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Apr 1
Google delays Pixel 9a launch due to component issue, 500,000 units to be reworked
In late March, Google announced its lightweight Pixel 9a model, but reports suggest that some component issues have delayed its release schedule. Google has confirmed that one of the "passive components" did not meet its quality standards, causing the delay. It is understood that the new device has yet to reach consumers, and units from various warehouses must be sent back to the factory. An estimated 400,000 to 500,000 Pixel 9a units will require rework.
The demand for telecom chips is one of the relatively stable applications driving recovery momentum in 2025. So far, Taiwanese chip manufacturers maintain a positive outlook for the market conditions in 2025, particularly due to the apparent upgrade demands for telecom specifications in Europe and the US.
As China rapidly advances in artificial intelligence, local smartphone brands are integrating AI technology to strengthen their market positions. Meanwhile, Apple has yet to launch its AI chatbot in China, raising questions about its ability to compete. Given China's strong demand for AI services, Apple must collaborate with local firms to meet regulatory requirements and remain relevant in the market.

Despite slight growth in 2024, the global foldable smartphone market is projected to decline by 4% in 2025 due to poor fourth quarter performance from Samsung and Oppo. However, a strong rebound is anticipated in 2026 with Apple's rumored first foldable device launch and an expected upgrade cycle for clamshell-type foldables.

The supply chain expects Wi-Fi 7 to replace Wi-Fi 6 as the market mainstream by 2025, gradually. Despite optimism among certain sectors about Wi-Fi 7's increasing market penetration, differing opinions persist about whether Wi-Fi 7 will emerge as the dark horse of the communications industry in 2025, based on trends observed at the MWC 2025 exhibition.

China's electronic product trade-in initiative is driving stronger electronics sales in the first half of 2025, with the smartphone sector showing particular strength. Industry sources report that Chinese smartphone sales are growing compared to the same period in 2024, with flagship models capturing an increased market share.

Samsung Electronics has announced a major leadership reshuffle following the sudden death of Device eXperience (DX) Division Head Han Jong-Hee on March 25, 2025. The move aims to maintain business continuity and operational stability across its core consumer electronics divisions.

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently attended the 2025 China Development Forum in Beijing and has arrived in Hangzhou, a prominent hub for artificial intelligence (AI) in China. He also pledged CNY30 million (US$4.13 million) to Zhejiang University, a local public research institution, to bolster support for the next generation of developers in China.
Vietnam has cut tariffs on US imports while aiming for closer trade relations, responding to concerns over its trade surplus. This comes as the US prepares to impose reciprocal tariffs on trading partners with trade surpluses. Additionally, Vietnam has approved Starlink.
China is leading the charge in 5G technology, transforming factory efficiency standards. Countries like Indonesia must accelerate their innovative and digital transformation efforts to attract manufacturing investments, as this trend is becoming evident, said Julian Gorman, head of Asia Pacific at GSMA.
Samsung Electronics made the biggest gain in share in Taiwan's handset market in February, although Apple remained the top vendor.
The sudden passing of Samsung Electronics co-CEO Han Jong-hee has sent shockwaves through the company and the broader market, throwing the conglomerate into a potential crisis. Han, a key figure who oversaw Samsung's TV, home appliances, and smartphone businesses, also led the company's mergers and acquisitions (M&A) efforts in recent years. His death raises immediate concerns about succession and leadership continuity within Samsung.