A riveting discussion unfolds around Apple's upcoming iPhone event, showcasing the new iPhone 16 and Apple Watch updates. The hosts dive into Apple's measured approach to AI, highlighting its implications for user upgrades. The latest antitrust challenges facing Google raise eyebrows, especially for fellow tech giants like Meta and Apple. Meanwhile, Big Lots faces hurdles amid changing consumer habits. Finally, insights from the CEO of OneStream reveal how their innovative software aims to streamline CFO processes and drive significant revenue growth.
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Quick takeaways
Apple's 'Glowtime' event is set to unveil the iPhone 16 and showcase advancements in AI, highlighting a cautious yet innovative approach.
Google faces significant antitrust scrutiny over its ad tech business, which may influence future regulatory actions and growth strategies.
Deep dives
Anticipation for Apple's iPhone Event
The upcoming annual iPhone event, dubbed 'Glow Time', is generating excitement as Apple prepares to unveil the iPhone 16 and its latest Apple Watch. With a focus on innovation, Apple is largely recognized as a phone company that continues to lead with its flagship product. This event is also set to showcase advancements in AI through features that will integrate Apple Intelligence. However, expectations should be tempered, as past performance indicates that many users are satisfied with their current devices and may not feel an immediate need to upgrade.
Apple's Approach to Artificial Intelligence
Apple's strategy regarding AI is cautious, prioritizing quality over being first to market. While other tech giants like Microsoft and Alphabet are heavily investing in AI, Apple appears to be taking a slower approach, focusing on seamless integration rather than rapid deployment. Noteworthy is the mention of potential delays in launching certain AI features, which highlights Apple's intent to ensure that innovations are fully optimized before launch. The integration of AI into the iPhone ecosystem is anticipated to drive future upgrades, particularly as the company navigates technological advancements such as 6G.
Regulatory Challenges Facing Google
Google's parent company, Alphabet, is facing heightened regulatory scrutiny, particularly concerning its ad tech business and potential antitrust implications. In recent developments, the focus has shifted to its Ad Manager segment, which previously yielded significant profits but is now under legal examination. This situation underscores the larger picture of Google’s overall dominance in the ad market, accounting for approximately 90% of it. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for further regulatory action against Google's acquisitions, impacting how the company approaches future growth strategies.
Challenges for Discount Retailers
Big Lots has filed for bankruptcy amidst increasing challenges in the retail sector, significantly affected by rising interest rates and a slowing housing market. Despite the brand's long-standing focus on providing value, competition from larger retailers like Walmart has led to a decline in customer traffic. The company’s revenue peaked at $6.2 billion in 2021 but has since fallen, highlighting the tough landscape for discount retailers. As Big Lots seeks to restructure, it must adapt to a more competitive environment where consumers no longer see sufficient value in transitioning from mainstream retailers to discount outlets.
Big tech takes center stage with Apple’s annual iPhone event and Google’s latest anti-trust case. What do they say about where tech’s been and where it’s going?
(00:21) Jason Moser and Dylan Lewis discuss:
- Apple’s “Glowtime” product event, what to expect for the iPhone line and the company’s AI ambitions.
- The latest anti-trust case against Google and why Meta and Apple should probably be paying attention.
- Big Lots’ bankruptcy and why the discount retailer has struggled at a time when customers are looking for value.
(14:46) OneStream is an operating system for CFOs. Its CEO, Tom Shea, joined Ricky Mulvey for a conversation about the problems that its software solves for, its AI use case, and what's behind the company's 36% year-over-year revenue growth.