Mon. 11/04 – Apple Buying And Investing In Things

Nov 4, 2024 16m

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Apple is investing more in Satellite technology, and also acquires Pixelmator. What does this all mean for them? Is the high end Vision Pro getting abandoned? What does it mean that Google Cloud is now growing faster than AWS? And how Coreweave and other “neocloud” startups are financing their crazy growth in a totally new way. Here’s what you missed today in the world of Tech.

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Links:

Apple expands iPhone satellite services deal, commits $1.1bn to expand capacity (9to5Mac)
Apple is acquiring the popular image editing app Pixelmator (The Verge)
Apple Finally Finds Its Gaming Console With the New Mac Mini (Bloomberg)
Apple Vision Pro rumored to get M5 in 2025, but lower cost model is delayed (Apple Insider)
X updates block feature, letting blocked users see your public posts (TechCrunch)
Google’s cloud outpaces rivals in third quarter as AI battle heats up (CNBC)
Early Apple M4 Pro and M4 Max benchmarks hint at a massive performance boost (Neowin)
Wall Street frenzy creates $11bn debt market for AI groups buying Nvidia chips (Financial Times)

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AI-Generated Summary

Apple's Investment in Satellite Technology

Apple has committed $1.1 billion to GlobalStar to enhance satellite service capabilities, alongside acquiring a 20% equity stake for an additional $400 million. This investment signals Apple's serious intentions regarding satellite connectivity for iPhone users, with features like emergency SOS already available since the iPhone 14. However, Apple has extended the currently free service period until 2025, leaving questions about future charges for satellite features, hinting at a broader strategy involving potential fee structures or bundled services.

Acquisition of Pixelmator by Apple

The podcast also discusses Apple's acquisition of Pixelmator, a photo editing app, as they aim to reach a wider audience. The deal, pending regulatory approval, underscores Apple's approach to enhancing its software offerings while retaining existing app functionalities. There are speculations about Pixelmator evolving into a subscription service similar to Apple's other professional software, amplifying the emphasis on driving services revenue.

The Vision Pro's Future and Marketplace Dynamics

In relation to Apple's Vision Pro, a report indicates that the production of a cheaper model has been delayed, positioning the M5 upgraded Vision Pro as the only new device for 2025. Observations suggest Apple might be reconsidering its strategy and use cases for the headset, especially given competition from other tech giants. Concerns arise that without compelling use cases, the high price point may hinder user adoption.

Google Cloud Outgrowing AWS

Transitioning to cloud services, the rapid growth of Google Cloud, which expanded by 35%, eclipses AWS's growth as tech companies explore diversification beyond digital advertising. Analysts note that Google Cloud's profitability marks a shift from its past as a financial drain, signaling a new chapter in cloud computing as they introduce innovative offerings.

CoreWeave and New Financing Methods

Lastly, CoreWeave and similarly termed 'NeoCloud' companies are radically reimagining cloud growth financing through significant loans backed against Nvidia GPU acquisitions. The emergence of a new lucrative debt market is noted, raising concerns over risky lending practices as these companies leverage Nvidia's chips amidst fluctuating AI demands.