Smartphone Fallout From Memory Shock, Monetizing Apple Maps, Apple’s Sports App Gaining Momentum
Today's Above Avalon Daily update includes the following topics:
Smartphone Fallout From Memory Shock
Monetizing Apple Maps
Apple’s Sports App Gaining Momentum
For the past few months, memory volatility has captured quite a bit of attention within tech circles. In this update, we look at why there is reason to believe that consensus has not correctly mapped potential impacts arising from the memory shock. We then look at various monetization options that Apple will likely have with Apple Maps in mind. The update concludes with the Apple Sports app. The pace of new features being brought to the Apple Sports app continues to impress.
This daily update is available to Above Avalon Daily subscribers. To continue reading, click here.
An audio version of this update is available to subscribers who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to subscribers in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
2025 Smartphone Shipments Data, iPhone vs. Mac Sales Share, Amazon Launches Prime Video Ultra
Today's Above Avalon Daily update includes the following topics:
2025 Smartphone Shipments Data
iPhone vs. Mac Sales Share
Amazon Launches Prime Video Ultra
We begin today’s email with Neil’s thoughts on 2025 smartphone shipments data. We then compare iPhone sales share to Mac sales share. There are a few explanations for the difference in share. We conclude with Amazon launching a rebranded tier to Amazon Prime Video.
This daily update is available to Above Avalon Daily subscribers. To continue reading, click here.
An audio version of this update is available to subscribers who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to subscribers in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Google Launches Immersive Navigation, Google Launches Ask Maps, Digital Mapping Needs More Attention
Hello everyone. Happy Monday. Let’s jump right into today’s update.
Google Launches Immersive Navigation
Here’s Google:
“Beyond giving you new ways to explore [in Google Maps], we’re also reimagining how we help you get to your destination. We're giving the driving experience in Maps its biggest update in over a decade with Immersive Navigation – a complete transformation of the navigation experience, with redesigned visuals and more intuitive guidance. This update helps you stay focused and informed on the road, with fresh, real-world information and natural directions that prepare you for the drive ahead.
Now, your map comes to life with a vivid 3D view that reflects the buildings, overpasses, and terrain around you. When it’s helpful, Maps will highlight critical road details like lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, and stop signs to help you make that turn or merge confidently. This spatial understanding of your route is made possible with help from Gemini models, which analyze fresh, real world imagery from Street View and aerial photos to give you an accurate view of things along your route, like landmarks and medians.”
This announcement may lead to some head-scratching among Apple Maps users as Immersive Navigation boils down to Google launching something that Apple Maps has had for years. Other digital mapping services have had similar functionality as well.
To solidify the argument that Google is
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receivetimely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
MacBook Neo Teardown, Neo and Apple Creator Studio, Neo Revenue Potential, Apple’s New Instagram Play
Hello everyone. We will cover four topics in today’s update to compensate for the lack of an update on Monday. There’s much to discuss, so let’s jump right in.
MacBook Neo Teardown
With MacBook Neo now available for sale, we are getting the first teardowns. While the results are surprising some people, those who have been monitoring where Apple has been going from a device repairability standpoint may not be as caught off guard.
Tech Re-Nu disassembled a Neo in just six minutes which they said was “amazing” for an Apple laptop (the video is available here). Here’s their full comment after finishing the teardown:
“I can't say we've ever had a Mac that looks as repairable and as modular as this one. No sticky tape, no tricky adhesives, modular parts, minimal parts as well, no hinge covers or anything like that. It's just super straightforward, elegant design. Apple have kept the costs down. They've got some simplicity up and that's just meant a really repairable, very easy to open laptop. So, we look forward to working on these devices in the future.”
The primary takeaway found with Neo possessing stellar repairability is that
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receivetimely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Say Hello to Neo (AVALON Podcast)
The 38th episode of the AVALON podcast was a special edition episode dedicated to MacBook Neo - the most intriguing new product that Apple has unveiled since Apple Vision Pro.
Become a subscriber to listen to the 62-minute episode.
Choose a monthly subscription or go with annual to save. (Charges can be expensed by your employer as the podcast is filled with analysis and research. If you need paid invoice receipts, go with the annual plan.)
Upon signup, you will receive a welcome email with directions for getting the AVALON podcast in your player. This episode will then automatically appear in your podcast player. AVALON can be listened to in Apple Podcasts and various third-party podcast players including Pocket Casts, Overcast, and Castro.
Already an AVALON subscriber? The episode “Say Hello to Neo” is in your podcast player.
If you previously subscribed to AVALON and need assistant adding the podcast to your podcast player, look for the welcome email (from “Neil Cybart via Transistor”) that was sent to when signing up.
Bundle an AVALON subscription with an Above Avalon Daily newsletter subscription and save 40%. Bundle AVALON with Above Avalon Daily + Podcasts package and receive AVALON for free. This is the best offer available in the Above Avalon ecosystem. More information on bundle offers is available here.
MacBook Neo: It’s the Real Deal
Hello everyone. Today's update will include my initial thoughts using MacBook Neo. In some ways, the update will summarize the broader story found with Neo.
Let’s jump in.
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receivetimely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Apple Embraces New Marketing Strategy for Neo, 2025 PC Sales Data, Memory as Leverage
Hello everyone.
MacBook Neo will continue to be a discussion topic in this week’s updates.
I’ve been using a MacBook Neo. Tomorrow’s update will go over my hands-on experience and impressions.
For today’s update, we kick things off with a closer look at some interesting marketing tactics that Apple is utilizing for Neo.
Let’s jump in.
Apple Embraces New Marketing Strategy for Neo
On TikTok, Apple is having fun with a new marketing approach. A dozen clips related to MacBook Neo and some Mac folklore were uploaded over the span of a few days last week. One should be able to watch the videos here even without a TikTok account.
Over at Macworld, David Price wrote that “anyone older than Gen Alpha may find [Apple’s TikTok videos] entirely incomprehensible.” Others have described the videos as unhinged and brain rot.
As someone in a generation older than Gen Alpha, Price is not giving me enough credit in terms of making sense of the videos. As for the allegations that the clips were unhinged and brain rot, for those of you unfortunate enough to
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receivetimely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages,Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Apple Closed the Mac Price Umbrella, Is There an iPhone Price Umbrella?, Three Reasons Why Neo Will Likely Succeed
Happy Friday. In thinking through this week’s events and our three updates, there is a discussion to be had that will help to connect our talking points and a few different subjects. Let’s have that discussion in today’s update.
Apple Closed the Mac Price Umbrella
One reason why the MacBook Neo is such an intriguing Apple product from a strategy perspective is it addresses what had been the long-standing Mac price umbrella.
For years, Apple’s Mac portables line had a starting price in excess of $899 to $999. This provided a substantial amount of space for the Windows Brigade to not just survive but thrive. The Mac was pinned to represent a
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Play Me Some Music, Siri (AVALON Podcast)
In the 37th episode of the AVALON podcast, Neil discussed the following topics/subjects:
What's on the Agenda (the bulk of the discussion modeled after Apple’s Monday morning meetings)
Apple News curation bias follow-up.
Spotify earnings.
Apple Music strategy.
How AI may impact the music industry (including Spotify and Apple Music).
A key difference between Apple Music and Spotify.
Why Spotify's strategy is problematic.
Where Apple will take Apple Music.
Apple Music as an antidote to AI.
Apple Music risk factors.
Antitrust risk and Apple v. Spotify.
Lighting Round (two topics two minutes each)
Apple Partners with IMAX for F1.
MLS Season 4 is here.
Give Me a Break (something ridiculous that jumped out at me)
Citrini Research’s viral Substack post and vibe laundering.
Tell Me More (something intriguing that has my attention)
Why so many tech companies fail at M&A.
Become a subscriber to listen to the 82-minute episode.
Choose a monthly subscription or go with annual to save. (Charges can be expensed by your employer as the podcast is filled with analysis and research. If you need paid invoice receipts, go with the annual plan.)
Upon signup, you will receive a welcome email with directions for getting the AVALON podcast in your player. This episode will then automatically appear in your podcast player. AVALON can be listened to in Apple Podcasts and various third-party podcast players including Pocket Casts, Overcast, and Castro.
Already an AVALON subscriber? The episode “Play Me Some Music, Siri” is in your podcast player.
If you previously subscribed to AVALON and need assistant adding the podcast to your podcast player, look for the welcome email (from “Neil Cybart via Transistor”) that was sent to when signing up.
Bundle an AVALON subscription with an Above Avalon Daily newsletter subscription and save 40%. Bundle AVALON with Above Avalon Daily + Podcasts package and receive AVALON for free. This is the best offer available in the Above Avalon ecosystem. More information on bundle offers is available here.
You Can Curate the News for Me (AVALON Podcast)
In the 36th episode of the AVALON podcast, Neil discussed the following topics/subjects:
What's on the Agenda (the bulk of the discussion modeled after Apple’s Monday morning meetings)
Apple News curation bias alleged.
How the bias allegations contain holes.
Apple News is gaining power.
Why Apple News is a proxy for Apple's broader services play.
Lighting Round (two topics two minutes each)
Google releases YouTube app for Apple Vision Pro.
Apple is holding an “experience” on March 4th in a few cities.
Give Me a Break (something ridiculous that jumped out at me)
Tech companies treating their quarterly earnings releases as product launches aimed at retail investors.
Tell Me More (something intriguing that has my attention)
Revisiting smart glasses vs. headsets product strategy.
Become a subscriber to listen to the 61-minute episode.
Choose a monthly subscription or go with annual to save. (Charges can be expensed by your employer as the podcast is filled with analysis and research. If you need paid invoice receipts, go with the annual plan.)
Upon signup, you will receive a welcome email with directions for getting the AVALON podcast in your player. This episode will then automatically appear in your podcast player. AVALON can be listened to in Apple Podcasts and various third-party podcast players including Pocket Casts, Overcast, and Castro.
Already an AVALON subscriber? The episode “You Can Curate the News for Me” is in your podcast player.
If you previously subscribed to AVALON and need assistant adding the podcast to your podcast player, look for the welcome email (from “Neil Cybart via Transistor”) that was sent to when signing up.
Bundle an AVALON subscription with an Above Avalon Daily newsletter subscription and save 40%. Bundle AVALON with Above Avalon Daily + Podcasts package and receive AVALON for free. This is the best offer available in the Above Avalon ecosystem. More information on bundle offers is available here.
Wall Street Is Beginning to Panic About Big Tech Capex (Inside Orchard)
Over the past few years, a periodic topic that we have talked about in these essays has revolved around Wall Street’s evolving attitude to AI mania. On again, off again jitters found with AI-related capital expenditures (capex) in 2023 and 2024 led to an attempt to separate perceived AI winners from losers in the back half of 2025. While this winners versus losers mentality still stands as certain tech stocks continue to outperform, there is evidence of Wall Street once again becoming nervous about AI’s impact on Big Tech capex. The stakes are much higher this time around with feelings of panic beginning to circulate in the air.
Despite reporting all-around good results for the fourth quarter, Wall Street just didn’t have much appetite for “Mag 7” (Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla) shares. Management commentary pointing to continued huge jumps in AI capex for 2026 offset what were genuinely strong revenue trends for many companies. The Mag 7 is looking to spend nearly $700 billion on capex in 2026, up from $400 billion in 2025. We can assume the vast majority of that increase is driven by AI-related investments. This year-over-year capex growth came in notably higher than expectations.
While Wall Street has shown prior bouts of hesitation when it comes to AI capex, this time is different. The magnitude of the AI spending
Become an Inside Orchard subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this essay is also available to subscribers. Sign in for instructions on getting the private podcast up and running in your favorite podcast player.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is processed by Memberful and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted.
Inside Orchard is part of the Above Avalon ecosystem. Special bundle pricing is available when combining an Inside Orchard subscription with an Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Receive Exclusive Essays. The cornerstone of an Inside Orchard subscription is access to Neil’s essays on the latest developments in the technology industry. Weekly essays are ~1,000 words and sent via email. Essays revolve around the following topics: technology industry analysis, business model analysis, technology’s impact on societal and consumer trends. Create a free profile to read a few sample essays.
Access Exclusive Private Podcast. Listen to Inside Orchard essays via an exclusive private podcast. After becoming a subscriber, all previously-published podcast episodes become available in your favorite podcast player. Podcast episodes never become available to the public.
Inside Orchard Support. Play an active role in supporting Inside Orchard as an independent source of analysis and perspective. Inside Orchard is 100% supported by its subscribers.
Apple Unveils MacBook Neo, Neo as a Mac Inflection Point, The Windows Brigade Is Doomed
Happy Thursday. Today's update will be dedicated to the big story from Wednesday: Apple unveiling an all-new $599 MacBook. For tomorrow's update, we will look at a few broader themes found throughout this week's Apple product unveilings.
Let’s jump in.
Apple Unveils MacBook Neo
In what is the most intriguing new Apple product from a strategy perspective since Apple Vision Pro was unveiled in 2023, Apple unveiled its lowest-priced MacBook in history. At $599 ($499 education pricing), MacBook Neo is a consequential product that will likely go on to represent a new (neo = new) chapter not just for the Mac, but also for Apple.
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Thoughts on Day 2 of Apple’s Spring Product Launch, The iPad Air (M4), More on iPhone 17e and Low-End Smartphones
Hello everyone. Apple’s busy week continues with the second day of new and updated products.
One quick programming note for those of you who are also subscribed to the AVALON weekly podcast: This week’s episode will come out on Wednesday instead of the usual Tuesday.
Let’s jump into today’s update.
Thoughts on Day 2 of Apple’s Spring Product Launch
Earlier today, Apple unveiled a slew of updated products:
MacBook Air (M5) for $1,099. The price floor has been increased by $100 to reflect Apple doubling the amount of starting storage. Said another way, pricing for the 512GB storage option went down by $100 as that option for the MacBook Air (M4) had been $1,199.
M5 Pro and M5 Max chips.
MacBook Pro (M5 Pro and M5 Max) with a price floor that is $200 higher than its predecessors reflecting Apple doubling the amount of starting storage. Unlike what was found with the MacBook Air (M5), pricing for the same amount of storage last year was unchanged.
An updated Studio Display ($1,599).
An all-new 27-inch Studio Display XDR ($3,299) which is positioned as the more premium option next to the Studio Display. The $4,999 (+$999 for the stand) 32-inch Pro Display XDR is being discontinued.
AI was the major theme connecting these Mac updates. Given an increasing number of AI workflows occurring on device,
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Apple Unveils iPhone 17e, Thoughts on the iPhone 17e, Apple and Low-End Smartphones
March 2nd, 2026
By Neil Cybart
Apple Unveils iPhone 17e
Thoughts on the iPhone 17e
Apple and Low-End Smartphones
Happy Monday. Apple kicked off its busy week by unveiling the iPhone 17e and iPad Air (M4). For today’s update, we will focus on the iPhone 17e. We will look at the iPad Air (M4) tomorrow. Let’s jump in.
Apple Unveils iPhone 17e
In the years leading up to the iPhone 16e launch in 2025, older iPhones that Apple had kept in the lineup at lower prices were grabbing a declining percentage of the iPhone sales max. One factor behind that trend was iPhone upgraders holding on to their devices for longer and then buying the best iPhone available when it was time to upgrade. This trend also contributed to the iPhone Pro seeing growing sales momentum.
The iPhone SE, Apple’s most aggressive tool to date for addressing lower-priced smartphone segments, was similarly
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Netflix Drops Out of Running for Warner Bros. Discovery, Apple Signs F1 Deal With Netflix, Apple’s F1 Integration Is Unprecedented, Apple’s Busy (Upcoming) Week
February 27th, 2026
By Neil Cybart
Netflix Drops Out of Running for Warner Bros. Discovery
Apple Signs F1 Deal With Netflix
Apple’s F1 Integration Is Unprecedented
Apple’s Busy (Upcoming) Week
Hello everyone. We wrap up this week with a few stories in video streaming land. The discussion will then turn to Apple’s busy upcoming week.
Netflix Drops Out of Running for Warner Bros. Discovery
The Warner acquisition outcome that had the best odds of occurring from the beginning is once again back on top. Netflix refused to increase its Warner bid to match Paramount’s improved bid. Barring any sudden developments, Paramount will acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. The deal remains subject to regulatory approval. While someone may try to block the deal on antitrust grounds, that will be a tough hill to climb.
In some ways, this was the inevitable conclusion as Netflix was always going to have a difficult time countering two things:
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Apple to Bring Some Mac Mini Assembly to the U.S., Apple Gives WSJ Factory Tour, NYT Pushes U.S. Semiconductor Propaganda
Hello everyone. A quick update on where the schedule stands. The blizzard in Connecticut earlier this week and subsequent snow yesterday threw another winter wrench into update publication timing. The plan is to have an update out tomorrow that essentially will combine two updates into one.
Let’s jump into today’s update.
Apple to Bring Some Mac Mini Assembly to the U.S.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, here’s Apple:
“Apple today announced a significant expansion of factory operations in Houston, bringing the future production of Mac mini to the U.S. for the first time. The company will also expand advanced AI server manufacturing at the factory and provide hands-on training at its new Advanced Manufacturing Center beginning later this year. Altogether, Apple’s Houston operations will create thousands of jobs.
‘Apple is deeply committed to the future of American manufacturing, and we’re proud to significantly expand our footprint in Houston with the production of Mac mini starting later this year,’ said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. ‘We began shipping advanced AI servers from Houston ahead of schedule, and we’re excited to accelerate that work even further.’
For more than two decades, users around the world have relied on the incredibly popular Mac mini for the tremendous power it packs into its ultra-compact design. With its next-level AI capabilities, it has become an essential tool for everyone from students and aspiring creatives to small business owners. Beginning later this year, Mac mini will be produced at a new factory on Apple’s Houston manufacturing site, doubling the campus’s footprint.”
Apple COO Sabih Khan announced this Mac mini news while giving the WSJ a tour of U.S. partner facilities (more on the tour shortly). Interestingly, Khan said that “thousands” of Mac mini units are assembled “every week.” The wording points to a Mac mini annual production rate ranging from
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Apple Partners With IMAX for F1, MLS and Apple Kick Off New Season, Apple Partners With EverPass Media
Hello everyone. What a winter we are having here in Connecticut. We can now add a blizzard to the mix. Monday's snowfall totaled 15 inches which was a little bit less than the 17 inches from just a weeks ago. It still led to a crazy Monday.
Today's update will have an Apple sports theme as we kick things off with F1 news and then turn to MLS.
Apple Partners With IMAX for F1
Here’s Motorsport:
“IMAX has announced that a select number of races will be shown live in IMAX locations across the United States in 2026.
The new fan viewing experience is part of a collaboration with Apple TV, which has taken over the broadcasting rights for the championship in the US on a multi-year deal from 2026.
‘F1 is a rapidly growing force in sports and culture in the US, and by bringing F1 on Apple TV live to IMAX theatres nationwide, we’re delivering the energy and excitement to even more screens in a truly immersive way,’ said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of music, sports, and Beats.
'We’re excited to collaborate with IMAX to expand access to F1 on Apple TV and give fans across the U.S. a powerful new way to experience the speed and spectacle that the sport delivers.’"
Details remain on the light side. For example, ticket pricing was not given. Five grands prix will be shown with distribution that will exceed at least 50 U.S. IMAX theaters. Since IMAX has 380 U.S. theaters, we can probably assume distribution will be more than 50 theaters.
It’s good that Apple is willing to think outside the box with F1 distribution. What is the point of Apple getting its hands on F1 distribution rights if the plan is just to do what other distributors have done?
Some of the business calculation at play with this IMAX partnership may be that F1 and IMAX will
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Meta Can’t Be Trusted With Smart Glasses (Inside Orchard)
Last week, the NYT published a bombshell of a report that alleged Meta was looking to add facial recognition to its Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses while civil liberty groups were preoccupied with “the political tumult in the United States.” The report also alluded to Meta possibly using accessibility as a guise to avoid backlash found with facial recognition. If the reporting is accurate, it’s bottom of the barrel awfulness that should be denounced.
Given the NYT’s unfair coverage of Apple, part of me is hesitant to believe this latest Meta story. However, the statement Meta provided the NYT and the specific allegations regarding what was found in an internal memo add credibility to the story. In addition, what is being alleged isn’t out of character for a company that has been involved in a long list of incidents involving lackluster privacy protections and secret data collection.
Consensus is being too laissez-faire with Meta’s move into smart glasses. It’s time to put tech fascination aside to state the uncomfortable truth: Meta’s broadening move into smart glasses can’t be trusted as it pertains to upholding privacy and data protections.
Meta has been dabbling in hardware for
Become an Inside Orchard subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this essay is also available to subscribers. Sign in for instructions on getting the private podcast up and running in your favorite podcast player.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is processed by Memberful and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted.
Inside Orchard is part of the Above Avalon ecosystem. Special bundle pricing is available when combining an Inside Orchard subscription with an Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Receive Exclusive Essays. The cornerstone of an Inside Orchard subscription is access to Neil’s essays on the latest developments in the technology industry. Weekly essays are ~1,000 words and sent via email. Essays revolve around the following topics: technology industry analysis, business model analysis, technology’s impact on societal and consumer trends. Create a free profile to read a few sample essays.
Access Exclusive Private Podcast. Listen to Inside Orchard essays via an exclusive private podcast. After becoming a subscriber, all previously-published podcast episodes become available in your favorite podcast player. Podcast episodes never become available to the public.
Inside Orchard Support. Play an active role in supporting Inside Orchard as an independent source of analysis and perspective. Inside Orchard is 100% supported by its subscribers.
Apple Releases iOS 26 Adoption Figures, iOS 26 Adoption by iPhone Age, YouTube Launches Apple Vision Pro App (Finally)
Happy Friday. We will jump right into today’s update.
Apple Releases iOS 26 Adoption Figures
Last month, a fair number of Apple bloggers and writers got punked by faulty analytical data from StatCounter that showed few iPhone users had upgraded to iOS 26. Prior to the mistake being caught, the bad data led to a wave of articles infused with FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt). One publication’s takeaway was that iPhone users were “showing a level of hesitation toward iOS 26 that has not been seen in recent years.”
Based on new App Store disclosure from Apple, iOS 26 adoption is trending roughly in-line with adoption behavior seen in prior years.
As of February 12th:
iOS 26: Installed on 66% of devices.
iOS 18: 24% of devices.
Earlier than iOS 18: 10% of devices.
For new iPhones (released within the past four years), iOS 26 adoption jumps to 74% with iOS 18 representing another 20% of devices.
Circling back to what Apple reported in prior years:
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.
Spotify Earnings, Something Feels off With Spotify, It's Time to Push Apple Music
Hello everyone. The initial plan was to have this update cover Spotify’s earnings along with a few other news items. However, in going through Spotify’s earnings call transcript, it quickly became apparent that a different discussion was needed. We will have that discussion today. This will free up some space in tomorrow’s update to pursue a few other topics.
Let’s jump in.
Spotify Earnings
Looking back over the past two to three years of Above Avalon Daily Spotify earnings reviews, the prevailing takeaway from our discussions was spectacular user growth offset by mediocre financials.
(As for how Spotify has been able to grow its subscriber base, we can’t underestimate the power of free, unmet demand in emerging markets, and family plan accounting.)
Spotify’s 4Q25 numbers were
Become an Above Avalon Daily subscriber today to continue reading. Already a subscriber? Sign in and read the full essay here.
An audio version of this written update is available to members who have the Podcasts Package attached to their Above Avalon Daily subscription.
Choose either a monthly or annual subscription. Payment is hosted by MoonClerk and secured by Stripe. Apple Pay and other mobile payment options are accepted. After signup, use this link to update your payment information and subscription status at any time.
Subscriber Privileges and Benefits
Exclusive Analysis. Receive the Above Avalon Daily newsletter, widely-recognized as the leading daily newsletter dedicated to Apple. Now in its tenth year.
Archive Access. Access previous updates sent to members in an easy-to-navigate archive built in Ghost.
Full Access to Above Avalon Forum. Access exclusive channels in the Above Avalon forum in Discord.
Email Access to Neil Cybart. Receive timely responses from Neil to email inquiries.
Access Bundle Discounts. Customize a subscription with additional Above Avalon products and save: AVALON, Podcasts Packages, Inside Orchard, and Above Avalon Models.
Above Avalon Support. Play an active role in supporting Above Avalon as an independent voice and resource. Above Avalon is 100% funded by subscribers.