Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is reportedly focusing on the production and shipment of its top-tier iPhone models for 2026, delaying the release of its standard model due to supply chain constraints.Apple To Focus On Foldable iPhone LaunchThe tech giant is set to prioritize the launch of its first-ever foldable iPhone, along with two non-folding models featuring advanced cameras and larger displays, in the second half of 2026, according to a Nikkei Asia report on Friday. The standard iPhone 18 is now expected to ...

Key Takeaways Corning shares surged Tuesday after the glass and fiber optic cable maker announced a $6 billion deal with Meta to supply its data centers.The company is a supplier to several tech heavyweights including Nvidia and Apple, and has been a big beneficiary of the AI boom. A deal with Meta Platforms (META) is the latest piece of good news boosting Corning (GLW) stock. Corning and Meta announced $6 billion deal for Corning to supply the Facebook and Instagram parent with fiber optic technology ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry Focus**: The report centers on the **China Technology and Communications** sector, with a specific emphasis on AI opportunities in computing, networking, edges, and agents [1][30]. - **Market Outlook**: Despite three years of outperformance compared to MSCI China, there are high expectations and macro/sector risks anticipated for 2026 [1]. Core Insights and Arguments - **Valuation Trends**: H shares are preferred over A shares, with H shares trading 0.5 standard deviations above the 10-year historical forward P/E averages, while A shares are trading above 2 standard deviations [1][30]. - **AI Opportunities**: The report emphasizes embracing AI opportunities across various sectors, particularly in computing and networking, with localization in China being a significant factor [1]. - **Risks Identified**: Key risks include upstream supply issues, material cost increases, and downstream project delivery challenges [1]. - **Stock Recommendations**: - **Hardware/Components**: Luxshare, DSBJ, Lens Tech, Conant, TCL are preferred. - **Semiconductors**: Montage is highlighted. - **Software**: Kingdee is favored. - **Communication Infrastructure**: Eoptolink and TFC are recommended [1][2]. Market Projections - **Smartphone Shipments**: A forecasted decline of 5% YoY for global and China smartphone shipments in 2026, with an increase in average selling price (ASP) by 7% and 5% respectively [1]. - **Foldable Smartphones**: Anticipated shipments of foldable smartphones are projected to reach 20 million in 2025, 29 million in 2026, and 45 million in 2027, driven by the foldable iPhone [1]. - **Camera Lens Shipments**: Expected to reach 4.4 billion units in 2025, with a slight decline to 4.2 billion in 2026, and back to 4.4 billion in 2027 [1]. - **AI Glasses**: Global shipments are expected to reach 15 million in 2026, representing a 123% YoY increase [1]. - **AI-PCB Demand**: Total demand for AI-PCB is projected to be RMB 96 billion (US$ 13 billion) in 2026, with a growth rate of 101% YoY [1]. - **Optical Transceiver Market**: Expected to reach US$ 37.4 billion in 2026, with significant shipment increases [1]. Subsector Preferences - **Sector Performance**: Semiconductor sector is expected to lag behind hardware and communication infrastructure, with a projected earnings growth of 52% YoY for semiconductors in 2026 [23]. - **Investment Strategy**: Preference for semiconductor stocks, followed by communication and hardware, with IT services and software being the least favored [1][30]. Additional Insights - **Foreign Investment Trends**: Increased foreign investment in A-share tech names, with a notable rise in holdings in the overall A-share technology sector [13]. - **IPO Activity**: Anticipation of several IPOs in 1H26, which could provide quality tech names for investors [1][30]. - **Market Volatility**: Expected volatility in 1H26 due to high expectations for AI and potential market corrections [30]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights and projections from the conference call, providing a comprehensive overview of the China Technology and Communications sector's outlook for 2026.

Core Insights - Apple is working on a foldable iPhone expected to launch in fall 2026, with initial shipment projections of 3 to 5 million units in 2026, increasing to 20 million in 2027 [1][3] Group 1: Product Development - The anticipated foldable iPhone will feature ultra-thin glass, which poses execution risks due to its fragility and higher costs, potentially leading to retail prices exceeding $2,000 [2][3] - The device may include a 7.8-inch internal display, a 5.5-inch exterior panel, Touch ID, dual lenses, and a stainless steel-titanium hinge [3] Group 2: Market Performance - Apple has a market capitalization of $4 trillion and has seen its stock price increase by 9.56% over the past 52 weeks, with a notable 39.2% rise in the last six months [5] - In the last three months, Apple's shares rose by 11.47%, significantly outperforming the Nasdaq 100 Index, which gained only 2.3% [5] Group 3: Valuation Metrics - AAPL stock is trading at 33.55 times forward adjusted earnings and 8.92 times forward sales, indicating a premium over industry averages and reflecting market expectations for sustained growth and strong margins [6]

Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for various sectors within the technology and communications industry, particularly for 2026, with several companies expected to experience revenue growth and improved margins [1][5][20]. Core Insights - The memory price hike is anticipated to primarily affect low-to-mid end smartphone models, while high-end models are expected to remain largely unaffected [2][4]. - The upcoming foldable flagship smartphones are projected to drive significant upgrades in components such as UTG, hinge spindles, and heatsinks, with a notable focus on AI edge devices expected to launch in late 2026 [3][10]. - The adoption of 200MP CIS is expected to increase, particularly for telephoto and main cameras, contributing to a stronger performance in the semiconductor sector [4][15]. - The IT services and software sector is projected to see low-teen percentage revenue growth in 2026, with companies like Kingdee and ChinaSoft expecting significant improvements [5][16][17]. Summary by Sections Memory Market - Memory price hikes are expected to impact low-to-mid end models but not high-end models, with limited room for further ASP cuts [2]. Hardware - The foldable flagship smartphone is expected to drive upgrades in various components, with a focus on AI edge devices anticipated to contribute to revenue starting in late 2026 [3][10]. Semiconductors - The semiconductor sector is expected to see strong growth in 2026, driven by the adoption of high-resolution CIS and a shift towards computing and automotive segments [4][15]. IT Services and Software - Companies in the IT services sector, such as Kingdee and ChinaSoft, are optimistic about revenue growth in 2026, with expectations of AI-related projects contributing to this growth [5][16][17]. Smart Glasses and XR - The smart glasses market is expected to see significant growth, with total shipments projected to double in 2026, driven by demand from key US customers [13]. Automotive - The automotive sector is expected to experience growth, with companies like AAC and SO projecting significant revenue increases in 2026 [12]. Panelmakers - Panelmakers like BOE anticipate that upcoming sports events will boost TV LCD stocking and prices in 1Q26, alongside growth in IT replacement demand [11]. AI and Edge Computing - The AI edge device market is expected to present opportunities for companies involved in smart device manufacturing, with potential contributions from major players in the supply chain [10].

Core Insights - Apple has delayed the release of the next-generation iPhone Air due to disappointing sales of the current model, leading to a halt in production lines [1][3][12] - The iPhone Air accounted for only 3% of total iPhone sales in September, significantly lower than the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, which accounted for 9% and 12% respectively [7][11] Production and Sales Impact - Manufacturing partners Foxconn and Luxshare have drastically reduced or halted production of the iPhone Air, with Foxconn dismantling most of its production lines and Luxshare ending its production run in October [5][4] - Only about 10% of Apple's iPhone manufacturing capacity was allocated to the Air, yet this limited output has been difficult to sell [5] Product Features and Consumer Feedback - The iPhone Air was criticized for its single-camera setup, short battery life, and weaker speakers compared to Pro models, which contributed to its lackluster sales [4][6] - Engineers were exploring a redesign for the iPhone Air 2, which would include a second rear camera and improvements in battery and cooling technology [8][11] Future Prospects - Although the iPhone Air 2 was initially planned for a fall 2026 release, it has now been removed from the release schedule without a new date set, indicating uncertainty in its future [1][14] - Some engineers and suppliers are still working on the device, suggesting a potential launch in spring 2027 alongside other iPhone models [11]

Summary of Greater China Technology Hardware Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference focuses on the Greater China Technology Hardware sector, particularly emphasizing advancements in AI technology hardware for 2026 [5][7]. Key Insights and Arguments - **AI GPU and ASIC Server Opportunities**: There are significant opportunities in AI GPU and ASIC server/rack design upgrades, with major design upgrades anticipated for the GB300, Vera Rubin platform, and Kyber architecture [5][7]. - **AMD Helios Server Rack**: The AMD Helios server rack project is gaining traction, indicating a positive trend in server hardware demand [5][7]. - **Enhanced Computing Power**: AI ASIC servers are expected to enhance computing power and increase rack density, which is crucial for data centers [5][7]. - **Power Solution Upgrades**: A shift towards 800V HVDC power architecture is noted, with growing adoption of liquid cooling solutions [5][7]. - **PCB/Substrate Capacity Expansion**: There is a wave of capacity expansion in PCB/substrate to support ongoing design upgrades, which is essential for meeting future demand [5][7]. - **Data Network Improvements**: Upgrades in data and power interconnects are expected to increase data network transmission speed and capacity [5][7]. - **Consumer Electronics Demand**: Demand for consumer electronics remains lukewarm, with anticipation for upcoming foldable iPhone models in the second half of 2026 [5][7]. - **AI Smartphone and PC Developments**: The potential for AI smartphones and AI PCs is on the horizon, indicating a shift in consumer technology [5][7]. - **Supply Chain Reorientation**: The status of supply chain reorientation and its potential impact on the industry is under consideration [5][7]. Stock Recommendations - Key stock ideas include companies involved in AI server hardware such as Wistron, Hon Hai/FII, Delta Electronics, and others [5][7]. - For Edge AI, companies like Xiaomi, Lenovo, and Luxshare are highlighted as potential investment opportunities [5][7]. Valuation Comparisons - A detailed valuation comparison of various companies within the sector is provided, including metrics such as closing price, price target, market cap, EPS estimates, P/E ratios, and trading volumes [7]. - Notable companies include: - **Lite-On Tech**: Closing price of 179.50 with a price target of 150.00 and a market cap of 13.528 billion [7]. - **Delta Electronics**: Closing price of 995.00 with a price target of 1288.0 and a market cap of 84.075 billion [7]. - **Hon Hai**: Closing price of 257.50 with a price target of 250.0 and a market cap of 116.970 billion [7]. - **Foxconn Tech**: Closing price of 71.50 with a price target of 54.00 and a market cap of 3.290 billion [7]. Additional Important Points - The report emphasizes the importance of considering Morgan Stanley Research as one of several factors in investment decision-making due to potential conflicts of interest [2][3]. - Analysts involved in the report are not registered with FINRA, which may affect their communication and trading practices [3]. This summary encapsulates the key points from the conference call, providing insights into the Greater China Technology Hardware sector and potential investment opportunities.

Supply Chain Dynamics - Foxconn is favored as a supplier for the foldable iPhone hinge [1] - Luxshare is identified as a potential supplier [1] - Supplier shifts are occurring [1] Financial Implications - Lower-than-expected ASP (Average Selling Price) favors Apple [1] - Reassessing the contribution to SZS (likely referring to a specific company or sector) [1] - Reassessing the contribution to Amphenol (a company in the interconnect systems industry) [1]

Group 1 - Apple's entry into the foldable smartphone market is anticipated to generate $65 billion in revenue and high-single-digit EPS gains by 2029, despite launching in 2026, six years after Samsung's first foldable phone [1][2] - Currently, foldable smartphones represent approximately 1.5% of global smartphone sales, but Apple's introduction could significantly change market dynamics, especially with its premium pricing strategy [2][5] - Samsung currently holds a 56% market share in the foldable segment, but Apple's loyal customer base and successful history with late market entries could challenge this dominance [3][4] Group 2 - JPMorgan forecasts Apple will sell between 10 to 15 million foldable iPhones in 2027, increasing to 45 million units by 2029, with a significant portion of early adopters potentially being Android switchers [4][5] - The presence of Apple in the foldable market could lead to mainstream adoption, driving down price premiums as volume increases, which may benefit companies like Amphenol Corp and Corning Inc through increased hardware content [5]

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry**: Asian Technology Sector - **Current Trends**: Asian Tech stocks have rebounded significantly from the tariff-related sell-off in April, primarily driven by the AI sector [3][5] Core Insights and Arguments - **Earnings Revisions**: Overall Asian Tech earnings have seen an 18% upward revision year-to-date, mainly led by large-cap AI-related technology companies [3][5] - **Future Projections**: Continued upward revisions in tech earnings are expected through 2025, supported by the resolution of AI supply chain issues and well-flagged foreign exchange (FX) challenges [3][5] - **Market Growth**: Despite macroeconomic concerns, Asian Tech stocks are projected to increase by another 15-20% by the end of the year [3][5] - **AI Sector Leadership**: The AI complex is anticipated to lead the upcycle, with growth in datacenter capital expenditures (capex) expected in 2025 and increased confidence in growth for 2026 [3][5] - **Non-AI Sector Caution**: Selectivity is advised in the non-AI space due to a deceleration in year-over-year growth in most consumer tech segments in the second half of 2025, as the effects of China consumption subsidies and tariff pull-in fade [3][5] - **Emerging Themes**: Towards the end of 2025, new themes such as the Foldable iPhone product cycle and smart glasses may gain market support within the non-AI sector [3][5] Positive Catalysts for Asian Tech Stocks 1. Reinforcement of 2026 datacenter AI capex growth [3][5] 2. Potential US approval for China-specific NVIDIA AI GPU models [3][5] 3. Better-than-seasonal non-AI demand in the second half of 2025, as expectations have been reset to sub-seasonal levels [3][5] Stock Recommendations - **Preferred Stocks**: TSMC, SK Hynix, Advantest, and Delta among large-cap tech [3][5] - **Cautious Outlook**: More guarded on SEC, Xiaomi, and Mediatek in the near term, but maintain an overweight (OW) position on SEC due to improving progress in High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) [3][5] - **Top Picks**: Quanta is highlighted as a top pick among NVIDIA-related server Original Design Manufacturers (ODMs) [3][5] - **Smaller Cap Recommendations**: Asmedia, ASPEED, Chroma, AMEC, and ACMR are recommended, while SMIC, VIS, UMC, GUC, Realtek, Parade, GlobalWafers, USI, Transsion, and Nikon are advised to be avoided [3][5] Additional Important Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The overall sentiment remains positive for the AI sector, with expectations of revenue momentum picking up in the second half of 2025 [3][5]