Search results for: “India”

  • Apple raises iPhone prices in India due to new taxes

    Apple raises iPhone prices in India due to new taxes

    Apple has increased iPhone prices in India because of new import taxes set by the government. These taxes, which started on April 1, 2025, add extra costs to products brought into the country. For example, the iPhone 16 now costs about $50 more, while older models like the iPhone 14 have gone up by around $30. This change affects anyone buying a new iPhone in India, whether online or in stores.

    The Indian government says these taxes will help local companies grow by making imported goods more expensive. Apple, which makes some iPhones in India, still relies on parts from other countries. This means the company can’t avoid the extra costs completely. To cover this, Apple has passed the price hike on to customers instead of taking the hit itself.

    For buyers, this means spending more money on iPhones than before. A student in Mumbai, Priya Sharma, shared, “I was saving for an iPhone 16, but now it’s tougher with the price jump.” Many fans of Apple products are upset, but some understand the government’s goal to boost local businesses. Still, not everyone is happy, and a few are even looking at cheaper options from other brands.

    Apple isn’t the only company affected—other tech brands importing goods might also raise prices soon. Experts think this could push Apple to make more iPhones in India over time, which might lower costs later. For now, though, customers in India will feel the pinch. The company hasn’t said much about future plans, but it’s clear these taxes are shaking things up for iPhone lovers in the country.

  • India gives Apple a tax break to boost iPhone manufacturing

    India gives Apple a tax break to boost iPhone manufacturing

    Apple is now enjoying a significant tax benefit in India, making it less expensive to put together iPhones right there in the country. This news came from the government just this past weekend.

    India, a Growing Hub for Apple

    India has become the second biggest place where Apple makes its iPhones, only behind China. There have been big plans talked about, suggesting that by 2027, half of all iPhones might be made in India. However, things haven’t moved as quickly as hoped.

    Last year marked a big change, though. According to Bloomberg, one out of every seven iPhones was made in India by April. The production of newer, high-end models was slower because they needed very specialized equipment. But with the iPhone 16, things got better as production in India started not long after the phone was first introduced.

    New Tax Benefits

    The Indian government has been slowly lowering the taxes on importing parts needed to make electronics in India. They’ve now made this even better by announcing more reductions. Reuters mentions that one of these changes is setting the tax rate to zero for printed circuit boards, which are crucial for phones like the iPhone.

    During the annual budget presentation on Saturday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman shared that they’ve removed taxes on several parts needed for making mobile phones. This includes the assembly of printed circuit boards, parts for camera modules, and USB cables, which used to have a 2.5% tax.

    This tax cut is expected to reduce the cost of making iPhones in India, hoping that Apple will choose to do more of its manufacturing there.

    Source

  • Apple removes VPN apps from Indian app store amidst regulatory pressure

    Apple removes VPN apps from Indian app store amidst regulatory pressure

    The digital world once envisioned as a borderless expanse of information and freedom, is increasingly becoming fragmented by national regulations. Following a similar move in China years ago, Apple has begun removing Virtual Private Network (VPN) applications from its App Store in India, signaling a significant shift in the availability of online privacy tools in the country. This action comes in response to a controversial Indian law that mandates stringent data retention policies for VPN providers. 

    This isn’t the first time Apple has faced such a dilemma. Back in 2017, the company was compelled by the Chinese government to remove hundreds of VPN apps from its Chinese App Store. At the time, Apple CEO Tim Cook explained that the company had to comply with local laws, despite its preference to keep the apps available. He expressed hope that the restrictions would eventually be loosened, but years later, those restrictions remain firmly in place. This precedent casts a long shadow over the current situation in India.

    The Indian government introduced the contentious law in 2022, effectively prohibiting anonymous VPN usage and requiring providers to maintain detailed logs of user activity. These logs must include sensitive information such as users’ names, addresses, IP addresses, and transaction histories, and be retained for a period of five years. Initially, the implementation of this law faced delays due to widespread objections. While it was eventually introduced, enforcement remained lax for a period. However, that period of grace has ended.  

    Recent reports confirm that Apple has started removing VPN apps from the Indian App Store to comply with the now-enforced regulations. This action follows similar removals from the Google Play Store, indicating a coordinated effort by Indian authorities to enforce the new rules.

    It appears that the government is taking a targeted approach, identifying and ordering the removal of non-compliant apps individually. This suggests that the process will be protracted, potentially leading to a significant reduction in the number of VPN apps available to Indian users, mirroring the situation in China. 

    Among the removed apps are several prominent VPN services, including Cloudflare’s popular 1.1.1.1 service. The removals were triggered by orders issued by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, as evidenced by official documents and disclosures made by Google to Lumen, a Harvard University database that tracks government takedown requests globally.  

    This situation puts reputable VPN providers in a difficult position. Complying with the Indian law would require them to compromise their core principles of user privacy and anonymity. Maintaining detailed logs of user activity goes against the very purpose of a VPN, which is to provide secure and private online access. Consequently, most reputable VPN providers are unlikely to comply with these demands, choosing instead to withdraw their services from the Indian market.

    For Apple, this situation presents a complex challenge. The company has consistently emphasized its commitment to user privacy. However, it also has a legal obligation to comply with the laws of the countries in which it operates. This creates a clear conflict of interest, forcing Apple to choose between its stated values and its business interests.

    While Apple could theoretically take a stand and withdraw from the Indian market altogether, such a move is highly improbable. India has become a crucial market for Apple, serving as its second-largest production center and a rapidly growing consumer base. Moreover, the precedent set in China, a far more critical manufacturing hub for Apple, suggests that the company is unlikely to prioritize principle over market access.  

    The removal of VPN apps from the Indian App Store represents more than just a reduction in available software. It symbolizes a growing trend of governments seeking greater control over online activity, often at the expense of individual privacy. This trend raises serious concerns about the future of internet freedom and the ability of individuals to protect themselves from online surveillance.

    The situation in India serves as a stark reminder that the fight for online privacy is an ongoing battle, one that requires constant vigilance and advocacy. The digital landscape is changing, and the implications for users in India, and potentially other countries, are significant.

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  • Will Apple gadgets cost more soon?

    Will Apple gadgets cost more soon?

    Big changes might be coming for Apple fans. New rules from the U.S. government could raise prices on popular gadgets like iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. These rules, called tariffs, add extra costs to products made in China. Since Apple makes most of its stuff there, this could hit your wallet hard.

    On April 9, 2025, reports said the U.S. is planning a fresh round of tariffs aimed at Chinese goods. Why? It’s part of a push to bring jobs back home and balance trade. But here’s the catch: companies like Apple might pass those extra costs to buyers. That means higher prices for your next phone or laptop.

    Experts think Apple could handle some of the cost itself, but not all of it. They rely on China for speedy production and affordable parts. Moving factories elsewhere—like India or Vietnam—takes time and money. So, for now, customers might feel the pinch. A new iPhone could jump by $50 or more, depending on the tariff size.

    Apple hasn’t said much yet. They’re likely figuring out how to soften the blow. In the past, they’ve kept prices steady by tweaking other costs. But with tariffs piling up, that trick might not work this time. Shoppers could see price tags creep up as early as late 2025.

    What does this mean for you? If you’re eyeing a shiny new Apple device, it might be smart to buy before prices climb. Or, you could wait and see if Apple finds a way to keep things affordable. Either way, these tariffs are shaking things up, and Apple lovers might need to rethink their budgets soon.

  • How Apple might lower tariff costs, according to expert Ming-Chi Kuo

    How Apple might lower tariff costs, according to expert Ming-Chi Kuo

    Apple Apple could face higher costs due to tariffs, but expert Ming-Chi Kuo has some ideas on how the company might soften the blow. In a recent note, Kuo, a well-known analyst, shared simple strategies Apple could use to keep prices steady for customers.

    First, Kuo suggests Apple might move more of its production out of China. By making products in places like India or Vietnam, the company could avoid some U.S. tariffs aimed at Chinese goods. This shift is already happening slowly, with iPhone assembly starting in India. Kuo believes speeding this up could save money.

    Next, he points out that Apple could tweak its supply chain. This means working with suppliers in different countries to get parts at lower costs. By spreading out where it gets materials, Apple might dodge some tariff hits and keep expenses down.

    Kuo also thinks Apple could lean on its huge cash pile to absorb extra costs. With billions in the bank, the company might choose to pay the tariffs itself instead of raising prices for buyers. This would keep iPhones and other gadgets affordable, even if it trims Apple’s profits a bit.

    Finally, Kuo mentions Apple could push for better trade deals. By talking to governments or adjusting its plans, the company might find ways to lower tariff rates or get exceptions. This could take time, but might pay off in the long run.

    While tariffs could make things pricier, Kuo’s ideas show Apple has options. Moving production, rethinking suppliers, using its cash, or negotiating deals could all help. For now, Apple fans can hope these steps keep their favorite tech affordable.

  • Trump’s tariffs might push Apple out of China by 2025

    Trump’s tariffs might push Apple out of China by 2025

    Donald Trump’s plan to slap big tariffs on goods from China could shake things up for Apple. If he wins the presidency again, he’s promised to start these taxes right away in 2025. This might force Apple to rethink its huge reliance on China, where it makes most of its iPhones and other gadgets. Experts call this a possible “liberation day” for Apple, meaning it could finally break free from depending so much on one country.

    Right now, Apple’s supply chain is tied tightly to China, with factories churning out products daily. But Trump’s tariffs, which could hit 60% or more, would make it crazy expensive to keep things as they are. Moving production elsewhere—like India or Vietnam—might be the smarter move, even if it’s a slow and tricky process. Some say this could cost Apple billions at first, but it might pay off later by spreading out risks.

    For years, Apple’s enjoyed cheap labor and fast production in China. Trump’s push could flip that upside down, nudging the tech giant toward a big change. By 2025, we might see Apple stepping away from China for good.

    Source

  • Apple pledges help for Myanmar and Thailand earthquake victims

    Apple pledges help for Myanmar and Thailand earthquake victims

    Apple’s boss, Tim Cook, shared today that the company will give money to support people hit by the recent earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand. He posted about it on social media, saying, “We feel so sad for everyone in Myanmar and Thailand affected by this terrible earthquake.” Apple often helps out by giving cash to groups like the Red Cross when big disasters happen around the world.

    The earthquake, which struck on March 28, 2025, was a powerful 7.7 magnitude and caused a lot of damage, especially in Myanmar’s second-biggest city, Mandalay. Over 1,600 people have died, and many more are hurt or missing. In Thailand, a building under construction in Bangkok fell down, killing at least 17 people.

    Rescue teams are still working hard to find survivors. Cook didn’t say how much money Apple will give, but the company’s support could make a big difference. Myanmar is one of Asia’s poorest countries and is already struggling with a civil war, making it tougher to recover. Thailand also needs help to rebuild after the quake shook things up.

    Lots of countries, like China and India, are sending aid too. Apple’s donation shows it wants to stand with those in need during this hard time. People online are praising the move, though some wonder why Apple doesn’t share the exact amount. Either way, this help will likely bring some relief to those suffering.

  • Exciting updates coming to iOS 18.4 with Apple Intelligence

    Exciting updates coming to iOS 18.4 with Apple Intelligence

    The iOS 18.4 update was meant to include new Siri features powered by Apple Intelligence, but Apple decided to hold off on those for more testing. Even so, this update still brings some cool additions that’ll make it worth downloading when it arrives in April.

    Important Alerts First

    Apple shared the idea of Priority Notifications at WWDC in June 2024, and now it’s finally here. This handy feature has been eagerly awaited since iOS 18 launched in September.

    With Priority Notifications, your phone figures out which alerts matter most by looking at the timing and details. For example, if you’re waiting for a food delivery, that alert jumps to the top when it’s almost time. It works the same for anything urgent or tied to a schedule.

    You’ll need to switch it on manually in the iOS 18.4 beta by going to Settings > Notifications > Turn On Priority Alerts. Once it’s active, these key alerts appear at the top of your Lock Screen in a special box with a clear icon. Swipe down to see the rest of your notifications as usual.

    Fun with Image Playground

    When Image Playground first came out, it let you create pictures in two styles: Animation and Illustration. A third option was always planned, and now it’s here with the iOS 18.4 beta—Sketch. Sketch gives your images a hand-drawn look, different from the 3D Animation style or the bold, simple Illustration vibe. Apple calls Sketch “detailed and scholarly,” with beautiful drawings on plain backgrounds. Animation has a playful, 3D cartoon feel, while Illustration uses strong lines and bright colors.

    More Languages Supported

    With iOS 18.4, Apple Intelligence will work in new languages like French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese. It’ll also support English tailored for India and Singapore.

    When’s It Coming?

    Apple has released one beta of iOS 18.4 to developers and testers so far. Another beta is expected next week, with testing running through March. The full release is set for early April.

    What About Siri?

    There’s still hope the delayed Siri features might sneak into a later iOS 18.4 beta, but with just a month left, it’s doubtful. Instead, they’ll likely land in iOS 18.5. Normally, big updates don’t hit in a .5 release, but Apple’s been rolling out iOS 18 features bit by bit—and iOS 19 might even be delayed to focus on perfecting iOS 18.

  • Apple’s purchase transfer tool now available in the EU and UK

    Apple’s purchase transfer tool now available in the EU and UK

    Apple recently made changes to its support page for a new tool that lets users move purchases between Apple Accounts. The EU and UK are no longer left out, meaning people there can now use it. The only place still missing out is India, where the tool isn’t available yet.

    This purchase transfer tool came out earlier this month. It helps shift purchases, like apps or iTunes goodies, from one Apple Account to another. To use it, you need an iPhone or iPad signed into two accounts at once—one for iCloud and another for the App Store.

    For some folks, this tool has worked like a charm. They’ve successfully moved their App Store and iTunes buys to the account they like better. Sadly, I’m not one of them. Still, I’ve managed with two accounts for 15 years—what’s a few more, right?

    Anyway, if you’re in the EU or UK, you can now give this a shot. The support page lays out all the steps and rules you need to follow to make it work. It’s got a bunch of details, so check it out if you’re thinking of switching things over. The tool’s a handy option for anyone wanting to tidy up their accounts or bring everything under one roof. Just be ready to jump through a few hoops to get it done!

  • What’s fresh in iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    What’s fresh in iOS 18.4 Beta 1

    Apple just dropped the first iOS 18.4 beta for developers to try out. It doesn’t have all the Apple Intelligence goodies we were expecting, but there are still some cool updates worth checking out.

    Priority Notifications

    There’s a new feature called Priority Notifications that puts your most urgent alerts at the top. It’s off by default, but you can switch it on in Settings > Notifications > Prioritize Notifications. Once it’s active, Apple Intelligence will highlight key notifications on your Lock Screen.

    Image Playground Gets Sketchy

    Image Playground now has a Sketch style, adding to Animation and Illustration. It used to be just for Image Wand, but now you can pick it as a third option. Switch styles by hitting the “+” button in the app. Plus, the “Winter Holidays” theme is gone, replaced with a fresh “Spring” vibe.

    More Languages for Apple Intelligence

    New languages include French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese. There’s also local English for Singapore and India.

    Apple News+ Food Section

    For Apple News+ users, iOS 18.4 brings a Food section packed with recipes, restaurant stories, healthy eating tips, and kitchen must-haves. Big names like Allrecipes, Bon Appétit, and Serious Eats contribute content. You’ll find a Recipe Catalog that updates often, a cook mode with step-by-step help, and an option to save recipes offline.

    Chill with Ambient Music

    A new Ambient Music feature lets you add soothing sounds to Control Center. Choose from Sleep, Chill, Productivity, or Wellbeing. Tap one, and it plays random tunes from that vibe. Skip tracks or see what’s playing via Dynamic Island or the Now Playing widget.

    Mail Gets Organized on iPad

    iPadOS 18.4 upgrades the Mail app with categories. Important emails land in the Primary section, while others sort into deals, newsletters, orders, or social updates. This was already on iPhone with iOS 18.2.

    Privacy Dots Stand Out

    Those tiny dots showing camera or microphone use? They’re now on the left of the menu bar with a bold black background, making them easier to spot.

    Siri’s New Accents

    Siri gets two fresh Australian voices to mix things up.

    Genmoji Gets Clearer

    The Genmoji icon on the Emoji keyboard now says “Genmoji” instead of just a colorful smiley, so it’s simpler to find and use.