New figures from Counterpoint Research estimate that the bill of materials (BOM) for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max could rise nearly US$300 compared with the iPhone 17 Pro Max released in September last year. Ballooning memory costs largely account for this increase, although Apple may be better placed than most other smartphone brands to weather such price hikes.
Agentic AI is putting new pressure on enterprise networks and cybersecurity infrastructure as companies accelerate internal deployment, with Cisco and Foundry warning that more than 70% of enterprises see their current networks as unprepared for future AI demand.
D-Link Corporation has secured supply-chain access to SpaceX and won a separate 4G fixed wireless access order in Germany, underscoring demand for its networking gear across the sensitive aerospace and telecom sectors. The wins could extend the company's global footprint, while highlighting how security, compliance, and resilient connectivity are shaping procurement decisions worldwide.
Samsung Electronics' mobile business has shown signs of improving demand in recent months, prompting the company to increase production of several smartphone models. However, rising component costs and intensifying competition continue to weigh on profitability, highlighting the challenges facing the world's largest Android smartphone vendor.
The 2026 smartphone market is facing a dark outlook as memory prices rise and shortages tighten supply, weighing on low- and mid-range handsets and hitting power amplifier (PA) shipments. Supply-chain companies said weaker gross margins are prompting brand owners to cut production and delay new model launches, while consumer caution is also dragging on demand.
