Before the eve of a bewitching Halloween night, Apple conjured up a spellbinding online event aptly named “Scary Fast.” The company has unveiled its latest technological marvels, including a brand-new array of MacBook Pro and iMac computers, all powered by the groundbreaking M3 chip family. As the event unfolded, the curtains were drawn back to reveal a breathtaking lineup of Macs, each boasting Apple’s latest in-house chip.
M3 Chips
Taking centre stage, Apple’s M3 chips took their place in the spotlight, which includes the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips, embodying the “first personal computer chips” to emerge from the wizardry of a 3-nanometer process. These chips aren’t just faster; they are imbued with an updated GPU that can weave enchanting spells like ray tracing, mesh shading, and Dynamic Caching, optimising memory usage with every task. Apple’s M3 chips offer up to 128GB of unified memory, but it’s the M3 Max that boasts an astounding 92 billion transistors, a 40-core GPU, and a 16-core CPU, reminiscent of the alchemical wonders of old.
24-inch iMac with M3 chip
The magical 24-inch iMac also succumbed to the allure of the M3 magic. Enhanced with the power of the M3 chip, this rejuvenated iMac promises a performance that is twice as fast as its M1 ancestor. Its screen, a 4.5K Retina masterpiece, exposes over a billion colours, like a painter’s palette. It is loaded with the siren call of Wi-Fi 6E and reveals its true face through a 1080p webcam.
The iMac offers up to 24GB of unified memory, and it emerges in a vibrant tapestry of colours, as if plucked from a fairy tale – green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, blue, and silver. Even its accessories, with their Lightning connectors, are colour-coded to match. It can be booked today through pre-orders and will materialise for all on November 7th, starting at ₹1,34,900 for an eight-core CPU.
The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros
The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, too, are decked up in the M3 tempest. Apple has revealed a new pair of 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, armed with either the M3 Pro chip or the lofty M3 Max. These laptops bear the mark of true sorcery, boasting a Mini LED display that is almost incandescent, an ethereal 1080p camera, a symphony of six speakers, and a spellbinding 22 hours of battery life, not to mention a prodigious capacity of up to 128GB of RAM.
They are available in the deepest space black, guarded by a new coating to ward off unwanted fingerprints, and in the classic silver option. The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 chip starts at ₹1,69,900, while the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 Pro chip starts its journey at ₹1,99,900, and the one with the M3 Max chip starts at ₹3,19,900. In the case of the 16-inch MacBook Pro, it is available in two options only – the one with the M3 Pro chip begins at ₹2,49,900, and the one with the M3 Max is priced at ₹3,49,900. All these MacBook Pro models can be conjured today through pre-orders and will become fully manifest on November 7th.
Are you ready to dive into the world of smartwatches? With a smartwatch by your side, you’ll be living life in the fast lane, just like James Bond! But before you dive headfirst into the world of smartwatches, there are some things you absolutely must consider. It’s time to decode the secrets of the smartwatch universe and make the right choice for your wrist.
Compatibility
Imagine buying a smartwatch that doesn’t play well with your smartphone – it’s a nightmare, right? Compatibility is your golden ticket to the land of smartwatch bliss. Ensure your smartwatch is compatible with your smartphone’s operating system, whether iOS or Android.
Display
The display is your smartwatch’s soul. Opt for a vibrant, responsive touchscreen that makes interactions a breeze. Whether you’re checking your heart rate, reading messages, or navigating through apps, a stunning display makes all the difference.
Battery Life
Imagine your smartwatch running out of juice mid-adventure. Yes, that’s why battery life is a must-check before buying a smartwatch. Look for a smartwatch that can keep up with your action-packed lifestyle. Some can last a day, while others go the extra mile, lasting up to a week on a single charge.
Communication
Your smartwatch should allow you to send messages, make calls, and even summon voice assistants with a flick of your wrist. Whether you’re sending coded messages or just ordering pizza, a smartwatch that excels in communication is a must-have for anyone.
Fitness Tracking
A smartwatch is like having a personal trainer on your wrist – minus the yelling! Look for a smartwatch that comes packed with fitness-tracking features. From heart rate monitoring to step counting and even sleep tracking, your smartwatch should be your trusty sidekick on your fitness journey.
Price
Last but not least, the price! While we’d all love to have an unlimited budget for our gadgets, the reality is that we need to be mindful of our finances. Smartwatches come in a range of prices, so make sure to find one that fits your budget without compromising on the essential features. Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to own a smartwatch that suits your needs.
Best Smartwatch – Apple Watch Series 9
Price: Starting at ₹41900*
Display: 45mm or 41mm Always-On Retina display
Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
Battery life: Up to 18 hours, 36 hours in Low Power mode
SOS – Emergency SOS, Fall Detection and Crash Detection
Since its debut in 2015, the Apple Watch has transcended timekeeping and has evolved into the undisputed champion of smartwatches. The latest gem in the lineup – the Apple Watch Series 9 marks a leap into a touchless future. It introduces an ingenious “Double Tap” gesture, a digital dance inspired by the Assistive Touch accessibility tool.
With a simple pinch, you can navigate the watch’s complicated interface without the need to lay a finger on the screen. The Series 9 has also harnessed the power of Siri like never before, thanks to the new S9 system-in-package (SiP) processor. Speedier responses are just the beginning, as Siri now lends a helpful ear even when you’re off the grid.
The Series 9 watch boasts a dazzlingly brighter screen that adjusts for nighttime and a slick watchOS 10 facelift. With its focus on Siri and touchless interactions, Apple continues to reign supreme in the smartwatch realm. While sleep-tracking might lag behind competitors, do you have any choice other than to ignore it for a couple of years?
Best Android Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Series
Price: Starting at ₹32,999*
Display: Sapphire Crystal – 44mm or 40mm and 47mm or 43mm
Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Material: Armor Aluminum and Stainless Steel
Other: Sleep Tracking, Infrared Temperature Sensor
With the unveiling of the Galaxy Watch 6 series this year, Samsung once again reaffirms its dominance in non-Apple smartwatches. The iconic spinning bezel once temporarily shelved, makes a triumphant comeback in the 2023 Galaxy Watch 6 Classic. This time, it returns in a sleeker and lighter form, providing an exquisite tactile interface for navigating the new Wear OS 4.
The display is now brighter, ensuring effortless readability even under the sun’s direct glare. What truly elevates the Galaxy Watch 6 above its predecessors are its revamped health and fitness tracking capabilities. An overnight skin temperature sensor aids in monitoring ovulation and menstrual cycles, while innovative sleep coaching tools offer invaluable insights for achieving better rest.
The watch also brags irregular heart rhythm monitoring and personalised heart rate zones for optimal cardiovascular tracking, catering to runners’ needs. With enhanced processors, improved battery life, and a pack of optimised wrist apps, the Galaxy Watch 6 series sets a new benchmark and stands as the unrivalled all-inclusive choice, promising an unparalleled experience in the wearable tech arena.
Best Budget Smartwatch – Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Price: Starting at ₹9,999*
Display: Corning® Gorilla® Glass with DX+ in 44mm or 40mm
Durability: 5ATM+IP68/MIL-STD-810H
Material: Armor Aluminum
Battery 361mAh or 247mAh
Well, if you had asked, “What’s the best budget smartwatch?” in 2022, I would have said Fitbit Versa 2, but now that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is available under 10k, I’m changing my statement. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 emerges as a beacon of brilliance in budget-friendly form. Like a siren calling you to the shores of affordable luxury, this timepiece seamlessly combines style, substance, and, most importantly, savings.
With its sleek stainless steel case, vivid AMOLED display, and customisable watch faces, the Galaxy Watch 4 doesn’t just blend in—it stands out. It’s the wristwear equivalent of a tailored suit at a thrift store price. But this smartwatch isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a powerhouse of functionality. It’s your personal wellness guru, boasting health-tracking features like ECG monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and advanced sleep analysis.
Its fast processor ensures smooth performance, and it syncs seamlessly with your Android device, making it the ideal companion for productivity and play. By offering the Galaxy Watch 4 under 10k, Samsung has woven affordability into a tapestry of innovation, making it the ultimate choice for those who seek both style and savings in their smartwatch experience. It’s time to embrace the future without breaking the bank.
Best Rugged Smartwatch – Garmin Instint 2X Solar
Price: Starting at ₹50.490*
Connectivity: iOS, Android
Display: 40mm, 45mm or 50mm
Water resistance: Yes, swim-proof
Charging method: Solar power, plug charger
Battery life: Unlimited in the sun, 28 days without solar energy
Not all people have time to take care of and charge their smartwatch after every day or two. So, to have them on board, Garmin arrived with Instinct 2X Solar – a beacon of innovation and practicality. At the price of ₹50,490*, this remarkable smartwatch is not merely a timepiece; it’s an all-encompassing companion that combines the rugged reliability of a military-grade device with the futuristic charm of solar-powered technology.
The Instinct 2X Solar is a multitasking marvel that seamlessly transitions between roles: executive assistant, fitness coach, weather oracle, and even a digital wallet. With its enhanced solar panels, it boasts extended battery life, ensuring that you’re never left in the lurch during your adventures or daily grind. It isn’t just any smartwatch; it’s a workhorse, built tough and designed for readability even in the most challenging conditions.
Its rapid GPS acquisition, military-grade durability, and impressive water resistance of up to 100 meters make it a true outdoor warrior. Sure, like any piece of tech, it has its quirks, but the Instinct 2X Solar’s pros far outweigh the cons.
Best Fitness Freak Smartwatch – Fitbit Sense 2
Battery Life: 6days+
Display: 1.58 inches, AMOLED, touchscreen
Body: Aluminum case/Stainless steel bezel
Memory/Media: 4GB, Microphone, Loudspeaker
Compatibility: Android and iOS Check supported devices
Elevating the legacy of its predecessor, the Fitbit Sense 2, a true flagship masterpiece, refines the essence of well-being tracking. Its distinguishing feature, the groundbreaking cEDA sensor, ventures boldly into the labyrinth of your stress levels, unveiling its secrets with unprecedented precision. Stress, slumber, cardiac vigour, and physical pursuits all fall under its perceptive gaze, meticulously mapped out on its canvas of knowledge. With an aesthetic that mirrors an artist’s brushstroke, this smartwatch unfurls a vivid story of your daily vitality through its elegant graphs—an essential compass guiding you towards complete holistic well-being. Yet, if your appetite for innovation craves something new and exciting, the recently unveiled Google Pixel Watch 2 beckons with its own promises of technological wonders.
For those in pursuit of a smartwatch that harmonises seamlessly with every ensemble adorning your closet, Fossil’s Gen 6 Smartwatches deserve your undivided attention. While Fossil’s reputation for tasteful design precedes them, these timepieces are more than mere fashion statements, boasting an impressive array of cutting-edge features that elevate them to a league of their own.
What sets the Fossil Gen 6 apart isn’t just its aesthetic allure; it’s the technological prowess that lies beneath the surface. Rapid battery charging, swim-proof resilience, and a lightning-fast processor are but a few highlights. These watches have traditionally leaned on style over substance, but beneath the elegant exterior, they’ve undergone a transformation.
The Snapdragon Wear 4100 Plus chipset is fueling their performance, propelling them to a blazing 30% faster speed than their predecessor. Bolstered by 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, the Fossil Gen 6 emerges as a powerful and stylish accessory tailored for Android lovers who demand top-tier heart, health, and sleep tracking, all wrapped in an undeniably chic package.
Some people have taken the famous saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” quite literally. Being a 21st centurion, the only apple that comes to our mind, when someone says apple is the Apple from Cupertino. The brand has made such an effort in marketing and advertising that it is impossible to ignore its launch events. Whether you want to buy or not, you’re going to end up watching their events.
With their sleek and stylish iPhones, the cutting-edge MacBooks and the delightful Apple Watches, they have cast a spell on millions worldwide. Like others, it’s not just the products themselves that keep users hooked; it’s the entire experience – the ecosystem – that Apple offers. But how does it tempt us into its ecosystem, ensuring once you take that first bite, you’re forever hooked?
Seamless Integration
One of Apple’s most potent weapons is its seamless integration of all its devices and services. The moment you enter the ecosystem, you discover a world where your iPad, iPhone, MacBook, Apple Watch, and even your HomePod communicate effortlessly with each other. It’s like they’re all speaking the same language, and you’re the conductor of this symphony. For instance, the ease of transferring files, messages, and calls between your devices through iCloud or AirDrop is unparalleled. The continuity of experience is addictive – you can start a task on one device and effortlessly continue it on another without missing a beat.
The Apple Aesthetic
We can’t ignore the design philosophy of Apple – it’s legendary. Apple products exude sophistication and simplicity, be it their breathtakingly thin MacBook Air or the elegant curves of the iPhone, everything seems classy. Apple’s design aesthetic is not limited to hardware but also to its software. The clean, intuitive, and user-friendly interface of iOS and macOS makes every interaction a delight. It’s as if Apple products were designed not just to be used but to be admired, and the allure of owning these beautifully crafted gadgets is compelling.
The App Store
The App Store is the gateway to a world of apps and games seamlessly blending into the Apple ecosystem. It’s home to millions of apps, many of which are exclusively available to iOS and macOS users. Whether you’re a productivity enthusiast, a gamer, or a creative, there’s an app tailored to your needs. Moreover, the App Store is meticulously curated, ensuring that the apps you download are safe, secure, and of high quality. The convenience of having all your apps in one place, with automatic updates and backups, is a compelling reason to stay within the Apple ecosystem.
The Power of iCloud
iCloud, Apple’s cloud storage service, is another enticing aspect of the ecosystem. It syncs your photos, documents, contacts, and more across all your devices. The peace of mind knowing that your data is secure and accessible from anywhere is priceless. Furthermore, iCloud also powers services like Find My iPhone, which can be a lifesaver if your device gets lost or stolen. The interconnectedness of your devices through iCloud creates a safety net that’s difficult to leave behind.
Ecosystem-Exclusive Features
Apple entices users further with ecosystem-exclusive features. For instance, AirPods seamlessly connect to your iPhone and other Apple devices when you open their case. The Apple Watch pairs effortlessly with your iPhone and can be a robust health and fitness companion. These unique features are designed to keep you firmly within the ecosystem.
The Halo Effect
Apple’s marketing prowess is a force to be reckoned with. The company has mastered the art of creating a halo effect around its products. Owning an iPhone often leads to the purchase of a MacBook or iPad, and vice versa. Once you’re in, it’s hard to resist expanding your collection of Apple gadgets.
Apple’s ability to tempt users into its ecosystem is a testament to its ingenuity and understanding of human psychology. The seamless integration, unmatched design, and the allure of exclusive features create a web of temptation that’s hard to escape. Once you’ve taken that first bite of the Apple, you’re drawn into a world where going back is not on the list of options. So, the next time you’re tempted by Apple products, remember that you’re not just buying a device; you’re entering a world of seamless connectivity and timeless design that’s hard to resist.
The much anticipated iPhone 15 lineup is here and as expected trollers have started having a field day on the internet complaining about how there haven’t been major upgrades from the previous years. If you ask me, the inclusion of the Dynamic Island features on the standard iPhone 15 & 15 Plus is a crucial upgrade. Goodbye to the classic iPhone notch, hope we never see you again! The entire iPhone 15 lineup includes – iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Check out all the details about the iPhone 15 lineup below –
iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
The iPhone 15 and 15 Plus models bid farewell to the classic broad iPhone notch and replaced it with the Dynamic Island. Another major upgrade is finally the adoption of the USB-C port on the iPhone series. RIP Lightning Port! There’s a total of five colour variants – Pink, Yellow, Green, Blue, and Black. The latest iPhones come in a textured matte finish and a ceramic shield.
Talking about the display, the standard variant features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel. Whereas, the Plus model has a larger 6.7-inch form factor. The displays can go up to 2000 nits peak brightness. It is sad to see Apple stick to a 60Hz refresh rate for the 15 & 15 Plus models in 2023 where even $200 phones offer a 120Hz refresh rate. The devices are powered by the A16 Bionic chip which currently powers the iPhone 14 Pro & Pro Max. The camera department features a dual set-up with a 48MP primary and a 12MP telephoto lens capable of 2X zoom. The selfie camera sports a 12MP lens. The iPhone 15 is priced at Rs 79,900 In the Indian market and the 15 Plus at Rs 89,900.
iPhone 15 Pro & 15 Pro Max
Apple also introduced its flagship-grade smartphones the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max during the Wonderlust event. Sadly, there was no iPhone 15 Ultra as many fans were anticipating. During the presentation, Tim Cook called the latest Pro iPhones to be the “most pro lineup” Apple has ever created and we cannot agree any more!
Both models feature an all-new Grade 5 Titanium Frame with brushed texture for improved durability. The devices run on the latest A17 Pro chipset based on the 3nm architecture. The iPhone 14 Pro sports a 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display with 2,556 × 1,179 pixels resolution, 120Hz ProMotion, HDR, True Tone, Dynamic Island, Always-On display, and Ceramic Shield protection. Whereas, The Pro Max version has a 6.7-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display with 2,796 × 1,290 pixels, HDR, True Tone, Dynamic Island, Always-On display, 120Hz ProMotion technology, and Ceramic Shield protection. The latest Pro iPhones come with a triple camera setup featuring a primary 48MP wide-angle lens coupled with a 12MP ultrawide and 12MP telephoto sensor. The front camera here is a 12MP lens. iPhone 15 Pro is priced starting at Rs 1,34,900 for the base 128GB storage model, Rs 1,44,900 for 256GB, Rs 164,900 for 512GB, and Rs 1,84,900 for the 1TB model. iPhone 15 Pro Max costs Rs 1,59,900 for the base 256GB storage model, Rs 1,79,900 for 512GB, and a cool Rs 1,99,900 for the 1TB version.
After months of anticipation, the latest iPhone 15 series and Apple Watch Ultra 2 have finally launched!
We all know you guys have been waiting for these new devices for the longest time now and thought why not have some fun and add fuel to the fire? The Apple iPhone 15 has not yet been released and will be announced tonight during the Apple event at 10:30 PM IST!
I know right now you want to track down my social media and send some not-so-pleasant DMs for the prank I just pulled on you but wait, I do have some scoops of what will be launching in a matter of few hours. Check it out below –
What to expect from the Apple Event tonight?
iPhone 15 Series: The latest iPhone series is expected to be the biggest highlight of the Apple Wonderlust event. The iPhone 15, 15 plus and 15 Pro Max are most likely to launch today. There were also some rumours about the iPhone 15 Ultra, it’ll be interesting to see if this device is actually announced tonight. This year, the standard iPhone 15 variant will also feature a Dynamic Island according to reports on the internet.
Apple Watch Ultra 2: Leaks suggest that Apple might unveil the second generation of its Apple Watch Ultra series. The rugged watch is expected to feature a S9 chip based on the A15 Bionic SoC. It is also expected to be available in two colours this year.
Apple Watch Series 9: Apple’s next-gen standard Watch is expected to launch with minor upgrades. It will feature a new S9 chip with new health features. It will also feature a new Electrodermal Activity (EDA) sensor and a new pink colour variant.
AirPods Pro 2: Apple’s latest AirPods Pro 2 might get a new USB Type-C variant tonight. AirPods Pro 2 were initially announced last year with the USB-C variant getting introduced this year.
We are only 12 days away from witnessing the launch of the iPhone 15, destined to take place on September 12th, 2023, from Apple Park in Cupertino, California. However, if you can’t keep your excitement together and want to know about the to-be-launched Apple products, then here’s a dose of what to expect.
Apple iPhone 15 Lineup
The iPhone 15 lineup will feature two entry-level models, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, along with two high-end models, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Like always, the entry-level models will inherit specs and features from their pricey siblings (last year launched pro models), such as the A16 chip, Dynamic Island interface, and a 48-megapixel rear camera.
The latest lineup of the iPhones is expected to feature USB-C charging support instead of lightning cable. However, as per the rumours, only pro models are expected to come with support for USB-C charging. Besides type-c support, the pro models are expected to feature an iOS 17 along with an action button (replacing a mute toggle), similar to the one on the Apple Watch Ultra.
The new iPhones are expected to come with new colour options and matching charging cables rather than a plain white cable. The cables are rumoured to have a bigger length and are also expected to be more durable than before. The iPhone 15 lineup will feature a 48MP primary camera, 12 MP selfie camera, and the pro models are expected to have an additional 12 MP camera with 3x optical zoom.
Apple Watch9
The forthcoming launch of the Apple Watch Series 9 is anticipated in the pipeline of expectations, characterised as an evolutionary advancement from its predecessor, the Series 8. The device will maintain a consistent resemblance to the Apple Watch Series 8 and is poised to concentrate its enhancements on the refinement of the cores. The new S9 chip will be based on the A15 Bionic chip and promises a marked elevation in both efficacy and efficiency, along with improved battery longevity. The company is also expected to launch a fresh pink variant for the forthcoming Apple Watch Series 9.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Last year, Apple launched Watch Ultra at a price point of $800, and as per the trusted tipsters, the company is expected to launch the Apple Watch Ultra 2, an enhanced iteration of the Apple Watch Ultra. The Watch Ultra 2 is projected to incorporate the same advanced S9 processor upgrade scheduled for the Apple Watch Series 9, accompanied by novel innovations in 3D printed components. The second-generation Apple Watch Ultra raises the possibility of a weight reduction compared to its predecessor. The company might also introduce a fresh, darker colour option, potentially including a black titanium hue, expanding the spectrum of choices available to consumers.
Besides the above-mentioned products, Apple is expected to launch AirPods Pro with a USB-C case and new Apple Watch Bands. Multiple reports have indicated that Apple is shifting from its customary practice of introducing leather iPhone 15 cases, a tradition maintained since 2013 during the annual iPhone launches. Instead, they would present cases with a leather-like appearance that incorporate environmentally conscious materials, aligning with a more eco-friendly approach.
When it comes to acquiring the latest in technological marvels, few names resonate as powerfully as the iPhone. The allure of cutting-edge features, enhanced performance, and an unrivalled user experience can be irresistible. However, the seasoned consumer knows that a well-timed purchase can make all the difference between a savvy investment and a less-than-ideal expenditure.
A cardinal rule in the realm of iPhone acquisitions is to exercise patience during the months of July and August. This is not a whim but a calculated manoeuvre stemming from Apple’s pattern of unveiling its newest iPhone iterations in September. The rationale is simple yet profound: the imminent launch of new models triggers a domino effect, driving down the prices of their predecessors.
The art of precision extends beyond mere timing. It’s not just about when but also about how. The impulse to seize the latest iPhone hot off the press might not always yield the best outcome. Contrary to common assumption, the sweet spot for acquisition is sometimes right after the curtain rises on the new model. A prudent course of action involves allowing a brief interlude—perhaps a month or two.
However, the realm of shrewd iPhone procurement harbours more than just temporal considerations. As the calendar turns, strategic shopping events come to the fore, beckoning the discerning buyer. Think about the October shopping extravaganza and the legendary Black Friday. These moments in retail offer a glimmer of hope to those hunting for a deal on the cherished device. But, let it be known: while these occasions might tantalize with discounts, the latest iPhone incarnations typically remain sheltered from steep price reductions.
Apple’s modus operandi in pricing strategy has proven itself to be a symphony of timing and tactics. The price tags of newly minted iPhones seldom witness a significant plummet within their debut year. Instead, Apple employs a subtle dance, often stepping back on the cost of the previous year’s model when its successor is unveiled. This captivating performance typically graces the stage in September, with potential encores in the spring.
In summation, the pilgrimage for the most opportune iPhone purchase entails a delicate minuet through the annals of time. With their promise of blooming possibilities, the festival time often delivers the best chance to embrace the latest iPhone incarnations. For those with an appetite for a slightly more seasoned vintage, the siren calls of Black Friday might beckon with alluring offers.
In the grand tapestry of iPhone acquisitions, let the months of July and August serve as a cautionary tale, a vivid reminder of the impending harvest of new models and the subsequent cascade of price adjustments. Ultimately, as seekers of the perfect iPhone deal navigate the shifting tides of opportunity, one truth stands resolute: timing, in all its nuanced glory, reigns supreme in the realm of the discerning buyer.
Apple, the renowned creator of the iPhone, is set to initiate the production of its highly acclaimed wireless earbuds, the AirPods, within the premises of Foxconn’s manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. Sources with intimate knowledge of the matter have revealed that Foxconn has given the green light to a substantial investment of USD 400 million for the establishment in Hyderabad, which is poised to commence large-scale production by the onset of December 2024.
According to a reliable insider, the Foxconn Hyderabad plant is poised to take on the responsibility of crafting the coveted AirPods. This ambitious endeavour is expected to transition into full-scale manufacturing operations by the conclusion of the year, ushering in a new chapter in Apple’s production capabilities.
This development has been corroborated by another source privy to the ongoing progress. However, despite our outreach, both Apple and Foxconn have yet to provide an official response to our email query seeking confirmation.
The forthcoming AirPods production line will represent a significant milestone as it establishes itself as the second product category, following the iPhone, to be manufactured in India. Globally recognized for their exceptional performance, Apple’s AirPods have emerged as market leaders in the realm of True Wireless Stereo (TWS) audio devices.
Notably, they seized an impressive 36 per cent of the TWS market share in the final quarter of 2022, as reported by Canalys, a prominent research entity. Apple dominates the segment, followed by Samsung, capturing 7.5 per cent, Xiaomi securing 4.4 per cent, Boat claiming 4 per cent, and Oppo with a 3 per cent market share. It is pertinent to mention that Xiaomi, too, embarked on TWS production in India, commencing operations this year at the Optiemus Electronics plant in Noida.
On 29th June 2007, an iconic moment unfolded at Macworld when Steve Jobs graced the stage and launched the first-ever Apple iPhone. This groundbreaking marvel of technology came with a hefty price tag back then—$500 for the 4GB version and $600 for the 8GB variant, but only if you committed to a 2-year contract with AT&T (then known as Cingular). Fast forward to 2023, and these devices have become cherished relics that command exorbitant prices at auctions.
To illustrate this point, let’s look at a remarkable sale in February: an untouched, factory-sealed 8GB iPhone. Initially expected to fetch around $2,500, it ended up astounding everyone by soaring to a staggering $63,000 in bidding. Surprisingly, even that price doesn’t quite reach the heights of what an original iPhone can fetch.
Recently, an extremely rare and brand-new iPhone 4GB, straight from the factory, appeared on LCG Auctions, valued initially between $50,000 and $100,000. The bidding for the same commenced on 30th June with a modest starting price of $10,000. Slowly but surely, the figure climbed to $42,000, but then, something remarkable occurred.
A short but fierce bidding war erupted in the blink of an eye, resulting in a jaw-dropping winning bid of an astonishing $190,372. Whew! That’s an immense amount of money. Interestingly, this exceeds the prices achieved by the 8GB models. Besides the $63,000 sale from February, another sealed 8GB unit was sold just yesterday, fetching a still-impressive “only” $39,339.
Despite being less popular, why do the 4GB models command higher prices in the collector’s market? LCG Auctions sheds some light on this intriguing phenomenon: “The original 4GB model is considered a ‘Holy Grail’ among iPhone collectors. Its scarcity is directly attributed to its limited production. Released on 29th June 2007, alongside the 8GB model, the 4GB version suffered from slow sales. Buyers opted to pay an additional $100 to double their storage capacity.”
These lacklustre sales led Apple to make the decision to discontinue the 4GB model on 5th September 2007, a mere two months after its initial release. The more affordable, less successful variant now commands prices at auction three to four times higher than its currently famous siblings, some 16 years later. If, by any chance, you happen to possess a sealed iPhone 2G tucked away in your attic, now is the perfect moment to scoop it and reap the rewards.
Caviar, the renowned Dubai-based luxury brand revered for its bespoke high-end creations, presents the Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition, known colloquially as the CVR Edition. Apple’s proclamation of the Vision Pro as a revolutionary “spatial computer” kindled Caviar’s ambition to transcend mere technological marvel and fashion a masterpiece of artistic design.
Drawing inspiration from the audaciously innovative flip-up glasses curated by Tom Ford and the avant-garde ski masks brought forth by Gucci, Caviar has breathed new life into the Apple Vision Pro headset, transforming it into an epitome of pioneering technology and exquisite style.
Embracing a sumptuous opulence, the Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition, accompanied by its protective mask, proudly dons an embellishment of no less than 1.5 kilograms of resplendent 18K gold. Additionally, the headband is meticulously handcrafted using the prestigious Connolly leather, an esteemed material favoured by both the British Royal Court and the revered Rolls-Royce, ensuring a superlative and indulgent experience for the fortunate possessor.
The original Apple Vision Pro, priced at $3,499 (approx. ₹2.9 lacs), integrates the remarkable EyeSight technology, which artfully conjures the illusion of transparency by exhibiting the wearer’s eyes when approached by another. However, acknowledging that not everyone revels in the exhibition of their gaze upon the device’s screen, Caviar introduces a privacy option for the CVR Edition. This ingenious feature empowers users to enshroud their eyes on the external display, giving them greater dominion over their privacy.
Regaling in the realm of pricing, the Vision Pro CVR Edition is expected to commence at an awe-inspiring $39,900 (approx. ₹33 lacs), a reflection of the exceptional artistry, luxurious materials, and limited availability bestowed upon this exclusive offering. Caviar’s intentions lie in releasing a mere 24 units of the Apple Vision Pro Caviar Edition, heightening the anticipation surrounding its fall 2024 debut.
