
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.
Reports have emerged that Apple may have managed to avoid 100% tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, partly by agreeing to partner with Intel to manufacture its chips. While Apple could benefit from expanding its chip suppliers, the episode also shows the power of Intel's government backing as the US seeks to reshore its semiconductor industry.
Taiwan networking equipment makers posted strong results in June 2026, with rising demand for AI data center expansions, high-speed switches, and broadband network upgrades driving several companies to record-high monthly revenues. Some also set new quarterly and first-half records, as the market expects momentum to continue in the second half.
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.


