Despite being criticized for its late entry into generative AI, Apple is making strategic moves, such as partnering with OpenAI and integrating AI into its devices. The company is under pressure to maintain its market share against competitors like Samsung and Meta, especially after the lukewarm reception of the Apple Vision Pro. Legal battles, including an antitrust lawsuit from the US Department of Justice, add to the challenges. Analysts emphasize the importance of timing and pricing new products to meet consumer demand, suggesting that the full benefits of Apple's 2024 initiatives are yet to be realized.
Key takeaways:
- Apple plans to expand in generative AI and launch more hardware products in 2025, including a potential affordable iPhone and smart home devices.
- The new Apple Intelligence software is expected to drive a super cycle in iPhone sales, with predictions of shipping over 240 million iPhones in 2025.
- Apple faces competition in mixed reality and potential tariffs affecting Chinese sales and production, with discussions ongoing with Tencent and ByteDance for AI integration in China.
- Apple's legal battles continue into 2025, with a pending antitrust lawsuit from the US Department of Justice and high expectations for its strategic partnerships and product launches.