Apple's new augmented reality headset aims to boost its business as its core slows. China's new political slogan is analyzed. A tribute to composer P.D.Q. Bach and his turbulent life.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Apple's dominance in the smartphone market could be impacted by antitrust scrutiny and new regulations on its App Store fee.
To address stagnation in its core business, Apple is exploring artificial intelligence applications and releasing an augmented reality headset.
Deep dives
Challenges Facing Apple: Antitrust Scrutiny
Apple is facing antitrust scrutiny, specifically regarding its App Store practices. Regulators around the world are looking into the 30% fee Apple charges for in-app purchases. The US Department of Justice is reportedly preparing legal action against the company, while the EU and South Korea are introducing new rules to crack down on the App Store fee. Although these actions are not an immediate threat, they could potentially impact Apple's dominance in the future.
Challenges Facing Apple: Stalling Core Business
Apple's core business, which heavily relies on iPhone sales, is experiencing stagnation. Despite selling around 220 million iPhones annually, the sales have remained at the same level since 2017, with minimal revenue growth. To address this, Apple is exploring artificial intelligence applications, such as enhancing Siri, and is releasing the Vision Pro, an expensive augmented reality headset, which focuses on entertainment and productivity.
Challenges Facing Apple: Geopolitical Risks
Apple faces significant exposure to China, both in terms of revenue and supply chain. The escalating trade war between the US and China, as well as the possibility of political uncertainties with the US elections, pose risks to Apple's business. However, China is also dependent on Apple, creating a potential restraint on any action against the company. Nevertheless, geopolitical tensions remain a major challenge for Apple's future success.
Last month, Microsoft briefly overtook the iPhone maker as the world’s most valuable company. As Apple’s core business slows, could the launch of its new augmented reality headset provide much-needed uplift? The Chinese Communist Party loves a slogan, but what does its new one actually mean? Why we may never know (09:17). And a tribute to the double act of Peter Schickele and P.D.Q. Bach (16:05)
If you’re already a subscriber to The Economist, you’ll have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode