A back-to-business Apple news briefing

So you’re back to work after the long holiday break? As we dive into 2023, these slices of Apple-related news should prep you for the year ahead as we wait to see what Apple achieves in 2023.

iPhone, Mac, iPad and hardware rumors

Across the season, the following tidbits of speculation began to circulate:

• The iPhone 15 rumors envision this year’s smartphones with cutting-edge A17 3nm chips for better performance and much lengthier battery life, a slight improvement in performance, 48MP rear cameras across the entire range, haptic buttons and titanium frame. In related news, Apple may cancel or delay plans for iPhone SE4.
• The first 3nm chips should arrive in Macs this year, possibly with new M2-branded processors, according to 9-5Mac.
• TSMC has commenced production of 3nm chips in Taiwan. Apple currently relies on chips produced using the foundry’s 5nm process.
• Apple is working on a new version of iPad mini equipped with a new processor for launch this year. It may eventually launch a foldable tablet, but not before 2025.
• Apple is reportedly working on AirPods Lite, a lower-cost version of its earbuds designed to compete with all those inexpensive AirPod-like sets you see around.
• The company is planning a new 27-in. 120Hz display with Mini-LED.
• Perhaps the most interesting snippet relates to Apple’s new Apple Pencil patent. This describes a device that can sample real world colors and textures to use on an iPad.

Good news, bad news in the Apple supply chain

Apple’s challenges with manufacturing in China have been well documented, but a change in the national approach to COVID-19 mitigation seems to have enabled its manufacturing partners to return to more normal production, albeit at significant cost.

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