Apple CEO John Ternus says the best AI device is still the iPhone
Apple CEO John Ternus asserts the iPhone remains the best device for AI. Ternus, who took over the CEO role from Tim Cook on September 1, previously defended the company's delayed entry into the foldable market by calling early competitor models "cheap and crappy." Apple has since released the iPhone Duo, its first foldable handset, which reviewers describe as a first-class device that solves common flaws seen in Android foldables, despite its high cost and weight. The company also recently launched the HomeView smart display and the iPhone 18 Pro.
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- ✓ John Ternus became Apple CEO on September 1.
- ✓ Apple released the iPhone Duo, its first foldable handset.
- ✓ Tim Cook remains involved with Apple as executive chairman.
What changed
Reviews of the iPhone Duo confirm the device addresses previous foldable flaws despite being heavy and expensive.
Live updates
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Apple CEO John Ternus maintains iPhone is premier AI device
Apple CEO John Ternus asserts the iPhone remains the best device for AI. Ternus, who took over the CEO role from Tim Cook on September 1, previously defended the company's delayed entry into the foldable market by calling early competitor models "cheap and crappy." Apple has since released the iPhone Duo, its first foldable handset, which reviewers describe as a first-class device that solves common flaws seen in Android foldables, despite its high cost and weight. The company also recently launched the HomeView smart display and the iPhone 18 Pro.
Why it matters
The transition of leadership from Tim Cook to John Ternus marks a new era for Apple's hardware strategy. The release of the iPhone Duo validates Ternus's strategy of waiting to refine foldable technology before entering the market.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus became Apple CEO on September 1.
- Apple released the iPhone Duo, its first foldable handset.
- Tim Cook remains involved with Apple as executive chairman.
Still unconfirmed
- The iPhone Duo solves the most notable flaws found on Android foldables.
- The iPhone Duo is heavy and expensive.
What to watch next
- Sales figures for the iPhone Duo
- Further AI feature integrations for the iPhone 18 Pro
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (7)
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Apple CEO John Ternus Criticizes Early Foldables Amid iPhone Duo Debut
Apple CEO John Ternus described early foldable phones as "cheap and crappy" during a TIME interview. Ternus used these remarks to justify the time Apple spent developing the iPhone Duo. While the company recently launched the HomeView smart display and maintains that the iPhone is the premier AI device, Ternus noted that Apple does not need to manufacture every single component within its products. These comments follow the release of the iPhone Duo, which features a folding display, and the iPhone 18 Pro, which focuses on advanced camera hardware.
Why it matters
Apple is expanding its hardware lineup to include foldables and AI-integrated displays. This shift puts the company in direct competition with established foldable manufacturers. Ternus's comments signal a strategy of prioritizing build quality over being the first to market.
What is confirmed
- Apple CEO John Ternus called early foldable phones "cheap and crappy" in a TIME interview.
- Ternus stated that Apple does not need to make every single thing in a product.
- The iPhone Duo features a folding display.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple may release a touchscreen MacBook Pro OLED laptop in late October.
What to watch next
- Official performance benchmarks for the iPhone Duo folding display
- Details on Apple's AI partnership with Meta
- Release of a touchscreen MacBook Pro OLED laptop
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Apple CEO John Ternus says iPhone is best AI device
Apple CEO John Ternus believes the iPhone remains the best AI device, despite the company's recent release of the HomeView smart display powered by Siri AI. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo offer different features, with the Duo featuring a folding display and the Pro having more advanced cameras. Apple has also partnered with Meta on AI projects, and Ternus's comments suggest a focus on iPhone capabilities.
Why it matters
The comments come as Apple competes with Amazon and Google in the smart home market and faces a decline in global phone shipments. Ternus's appointment as CEO in September marked a new direction for the company, with a focus on integrating hardware, software, and services. The company's AI strategy is being closely watched, especially after its partnership with Meta.
What is confirmed
- Apple released the HomeView smart display powered by Siri AI, priced at $299.
- Apple and Meta have partnered on AI projects.
- Global phone shipments have collapsed, with Apple and Samsung nearly tied at the top.
Still unconfirmed
- The foldable iPhone Duo starts at $1,999.
What to watch next
- Apple's 2027 product lineup and AI strategy
- The impact of the partnership with Meta on future AI projects
- Global phone shipment trends for 2027
confidence 80%Sources used for this update (5)
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Apple CEO John Ternus Debuts HomeView Smart Display with Siri AI
Apple released the HomeView smart display powered by Siri AI, priced at 299 dollars, entering the smart home market to compete against Amazon and Google. The October product launch features the upgraded Siri assistant as Apple attempts to integrate artificial intelligence into daily household use under Chief Executive John Ternus. TechRadar recently sat down with Ternus to discuss the integration of hardware, software, and services following his September 1st appointment.
Why it matters
Chief Executive John Ternus took the helm on September 1st, 2026, succeeding Tim Cook. The October 13 product launch marks a direct challenge to established smart home competitors Amazon and Google. Apple is betting its hardware strategy on an upgraded Siri AI assistant to make artificial intelligence a practical part of everyday consumer routines.
What is confirmed
- Apple released the HomeView smart display powered by Siri AI.
- The HomeView smart display costs 299 dollars.
- John Ternus serves as Apple CEO after taking the helm on September 1st, 2026.
Still unconfirmed
- HomeView will be the first big win for new CEO John Ternus.
What to watch next
- Consumer adoption rates for the 299 dollar HomeView device
- Further updates on Apple smart home hardware sales
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Apple Cuts Pro iPhone Component Orders by 15% Amid Chip Shortage
Suppliers report that Apple reduced component orders for its newest Pro iPhones by at least 15 percent. An artificial intelligence driven memory chip shortage is driving smartphone prices to record highs. A 100 dollar price increase threatens to deter buyers. Apple previously introduced the iPhone Duo foldable phone under Chief Executive John Ternus, who replaced Tim Cook on September 1st, 2026. The company also scheduled a special October event for October 13 to reveal expected smart home gadgets.
Why it matters
The recent order cuts highlight how component constraints and rising production costs impact hardware manufacturing under new leadership. John Ternus assumed the chief executive role as Tim Cook moved to chairman of the board. Ternus is actively reorganizing engineering operations by merging hardware and design teams.
What is confirmed
- Suppliers say Apple's October component orders for its newest Pro iPhones are down at least 15%.
- An AI-driven memory chip shortage is pushing smartphone prices to record highs.
- John Ternus took over as Apple chief executive on September 1st, 2026, replacing Tim Cook.
Still unconfirmed
- Rumors suggest Apple may release a touchscreen MacBook with an OLED display in October.
What to watch next
- Observe product announcements at the scheduled October 13 special event for smart home gadgets and potential new hardware.
- Monitor component order data from suppliers to see if production cuts expand beyond the Pro iPhone models.
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Apple CEO John Ternus Unveils iPhone Duo
Apple Chief Executive John Ternus unveiled the company's first foldable phone, named the iPhone Duo, on Wednesday. The release marks an early milestone for Ternus, who took over as chief executive on September 1st, 2026, replacing Tim Cook. Cook transitioned to chairman of the board. Ternus is reshaping the company by reorganizing engineering efforts to combine hardware and design teams. Meanwhile, Apple announced a special October event scheduled for October 13, where new smart home gadgets are expected to debut.
Why it matters
The leadership transition follows blunt advice from Tim Cook and shifts Apple toward tighter engineering integration to speed up product releases. Ternus previously stated his view that the iPhone is the premier artificial intelligence device. The company is simultaneously pushing into smart home hardware and other new product categories.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus replaced Tim Cook as Apple CEO on September 1st, 2026, with Cook becoming chairman of the board.
- Apple unveiled its first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, on Wednesday.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple is reportedly developing a smart home hub, doorbell, smart lock, and thermostat with LG for an expected October 13 event.
- Ongoing product developments point to a potential foldable device priced above $2,000, alongside rumors concerning a new OLED touchscreen MacBook Ultra.
What to watch next
- The October 13 special Apple event and any announcements regarding smart home devices
- Market reception and pricing details for the newly unveiled iPhone Duo
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Apple CEO John Ternus Focuses on Product Lineup Over Technology
Apple Chief Executive John Ternus is executing a broad corporate reorganization to center engineering efforts on products rather than technology alone. Ternus is joining hardware and design teams together to foster closer collaboration and speed up product releases with tighter integration. Previously, Ternus stated his perspective that the iPhone serves as the premier artificial intelligence device. Meanwhile, ongoing product developments point to a potential foldable device priced above $2,000, alongside rumors concerning a new OLED touchscreen MacBook Ultra.
Why it matters
This leadership pivot under John Ternus marks a strategic shift for Apple as the company attempts to streamline its engineering pipeline and accelerate hardware rollouts. By bridging historically separate hardware and design divisions, the corporation aims to deliver more cohesive devices. These structural adjustments follow earlier product debuts and coincide with emerging hardware leaks regarding foldable models and touchscreen laptops.
What is confirmed
- Apple Chief Executive John Ternus is pursuing a corporate overhaul to prioritize products over technology.
- Ternus aims to bridge hardware and design teams for closer collaboration and more integrated devices.
- Ternus previously stated his vision that the best artificial intelligence device is the iPhone.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple is preparing a MacBook Ultra featuring an OLED touchscreen.
- The foldable device debuted alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup according to leaks.
What to watch next
- Official announcements from Apple detailing the corporate overhaul and timeline for integrated product releases
- Confirmation on whether upcoming hardware will include a foldable iPhone and an OLED touchscreen MacBook Ultra
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Apple CEO John Ternus Pursues Major Corporate Overhaul
Apple Chief Executive John Ternus is pursuing a broad corporate overhaul to sharpen engineering focus and create a leaner organization. Ternus aims to introduce products more frequently by bridging hardware and design teams for closer collaboration and more integrated devices. Leaks indicate the foldable device debuted alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup with a starting price north of $2,000, carrying potential names such as iPhone Fold and iPhone Ultra. Ternus previously stated his vision that the best artificial intelligence device remains the iPhone during his debut product launch.
Why it matters
The strategic pivot under Ternus follows recent engineering layoffs targeting director-level program managers to accelerate hardware output. Apple faces intense competition in key markets such as China against domestic rivals Huawei and Xiaomi following the global release of the $1,999 foldable device.
What is confirmed
- Apple CEO John Ternus is weighing a broad overhaul aimed at sharpening engineering focus and creating a leaner organization.
- John Ternus is bridging hardware and design teams to foster closer collaboration and more integrated products.
- Leaks indicated a September 2026 launch alongside the iPhone 18 Pro lineup for a book-style foldable device.
Still unconfirmed
- The foldable device carries a starting price north of $2,000.
- Possible names for the foldable device include the iPhone Fold and the iPhone Ultra.
What to watch next
- Execution and timeline of additional engineering layoffs and structural changes under John Ternus
- Sales performance data for the foldable iPhone against domestic rivals Huawei and Xiaomi in China
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Apple CEO John Ternus Debuts iPhone Duo and Reshapes Engineering
Apple Chief Executive John Ternus used his debut product launch on September 9, 2026, to introduce the foldable iPhone Duo alongside a strategic vision claiming the best artificial intelligence device remains the iPhone. Ternus is reshaping Apple through engineering layoffs in his first month, dismissing director-level engineering program managers who kept hardware products on schedule to demand faster output. Globally launched on September 11, 2026, at a starting price of $1,999, the device faces a tepid reception in China priced at 15,999 yuan as Apple battles domestic rivals Huawei and Xiaomi.
Why it matters
The leadership transition marks a rare moment for Apple, as Ternus becomes only the third chief executive since Steve Jobs returned in 1997. His aggressive management overhaul and push for faster hardware development coincide with the commercial rollout of the foldable iPhone Duo. Research firms estimate sales could reach 6 million units this year, though analysts question broader consumer demand beyond wealthy tech enthusiasts.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus took the stage for the first time as Apple Inc. chief executive on September 9, 2026.
- John Ternus dismissed director-level engineering program managers in his first month as CEO.
- The foldable iPhone Duo launched globally on September 11, 2026, with a starting price of $1,999.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple could sell 6 million iPhone Duos this year according to research firm estimates.
- The foldable iPhone Duo is experiencing a tepid reception in China at a price of 15,999 yuan.
What to watch next
- Official quarterly earnings reports showing initial sales figures for the iPhone Duo
- Further organizational restructuring and hardware timeline adjustments under CEO John Ternus
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
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Apple Faces Test Over Premium Foldable iPhone Duo Pricing
Apple faces a tepid reception in China for its foldable iPhone Duo, priced at 15,999 yuan, or about $2,230, as it tries to capture market share from domestic rivals like Huawei and Xiaomi. Globally, the device launched on September 11, 2026, with a starting price of $1,999, prompting analysts to question its appeal beyond wealthy tech enthusiasts. Apple demonstrated the foldable device running Zoom, Slack, and Netflix during its Cupertino launch event. Meanwhile, research firms estimate Apple could sell 6 million iPhone Duos this year, even as the company's stock retreats from its all-time high.
Why it matters
The introduction of the foldable iPhone Duo represents Apple's entry into a highly competitive foldable segment dominated in China by local giants like Huawei and Xiaomi. Observers are closely watching whether the high price tag limits adoption primarily to wealthy tech enthusiasts rather than mainstream consumers. This hardware push coincides with broader executive and product strategy evaluations inside the company.
What is confirmed
- Apple launched its new foldable iPhone Duo with a starting price of $1,999 on September 11, 2026.
- The foldable iPhone Duo carries a price tag of 15,999 yuan in China.
Still unconfirmed
- Research firms estimate that Apple could sell 6 million iPhone Duos this year.
What to watch next
- Actual sales figures reported by Apple for the iPhone Duo
- Market share shifts in China's foldable phone segment against Huawei and Xiaomi
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Apple iPhone Duo Faces Tepid Market Reception in China
Apple faces a tepid reception in China for its new foldable iPhone Duo, which carries a price tag of 15,999 yuan, or about $2,230. CNBC reported on September 10, 2026, that the pricing strategy places the device above Xiaomi's 18 Fold at 10,999 yuan, but below Huawei's trifold Mate XT2 at 19,999 yuan. Chinese social media users have highlighted this unique positioning as Apple attempts to capture market share in a highly competitive foldable segment dominated by domestic rivals.
Why it matters
The iPhone Duo represents Apple's entry into the foldable hardware market, sitting alongside a broader product rollout that includes the iPhone 18 Pro. While Apple executives maintain that the iPhone remains the premier device for artificial intelligence, regional market dynamics in China dictate fierce competition against domestic competitors offering alternative price points and folding form factors.
What is confirmed
- Apple's iPhone Duo is priced at 15,999 yuan, or about $2,230, in China.
- The iPhone Duo is positioned above Xiaomi's 18 Fold at 10,999 yuan and below Huawei's Mate XT2 at 19,999 yuan.
Still unconfirmed
- Chinese social media users have given the new foldable device a lukewarm reception.
What to watch next
- Sales volume data for the iPhone Duo in the Chinese market
- Competitive pricing adjustments from rival manufacturers Xiaomi and Huawei
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Apple CEO John Ternus promotes iPhone as premier AI device
Apple CEO John Ternus maintains that the iPhone remains the best device for artificial intelligence. This stance follows the release of the US$2,000 foldable iPhone Duo, which Ternus describes as an intelligent AI hub. The hardware launch includes the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and new AirPods. While promoting these AI capabilities, Apple is resolving a $250 million Siri settlement that allows eligible iPhone owners to claim payouts per device through December 21, 2026. Ternus recently discussed the iPhone Duo and Siri in an interview with Mouloud Achour on Clique.
Why it matters
The transition to John Ternus as CEO marks a shift in Apple's AI hardware strategy. The company is attempting to integrate AI hubs into premium foldable devices while simultaneously addressing legal failures regarding Siri's previous performance.
What is confirmed
- Apple CEO John Ternus describes the iPhone as the perfect AI device.
- The iPhone Duo is a foldable device priced at US$2,000.
- Apple launched the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and new AirPods.
- A $250 million Siri settlement allows specific iPhone owners to claim payouts by December 21, 2026.
Still unconfirmed
- Siri AI is not your friend.
What to watch next
- The deadline for Siri settlement payouts on December 21, 2026
- Market adoption rates for the US$2,000 iPhone Duo
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CEO John Ternus identifies iPhone as ideal AI device
Apple CEO John Ternus asserted during his first keynote that the iPhone is the perfect AI device. This claim accompanies the launch of the US$2,000 foldable iPhone Duo, which Ternus positioned as an intelligent AI hub. Other hardware debuts include the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and new AirPods. While Ternus promotes the iPhone's AI capabilities, the company is concurrently managing a $250 million Siri settlement, allowing specific iPhone owners to claim payouts per device by December 21, 2026.
Why it matters
Ternus assumed the CEO role on September 1 after Tim Cook became executive chairman. This product cycle establishes Ternus's strategic direction for Apple's artificial intelligence integration. The shift toward foldable hardware suggests a new approach to personal AI hubs.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus became Apple CEO on September 1.
- Apple launched the iPhone Duo, a foldable device priced at US$2,000.
- The hardware launch included the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and new AirPods.
- Apple opened a claims site for a $250 million Siri settlement where iPhone 15 Pro and 16 owners can claim $25 to $95 per device before December 21, 2026.
Still unconfirmed
- A smaller Echo Show is the real new hardware.
- An Apple Home Hub for home controls is expected next month.
What to watch next
- Official release details for the rumored Apple Home Hub
- Further details from the Clique TV interview regarding the CEO transition
- Final payout numbers from the Siri settlement claims site
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
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Apple CEO John Ternus launches foldable iPhone Duo as AI hub
Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the iPhone Duo, a foldable device priced at US$2,000, at the Surprise and Shine event in Cupertino. Ternus claims the iPhone remains the best AI device, positioning the Duo as an intelligent personal hub for artificial intelligence. The hardware launch included the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, and new AirPods. This event marks one of the first major product cycles under Ternus, who took over as CEO on September 1 after Tim Cook transitioned to executive chairman.
Why it matters
The transition in leadership from Tim Cook to John Ternus signals a new era for Apple's executive strategy. The introduction of foldable hardware suggests a shift in Apple's approach to competing in the high-end smartphone market. These releases coincide with a broader industry push to integrate generative AI into mobile hardware.
What is confirmed
- Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the iPhone Duo foldable device priced at US$2,000.
- The Surprise and Shine event in Cupertino included the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro and Apple Watch Series 12.
- Tim Cook stepped down as CEO on September 1 to become executive chairman.
- John Ternus was appointed as CEO following Tim Cook's transition.
What to watch next
- Market reception and sales figures for the US$2,000 iPhone Duo
- Further software updates detailing specific AI hub capabilities for the foldable device
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Apple CEO John Ternus Debuts Foldable iPhone Duo
Apple CEO John Ternus introduced the iPhone Duo, a foldable device priced at US$2,000, during the Surprise and Shine event. Ternus positions the foldable as an intelligent personal hub for artificial intelligence, asserting the iPhone remains the premier AI device. The launch occurred alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch 12, and new AirPods. This hardware push follows a leadership change where Tim Cook stepped down as CEO on September 1 to become executive chairman, appointing Ternus to lead the company.
Why it matters
The transition from Tim Cook to John Ternus marks a shift in leadership after Cook grew Apple's valuation from $350 billion to over $4.5 trillion. Ternus now faces pressure to prove Apple's competitiveness in AI. The high price point of the iPhone Duo raises questions about market necessity for foldable hardware.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus is the CEO of Apple.
- Tim Cook stepped down as CEO on September 1 to become executive chairman.
- Apple introduced the iPhone Duo, iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch 12, and new AirPods.
- The iPhone Duo is a foldable device priced at US$2,000.
Still unconfirmed
- The iPhone Duo is intended to serve as an intelligent personal hub for artificial intelligence.
- Ternus executed strategic product cuts to signal a shift in corporate direction.
What to watch next
- Consumer adoption rates for the US$2,000 iPhone Duo
- Further AI software integrations specifically for the foldable form factor
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- appleinsider.com — iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone Duo, more: What AppleInsider thinks about 'Surprise and Shine'
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Apple CEO John Ternus Reveals Foldable iPhone at Annual Showcase
Apple CEO John Ternus used his first company keynote to introduce a foldable iPhone priced at US$2,000, framing the device as an intelligent personal hub for artificial intelligence. Bloomberg Opinion analyst Dave Lee noted that Apple must expend significant effort to justify the necessity of a US$2,000 foldable phone. Alongside the new hardware lineup featuring the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch 12, and new AirPods, Ternus executed strategic product cuts that signal a shift in corporate direction. The hardware launch positions the iPhone as the primary vehicle for Apple artificial intelligence initiatives.
Why it matters
The transition to a new chief executive officer marks a structural shift for Apple as the company pivots toward hardware integration with artificial intelligence. Analysts are closely watching how investors receive the high-priced foldable model amid broader market questions regarding artificial intelligence valuations and tech sector spending.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus opened his first Apple keynote with a folding iPhone.
- A foldable iPhone costs at least US$2,000.
- Apple will need to spend a great deal of energy explaining the why of a foldable iPhone that costs at least US$2,000, according to Bloomberg Opinion's Dave Lee.
Still unconfirmed
- Apple made a quieter decision regarding product cuts that signals a fundamentally different company than investors have owned for the past decade.
What to watch next
- Consumer demand and sales figures for the US$2,000 foldable iPhone
- Further details on the strategic product cuts implemented during the keynote
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
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Apple CEO John Ternus Positions iPhone as Premier AI Device
Apple CEO John Ternus asserted that the iPhone remains the best AI device during the company's annual showcase. Ternus described the iPhone as Apple's "intelligent personal hub," signaling a strategic focus on integrating artificial intelligence into its primary handheld hardware. The event served as a formal introduction for Ternus as the new CEO, where he stated he continues to be inspired every single day. A new $2,000 iPhone model was featured as part of this product push.
Why it matters
This shift occurs as Apple attempts to maintain hardware dominance against emerging AI-first competitors. Ternus is reportedly employing a business strategy used by Steve Jobs 25 years ago to drive growth.
What is confirmed
- John Ternus is the new CEO of Apple.
- Ternus stated the iPhone is the best AI device.
- The iPhone is now positioned as Apple's "intelligent personal hub."
- Ternus said at the annual showcase, "I continue to be inspired every single day."
Still unconfirmed
- A new iPhone model costs $2,000.
- Ternus is reviving a Steve Jobs strategy from 25 years ago.
What to watch next
- Sales data for the $2,000 iPhone model
- Further technical specifications of the intelligent personal hub features
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- Bloomberg — A $2,000 iPhone Gives Apple’s New CEO His Steve Jobs Moment
- The Guardian — Apple’s new CEO introduces himself at annual showcase: ‘I continue to be inspired every single day’
- TechCrunch — Apple CEO John Ternus says the best AI device is still the iPhone
- Computerworld — The iPhone is now Apple’s ‘intelligent personal hub’
- TechCrunch — Apple’s new CEO is reviving a Steve Jobs strategy from 25 years ago
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