lee, 47, a director at a consulting firm in New York, said he bought the cloth at an Apple Store on Tuesday. He was picking up a new MacBook Pro, a high-end laptop computer, when the Polishing Cloth caught his eye. He bought four and then posted a picture of his bounty on Twitter. “It’s just a point of sheer excess,” Lee acknowledged, calling the splurge an impulse buy of “the most elite cloth.” He added: “I just spent $4,000 on a laptop. What’s another $19?” On Twitter, the cloth has been fodder for jokes and even a parody account since Apple quietly put it on sale on Oct. 18. Later that week, when Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, posted a tweet promoting a new retail store in Turkey, Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, needled him by replying, “Come see the Apple Cloth” with a trademark logo. (Musk’s company is also not shy about testing the strength of its brand and the fealty of its customers. Tesla’s website offers a company-branded “handblown” decanter for $150 and a $60 umbrella with an “ergonomically designed handle.”) Technically, the cloth is not a new product. Apple had previously provided it free for customers who bought one of its high-end monitors, Pro Display XDR. The $5,999 display has a special type of glass that reduces glare, but may scratch if wiped with a conventional cloth. Apple said it designed its own cloth for that special glass and decided to sell the product separately when some customers asked to buy extras. An Apple official said in an interview, based on the condition that The New York Times not quote or identify her, that the company was not surprised by the demand for the Polishing Cloth. The official said the cloth was very effective and had been designed to be special, including a custom light gray color. Apple said the cloth was made of a nonwoven microfiber but declined to elaborate. Federico Viticci, editor-in-chief of MacStories, a website dedicated to Apple news and apps, said he initially thought the Polishing Cloth was a joke. “I’ve been cleaning my iPhone screen and my iPad screen with the cloth that comes with my eyeglasses or my T-shirt, or a paper towel like normal people,” he said. But Viticci, who is based in Italy, said he ended up buying the Polishing Cloth because “I kind of realized the meme potential here.” His tweets about the product have since gotten hundreds or thousands of likes and retweets, with subscribers to his site asking for exclusive cloth photos. Patrick Tomasso, 32, a Toronto-based YouTube creator of tech and photography-related videos, said he also thought that Apple charging 25 Canadian dollars for the cloth was “ridiculous” since many tech products include a free microfiber cloth. But when he noticed that it was not shipping until next year, he said he got a “bit of FOMO” — fear of missing out — and quickly snapped up two sheets from a nearby Apple store. As a spoof, Tomasso then made an “unboxing video” of himself opening the “most revolutionary Apple product.” In the video, he noticed that the Polishing Cloth’s color looked different in person — more gray, less white — and that there was a big crease in the middle that might need to be ironed. His assessment? It’s a nice cloth worth maybe $5. “I probably would not buy it again but I like the fact that I own one,” Tomasso said. Then he paused and added, “But I hate that I like that I own one.”

Apple's most back-ordered new product is not what you expect

Along with its new MacBook Pro and AirPods 3, Apple just released a product that has sparked internet buzz.

The&nbsp;tech behemoth has released an unique cleaning cloth for its gadgets, which costs $19.

The cloth was created specifically to clean any Apple display, "even nano-texture glass," in a safe and effective manner.

The high price for something as basic as a cleaning cloth, on the other hand, elicited a flurry of comments on Twitter.&nbsp;

While many people thought that selling a cleaning cloth for that price was absurd, others wasted no time in creating amusing memes around the product.

Not only that, but users' laughter was heightened when they discovered a list of compatible gadgets for Apple's new offering.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, according to Bloomberg, Apple's cleaning cloth has already surpassed the status of the highest-margin tangible product.

Furthermore, the firm claims that the polishing cloth is currently in low supply and will take three to four weeks to ship worldwide.&nbsp;

Apple also provided a compatibility list, demonstrating that the polishing cloth is compatible with nearly all Apple devices.

Apple claims that it is compatible with iPhone 6 and later, MacBooks and iMacs dating back to 2015, all iPads, Apple Watches, and iPod touches, and, as previously noted, the Pro Display XDR.

It's amusing that earlier iPhone models aren't included on this list, implying that they're incompatible... with a cleaning cloth.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Along with its new MacBook Pro and AirPods 3, Apple just released a product that has sparked internet buzz. The tech behemoth has released an unique cleaning cloth for its gadgets, which costs $19.

Along with its new MacBook Pro and AirPods 3, Apple just released a product that has sparked internet buzz. The tech behemoth has released an unique cleaning cloth for its gadgets, which costs $19. The cloth was created specifically to clean any Apple display, "even nano-texture glass," in a safe and effective manner. The high price for something as basic as a cleaning cloth, on the other hand, elicited a flurry of comments on Twitter. While many people thought that selling a cleaning cloth for that price was absurd, others wasted no time in creating amusing memes around the product. Not only that, but users' laughter was heightened when they discovered a list of compatible gadgets for Apple's new offering. Meanwhile, according to Bloomberg, Apple's cleaning cloth has already surpassed the status of the highest-margin tangible product. Furthermore, the firm claims that the polishing cloth is currently in low supply and will take three to four weeks to ship worldwide. Apple also provided a compatibility list, demonstrating that the polishing cloth is compatible with nearly all Apple devices. Apple claims that it is compatible with iPhone 6 and later, MacBooks and iMacs dating back to 2015, all iPads, Apple Watches, and iPod touches, and, as previously noted, the Pro Display XDR. It's amusing that earlier iPhone models aren't included on this list, implying that they're incompatible... with a cleaning cloth. (With inputs from agencies)

Apple unveils a $19 ‘polishing cloth’ to clean your MacBook, iPhone

Let’s talk about buying an iPhone for $1,000. Tim Cook, Apple’s chief executive, once compared this eye-popping price tag to buying a cup of coffee a day over a year. No big deal, right?

But financial advisers see this differently. By some estimates, an investment of $1,000 in a retirement account today would balloon to about $17,000 in 30 years.

In other words, $700 to $1,000 — the price range of modern smartphones — is a big purchase. Fewer than half of American adults have enough savings set aside to cover three months of emergency expenses, according to the Pew Research Center. Yet 1 in 5 people surveyed by financial website WalletHub thought a new phone was worth going into debt for.

Tech companies fairly argue that our smartphones are our most powerful tools for work and play and thus worth every penny. But they also play numbers games to downplay the costs of a new phone. Samsung, for example, has said the price of its new Galaxy phone is $200 — but that’s only if you trade in a year-old phone for credit toward the new one. The true price is $800.

So it’s worth looking at phone upgrades in a different light to weigh their financial impact. That can help us make well-considered decisions so that the move isn’t automatic.

The irony of Cook’s coffee analogy isn’t lost on Suze Orman, the financial adviser who once famously equated people’s coffee habits to “peeing $1 million down the drain.” The seemingly small amount of money that people mindlessly spend on java — and now phone upgrades — could be a path to poverty, she said.

“Do you need a new one every single year?” asked Orman, who hosts the “Women and Money” podcast. “Absolutely not. It’s just a ridiculous waste of money.”

Apple and Samsung didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

So what’s the true cost of a phone upgrade? Let’s look at the math.

Flipsy, a company that buys and sells used phones, published an analysis this year arguing that it’s smart to buy a new iPhone every year. Here was its breakdown:

— The iPhone 12 cost $799 last year. It’s now worth $460 if you trade it in to defray the cost of a new phone. The newest iPhones, the iPhone 13, also cost $799. So if you traded in your iPhone 12, the iPhone 13 would cost $339. At this rate, if you bought an iPhone every year for four years, including the original $799, the net total would be $1,816.

— If you waited three years for the iPhone 15, your iPhone 12’s trade-in value would diminish to about $200. Trade it in and the cost of the iPhone 13 would be $599. Add in the original $799 and your net cost over four years would be $1,398.

In summary, upgrading annually over three years costs $418 more, or roughly $12 a month, compared with upgrading every three years, Flipsy said.

Framed this way, it may sound like a bargain to get a new phone every year as opposed to every few years. But plugging these numbers into a financial calculator tells a different story.

If you put $12 a month into a retirement account, like a Roth IRA that has an average annual rate of return of 10%, that amount would turn into $25,161 over 30 years, according to Orman’s savings calculator.

Orman compared the trade-in dilemma to buying cars. Car manufacturers could argue that the diminishing trade-in value of your car should compel you to buy a new one regularly — but don’t fall for it.

“I love my car, and I don’t care that the value goes down,” she said. “Think of the 11 years I have saved money not having car payments, or trading it in and spending more money to get another car.”

So what about those cups of coffee? On average, we pay $3 a cup, so $1,000 could buy roughly 333 cups. But naturally, making your own coffee is much cheaper.

I plugged some numbers into a coffee calculator designed by Bone Fide Wealth, a financial planning service. A $16 bag of beans from Peet’s Coffee at Costco could brew about 41 cups of coffee for 39 cents each. So a $1,000 iPhone is worth about 2,500 cups of coffee. Not as compelling.

Doug Boneparth, the president of Bone Fide Wealth, made a counterpoint. For people who have plenty of cash and are aware of the effects of their spending, splurging on new phones could be inconsequential to their overall savings goals compared with bigger expenses like housing — and if phones make them happy, go for it. He said he sets aside cash every year to buy a new iPhone as a sort of hobby.

“Personal finance is quite personal,” Boneparth said.

But he acknowledged that even his hobby was beginning to have diminishing returns because new phones weren’t getting much better technologically every year. “The 13 is the first one where I’m like, ‘This one literally only has a better camera,’” he said of the latest iPhone.

Orman cautioned that for most people who didn’t have as much money in the bank, especially those in debt, the effects of a phone upgrade could snowball. A $1,000 phone charged to a credit card could turn into $3,000 with interest by the time it’s paid off, she said. More debt could also affect your credit score, making it harder to buy or rent a home.

“If you think a phone is worth going into debt for, then, oh my God, you’ve now just set yourself up for always being in debt,” she said. “The truth of the matter is there’s nothing other than a medical expense worth going into debt for.”

Let’s talk about buying an iPhone for $1,000. Tim Cook, Apple’s chief executive, once compared this eye-popping price tag to buying a cup of coffee a day over a year.

Let’s talk about buying an iPhone for $1,000. Tim Cook, Apple’s chief executive, once compared this eye-popping price tag to buying a cup of coffee a day over a year. No big deal, right? But financial advisers see this differently. By some estimates, an investment of $1,000 in a retirement account today would balloon to about $17,000 in 30 years. In other words, $700 to $1,000 — the price range of modern smartphones — is a big purchase. Fewer than half of American adults have enough savings set aside to cover three months of emergency expenses, according to the Pew Research Center. Yet 1 in 5 people surveyed by financial website WalletHub thought a new phone was worth going into debt for. Tech companies fairly argue that our smartphones are our most powerful tools for work and play and thus worth every penny. But they also play numbers games to downplay the costs of a new phone. Samsung, for example, has said the price of its new Galaxy phone is $200 — but that’s only if you trade in a year-old phone for credit toward the new one. The true price is $800. So it’s worth looking at phone upgrades in a different light to weigh their financial impact. That can help us make well-considered decisions so that the move isn’t automatic. The irony of Cook’s coffee analogy isn’t lost on Suze Orman, the financial adviser who once famously equated people’s coffee habits to “peeing $1 million down the drain.” The seemingly small amount of money that people mindlessly spend on java — and now phone upgrades — could be a path to poverty, she said. “Do you need a new one every single year?” asked Orman, who hosts the “Women and Money” podcast. “Absolutely not. It’s just a ridiculous waste of money.” Apple and Samsung didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. So what’s the true cost of a phone upgrade? Let’s look at the math. Flipsy, a company that buys and sells used phones, published an analysis this year arguing that it’s smart to buy a new iPhone every year. Here was its breakdown: — The iPhone 12 cost $799 last year. It’s now worth $460 if you trade it in to defray the cost of a new phone. The newest iPhones, the iPhone 13, also cost $799. So if you traded in your iPhone 12, the iPhone 13 would cost $339. At this rate, if you bought an iPhone every year for four years, including the original $799, the net total would be $1,816. — If you waited three years for the iPhone 15, your iPhone 12’s trade-in value would diminish to about $200. Trade it in and the cost of the iPhone 13 would be $599. Add in the original $799 and your net cost over four years would be $1,398. In summary, upgrading annually over three years costs $418 more, or roughly $12 a month, compared with upgrading every three years, Flipsy said. Framed this way, it may sound like a bargain to get a new phone every year as opposed to every few years. But plugging these numbers into a financial calculator tells a different story. If you put $12 a month into a retirement account, like a Roth IRA that has an average annual rate of return of 10%, that amount would turn into $25,161 over 30 years, according to Orman’s savings calculator. Orman compared the trade-in dilemma to buying cars. Car manufacturers could argue that the diminishing trade-in value of your car should compel you to buy a new one regularly — but don’t fall for it. “I love my car, and I don’t care that the value goes down,” she said. “Think of the 11 years I have saved money not having car payments, or trading it in and spending more money to get another car.” So what about those cups of coffee? On average, we pay $3 a cup, so $1,000 could buy roughly 333 cups. But naturally, making your own coffee is much cheaper. I plugged some numbers into a coffee calculator designed by Bone Fide Wealth, a financial planning service. A $16 bag of beans from Peet’s Coffee at Costco could brew about 41 cups of coffee for 39 cents each. So a $1,000 iPhone is worth about 2,500 cups of coffee. Not as compelling. Doug Boneparth, the president of Bone Fide Wealth, made a counterpoint. For people who have plenty of cash and are aware of the effects of their spending, splurging on new phones could be inconsequential to their overall savings goals compared with bigger expenses like housing — and if phones make them happy, go for it. He said he sets aside cash every year to buy a new iPhone as a sort of hobby. “Personal finance is quite personal,” Boneparth said. But he acknowledged that even his hobby was beginning to have diminishing returns because new phones weren’t getting much better technologically every year. “The 13 is the first one where I’m like, ‘This one literally only has a better camera,’” he said of the latest iPhone. Orman cautioned that for most people who didn’t have as much money in the bank, especially those in debt, the effects of a phone upgrade could snowball. A $1,000 phone charged to a credit card could turn into $3,000 with interest by the time it’s paid off, she said. More debt could also affect your credit score, making it harder to buy or rent a home. “If you think a phone is worth going into debt for, then, oh my God, you’ve now just set yourself up for always being in debt,” she said. “The truth of the matter is there’s nothing other than a medical expense worth going into debt for.”

The true cost of upgrading your phone

Apple is likely to cut down production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units due to the global chip shortage. Reports said the company was expected to produce 90 million units of the new iPhone models by the end of this year and the company has told its manufacturers that the number of units would be lower because chip suppliers including broadcom and texas instruments that are struggling to deliver components.

Apple to cut down production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units

Apple likely cut down production of its iPhone 13

Apple Inc&nbsp;is likely to slash production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units due to the global chip shortage, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The company was expected to produce 90 million units of the new iPhone models by the end of this year, according to Bloomberg. The reportsaid Apple told its manufacturers that the number of units would be lower because chip suppliers including Broadcom Inc and Texas Instruments are struggling to deliver components.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-set-to-launch-pixel-pass-subscription-inspired-by-apple-one-419898">Google set to launch 'Pixel Pass' subscription inspired by Apple one</a>

Shares of Apple fell 1.2 per cent&nbsp;in after-hours trading, while Texas Instruments and Broadcom were both down about 1 per cent. 
 
Watch | Apple to cut down production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units

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Apple declined to comment. Broadcom and Texas Instruments did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

In July, Apple forecast slowing revenue growth and said the chip shortage, which had started hitting its ability to sell Macs and iPads, would also crimp iPhone production. Texas Instruments also gave a soft revenue outlook that month, hinting on chip supply concerns for the rest of the year. read more

The chip crunch has put immense pressure on industries from automobiles to electronics, leading many automakers to temporarily suspend production.

With its massive purchasing power and long-term supply agreements with chip vendors, Apple has weathered the supply crunch better than many other companies, leading some analysts to forecast that iPhone 13 models released in September would have a strong sales year as consumers looked to upgrade devices for 5G networks.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nyc-security-guard-stabbed-over-mask-dispute-at-apple-store-419632">NYC: Security guard stabbed over mask dispute at Apple store</a>

Jeff Fieldhack, research director for Counterpoint Research, said the reported Apple production cut could also be part of the iPhone maker's normal launch process of over-ordering devices to be prepared for an initial customer rush and then trimming orders as sales trends become clearer.

Fieldhack said iPhone 13 sales appear to be healthy and higher than last year's iPhone 12, and Counterpoint is not changing its estimate of 85 million to 90 million iPhone 13 sales for the fourth quarter.

Apple Inc is likely to slash production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units due to the global chip shortage, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

Apple Inc is likely to slash production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units due to the global chip shortage, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company was expected to produce 90 million units of the new iPhone models by the end of this year, according to Bloomberg. The reportsaid Apple told its manufacturers that the number of units would be lower because chip suppliers including Broadcom Inc and Texas Instruments are struggling to deliver components. Also Read | Google set to launch 'Pixel Pass' subscription inspired by Apple one Shares of Apple fell 1.2 per cent in after-hours trading, while Texas Instruments and Broadcom were both down about 1 per cent. Watch | Apple to cut down production of its iPhone 13 by as many as 10 million units Apple declined to comment. Broadcom and Texas Instruments did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. In July, Apple forecast slowing revenue growth and said the chip shortage, which had started hitting its ability to sell Macs and iPads, would also crimp iPhone production. Texas Instruments also gave a soft revenue outlook that month, hinting on chip supply concerns for the rest of the year. read more The chip crunch has put immense pressure on industries from automobiles to electronics, leading many automakers to temporarily suspend production. With its massive purchasing power and long-term supply agreements with chip vendors, Apple has weathered the supply crunch better than many other companies, leading some analysts to forecast that iPhone 13 models released in September would have a strong sales year as consumers looked to upgrade devices for 5G networks. Also Read | NYC: Security guard stabbed over mask dispute at Apple store Jeff Fieldhack, research director for Counterpoint Research, said the reported Apple production cut could also be part of the iPhone maker's normal launch process of over-ordering devices to be prepared for an initial customer rush and then trimming orders as sales trends become clearer. Fieldhack said iPhone 13 sales appear to be healthy and higher than last year's iPhone 12, and Counterpoint is not changing its estimate of 85 million to 90 million iPhone 13 sales for the fourth quarter.

Apple likely to cut down iPhone 13 production. Here’s why?

According to the sources, Apple will be hit with an EU antitrust charge over its NFC chip technology. A move that puts it at risk of a possible hefty fine and could force it to open its mobile payment system to rivals.

Sources: Apple to be hit with EU antitrust charge over NFC chip

Every year at this time, we sing the same song. The new iPhones hit the market and people gasp in amazement, not because of the features, but mostly because of the price tag. So before I dive into my first impressions of the new iPhone 13 Pro, lets get the price out of the way so we can all gasp and gulp down a big glass of water.

The new iPhones are premium and will probably cost you a holiday or even an EMI installment for your new car. The iPhone 13 Pro starts at Rs. 1,19,900 with 128GB of storage. Surprisingly, I have heard people willing to dole out more money for storage this year so you can also opt for the 256GB variant for Rs 1,39,900 and Rs 1,59,900 for 512GB. And if you really want to indulge and dismiss all storage concerns for a lifetime, Apple is also offering a whopping 1TB of storage at a price tag of Rs 1,79,900.

Alright, now that we've all pondered over all the things we could do INSTEAD of buying the iPhone 13, lets unbox this beast.

Unboxing the iPhone

You know when you spend more than a lakh of rupees on a smartphone, you expect for the red carpet to be rolled out, people to serenade you or at the very least, a box with all the bells and whistles. Well, that's not going to happen here.&nbsp;

While the iPhone looks stunning in itself, the box gets leaner and more compact this year. All you get is the iPhone of course, a USB Type-C to lightning cable, an Apple sticker and a pin to change sim cards. So those upgrading after the iPhone 11, this might come as a rude shock.

Design: First look

<img alt="iPhone 13 Pro" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3fadf08f-6740-4ace-8448-0cc731e17145" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-10-02T174524.824.jpg" />

Apple introduces a new signature colour this year: the elegant Sierra Blue. The popularity of this colour is evident already, with influencers, celebrities and India's upwardly mobile vying for it and how. Apple claims to have developed a new “nanometre-scale” ceramic deposition process to create the Sierra Blue finish.

Some are calling it a marketing gimmick but as always with Apple, the proof is in the pudding. Open your Instagram and you'll see reels and videos with different age groups salivating over this new colour. Many have dialled their distant relatives in the US to get their hands on it should the Indian stocks run out!

What I personally love is the matte, frosted look that the phone has with gold accents on the sides. Apple says these bands are surgical-grade stainless steel so perhaps makes the iPhone 13 more sturdy? We'll find out.

The gold band with the matte effects on the rear makes for the perfect balance of subtle and bling and will appeal to most Apple users. The irony though, is that most will cover it up with a protective leather cover because god forbid, it slips from nimble fingers!

But the big question is, is it any different from the already popular iPhone 12 Pro? The differences as always, are in the camera and processor so will be hard to catch by the untrained eye.

Is it too heavy for one-hand use or to stuff into a pocket? The Pro Max weighs more than 235 grams and could take a while to get used to, at least for the uninitiated. I have been using the 13 Pro and it's easy to use with one hand.

Display 
&nbsp; 
Lets talk about the "notch" because it still exists and that is perhaps the biggest bone of contention for most Apple users. The iPhone 13 comes with a narrower notch. I can see it, you can see it, we all can see it. Does it bother me? No. Will it bother loyal Apple users, probably not. What I am loving is the 120Hz ProMotion display which makes the iPhone a delight to watch content on.

The Pro comes with 6.1-inch OLED panel while the bigger sibling, Pro Max, comes with 6.7-inch OLED display. Apple claims it's the brightest display ever on the iPhone with up to 25 percent higher outdoor brightness, at 1000 nits. We'll analyse the full performance in our in-depth review coming soon.

Performance and battery

The A15 Bionic chipset is a beast. In my three days with the iPhone 13 Pro, I hardly noticed any lag or compromise in performance. So with the iPhone 13, what you have in your hands is a faster iPhone even if you are using the 12 generation.

It's all about camera

<img alt="iPhone " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b52cc2e7-610f-4d8e-859e-13e1f04e0108" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-10-02T174025.047.jpg" />

Anyone who invests in an iPhone does it because they are invested in the Apple ecosystem. A new buyer spends oodles for Apple's camera features. The iPhone 13 Pro introduces something known as "Photographic styles" which essentially helps you customise colours and tones in a photo even before clicking it.

The video feature gets its own portrait mode through the "Cinematic Video" mode which uses artificial intelligence to focus on a subject. I went to town taking videos of my hyper-active toddler and I have to say, was impressed with the results. Apple has played a smart move here -- in the age of social media, newbie video creators and influencers will love this feature.

Apple calls the cameras on this iPhone the most advanced ever with new sensors and lenses for all three rear cameras. In my time with the phone, the images have been true-to-life, vibrant with great detailing. 
With the new iOS 15 update, it all ties in nicely together. There's a lot to be said about the night shots and we'll explore all that in our detailed review coming up soon.

We'll try and answer the age-old question, is the new iPhone worth the hype?

Every year at this time, we sing the same song. The new iPhones hit the market and people gasp in amazement, not because of the features, but mostly because of the price tag.

Every year at this time, we sing the same song. The new iPhones hit the market and people gasp in amazement, not because of the features, but mostly because of the price tag. So before I dive into my first impressions of the new iPhone 13 Pro, lets get the price out of the way so we can all gasp and gulp down a big glass of water. The new iPhones are premium and will probably cost you a holiday or even an EMI installment for your new car. The iPhone 13 Pro starts at Rs. 1,19,900 with 128GB of storage. Surprisingly, I have heard people willing to dole out more money for storage this year so you can also opt for the 256GB variant for Rs 1,39,900 and Rs 1,59,900 for 512GB. And if you really want to indulge and dismiss all storage concerns for a lifetime, Apple is also offering a whopping 1TB of storage at a price tag of Rs 1,79,900. Alright, now that we've all pondered over all the things we could do INSTEAD of buying the iPhone 13, lets unbox this beast. Unboxing the iPhone You know when you spend more than a lakh of rupees on a smartphone, you expect for the red carpet to be rolled out, people to serenade you or at the very least, a box with all the bells and whistles. Well, that's not going to happen here. While the iPhone looks stunning in itself, the box gets leaner and more compact this year. All you get is the iPhone of course, a USB Type-C to lightning cable, an Apple sticker and a pin to change sim cards. So those upgrading after the iPhone 11, this might come as a rude shock. Design: First look Apple introduces a new signature colour this year: the elegant Sierra Blue. The popularity of this colour is evident already, with influencers, celebrities and India's upwardly mobile vying for it and how. Apple claims to have developed a new “nanometre-scale” ceramic deposition process to create the Sierra Blue finish. Some are calling it a marketing gimmick but as always with Apple, the proof is in the pudding. Open your Instagram and you'll see reels and videos with different age groups salivating over this new colour. Many have dialled their distant relatives in the US to get their hands on it should the Indian stocks run out! What I personally love is the matte, frosted look that the phone has with gold accents on the sides. Apple says these bands are surgical-grade stainless steel so perhaps makes the iPhone 13 more sturdy? We'll find out. The gold band with the matte effects on the rear makes for the perfect balance of subtle and bling and will appeal to most Apple users. The irony though, is that most will cover it up with a protective leather cover because god forbid, it slips from nimble fingers! But the big question is, is it any different from the already popular iPhone 12 Pro? The differences as always, are in the camera and processor so will be hard to catch by the untrained eye. Is it too heavy for one-hand use or to stuff into a pocket? The Pro Max weighs more than 235 grams and could take a while to get used to, at least for the uninitiated. I have been using the 13 Pro and it's easy to use with one hand. Display Lets talk about the "notch" because it still exists and that is perhaps the biggest bone of contention for most Apple users. The iPhone 13 comes with a narrower notch. I can see it, you can see it, we all can see it. Does it bother me? No. Will it bother loyal Apple users, probably not. What I am loving is the 120Hz ProMotion display which makes the iPhone a delight to watch content on. The Pro comes with 6.1-inch OLED panel while the bigger sibling, Pro Max, comes with 6.7-inch OLED display. Apple claims it's the brightest display ever on the iPhone with up to 25 percent higher outdoor brightness, at 1000 nits. We'll analyse the full performance in our in-depth review coming soon. Performance and battery The A15 Bionic chipset is a beast. In my three days with the iPhone 13 Pro, I hardly noticed any lag or compromise in performance. So with the iPhone 13, what you have in your hands is a faster iPhone even if you are using the 12 generation. It's all about camera Anyone who invests in an iPhone does it because they are invested in the Apple ecosystem. A new buyer spends oodles for Apple's camera features. The iPhone 13 Pro introduces something known as "Photographic styles" which essentially helps you customise colours and tones in a photo even before clicking it. The video feature gets its own portrait mode through the "Cinematic Video" mode which uses artificial intelligence to focus on a subject. I went to town taking videos of my hyper-active toddler and I have to say, was impressed with the results. Apple has played a smart move here -- in the age of social media, newbie video creators and influencers will love this feature. Apple calls the cameras on this iPhone the most advanced ever with new sensors and lenses for all three rear cameras. In my time with the phone, the images have been true-to-life, vibrant with great detailing. With the new iOS 15 update, it all ties in nicely together. There's a lot to be said about the night shots and we'll explore all that in our detailed review coming up soon. We'll try and answer the age-old question, is the new iPhone worth the hype?

iPhone 13 Pro: First impressions

The EU executive and EU lawmakers have been pushing for a common charger for over a decade, saying it would be better for the environment and more convenient for users.

iPhone maker Apple to be more than rivals

Apple has launched four new models in its most awaited lineup- the iPhone 13 series. The company has also launched the new iPad mini expanding its 5g connectivity and showing off faster chips and sharper cameras without raising the phone's price. The iPhone Pro model will cost around Rs 119,900 in India and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be Rs 129,900.

iPhone 13 series announced: Here are specifications, price and more

Apple event is something that grabs a lot of eyeballs globally. No matter the price of the gadgets, Apple fans will still tell you that they are the best and get you max bang for your buck.

iPhone 13 made a grand entry on the tech stage with Apple CEO Tim Cook presenting the latest top-of-the-line on the Apple shelves. But what caught the attention of Bollywood fans was the&nbsp;Dum Maro Dum tune played at the very start of the promotion video.

The iconic guitar notes were too hard to miss. And this sent the social media mills running. It is now coming to light that the actual song was 'Work All Day' by Footsie. But the artist had undoubtedly used the recognisable Hindi tune.

Before Twitter reactions, check out the video first.

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Apple using Dum Maro Dum! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> <a href="https://t.co/FDIPmugLF6">pic.twitter.com/FDIPmugLF6</a>
— Priyank (@hey_priyank) <a href="https://twitter.com/hey_priyank/status/1437838220075622400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As expected, Indian Twitter went crazy with all sorts of reactions

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Did <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Apple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Apple</a> just used Dum maro Dum song in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> to launch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iphone13series?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iphone13series</a> ? <a href="https://t.co/8ItU0VNaCY">pic.twitter.com/8ItU0VNaCY</a>
— Shubham Mishra (@helloiamshubham) <a href="https://twitter.com/helloiamshubham/status/1437838859866292224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Why <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AppleEvent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AppleEvent</a> is running "Dum Maro Dum" music?
— Jaynti Kanani (@_jdkanani) <a href="https://twitter.com/_jdkanani/status/1437837836271570947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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THEY USED DUM MARO DUM MUSIC HELPP
— juhi⁷ || ishq day (@bluendgreypjm) <a href="https://twitter.com/bluendgreypjm/status/1437837705753161729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Did I just listen to a “Dum Maro Dum” remix at an iPhone event? 🤔
— Vidit Bhargava (@viditb) <a href="https://twitter.com/viditb/status/1437838155785244672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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We know that the iconic song is shot on Zeenat Aman. But some Tweeple appeared to give Deepika Padukone the credit. Maybe it was a reference to the remix that came out a few years ago.

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Two Observations from iPhone 13 commercial. 
 
1. Can a delivery boy afford an iPhone13 as shown in the ad ? 
 
2. The bgm sounds similar to Deepika Padukone’s Dum Maro Dum<a href="https://t.co/qiiytheXDI">https://t.co/qiiytheXDI</a>
— Krishikesh Khairnar (@KrishKhairnar) <a href="https://twitter.com/KrishKhairnar/status/1437858360800395265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Some Indian users were in a different sort of 'gham'

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🙄This Dum maro dum is out of my budget
— Gaganpreet Kaur (@fabgagan) <a href="https://twitter.com/fabgagan/status/1437949667728265216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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But all said and done, the apple event did have quite a following as the streaming was watched by 2 million people worldwide.

Apple did not announce any blockbuster features or products, but analysts expect customers hanging onto older models like the iPhone X will be eager to upgrade. To encourage trade-ins, participating wireless carriers are offering incentives ahead of the year-end holiday season that to make the new phones free to some customers.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-unveils-iphone-13-adds-new-features-to-ipads-watches-413123">Apple unveils iPhone 13, adds new features to iPads, watches</a>

The iPhone 13 will have a new chip called the A15 Bionic that enables features like automatically translating text. The phone also has a better display, longer battery life and a Cinematic mode for automatically changing focus while taking videos. Apple said the iPhone 13 will have custom 5G antennas and radio components for faster speeds and will come in five colors.

The phone will start at $699, and participating wireless carriers will offer up to $700 off for qualifying trade-ins. The iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 and the Pro Max starts at $1,099, with trade-in offers of up to $1,000. All three models will be available Sept. 24.

Apple event is something that grabs a lot of eyeballs globally. No matter the price of the gadgets, Apple fans will still tell you that they are the best and get you max bang for your buck.

Apple event is something that grabs a lot of eyeballs globally. No matter the price of the gadgets, Apple fans will still tell you that they are the best and get you max bang for your buck. iPhone 13 made a grand entry on the tech stage with Apple CEO Tim Cook presenting the latest top-of-the-line on the Apple shelves. But what caught the attention of Bollywood fans was the Dum Maro Dum tune played at the very start of the promotion video. The iconic guitar notes were too hard to miss. And this sent the social media mills running. It is now coming to light that the actual song was 'Work All Day' by Footsie. But the artist had undoubtedly used the recognisable Hindi tune. Before Twitter reactions, check out the video first. Apple using Dum Maro Dum! #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/FDIPmugLF6 — Priyank (@hey_priyank) September 14, 2021 × As expected, Indian Twitter went crazy with all sorts of reactions Did #Apple just used Dum maro Dum song in #AppleEvent to launch #iphone13series ? pic.twitter.com/8ItU0VNaCY — Shubham Mishra (@helloiamshubham) September 14, 2021 × Why #AppleEvent is running "Dum Maro Dum" music? — Jaynti Kanani (@_jdkanani) September 14, 2021 × THEY USED DUM MARO DUM MUSIC HELPP — juhi⁷ || ishq day (@bluendgreypjm) September 14, 2021 × Did I just listen to a “Dum Maro Dum” remix at an iPhone event? 🤔 — Vidit Bhargava (@viditb) September 14, 2021 × We know that the iconic song is shot on Zeenat Aman. But some Tweeple appeared to give Deepika Padukone the credit. Maybe it was a reference to the remix that came out a few years ago. Two Observations from iPhone 13 commercial. 1. Can a delivery boy afford an iPhone13 as shown in the ad ? 2. The bgm sounds similar to Deepika Padukone’s Dum Maro Dumhttps://t.co/qiiytheXDI — Krishikesh Khairnar (@KrishKhairnar) September 14, 2021 × Some Indian users were in a different sort of 'gham' 🙄This Dum maro dum is out of my budget — Gaganpreet Kaur (@fabgagan) September 15, 2021 × But all said and done, the apple event did have quite a following as the streaming was watched by 2 million people worldwide. Apple did not announce any blockbuster features or products, but analysts expect customers hanging onto older models like the iPhone X will be eager to upgrade. To encourage trade-ins, participating wireless carriers are offering incentives ahead of the year-end holiday season that to make the new phones free to some customers. Also Read | Apple unveils iPhone 13, adds new features to iPads, watches The iPhone 13 will have a new chip called the A15 Bionic that enables features like automatically translating text. The phone also has a better display, longer battery life and a Cinematic mode for automatically changing focus while taking videos. Apple said the iPhone 13 will have custom 5G antennas and radio components for faster speeds and will come in five colors. The phone will start at $699, and participating wireless carriers will offer up to $700 off for qualifying trade-ins. The iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 and the Pro Max starts at $1,099, with trade-in offers of up to $1,000. All three models will be available Sept. 24.

Apple Event 2021: 'Dum Maro Dum' tune sparks social media frenzy

It's that time of the year again.

We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices.&nbsp;We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not.

We raise eyebrows at the Indian prices of iPhones but look at EMI options nonetheless.&nbsp;From Bollywood celebrities, commentators, Hollywood personalities to political pundits, everyone had something to say about Apple's California streaming event.&nbsp;

Everyone is an expert or a critic when it comes to the new iPhone.

So what does that tell us?

Despite running into privacy controversies and supply chain issues, Apple continues to spark interest and conversation about its new iPhones, iPads and of course, the Apple Watch.&nbsp;

More than two million people watched Apple's California streaming event on YouTube on September 14th and waited for those famous words which are part of the late CEO Steve Jobs' legacy.

"One more thing..."

But this time around, there was no "one more thing"!&nbsp;

Instead, Apple stuck to the basics and released the new iPhone 13 series, a new iPad, an iPad mini and its fitness smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 7.

And yet, here we are talking about them because the aspirational value of owning an Apple product, especially in India, is still strong.

One of the biggest takeaways for India, you ask?&nbsp;

News flash, you won't have to wait for the new goodies for long. In a first, the phones will be available for pre-order in India on September 17th with sales starting on September 24. This shows what a significant market India is for Apple as the iPhone-maker aims to take advantage of its growth momentum in the country.&nbsp;The new iPhones will arrive in India at the same time as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, the UK, the US&nbsp;and other big markets.

In another noteworthy aspect, the pricing of the iPhones in India remains the same as last year. Apple offers you improved camera features, longer-lasting battery and of course, a faster processor, the mighty A15 Bionic chipset. For most, the USP remains the jaw-dropping storage option of 1TB for the Pro models.

"India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world and continues to be an important market for Apple. Apple has only a 2 per cent&nbsp;market share in the world’s second-largest market as compared to the 14 per cent&nbsp;it has in the world’s largest market-China," says Tarun Pathak, Research Director, Counterpoint Research.&nbsp;

Pathak adds that Apple would like to keep a closer eye on India through recent actions like "increased local assembly, channel expansion, early launches, aggressive marketing.”

Commenting on Apple's decision to maintain its India pricing from last year, Pathak calls it "a good move", attributing the decision to strong competition for iPhones in the ultra-premium segment. Pathak also expects iPhone sales to go up in the upcoming festive season in India.

So here's a round-up Apple's new launches with India prices if you're looking to upgrade to the new gadgets.

<img alt="iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea9f1db4-d4f2-4fcf-bfec-82b887c77232" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IPhone1.JPG" />

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

Meet the iPhone 13s with massive storage

iPhone 13 Pro Max starts at $1,099 
India Price: Rs 1,29,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic Chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Storage capacity of 1 TB</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Triple rear camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 Pro&nbsp;starts at $999 
India Price: Rs 1,19,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic Chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Storage capacity of 1TB</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Triple rear camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>&nbsp;iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

<img alt="iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b27dcbbc-eb17-442a-bd1b-242d027f70a4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mini1.JPG" />

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

iPhone 13: Starts at $799

India Price: Rs 79,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPhone 13 Mini&nbsp;starts at $699

India Price: Rs 69,900

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Longer battery life than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>iOS 15</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<img alt="iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eacaf6e5-1a21-4575-a55b-c16030b37929" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Om1.JPG" />

iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple)

&nbsp;

A sweet surprise: Meet the new iPads

iPad: Starts at $329

India Price: Starts at Rs&nbsp;30,900 for&nbsp;Wi-Fi only

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>10.2-inch Retina display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A13 chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

iPad Mini

India price: Starts at Rs 46,900 for Wi-fi only

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>8.3-inch Liquid Retina display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>A15 Bionic chip</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Support for Apple pencil</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>USB-C support</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

<img alt="Apple Watch" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8124ed4d-c54f-4f72-bb29-01d80aaa3a22" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AppleWa1.jpg" />

Meet&nbsp;the new Apple watch

Apple Watch Series 7: starts at&nbsp;$399

India Price: Not announced

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 250px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Always-on Retina Display</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>WatchOS 8</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>IP6X dust-resistant,&nbsp;swim-proof</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>20% more screen area than predecessor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Faster charging</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

&nbsp;

It's that time of the year again. We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices. We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not.

It's that time of the year again. We sit with family members in living rooms and talk of the new iPhones and their exorbitant prices. We give unsolicited advice to colleagues in meeting rooms about whether to buy the new Apple Watch or not. We raise eyebrows at the Indian prices of iPhones but look at EMI options nonetheless. From Bollywood celebrities, commentators, Hollywood personalities to political pundits, everyone had something to say about Apple's California streaming event. Everyone is an expert or a critic when it comes to the new iPhone. So what does that tell us? Despite running into privacy controversies and supply chain issues, Apple continues to spark interest and conversation about its new iPhones, iPads and of course, the Apple Watch. More than two million people watched Apple's California streaming event on YouTube on September 14th and waited for those famous words which are part of the late CEO Steve Jobs' legacy. "One more thing..." But this time around, there was no "one more thing"! Instead, Apple stuck to the basics and released the new iPhone 13 series, a new iPad, an iPad mini and its fitness smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 7. And yet, here we are talking about them because the aspirational value of owning an Apple product, especially in India, is still strong. One of the biggest takeaways for India, you ask? News flash, you won't have to wait for the new goodies for long. In a first, the phones will be available for pre-order in India on September 17th with sales starting on September 24. This shows what a significant market India is for Apple as the iPhone-maker aims to take advantage of its growth momentum in the country. The new iPhones will arrive in India at the same time as Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, the UK, the US and other big markets. In another noteworthy aspect, the pricing of the iPhones in India remains the same as last year. Apple offers you improved camera features, longer-lasting battery and of course, a faster processor, the mighty A15 Bionic chipset. For most, the USP remains the jaw-dropping storage option of 1TB for the Pro models. "India is the second-largest smartphone market in the world and continues to be an important market for Apple. Apple has only a 2 per cent market share in the world’s second-largest market as compared to the 14 per cent it has in the world’s largest market-China," says Tarun Pathak, Research Director, Counterpoint Research. Pathak adds that Apple would like to keep a closer eye on India through recent actions like "increased local assembly, channel expansion, early launches, aggressive marketing.” Commenting on Apple's decision to maintain its India pricing from last year, Pathak calls it "a good move", attributing the decision to strong competition for iPhones in the ultra-premium segment. Pathak also expects iPhone sales to go up in the upcoming festive season in India. So here's a round-up Apple's new launches with India prices if you're looking to upgrade to the new gadgets. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max (Photo Courtesy: Apple) Meet the iPhone 13s with massive storage iPhone 13 Pro Max starts at $1,099 India Price: Rs 1,29,900 A15 Bionic Chip Storage capacity of 1 TB 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion Triple rear camera Longer battery life than predecessor Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video iOS 15 iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 India Price: Rs 1,19,900 A15 Bionic Chip Storage capacity of 1TB 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion Triple rear camera Longer battery life than predecessor Cinematic mode for portrait setting in video iOS 15 iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple) iPhone 13: Starts at $799 India Price: Rs 79,900 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video A15 Bionic chip Longer battery life than predecessor iOS 15 iPhone 13 Mini starts at $699 India Price: Rs 69,900 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display Dual camera, Cinematic mode in video A15 Bionic chip Longer battery life than predecessor iOS 15 iPad mini (Photo Courtesy: Apple) A sweet surprise: Meet the new iPads iPad: Starts at $329 India Price: Starts at Rs 30,900 for Wi-Fi only 10.2-inch Retina display A13 chip 12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature iPad Mini India price: Starts at Rs 46,900 for Wi-fi only 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display A15 Bionic chip Support for Apple pencil USB-C support 12MP ultrawide camera with Center Stage feature Meet the new Apple watch Apple Watch Series 7: starts at $399 India Price: Not announced Always-on Retina Display WatchOS 8 IP6X dust-resistant, swim-proof 20% more screen area than predecessor Faster charging

Will India bite into Apple's new offerings?

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services.

The Silicon Valley giant last month said iPhones and iPads would soon start detecting images containing child sexual abuse and reporting them as they are uploaded to its online storage in the United States.

However, digital rights organizations quickly noted the tweaks to Apple's operating systems create a potential "backdoor" into gadgets that could be exploited by governments or other groups.

Apple, in announcing the delay, cited feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers, and others.

"We have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features," the company said in a statement.

New technology allows the software powering Apple mobile devices to match abusive photos on a user's phone against a database of known child sex abuse images provided by safety organizations, then flag the images as they are uploaded to Apple's online iCloud storage, according to the company.

The system, if and when it goes into use, would be "powered by a cryptographic technology" to determine "if there is a match without revealing the result," unless the image was found to contain depictions of child sexual abuse.

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services.

Apple announced Friday that it will delay the rollout of its controversial new child pornography protection tools, accused by some of undermining the privacy of its devices and services. The Silicon Valley giant last month said iPhones and iPads would soon start detecting images containing child sexual abuse and reporting them as they are uploaded to its online storage in the United States. However, digital rights organizations quickly noted the tweaks to Apple's operating systems create a potential "backdoor" into gadgets that could be exploited by governments or other groups. Apple, in announcing the delay, cited feedback from customers, advocacy groups, researchers, and others. "We have decided to take additional time over the coming months to collect input and make improvements before releasing these critically important child safety features," the company said in a statement. New technology allows the software powering Apple mobile devices to match abusive photos on a user's phone against a database of known child sex abuse images provided by safety organizations, then flag the images as they are uploaded to Apple's online iCloud storage, according to the company. The system, if and when it goes into use, would be "powered by a cryptographic technology" to determine "if there is a match without revealing the result," unless the image was found to contain depictions of child sexual abuse.

Apple announces delay of child protection measures

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