Apple Developing More In-House Tech?
Appleinsider reports that Apple is planning on personally developing more individual components used in its iPod product line.
In working to develop some of its own component solutions -- rather than continue to license them from others -- Apple hopes to gain more control over the iPod and shave costs at the same time. These costs saving measures are likely to be reflected in slightly higher margins for Apple and lower iPod costs for the end consumer.
Appleinsider points to the iPod scroll wheel as one component which will be developed by Apple in-house. Of note, Apple also moved towards its own track-pad technology in the Powerbook and iBook lines.
Apple is reportedly planning on offering user-replacable batteries in an upcoming iPod line.
Historically, Apple had a similar approach to in-house development of technologies for the Macintosh product line. However, in recent years, Apple has moved away from such an approach and has incorporated standard PC components and technologies into the Mac line. Whether the economics/scale for the iPod line is fundamentally different remains to be seen.
Popular Stories
In May, Apple agreed to pay $250 million to settle a U.S. class action lawsuit over Siri AI's delayed launch, and eligible iPhone users could receive up to a $95 payout.
This week, the California court overseeing the case held a hearing regarding preliminary approval of the settlement, but the judge has not yet issued a ruling. It will likely be at least a few more months before eligible...
The Apple TV 4K hasn't been updated since 2022, and it's due for a refresh. An update is planned for 2026, but Apple is likely going to wait to launch it after Siri AI launches in iOS 27.
Design
Apple TV design updates don't happen often, and that's not changing. The next Apple TV is going to have the same squircle shape as the current model, and it'll continue to be made from a black...
In select U.S. states, residents can add their driver's license or state ID to the Apple Wallet app on the iPhone and Apple Watch, and then use it to display proof of identity or age at select airports and businesses, and in select apps.
To set up the feature, open the Wallet app on the iPhone and tap on the plus sign in the top-right corner. Next, tap on Driver's License and ID Cards,...
