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Tech wrap March 17: RCS messaging, iPhone 17 Air, Google Gemini, and more

Tech wrap March 17: RCS messaging, iPhone 17 Air, Google Gemini, and more

  • 17.03.2025 15:06
  • business-standard.com
  • Keywords: Apple, Google

Apple is partnering with Google to bring RCS messaging to iPhones in India, while rumors suggest the iPhone 17 Air may go port-free. Google plans to replace Google Assistant with Gemini on Android devices, and Apple is preparing major OS updates for iOS 19 and macOS 16. HP has also launched AI-powered laptops for business users.

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Estimated market influence

Apple

Apple

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Analyst rating: Buy

Apple is reportedly in talks with Google to introduce cross-platform RCS messaging support in India. However, Apple decided against removing the charging port for the iPhone 17 Air.

Google

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Analyst rating: N/A

Google announced plans to discontinue Google Assistant on Android smartphones and transition users to Gemini assistant.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications Analysis

Apple-Google Partnership on RCS Messaging

  • Collaboration: Apple and Google are reportedly discussing cross-platform RCS messaging support in India, potentially integrating iMessage with RCS protocols.
    • Impact: This could enhance communication interoperability between iOS and Android users, fostering a more unified messaging ecosystem.
    • Market Trend: Reflects growing emphasis on seamless communication solutions across platforms.

iPhone 17 Air and Port-Free Design

  • Decision: Apple considered removing the charging port for the iPhone 17 Air but ultimately decided against it.
    • Implication: This decision may align with regulatory requirements in countries like India, where removing ports is banned.
    • Competitive Dynamics: Highlights Apple's strategic balance between innovation and compliance.

Google's Shift to Gemini

  • Transition: Google plans to replace Google Assistant with Gemini on Android devices later this year.
    • Strategy: Focuses on AI-driven capabilities, positioning Gemini as a more advanced personal assistant.
    • Market Impact: Could redefine the digital assistant landscape, competing with Apple's Siri and Amazon's Alexa.

Apple's OS Overhaul

  • Updates: iOS 19 and macOS 16 are expected to be major overhauls, with iOS 19 being one of the most significant updates in Apple’s history.
    • Focus Areas: Likely improvements in navigation and cross-device integration.
    • Long-term Effects: Could set new benchmarks for user experience and software innovation.

HP's AI-Powered Laptops

  • Product Launch: HP introduced a series of AI-powered commercial laptops, including the EliteBook Ultra G1i 14-inch and others.
    • Target Market: Focuses on business users, emphasizing productivity and performance.
    • Competitive Edge: Leverages AI to enhance device functionality, aligning with enterprise demands.

Strategic Considerations

  • Regulatory Compliance: Apple’s decision to retain the charging port likely reflects compliance with global regulations, particularly in India where such removal is banned.
  • AI Integration: Both Google and HP are leveraging AI to enhance their products, indicating a broader industry trend towards AI-driven innovations.
  • Market Dynamics: The collaboration between Apple and Google could intensify competition in the messaging space, potentially affecting third-party apps like WhatsApp.

Competitive Landscape

  • RCS Messaging: Cross-platform support could disrupt traditional messaging apps, fostering a more competitive ecosystem.
  • AI Assistants: The shift to Gemini positions Google to compete more effectively in the AI assistant market, challenging Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa.

Long-term Effects

  • Technological Evolution: Moves towards wireless designs and AI integration are likely to shape future product development across the tech industry.
  • Regulatory Impact: Compliance with global regulations will remain a critical factor for companies like Apple, influencing their product strategies.