Apple(US:AAPL) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-14 03:47Core Insights - Apple's CEO Tim Cook personally hosted a live stream on Douyin, highlighting the company's focus on the Chinese market amid intense competition in the smartphone industry [1][9] - The announcement of the iPhone Air's pre-order date and its unique eSIM-only design marks a significant shift in Apple's product strategy in China [3][4] Product Launch - The iPhone Air will be available for pre-order on October 17, with a launch the following week, featuring a lightweight design due to the absence of a physical SIM card slot [3][6] - The device is touted as the thinnest iPhone ever at 5.6 mm and weighs only 165 grams, showcasing Apple's commitment to innovation in design [6] Technical Specifications - The iPhone Air is equipped with the A19 Pro chip, a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display, and a 48-megapixel main camera, positioning it at flagship levels despite its lightweight design [6] - The device will be available in three storage options: 256GB priced at 7999 yuan, 512GB at 9999 yuan, and 1TB at 11999 yuan, which raises questions about its value proposition compared to other models [7] Market Context - Cook's live stream indicates the increasing pressure on Apple in the Chinese market, where competition from Android brands is fierce, and consumer preferences are shifting towards value [9] - The introduction of eSIM technology is seen as a future trend, with other brands like Huawei and OPPO also planning to release eSIM-compatible devices, suggesting a broader industry shift [9]