iPhone 18 Pro Hits Stores, Samsung Retakes Smartphone Throne and More: This Week in Appleverse

It’s been a busy week for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) with new iPhone launches, analyst predictions, and major AI server developments. Here’s a round-up of the top stories from the past week. Apple Raises The Premium Bet With iPhone 18 Pro Launch Apple has unveiled its latest iPhone lineup, with the premium models hitting stores first. The company’s first foldable device is set to follow. According to a report by CNBC, the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models are launching with higher price points than previous new-device models. This marks the first major product release under new CEO John Ternus. “This is a big bet on the premium segment, and it’s a bet that’s going to pay off,” said Ternus. Read the full article here. Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Cycle Looks Strong As Carrier Incentives Hit $1200 Apple could witness a robust iPhone upgrade cycle, thanks to richer U.S. carrier promotions that help consumers absorb higher device prices. This was suggested by Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) analyst Wamsi Mohan. Mohan reiterated a Buy rating on Apple with a $370 price forecast. The analyst cited capital returns, Apple’s potential to emerge as a winner in edge AI and opportunities in new products and markets. Read the full article here. Apple, Nvidia Eye Major Entry Into AI Servers: Report Apple is reportedly working on an AI server that could use two or four planned M8 Ultra chips, as per a report by The Information. The company is considering Nvidia Corp‘s (NASDAQ:NVDA) NVLink Fusion technology to connect the processors. This partnership could potentially integrate Apple’s custom chips with NVIDIA’s broader data-center systems. The project would extend Apple’s chip strategy beyond consumer devices. Read the full article here. Samsung Retakes Smartphone Throne Despite a 7% global smartphone market decline in the second quarter of 2026, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (OTC:SSNLF) reclaimed the top position with a 23% share of global smartphone shipments. Its shipments increased 9% year over year. Analysts attributed this to favorable pricing and competitive dynamics. Counterpoint Research reported that developed markets proved more resilient due to their greater exposure to premium devices. Read the full article here. Elon Musk Makes Nice With Apple, Dismisses Antitrust Lawsuit Elon Musk‘s xAI and X Corp have dropped Apple from their antitrust lawsuit but are maintaining the pressure on OpenAI. The lawsuit, which accused Apple of monopolistic practices, was initially filed in August 2025. xAI withdrew its claims against Apple in the lawsuit, which U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman approved. While xAI dropped its claims against Apple, it continues to pursue its case against OpenAI. Read the full article here. Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. Photo: Skorzewiak / Shutterstock