Core Viewpoint - The global pure foundry industry is projected to achieve a revenue of $165 billion by 2025, reflecting a 17% year-on-year growth and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2021 to 2025, driven by advanced nodes like 3nm and 5/4nm [4][8]. Industry Summary - The revenue from the global pure foundry market is expected to reach a historical high of $165 billion in 2025, compared to $105 billion in 2021, indicating a strong growth trajectory [8]. - Advanced process nodes (7nm and below) are anticipated to contribute over 56% of total revenue by 2025, fueled by demand for AI smartphones, high-performance computing (HPC), and server chips [8]. - The introduction of the 2nm process is expected to further tilt the revenue structure towards advanced nodes, with projections indicating that it will contribute over 10% of revenue by 2027 [8][9]. Node-Specific Insights - The 3nm node is expected to see a revenue increase of over 600% by 2025, reaching approximately $30 billion, while the 5/4nm nodes are projected to exceed $40 billion in revenue [4]. - The 20-12nm node range is expected to remain stable, contributing about 7% of total revenue, reflecting a transition of some chips from mature nodes to intermediate nodes [7]. - The 28nm node is highlighted as a standout among mature nodes, with an expected CAGR of 5%, despite the overall revenue share of mature nodes declining from 54% in 2021 to 36% in 2025 [9]. Competitive Landscape - TSMC is expected to be the largest beneficiary in the advanced node sector, followed by Samsung and Intel, while UMC, GlobalFoundries, and SMIC will continue to benefit from stable market demand, albeit at a slower growth rate [9]. - Innovations in front-end process technologies, such as High-NA EUV, and advancements in back-end packaging technologies are creating diverse opportunities for foundries [9].

Core Insights - Counterpoint Research's report ranks Singapore as the top AI city globally, followed by Seoul, Beijing, Dubai, and San Francisco in the top five [4][8][9] Ranking Summary - The report evaluates AI adoption in the world's 100 largest metropolitan areas, scoring each city out of 100 [6][8] Regional Highlights - Singapore's success is attributed to government-supported initiatives that foster a vibrant startup ecosystem and public-private collaboration in sectors like healthcare and transportation [7] - Seoul ranks second due to active AI deployment in healthcare and education, with significant contributions from companies like SK Telecom and Naver [7] - Beijing is set to provide formal AI education to all primary and secondary students starting in 2025, alongside initiatives with China Unicom and Huawei [7] - North America leads in AI city development, but China is rapidly catching up, with cities like Wuhan, Chengdu, and Suzhou making significant investments in supercomputing [7][8] - Europe lags behind due to a more complex regulatory environment, while the Middle East shows potential for growth [7][8] Key Players in AI City Development - Microsoft and Google are identified as major players driving AI city initiatives through data center development and AI training programs [8][11] - Huawei excels in promoting AI in telecommunications with its 5G-A technology [8] - Nvidia's supercomputing facilities in Dallas position it as a leader in global computing capabilities [8] Noteworthy City Performances - Dubai surpasses San Francisco in overall scores due to substantial investments in AI across various economic sectors, including a plan to train 1 million AI engineers [9] - Riyadh, Bangalore, and Hangzhou are highlighted as rapidly developing AI cities with significant investment potential [9][12] Telecommunications Ecosystem - Telecommunications infrastructure is crucial for AI city development, with cities like Beijing deploying 10G fiber and Boston expanding to meet AI computing demands [12] - Innovations such as GPU-as-a-Service by Singtel and AI-driven network management by STC in Riyadh are examples of how telecom companies are enhancing AI city capabilities [12]

Core Insights - The average battery capacity of smartphones in China is projected to reach 5418mAh by May 2025, marking an 11% year-on-year increase, while global markets see only a 3% growth [4][8] - The adoption of silicon-carbon (SiC) battery technology is significantly contributing to the higher battery capacities in China, with a notable increase of over 500mAh compared to global averages [4][8] - Major OEMs in China are experiencing double-digit year-on-year growth in average battery capacity, with the market share of smartphones with 6000mAh and above rising from 9% to 35% within a year [6][8] Battery Technology Trends - SiC batteries offer higher energy density, allowing for larger capacities within the same physical size, and support thinner device designs [6] - The first smartphone featuring SiC batteries was launched in February 2023, with widespread adoption expected to begin in the second half of 2024, represented by popular models such as Honor X60 Pro, Redmi K80, and vivo S19 [6][8] - The trend of increasing battery capacity is likely to continue as more OEMs adopt new battery technologies to address consumer demands for longer screen usage times and high-energy applications [6][8] Market Positioning - Counterpoint Research anticipates that China will maintain its leading position in smartphone battery capacity in the coming quarters, potentially widening the gap as more models are launched in China before being introduced globally [7] - As global OEMs await further maturation of battery technology, growth in other regions is expected to be gradual, although the gap in battery capacity may eventually narrow as more manufacturers promote large-capacity batteries as a differentiating feature [7]

Core Viewpoint - Apple achieved a record revenue of $94 billion in Q2 2025, marking a 10% year-over-year growth, the highest increase in 14 quarters, driven by hardware and service business growth [4]. Group 1: Revenue and Business Performance - Hardware business grew by 8%, while service business saw a 13% increase, indicating a robust overall growth trend [4]. - iPhone accounted for 47% of total revenue, with Mac contributing 9%, marking the fastest-growing segment [4]. - Service business reached a historical high, comprising 29% of total revenue [4]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Strategies - Apple focused on inventory clearance, particularly in the Chinese market, with significant discounts during the 618 shopping festival [6]. - The U.S. market saw over 70% of iPhone shipments manufactured in India, reflecting Apple's strategy to diversify supply chains amid tariff uncertainties [8]. - The demand for iPhone 16e in Japan was strong, making it one of Apple's fastest-growing regions [6]. Group 3: Product-Specific Insights - Mac revenue grew by 15%, driven by strong demand for MacBooks equipped with M4 chips and back-to-school purchasing [6]. - Wearable devices, home, and accessories segment continued to decline, with Apple Watch and AirPods revenue both decreasing [6]. - The decline in the wearables segment is attributed to extended replacement cycles and the absence of new Apple Watch SE models [6]. Group 4: Trade and Manufacturing Context - Recent developments in U.S.-India trade agreements, including a 25% tariff on India, create uncertainty, but key products like smartphones may still be exempt [10]. - India's electronic manufacturing policies, such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, are crucial for competing with China and Vietnam [10].

Core Viewpoint - The global PC shipment volume is expected to grow by 8.4% year-on-year in Q2 2025, marking the largest increase since the pandemic peak in 2022, driven by the end of Windows 10 support, the rise of AI PCs, and early procurement due to anticipated tariff changes [2][4]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The growth in Q2 2025 is primarily driven by demand from the commercial sector, as large enterprises and public institutions accelerate device upgrades ahead of the Windows 10 support deadline [2][6]. - Lenovo, Apple, and Asus all saw shipment increases exceeding 10%, further solidifying their market leadership [2][4]. - The global PC manufacturing industry remains highly concentrated in China, posing significant challenges in reducing tariff risks in the short term [2][6]. Group 2: Future Outlook - PC shipment growth may slow in the second half of 2025 due to uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariff policies, but demand for AI PCs is expected to become a significant growth driver by 2026 [6][8]. - Counterpoint predicts that over half of the laptops shipped in 2026 will be AI laptops, indicating a shift in market dynamics [6][9]. - The ongoing geopolitical landscape is prompting PC suppliers and manufacturers to diversify production away from China, with countries like Vietnam, India, and Mexico emerging as alternative manufacturing hubs [6][9]. Group 3: Strategic Adjustments - Ensuring a reliable and cost-effective supply chain for products aimed at the U.S. market has become a top priority for PC manufacturers [9]. - The transition to manufacturing outside of China is a long-term process that requires significant investment in infrastructure, employee training, and logistics [9]. - The diversification of production bases is a strategic response to mitigate risks associated with trade disruptions and to enhance competitiveness in a rapidly changing environment [9].

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese smartphone market experienced a year-on-year decline of 2.4% in Q2 2025, influenced by seasonal factors and demand front-loading due to subsidies [2][3]. Market Performance - Huawei maintained its leading position with a market share increase from 15% to 18.1% year-on-year, driven by strong sales of the mid-range nova 14 series and significant price reductions on high-end models [2]. - Vivo ranked second in shipments, supported by its strong offline channel network and the successful performance of its Y series in lower-tier cities [6]. - OPPO's Reno 14 series launched before the 618 shopping festival, continuing the strong sales momentum from the previous series, appealing particularly to young female consumers [6]. - Xiaomi achieved a market share of 15.7%, with growth driven by price reductions on popular models like Redmi K80 and Xiaomi 15, despite not launching new mid-range products during the promotional period [6]. - Apple saw strong performance from the iPhone 16 series, particularly the Pro models, due to unprecedented price cuts, although this may pressure sales of the iPhone 17 in the latter half of the year [7]. Future Outlook - The demand for smartphones in China is expected to remain weak, consistent with previous forecasts, but sales stability is supported by promotions and subsidies [8]. - Counterpoint anticipates a slowdown in growth for the Chinese market in 2025, with summer promotions and early flagship releases in Q3 expected to boost sales and lay a solid foundation for Q4 performance [8]. - The company will continue to monitor the evolving global market landscape, particularly regarding tariff policies, rising component costs, and changes in consumer demand [8].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of battery life as a key consideration for consumers purchasing smartphones in the budget segment (under ₹20,000 or approximately $230) in India, despite the overall priority still being on SoC processors [2][3]. Group 1: Consumer Preferences - A recent survey by Counterpoint Research indicates that battery life is the most critical factor for 15% of consumers planning to buy smartphones under ₹20,000 [2][6]. - The top three factors influencing smartphone purchase decisions are processor performance, battery life, and storage capacity [2][3]. - The average battery capacity of smartphones in India has reached 5212 mAh, reflecting the growing consumer reliance on smartphones for various daily tasks [3][8]. Group 2: Market Trends - The increasing dependence on smartphones for social media, digital payments, photography, and other tasks has raised consumer expectations for performance, battery life, and usability [8]. - Consumers are becoming aware that larger battery capacities often lead to heavier devices, prompting a preference for lightweight designs that do not compromise on battery life [8]. - In the budget smartphone market, battery life has transitioned from being a supplementary feature to a decisive factor in purchase decisions [8]. Group 3: Company Overview - Counterpoint Research is a global market research firm focused on the technology ecosystem, providing insights and data across various sectors including smartphones, semiconductors, and consumer electronics [9]. - The company serves a diverse clientele, from smartphone OEMs to chip manufacturers and large tech firms, with a team of experienced analysts offering comprehensive market data and strategic consulting [9].

Core Viewpoint - The report from Counterpoint Research highlights the significant growth potential of integrated semiconductor optical modules, particularly embedded optical interconnects, which are expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50% by 2033, driven by advancements in AI and high-bandwidth network architectures [2][3]. Group 1: Market Trends - The shipment volume of integrated optical solutions, including On-Board Optical (OBO), Near-Package Optical (NPO), and Co-Packaged Optical (CPO), is projected to grow at a CAGR of 50% by 2033 [2]. - The transition from copper to optical technology is anticipated to enhance bandwidth and reduce power consumption, with embedded optical modules expected to see a significant increase in adoption [2][3]. - By 2027, widespread adoption of NPO and CPO is expected to drive a triple-digit year-on-year revenue growth, with their share in total shipments reaching double digits [2][3]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - CPO is identified as a game changer for AI computing, enabling ultra-high bandwidth expansion and significant reductions in power consumption [3][5]. - The shift towards "less copper, more light" will lead to a substantial decrease in copper usage at each stage of transition from OBO to NPO to CPO, resulting in nonlinear performance improvements [7]. - The performance of 3D CPO solutions may exceed current technologies by up to 80 times, marking a significant leap in capabilities [7]. Group 3: Key Players - Major companies leading the CPO field include NVIDIA, Intel, Marvell, and Broadcom, with ongoing technological evolution expected to be a gradual process [3][5].

Core Viewpoint - The "Big and Beautiful" Act marks a significant turning point in the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market, signaling the end of federal EV incentives, which will compel automakers to quickly adjust their strategies to maintain momentum in EV development [2][13][15]. Group 1: Impact of Policy Changes - The cancellation of federal subsidies for EVs is expected to severely affect consumer demand, particularly for foreign automakers like Hyundai-Kia and Volkswagen, compared to domestic brands [2][3]. - The Biden administration's previous incentives led to a more than 50% year-on-year increase in EV sales in 2023, raising the market share of EVs in U.S. passenger car sales from 7% in 2022 to 10% in 2023 [3][5]. - The upcoming end of federal EV tax credits is anticipated to create a short-term spike in sales as consumers rush to take advantage of the incentives before they expire [5][13]. Group 2: Strategic Shifts Among Automakers - Tesla may focus on clearing inventory rather than new R&D, with plans to launch an affordable EV priced below $25,000 in early 2026 to regain market share [5][9]. - General Motors is likely to shift its focus from EVs to hybrid vehicles to manage short-term risks, despite having invested heavily in its EV product line [9][10]. - Ford is expected to reassess its EV strategy due to high battery costs and diminishing subsidies, potentially prioritizing profitable hybrid and gasoline models [9][10]. Group 3: Challenges for New Entrants - Startups like Rivian and Lucid, which rely on high-end pricing, may face significant challenges without federal support, making it difficult to attract buyers and sustain growth [6][9]. - Some states continue to offer local incentives, such as Colorado's $2,500 rebate for EV purchases, which may provide some relief to consumers [6][10]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior - The shift in policy is likely to create a more polarized market, where companies with strong hybrid lineups or global EV platforms may adapt and benefit, while others may need to scale back ambitions [13][15]. - Economic uncertainty and the loss of financial incentives could suppress demand in the short term, particularly in the mass market, potentially delaying the adoption of EVs and altering brand strategies in the U.S. market [13][15].

Core Viewpoint - The global smartphone shipment is projected to see a slight year-on-year growth of 2% in Q2 2025, marking the second consecutive quarter of growth, primarily driven by contributions from North America, Japan, and Europe [2][3]. Market Dynamics - The first quarter's shipment disruptions due to tariff concerns have started to ease in the second quarter, although markets like China and North America still face some impacts, leading to inventory build-up in North America [2]. - There is a rising interest in entry-level and budget 5G devices in emerging markets, while high-end demand remains stable in mature markets [2]. Brand Performance - Samsung retained its position as the global leader in smartphone shipments, achieving an 8% year-on-year growth, supported by resilient performance across regional markets and strategic product launches, particularly in the mid-range A series [3]. - Apple continued its growth trajectory with a 4% year-on-year increase in shipments, driven by strong performances in North America, India, and Japan, alongside stable demand for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 series [3]. - Motorola experienced a significant year-on-year growth of 16%, primarily fueled by strong demand in the Indian market and the North American prepaid market [4]. Competitive Landscape - Xiaomi's performance in Q2 2025 remained flat year-on-year, ranking third, with strong demand in Central Europe and Latin America, and stable momentum in China [4]. - Vivo and OPPO ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, showing stable performance in the mid-range market and signs of recovery in overseas markets like Latin America and the Middle East and Africa [4]. - OPPO solidified its position in the entry-level market with strong performance from the A5 Pro, while Vivo benefited from promotional activities during China's "618" shopping festival [4].