Apple is running out of ideas now

In the latest episode of EP Friday, the host discusses Apple’s perceived stagnation in hardware innovation, highlighting a forthcoming tabletop robot and minor updates to the iPhone lineup, which suggest a shift towards incremental improvements. In contrast, Google showcased significant advancements in its hardware and AI capabilities, while Sonos faced backlash from a problematic app update, leading to financial losses and layoffs.

In the latest episode of EP Friday, the host discusses the apparent stagnation in Apple’s hardware innovation, highlighting a recent report from Bloomberg that suggests the company is focusing on developing a tabletop robot with an iPad-like display. This device, expected to be released in 2026 or 2027 for around $1,000, is seen as a response to the lack of groundbreaking products since the iPhone. The host notes that Apple’s previous ventures, such as the car project and the Vision Pro headset, have not achieved the level of success that the company aims for, leading to concerns that Apple is running out of significant hardware ideas.

The video also touches on the upcoming iPhone models, indicating that the only major hardware innovation might be the addition of a camera button. Accessory makers are already preparing cases for this feature, but the host implies that this minor change reflects a broader trend of diminishing radical innovation in the iPhone lineup. Future models, including a potential iPhone SE in 2025, are expected to focus on incremental improvements rather than revolutionary changes, suggesting that Apple is reassessing its approach to the iPhone’s evolution.

In contrast, Google recently held an event showcasing a plethora of new hardware and software innovations. The company introduced the Pixel 9 Pro and other models, which feature upgrades such as improved displays, larger batteries, and enhanced RAM for better AI performance. However, the host points out that the new Tensor G4 chip, while promising, still falls short in CPU and GPU performance, making it comparable to a mid-range chip. Additionally, Google announced new features like satellite SOS and various AI enhancements, indicating a strong push towards integrating artificial intelligence into their products.

The video also covers the turmoil surrounding Sonos, a company known for its wireless speakers, which recently faced backlash after a problematic app update. The update led to significant user dissatisfaction, resulting in the company admitting it would incur losses of $20 to $30 million while attempting to rectify the situation. The CEO revealed that Sonos had to lay off over 100 employees and delay two hardware launches due to the fallout from the app’s poor reception, highlighting the risks associated with major software changes.

Finally, the host briefly mentions other tech news, including advancements in fast charging technology from Realme and Zer, as well as regulatory changes in the U.S. aimed at combating fake reviews and testimonials. The video concludes with a discussion about Valve’s plans to support Steam OS on rival headsets and the leak of personal data records from a private data aggregator, underscoring ongoing concerns about data privacy. The episode wraps up with a sponsorship segment for Incog, a service that helps individuals remove their personal data from various databases. Get 60% off an annual Incogni plan here (sponsored): Incogni - Personal Information Removal Service