Option chain shows key data for Samsung Electronics Co's stock options at various strike prices and expiration dates. Traders use this information to analyze potential trades and assess market sentiment for Samsung Electronics Co.

Samsung Electronics Co (OTC:SSNLF) Stock, Option Chain

Samsung Electronics is a diversified electronics conglomerate that manufactures and sells a wide range of products, including smartphones, semiconductor chips, printers, home appliances, medical equipment, and telecom network equipment. More than half of its profit is generated from semiconductor business, and a further 20-25% is generated from its mobile handset business, although these percentages vary with the fortunes of each of these businesses. It is the largest smartphone and television manufacturer in the world, which helps provide a base demand for its component businesses, such as memory chips and displays, and is also the largest manufacturer of these globally.

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Contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:TSM) chief C.C.

Taiwan Semi Chief To Skip Trump Inauguration, Calls US Semiconductor Sanctions &#39;Manageable&#39;

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AI chip stocks rally on news of Taiwan Semiconductor&#39;s upbeat quarterly report and new US regulations on chip exports to China, impacting companies like Nvidia and Apple.

AI Chip Stocks Gain Momentum On Taiwan Semiconductor Performance;  Biden&#39;s Semiconductor Sanctions Kick In

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Taiwan Semiconductor&#39;s quarterly results beat forecasts, driven by demand for advanced chips for AI applications. Revenue guidance for Q1 above consensus.

Taiwan Semiconductor Q4 Earnings: 3nm and 5nm Nodes Lead Topline Growth, Expands Margins, Issues Strong Q1 Outlook

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Samsung Electronics Co Ltd

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors" rel="noreferrer noopener">Contract chipmaker</a> Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) chief C.C. Wei opted to maintain a low profile by skipping President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump&#8217;s inauguration, including donations to the Trump camp, Bloomberg reports.
The inaugural committee raised over <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42938119/lockheed-martin-donates-1m-to-trumps-inaugural-committee-as-speculation-grows-over-elon-musk-led-doge-crackdown-on-traditional-defense-contracts" rel="noreferrer noopener">$170 million for January events</a>, thanks to donors including&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>),&nbsp;Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>),&nbsp;Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>),&nbsp;Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, and&nbsp;Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
Big Tech giant leaders, including Apple&#8217;s Tim Cook, Amazon&#8217;s Jeff Bezos, and Tesla Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Elon Musk will attend the inauguration on January 20.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/01/43038644/citi-cheap-valuation-investment-banking-and-trading-outlook-paired-with-accelerating-buybacks-sparks-optimism-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">Citi Outperforms Analyst Expectations With 12% Revenue Growth, Confirms $20 Billion Buyback Plan</a>
Reuters reports that Wei blamed the crisis of skilled workers, supply chain gaps, and inadequate chip plant construction regulations for delaying the construction of its Arizona project.
Wei added that Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s U.S. plant is unlikely to procure the most advanced chip technology before factories in Taiwan due to compliance issues, construction, and other regulations.
Wei told Reuters that building the new Arizona factory took at least twice as long as in Taiwan due to the complex regulations that made it challenging to employ the chipmaker&#8217;s latest technology in the U.S. before Taiwan.
Previously, Taiwan Semiconductor stated most of its chip manufacturing would remain in Taiwan, especially for the most advanced chips.
Trump had called out Taiwan during <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41604100/trump-goes-after-taiwan-semiconductor-on-joe-rogan-podcast" rel="noreferrer noopener">his presidential campaigns</a> for allegedly&nbsp;sabotaging America&#8217;s chip industry. He verbally attacked the U.S. CHIPS Act and pledged to slap tariffs on Taiwanese chips. He had also flagged the lack of a formal defense treaty between the U.S. and Taiwan.
Additionally, before handing over the charge to the Trump government, the Biden administration launched another round of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence technology sanctions</a> on countries, including China and Russia, to restrict their warfare capabilities.
China has been a key semiconductor market for companies like Taiwan Semiconductor. Washington aims to maintain its semiconductor position dominance and share control with its allies, including Taiwan, the Netherlands (home to ASML Holding (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/asml#NASDAQ">ASML</a>)), and South Korea (home to Samsung Electronics (OTC: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ssnlf#OTC">SSNLF</a>)).
Wei told Bloomberg that he found the semiconductor sanctions &#8220;manageable&#8221; and does not expect them to affect chips for non-AI sectors such as cars and crypto-mining.
On Thursday, Taiwan Semiconductor reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43022654/taiwan-semiconductor-q4-earnings-3nm-and-5nm-nodes-lead-topline-growth-expands-margins-issues-strong-q1-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-quarter revenue</a> of $26.88 billion (NT$868.46 billion), up 38.8%, topping the consensus estimate of $26.28 billion.
As its 3-nm and 5-nm technologies gained traction, the chipmaker&#8217;s gross margins expanded by 600 bps to 59%.
It expects first-quarter 2025 revenue of $25.0 billion—$25.8 billion versus the&nbsp;$24.97 billion consensus. It projects a gross margin of 57%—59%. Taiwan Semiconductor committed $38 billion—$42 billion to fiscal 2025 capex versus actual capex of $29.8 billion a year ago.&nbsp;
During the earnings call, Wei expressed conviction in producing chips of the same quality in Arizona as in Taiwan with a smooth ramp-up process.
Taiwan Semiconductor stock surged 109% in the last 12 months.
Investors can gain exposure to companies engaged in the manufacturing of semiconductors through VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>)
and iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;TSM stock traded higher by 0.20% to $215.21 premarket at the last check on Friday.
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Taiwan Semi Chief To Skip Trump Inauguration, Calls US Semiconductor Sanctions 'Manageable'

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ai-chips" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Artificial intelligence chip stocks</a> including Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), Marvell Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), Arm Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>), and Micron Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>), are trading higher Thursday in sympathy with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43022654/taiwan-semiconductor-q4-earnings-3nm-and-5nm-nodes-lead-topline-growth-expands-margins-issues-strong-q1-outlook" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">upbeat quarterly print</a>.
Taiwan Semiconductor is the key contract chipmaker behind Nvidia&#8217;s graphics processing units&nbsp;(GPU) and Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) smartphones.
However, on Wednesday, the Biden administration announced its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest semiconductor regulations</a>, including extended licensing requirements on companies like Taiwan Semiconductor, which manufactures chips, and packaging companies, citing national security threats.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42981814/apple-and-nvidia-supplier-taiwan-semiconductor-leads-semiconductor-market-with-64-share" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple And Nvidia Supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Leads Semiconductor Market with 64% Share</a>
Chipmakers like Taiwan Semiconductor and&nbsp;Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) must <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43003008/taiwan-semi-samsung-intel-may-face-stricter-us-rules-on-chip-exports-to-china-over-security-concerns" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ramp up due diligence</a> especially with China-based firms.
Washington imposed sanctions on 16 Chinese companies, including Sophgo Technologies, for building their country&#8217;s chip industry, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-15/us-unveils-new-rules-to-restrict-flow-of-advanced-chips-to-china?srnd=phx-technology&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> the Commerce Department.
On Monday, the U.S. disclosed sanctions on the sale of AI chips by Nvidia and other advanced makers to data centers in most countries.
The rules for AI chips follow&nbsp;controls&nbsp;announced in December that aim to block Beijing&#8217;s access to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40198085/huawei-and-baidu-increase-samsung-hbm-purchases-as-us-curbs-loom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">high-bandwidth memory</a> chips from Micron.
Semiconductor chip stocks enjoyed a massive upside in 2024, backed by the AI boom.
A third of the top ten global companies with valuations above $1 trillion in 2024 came from the chip industry.
Investors can gain exposure to stocks of companies that manufacture semiconductors through ProShares Ultra Semiconductors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USD#NYSE">USD</a>) and Invesco PHLX Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXQ#NASDAQ">SOXQ</a>).
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AI Chip Stocks Gain Momentum On Taiwan Semiconductor Performance;  Biden's Semiconductor Sanctions Kick In

On Thursday, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) fourth-quarter results beat forecasts, fueled by demand for advanced processor node technologies for artificial intelligence applications.
The contract chipmaker, which supplies chips for&nbsp;Nvidia Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) graphics processing unit&nbsp;(GPU)&nbsp;and Apple, Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) smartphones, guided first-quarter revenue <a target="_blank" href="https://investor.tsmc.com/english/quarterly-results/2024/q4" rel="noreferrer noopener">above the consensus</a>.
Taiwan Semiconductor reported fourth-quarter revenue of $26.88 billion (NT$868.46 billion), up 38.8% year-over-year, topping the analyst consensus estimate of $26.28 billion.
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Net income and earnings per share were NT$374.68 billion and NT$14.45 per share ($2.24) versus <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/earnings" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus of $2.23</a>.
In dollar terms, revenue growth was 37.0% year over year and 14.4% quarter over quarter. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41373163/nvidia-supplier-tsmc-reports-q3-revenue-earnings-beat-amid-rising-demand-for-ai-chips" rel="noreferrer noopener">The top-line performance</a> aligned with the company&#8217;s guidance of $26.1 billion—$26.9 billion.
Taiwan Semiconductor said its business was supported by demand for its 3-nm and 5-nm technologies. However, it expects smartphone seasonality to impact the first quarter, partially offset by continued growth in AI-related demand.
The company said 3-nm accounted for 26% of the total revenue, 5-nm accounted for 34%, and 7-nm technologies accounted for 14%. 7-nm and more advanced technologies comprised 74% of the total wafer revenue.
Margin Profile:&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s AI technology moat helped it expand its fourth-quarter gross margins by 600 bps to 59%, as its 3-nm and 5-nm chips gain traction at the cost of&nbsp;Intel Corp&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) and&nbsp;Samsung Electronics&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>),&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42825523/taiwan-semi-likely-for-upside-backed-by-ai-demand-and-advanced-node-pricing-analyst-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">which struggled to transition</a>&nbsp;into advanced nodes. Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s operating margin expanded by 740 bps to 49%.
Outlook: Taiwan Semiconductor is guided for first-quarter 2025 revenue of $25.0 billion-$25.8 billion versus the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">$24.97 billion consensus estimate</a>. It expects a gross margin of 57%—59% and operating profit margins of 46.5%—48.5%.
The company earmarked fiscal 2025 capex worth $38 billion-$42 billion (versus $29.8 billion a year ago) amid intensifying geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China, with the former eying tougher <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43003008/taiwan-semi-samsung-intel-may-face-stricter-us-rules-on-chip-exports-to-china-over-security-concerns" rel="noreferrer noopener">artificial intelligence technology</a> restrictions on the latter, citing national security concerns.
Taiwan Semiconductor stock surged over 103% in the last 12 months.
Investors can gain exposure to semiconductor manufacturing stocks through the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) and the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action: TSM stock traded higher by 4.86% at $216.85 premarket at the last check on Thursday.
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Photo by wakamatsu.h via Shutterstock

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>), and&nbsp;Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) could face more <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42897081/nvidia-and-ai-chip-stocks-brace-for-impact-as-biden-administration-considers-new-china-export-ban-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">cumbersome export regulations</a> as the U.S. aims to restrict China&#8217;s access to advanced chips, citing national security threats.
The Biden administration&#8217;s latest measures seek to encourage the chipmakers&nbsp;to analyze and perform more due diligence on customers carefully, Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-15/us-to-push-tsmc-and-samsung-to-tighten-flow-of-chips-to-china?srnd=phx-technology&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> unnamed sources familiar with the matter.
Prior reports alleged Taiwan Semiconductor-made chips finding a way&nbsp;to the blacklisted Chinese company&nbsp;Huawei Technologies Co.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42986042/apple-sees-market-share-decline-in-2024-as-chinese-smartphone-brands-surge-globally-idc" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Sees Market Share Decline in 2024 as Chinese Smartphone Brands Surge Globally: IDC</a>
The latest sanctions, likely to be announced on Wednesday, could limit Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;and rivals&#8217; sales of AI chips to data centers in the U.S.&#8217;s non-ally countries like China and Russia.
The U.S. could restrict the export of advanced chips, implying those 14 or 16 nanometers and below, and mandate a government license to sell them in China and other restricted nations.
The suggested regulations aim to help chip manufacturers identify which designs, from which customers, are subject to U.S. semiconductor sanctions.
The U.S. aims to target more sophisticated processors, namely, AI accelerators designed by Chinese companies.
The U.S., Europe, and Japan ramped up their focus on their domestic semiconductor positions to reduce dependence on China by tapping chipmakers like Taiwan Semiconductor following <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42981814/apple-and-nvidia-supplier-taiwan-semiconductor-leads-semiconductor-market-with-64-share" rel="noreferrer noopener">the 2020 pandemic</a> that disrupted the global supply chains.
Additionally, the U.S. started restricting China&#8217;s access to advanced semiconductor technology from Nvidia and Taiwan Semiconductor, which Washington alleged China utilized to boost its military warfare position.
The U.S. also encouraged its allies, including Taiwan and the Netherlands (home to chip equipment maker&nbsp;ASML Holding (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/asml#NASDAQ">ASML</a>), to restrict semiconductor trade with China.
Taiwan Semiconductor commanded a 64% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42981814/apple-and-nvidia-supplier-taiwan-semiconductor-leads-semiconductor-market-with-64-share" rel="noreferrer noopener">global foundry business share</a> in the third quarter of 2024. Samsung scored second with a 12% share backed by its 4nm and 5nm processes.
Investors can gain exposure to stocks of companies that manufacture semiconductors through the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) and the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action: TSM stock closed higher by 0.26% at $201.97 premarket at the last check on Wednesday.
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Taiwan Semi, Samsung, Intel May Face Stricter US Rules on Chip Exports to China Over Security Concerns

Nokia Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOK#NYSE">NOK</a>) shares are trading higher premarket on Wednesday. The company entered a multi-year patent license deal with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>), granting Samsung access to its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/15/3009789/0/en/Nokia-signs-video-technologies-license-agreement-with-Samsung.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">video </a>technologies for use in televisions.
As part of the deal, Samsung will pay royalties to Nokia. This deal is separate from the company&#8217;s existing 5G patent license agreement, and the terms remain confidential.
Arvin Patel, Nokia&#8217;s Chief Licensing Officer for New Segments, stated, &#8220;The agreement is yet another proof point of Nokia&#8217;s leadership in video and multimedia technologies, and further validation of our decades-long investments in multimedia R&amp;D and standardization.&#8221;
In a separate release, Nokia revealed&nbsp;a partnership&nbsp;with Zain KSA to implement&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/15/3009772/0/en/Nokia-and-Zain-KSA-to-implement-unique-indoor-solutions-for-enterprise-customers.html#:~:text=Nokia%20and%20Zain%20KSA%20to%20implement%20unique%20indoor%20solutions%20for%20enterprise%20customers&amp;text=First%204G%2F5G%20Femtocell%20solution,for%20enterprises%20across%20the%20Kingdom." rel="noreferrer noopener">4G</a>/5G Femtocell solution in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East and Africa region.
The collaboration aims to improve mobile coverage and enhance connectivity for enterprise customers by addressing network gaps and optimizing performance.
By reducing dependency on customer infrastructure, this cost-effective solution ensures enhanced coverage and optimized connectivity for enterprise users.
Last week, the company disclosed that&nbsp;Openreach&nbsp;had selected its One Network Platform to build an open-access&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42897828/openreach-taps-nokia-to-connect-25-million-uk-properties-to-high-speed-broadband-by-2026" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiber network across the U.K</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to NOK stock via&nbsp;iShares U.S. Digital Infrastructure and Real Estate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDGT#NYSE">IDGT</a>) and Defiance Quantum ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QTUM#NASDAQ">QTUM</a>).
Price Action: NOK shares are up 2.21% at $4.61 premarket at the last check Wednesday.
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What's Going On With Nokia Stock Premarket On Wednesday?

Nokia signs video technologies license agreement with Samsung
<ul>
<li>License covers the use of Nokia's video technologies in Samsung's televisions.</li>
<li>Nokia to receive royalty payments from Samsung.</li>
<li>The new agreement is separate from the parties' existing 5G license agreement.</li>
</ul>

Nokia Signs Multi-Year Video Technologies Licensing Deal With Samsung

South Korean markets showed resilience Wednesday as President Yoon Suk Yeol was taken into custody, with the benchmark KOSPI rising 0.40% to 2,507.35 amid heightened political uncertainty.
Yoon, 64, was detained at 10:33 a.m. local time by a joint probe team investigating allegations related to his December martial law declaration, marking an unprecedented arrest of a sitting South Korean president. 
The arrest came after an initial failed attempt on Jan. 3 that resulted in a standoff between investigators and presidential security, <a href="https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10390439">reported</a> The Korean Herald.
Despite the political upheaval, major South Korean stocks held steady. SK Hynix Inc. led the gains, climbing 2.31% to 1,99,800 South Korean won ($136.90). Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) rose 0.37% to 54,100 South Korean won ($37.06), while KB Financial Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KB#NYSE">KB</a>) gained 0.90%, reaching 89,500 South Korean won ($61.31). Hyundai Motor (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HYMTF#OTC">HYMTF</a>) saw a slight decline of 0.23%, trading at 2,21,500 South Korean won ($151.76). 
The iShares MSCI South Korea ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EWY#NYSE">EWY</a>), a key indicator for U.S. investors, gained 0.94% on Tuesday.
The Korean won remained stable against the U.S. dollar, trading at 1,460.52 South Korean won, down marginally by 0.063%. 
The arrest warrant for President Yoon, which expires Jan. 21, includes charges of power abuse and insurrection. The investigation is led by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials.
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Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Asia

Markets

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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Arrested — KOSPI Edges Higher Despite Political Upheaval, Won Stable

International Data Corp cites preliminary data showing that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/smartphones" rel="noreferrer noopener">global smartphone shipments</a> increased 2.4% to 331.7 million units in the fourth quarter of 2024.
This marks the sixth consecutive quarter of shipment growth, and after two years of decline, the year closed with 6.4% growth and 1.24 billion shipments.
Nabila Popal <a target="_blank" href="https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS53072325" rel="noreferrer noopener">of IDC</a> noted that vendors successfully adjusted their strategies to drive growth by focusing on promotions, launching devices in multiple price segments, offering interest-free financing plans, and aggressively trading in devices, fueling premiumization and boosting low-end devices, especially in China and emerging markets.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/01/42958251/on-semi-sees-utilization-cuts-as-ev-demand-softens-analyst-warns" rel="noreferrer noopener">ON Semi Sees Utilization Cuts As EV Demand Softens, Analyst Warns</a>
Popal expressed optimism about continued growth in 2025 while flagging the threat of tariffs from the Donald Trump administration, which has triggered uncertainty in the industry.
IDC expects the market to continue growing at a slower pace in 2025 as refresh cycles continue to grow and pent-up demand is fulfilled.
While Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) maintained the top two positions in the fourth quarter and for the year, both companies witnessed year-on-year declines and lost market share to the Chinese vendors this year who drove the overall market by focusing on affordable devices, rapid expansion, and development in China.
Outside of Apple and Samsung, Xiaomi (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>) came in third for the quarter and the year, with the highest year-on-year growth rate among the top five players. Transsion placed fourth but tied with Vivo for the quarter and Oppo for the year.
Francisco Jeronimo called out Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Honor, Huawei, Lenovo, Realme, Transsion, TCL, and ZTE for their remarkable fourth quarter.
They shipped the highest combined volume ever in a quarter, representing 56% of the global smartphone shipments.
While their core markets remain China and Asia, Jeronimo noted that these brands are expanding their footprint in Europe and Africa thanks to their low-end and mid-range devices. Huawei stands apart, with most of its shipments in the high-end and premium segments.
Also this week, Counterpoint <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/25/01/42951487/apples-iphone-market-share-declines-in-china-huawei-and-xiaomi-gain-momentum-in-2024-counterpoint" rel="noreferrer noopener">pointed out how</a> iPhones, devoid of their Apple Intelligence features, failed to gain traction in China, making way for the domestic players in 2024.
As per Counterpoint, global smartphone sales grew 4% in 2024, led by Europe, China, and Latin America.
Counterpoint expects AI-capable smartphones to become a norm for mid-range devices. By 2028, Counterpoint expects 90% of smartphones priced above $250 to be Generative AI-capable.
Apple stock surged 28% in last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Global Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IXN#NYSE">IXN</a>) and Fidelity MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTEC#NYSE">FTEC</a>).
Price Action: AAPL stock traded higher by 0.12% at $234.67 at the last check on Tuesday.
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Photo courtesy: Apple

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Apple Sees Market Share Decline in 2024 as Chinese Smartphone Brands Surge Globally: IDC

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is finalizing the verification of its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/semiconductors" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;made in America&#8221;</a> processor chips from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) plant in Arizona.
The first batch of commercial chips will likely by this quarter, Nikkei Asia <a target="_blank" href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Tech/Semiconductors/Apple-in-final-stages-of-verifying-TSMC-s-Made-in-USA-chips" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The 2020 pandemic prompted countries including the U.S., Europe, and Japan to consolidate their semiconductor position by tapping chipmakers like Taiwan Semiconductor, Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>), Samsung Electronics Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>), thereby reducing their dependence on China.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42947562/taiwan-semiconductor-begins-4nm-chip-production-in-arizona-eyes-11-4-billion-q4-profit" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taiwan Semiconductor Begins 4nm Chip Production in Arizona, Eyes $11.4 Billion Q4 Profit</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4.png" alt="" class="wp-image-732034" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/14050746/newplot-4-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
Additionally, the U.S. started restricting China&#8217;s access to advanced semiconductor technology, which Washington alleged China utilized to boost its military warfare position.
Washington also restricted China&#8217;s access to sophisticated Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s artificial intelligence chips.
The country also canvassed its allies, including Taiwan and the Netherlands (home to chip equipment maker ASML Holding (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/asml#NASDAQ">ASML</a>), to restrict semiconductor trade with China.
Meanwhile, Taiwan Semiconductor bagged a 64% share of the global foundry business in the third quarter of 2024, up from 62% in the second quarter, Taipei Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2025/01/14/2003830149" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> Counterpoint Research.
Last November, Counterpoint said Taiwan Semiconductor owed its moat to high utilization rates in its 5nm and 3nm processes, artificial intelligence (AI) accelerator demand, and smartphone sales.
Samsung came second with a 12% share backed by its 4nm and 5nm processes, Taipei Times cites Counterpoint.
China&#8217;s Semiconductor Manufacturing International came third after it secured 6%, backed by its 28nm process, Taipei Times cites Counterpoint.
United Microelectronics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UMC#NYSE">UMC</a>) tied with GlobalFoundries Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GFS#NASDAQ">GFS</a>) with a 5% share backed by demand in the Internet of Things and communications infrastructure markets.
The 3nm process scored a second position in the third quarter, bagging a 13% share, on the back of the full utilization of Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s production capacity, as production by Apple, Qualcomm Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>), Intel gained momentum.
The 5 and 4nm processes bagged the numero uno position, securing 24% of the market in the third quarter, courtesy of demand for Nvidia&#8217;s Blackwell graphics processing units.
Taiwan Semiconductor plans to start producing its 2nm process at its fab in Hsinchu County&#8217;s Baoshan Township in 2025.
Goldman Sachs <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42825523/taiwan-semi-likely-for-upside-backed-by-ai-demand-and-advanced-node-pricing-analyst-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">expressed optimism over</a> Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s prospects, citing AI demand and advanced node growth. Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s price hikes for 3 and 5nm nodes in 2025 (while Intel and Samsung struggle to develop their AI technology moat) could boost its margins to over 59%.
Taiwan Semiconductor stock surged over 98% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stocks of companies that manufacture semiconductors through VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>) and iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action: TSM stock is down 0.65% at $200.05 at the last check on Tuesday.
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Image via Shutterstock

Apple And Nvidia Supplier Taiwan Semiconductor Leads Semiconductor Market with 64% Share

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/smartphones" rel="noreferrer noopener">Smartphone giant</a> Apple Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)&nbsp;iPhones, minus their highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features, failed to gain traction in China, paving the way for the country&#8217;s domestic players in 2024.
Counterpoint&#8217;s Tarun Pathak mentioned 2024 as a year of recovery and normalization after a difficult 2023.
Global smartphone sales grew 4% in 2024 after two consecutive years of annual declines, Counterpoint <a target="_blank" href="https://www.counterpointresearch.com/insight/post-insight-research-notes-blogs-smartphone-market-recovers-in-2024-after-two-years-of-decline" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> preliminary data. Smartphone sales marked a decade low in 2023.
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Almost every market grew, led by Europe, China, and Latin America.
The iPhone captured an 18% market share in 2024, down from 19% in 2023.
However, Apple continued to grow in its non-core markets, like Latin America, Africa, and Asia-Pacific. Needham&#8217;s Laura Martin expects iPhones to account for 89%-96% of Apple&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41005053/apple-iphone-to-fuel-96-of-2025-revenue-analyst-says-a-safer-bet-than-ai-heavy-amazon-alphabet-micro" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiscal 2025 revenue</a>.&nbsp;
Counterpoint&#8217;s Ivan Lam flagged a consumer pivot to Apple&#8217;s premium offering, helping to offset some of the declines. Lam pointed to the growing sell-through share of Pro series devices in markets like China.
Samsung Electronics Co (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) led with a market share of 19% in 2024, down from 20% in 2023, backed by demand for its S24 series and A-series product lines. The S24 series gained traction as the first phone positioned as an AI device and performed exceptionally in Western Europe and the USA.
Xiaomi (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>) reported a 14% market share in 2024, up from 13% a year ago. Oppo and Vivo each captured an 8% market share in 2024.
Xiaomi grew fastest among the top five brands in 2024, backed by its premiumization and expansion activities.
Oppo ended the year with stronger momentum. Vivo emerged amongst the top five, led by strong performance in India and China.
The top five remained the same as in 2023 but lost some share to Huawei Technologies, Honor, and Motorola. Huawei&nbsp;has no plans to give any respite to its rivals, who are doling out discounts for the New Year on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42721523/apples-chinese-rival-huawei-slashes-prices-for-new-year-boost-should-tim-cook-led-company-be-worried-heres-what-analysts-are-saying-about-aapl-stock" rel="noreferrer noopener">their premium models</a>.
China targets expanding&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/42790373/apple-iphones-lose-ground-in-china-as-subsidies-boost-huawei-domestic-rivals" rel="noreferrer noopener">government-supported consumption</a> subsidies to include smartphones and other electronics, which will likely benefit domestic brands like&nbsp;Huawei and&nbsp;Xiaomi.
While generative AI-capable smartphones remain limited to the premium segment, Counterpoint expects them to become a norm for mid-range devices. By 2028, Counterpoint expects nine out of ten smartphones priced above $250 to be Generative AI-capable.
In 2025, Counterpoint expects revenue growth to continue to outpace volume growth, with revenues growing 8%, compared to 4%.
Price Action: AAPL stock is down 0.54% at $230.83 at the last check on Monday.
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Photo courtesy: Apple

Emerging Markets

Apple's iPhone Market Share Declines in China, Huawei and Xiaomi Gain Momentum in 2024: Counterpoint

The week was a rollercoaster for the tech world, particularly for&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). The tech giant faced a potential market share decline in China, while its CEO, Tim Cook, enjoyed a significant pay rise. Amid privacy controversies, Apple clarified its Siri privacy policies and acknowledged AI flaws. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>)&nbsp;unveiled a subscription model for its AI-powered Galaxy smartphones.
Apple&#8217;s Market Share Decline in China
Apple is reportedly facing a drop in its market share in China, attributed to a decrease in iPhone shipments, according to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Despite the expected launch of the new iPhone SE 4, Kuo forecasts a 6% year-over-year decline in shipments for the first half of 2025. The thin design of two upcoming iPhone models, which may only support eSIM, a feature not widely promoted in the Chinese market, is expected to contribute to this decline.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42931758/apple-staring-at-market-share-decline-in-china-amid-declining-iphone-shipments-top-analyst-flags-why-some-models-could-be-face-shipping-momentum-challenges">Read the full article here.</a>
Tim Cook&#8217;s 2024 Salary
Despite controversies over Apple&#8217;s AI and Siri privacy policies, CEO Tim Cook saw an 18% increase in his annual compensation in 2024, reaching $74.6 million. The rise was primarily due to an increase in stock awards and non-equity incentive plan compensation.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42931220/apple-ceo-tim-cook-took-home-74-6-million-in-2024-up-18-despite-ai-and-siri-privacy-controversies">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Clarifies Siri Privacy Policies
Following a $95 million settlement over allegations of unauthorized recordings, Apple clarified its privacy policies regarding Siri. The company emphasized that it has never sold or used Siri data for marketing purposes.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42890955/apple-clarifies-siri-privacy-policies-after-95-million-settlement">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Admits AI Flaws
Apple has committed to updating its AI feature following a complaint from the BBC. The tech giant acknowledged that its AI-generated news summaries on iPhones have been inaccurate.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836957/apple-acknowledges-ai-flaws-after-bbc-complaint-vows-fix-for-misleading-news-summaries">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Rival Unveils AI Subscription Model
Apple rival Samsung is set to introduce a subscription model for its Galaxy smartphones, following Apple&#8217;s pause on its own subscription service plans. The AI Subscription Club, initially launched for select Samsung home appliances in South Korea, will be expanded to Galaxy phones and the Ballie AI robot.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42893958/after-apple-halts-hardware-subscription-plans-samsung-unveils-similar-strategy-for-ai-powered-galaxy-smartphones">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Apple's Market Woes, Tim Cook's 2024 Salary, And Siri Privacy Concerns: This Week In Appleverse

Melania Trump&nbsp;is set to executive produce a new documentary on&nbsp;Amazon.com, Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Prime Video, offering a rare glimpse into her life and influence in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42806697/melania-trump-to-executive-produce-upcoming-amazon-documentary-offering-rare-insight-into-her-life-and-influence-in-donald-trumps-political-world" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Trump's</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42806697/melania-trump-to-executive-produce-upcoming-amazon-documentary-offering-rare-insight-into-her-life-and-influence-in-donald-trumps-political-world" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;political sphere</a>.&nbsp;
Smartphones
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) remains unable to sell its&nbsp;iPhone 16&nbsp;in Indonesia. the company has&nbsp;not met Indonesia's domestic&nbsp;content requirements, which stipulate that smartphones sold in the country must include at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42890863/apples-airtag-factory-fails-to-impress-indonesia-iphone-16-sales-remain-banned-despite-local-production-plans" rel="noreferrer noopener"> least 35% locally-made components</a>.
Apple has clarified its privacy policies regarding Siri, following a $95 million settlement over allegations of unauthorized recordings. The company emphasized&nbsp;that it has never sold&nbsp;or used<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42890955/apple-clarifies-siri-privacy-policies-after-95-million-settlement" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Siri data for marketing purposes</a>.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) is gearing up for CES 2025 with major announcements and futuristic tech. Samsung&#8217;s theme for this year&#8217;s CES presentation is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42808821/samsung-ces-2025-press-conference-from-cutting-edge-ai-to-transparent-screens-heres-what-to-expect" rel="noreferrer noopener">"AI for All: Everyday, Everywhere.</a>"
Early announcements from Samsung&#8217;s newsroom highlight AI-enhanced refrigerators, appliances with built-in screens, and more. Expect features like advanced personalization and smarter home integration.
Samsung has confirmed the release of its much-anticipated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836293/samsungs-ballie-is-finally-coming-in-2025-will-this-round-home-robot-live-up-to-the-hype" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ballie</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836293/samsungs-ballie-is-finally-coming-in-2025-will-this-round-home-robot-live-up-to-the-hype" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;home robot</a>.
Samsung announced its Unpacked event, set for Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, in San Jose. The event will showcase the new&nbsp;Galaxy S25&nbsp;series <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836040/samsung-unpacked-2025-date-time-livestream-details-and-galaxy-s25-pre-order-offers-everything-you-need-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">and advancements in&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836040/samsung-unpacked-2025-date-time-livestream-details-and-galaxy-s25-pre-order-offers-everything-you-need-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">Galaxy AI</a>.
Samsung is set to introduce a subscription model <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42893958/after-apple-halts-hardware-subscription-plans-samsung-unveils-similar-strategy-for-ai-powered-galaxy-smartphones" rel="noreferrer noopener">for its Galaxy smartphones</a>.
Media &amp; Gaming
Alphabet Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google&nbsp;TV users are reportedly encountering issues with purchasing certain movies, including&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42808621/google-tv-reportedly-struggles-with-missing-movie-purchases-disney-classics-and-new-releases-now-locked-behind-streaming-services" rel="noreferrer noopener">Walt Disney Co.&#8217;s</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42808621/google-tv-reportedly-struggles-with-missing-movie-purchases-disney-classics-and-new-releases-now-locked-behind-streaming-services" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>)&nbsp;classics</a>.
Walt Disney said that its streaming platforms have reached another milestone.&nbsp;The company&#8217;s streaming platforms,&nbsp;Disney+,&nbsp;Hulu, and&nbsp;ESPN+, have amassed approximately 157 million monthly active users globally who<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42890512/disney-now-has-157-million-monthly-ad-supported-viewers-on-disney-hulu-and-espn-globally" rel="noreferrer noopener"> engage with ad-supported content</a>.
Technology
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) has decided to temporarily pause construction on parts of its&nbsp;ambitious data center <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42806852/microsoft-pauses-construction-on-33-billion-mount-pleasant-data-center-project-cites-technology-changes-and-design-re-evaluation" rel="noreferrer noopener">project&nbsp;in Mount Pleasant</a>.
Nvidia Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO&nbsp;Jensen Huang&nbsp;delivered the keynote at CES 2025. The keynote's highlight was the introduction of the latest&nbsp;GeForce&nbsp;RTX 5000&nbsp;Graphic cards series, which include the $1,999 RTX 5090, $999 RTX 5080, $749 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42835923/jensen-huang-unveils-monster-gpus-nvidias-rtx-5000-series-starting-at-549" rel="noreferrer noopener">RTX 5070 Ti, and $549 RTX 5070</a>.
The lead product for&nbsp;Google's AI Studio&nbsp;has voiced concerns over the U.S. government's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836724/google-lead-product-questions-americas-ai-priorities-as-platforms-embrace-chinese-models-its-so-great-so-cheap-so-fast-such-good-rate-limits" rel="noreferrer noopener">approach to artificial intelligence</a>.
Also, Nvidia CEO&nbsp;Jensen Huang&nbsp;introduced the company&#8217;s $3,000 "personal AI supercomputer," a compact, high-performance machine designed to run advanced AI models right <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42838231/jensen-huang-unveils-3000-personal-ai-supercomputer-the-size-of-a-small-book-it-runs-the-entire-nvidia-ai-stack" rel="noreferrer noopener">from your desk at CES 2025</a>.
Amazon.com has expanded its home security portfolio with the launch of smart smoke <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42838001/amazons-ring-introduces-smart-smoke-alarms-at-ces-2025-boosting-home-security-with-pro-monitoring-features" rel="noreferrer noopener">and carbon monoxide alarms</a>.
Dell Technologies Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) announced a major rebranding of its personal computers, aiming to boost sales by adopting a simplified <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42869349/dell-takes-bold-step-to-revive-pc-sales-with-simplified-apple-like-brandingxps-and-inspiron-are-gone-for-good" rel="noreferrer noopener">naming strategy similar to&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42869349/dell-takes-bold-step-to-revive-pc-sales-with-simplified-apple-like-brandingxps-and-inspiron-are-gone-for-good" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple</a>.
Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) CEO&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s&nbsp;accusation of censorship has been firmly <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42891403/mark-zuckerberg-accuses-eu-of-censorship-spokesperson-pushes-back-on-metas-allegations-we-absolutely-refute-any-claims" rel="noreferrer noopener">denied by the European Commission</a>.
The Commission stated that their regulations only mandate the removal of illegal content. "We absolutely refute any claims of censorship," said a Commission spokesperson.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>) is making a significant move in the AI sector with a $300 million investment in&nbsp;DDN, a company known for its expertise <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42892338/blackstone-invests-300-million-in-ai-data-firm-that-powers-elon-musks-xai-supercomputer" rel="noreferrer noopener">in data storage and analysis</a>.
Apple committed to updating its AI feature following a complaint from the BBC.&nbsp;The issue came to light last month after the BBC reported that an AI-generated summary falsely claimed that&nbsp;Luigi Mangione, accused of killing&nbsp;UnitedHealthcare&nbsp;CEO<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836957/apple-acknowledges-ai-flaws-after-bbc-complaint-vows-fix-for-misleading-news-summaries" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836957/apple-acknowledges-ai-flaws-after-bbc-complaint-vows-fix-for-misleading-news-summaries" rel="noreferrer noopener">Brian Thompson</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836957/apple-acknowledges-ai-flaws-after-bbc-complaint-vows-fix-for-misleading-news-summaries" rel="noreferrer noopener">, had shot himself</a>.
OpenAI&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Sam Altman&nbsp;has made a bold prediction regarding the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI), suggesting it will <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42867568/openai-ceo-sam-altman-predicts-agi-will-arrive-during-the-trump-presidency-says-chips-act-not-effective-enough" rel="noreferrer noopener">occur during&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42867568/openai-ceo-sam-altman-predicts-agi-will-arrive-during-the-trump-presidency-says-chips-act-not-effective-enough" rel="noreferrer noopener">Donald Trump's</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42867568/openai-ceo-sam-altman-predicts-agi-will-arrive-during-the-trump-presidency-says-chips-act-not-effective-enough" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;presidency</a>.&nbsp;
Anthropic, the AI startup behind "Claude" backed by Jeff Bezos, is reportedly in advanced discussions to secure $2 billion in funding. This deal could elevate its valuation to $60 billion, positioning it among the top <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42867792/jeff-bezos-backed-anthropic-set-to-become-one-of-the-top-5-us-startups-as-it-reportedly-eyes-60-billion-valuation-with-2-billion-funding-round" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">five most valuable U.S. startups</a>.
Image: Shutterstock

DELL

Consumer Tech News (Jan 6-10): Microsoft Pauses Ambitious Data Center Project, Blackstone Makes $300 Million Investment In AI & More

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) is set to introduce a subscription model for its Galaxy smartphones. This move comes after Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) paused its own subscription service plans last month.
What Happened:The subscription service, known as the AI Subscription Club, was initially launched in December for select Samsung home appliances in South Korea. Samsung&#8217;s vice chair, Han Jong-hee, confirmed the expansion to Galaxy phones and the Ballie AI robot. The service will be available in Korea and the U.S., with Ballie being introduced first in these regions, The Verge and ETNews <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/8/24338974/samsung-galaxy-subscription-smartphones-ballie">reported </a>on Wednesday.
Samsung&#8217;s subscription model allows consumers to pay a monthly fee for AI-powered devices, offering optional repair and maintenance services. This approach aims to reduce upfront costs for users. The company plans to unveil more details during the Galaxy Unpacked event in San Jose, California, on Jan. 22.
Meanwhile, Apple was developing a similar subscription service for iPhones, intending to offer new phones annually for a monthly fee. However, Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-18/apple-halts-long-running-effort-to-build-iphone-hardware-subscription-service">reported</a> that the project was halted last month due to regulatory concerns and internal challenges. 
Why It Matters: The concept of hardware subscriptions has been gaining traction as a potential revenue booster for tech companies. According to a 2022 report, Apple was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/04/26439897/heres-how-the-economics-of-hardware-subscription-can-boost-revenue-for-apple">exploring this model</a> to increase its revenue streams, as only the most dedicated Apple fans tend to upgrade their iPhones annually. Most users typically upgrade every three years, a frequency that has decreased over the past decade.
Samsung&#8217;s upcoming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42836040/samsung-unpacked-2025-date-time-livestream-details-and-galaxy-s25-pre-order-offers-everything-you-need-to-know">Galaxy Unpacked event</a>, scheduled for Jan. 22, 2025, in San Jose, will likely provide further insights into their subscription plans. The event will showcase the new Galaxy S25 series and advancements in Galaxy AI, potentially setting the stage for Samsung&#8217;s expanded subscription service.
Read Also: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42808821/samsung-ces-2025-press-conference-from-cutting-edge-ai-to-transparent-screens-heres-what-to-expect">Samsung CES 2025 Press Conference: From Cutting-Edge AI To Transparent Screens, Here&#8217;s What To Expect</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

General

After Apple Halts 'Hardware' Subscription Plans, Samsung Unveils Similar Strategy For AI-Powered Galaxy Smartphones

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) remains unable to sell its iPhone 16 in Indonesia.
What Happened: Apple has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42170518/apples-100-million-offer-rejected-as-indonesia-enforces-iphone-16-sales-ban">not met Indonesia&#8217;s domestic</a> content requirements, which stipulate that smartphones sold in the country must include at least 35% locally-made components.
This rule <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41350072/iphone-16-sales-banned-in-indonesia-after-apples-investments-obligations-in-asian-giant-fall-sho">led to the ban</a> on iPhone 16 sales last year.
According to Indonesia&#8217;s Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, Apple has agreed to establish a facility on Batam Island to produce its AirTag devices.
However, this does not satisfy the local content criteria for iPhones, reported Reuters.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42837406/amid-nvidias-ces-2025-buzz-investors-overlooked-apple-supplier-foxconns-strong-q4-says-jim-cramer">Amid Nvidia&#8217;s CES 2025 Buzz, Investors Overlooked Apple Supplier Foxconn&#8217;s Strong Q4, Says Jim Cramer</a>
&#8220;There is no basis for the ministry to issue a local content certification as a way for Apple to have the permission to sell iPhone 16 because (the facility) has no direct relations,&#8221; Agus stated, adding that only phone components would be considered.
Indonesia&#8217;s investment minister announced the factory&#8217;s value at $1 billion, with operations expected to commence next year.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The ban on iPhone 16 sales in Indonesia is a significant hurdle for Apple, especially given its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41328252/apples-iphone-16-powers-record-sales-in-q3-just-behind-samsung-in-global-market-share-battle">record sales performance</a> in the third quarter of 2024. Apple narrowly trailed Samsung Electronics Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) in global market share, capturing 18%.
iPhones play a crucial role in Apple&#8217;s earnings, making up about half of the company&#8217;s total revenue. 
The tech giant reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41666494/apple-q4-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-installed-base-hits-new-highs-iphone-sales-rise-as-apple-in">strong financial results</a> in the fourth quarter, with a revenue beat of $94.9 billion. iPhone revenue climbed to $46.22 billion, up from $43.8 billion in the previous year.
Price Action: Apple&#8217;s stock ended Wednesday&#8217;s trading session with a 0.2% increase, closing at $242.7. However, in after-hours trading, the shares slipped by 0.12%, settling at $242.4, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Photo courtesy: Unsplash
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42513402/apples-2025-bull-case-can-it-deliver-without-riding-the-ai-wave?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple's 2025 Bull Case: Can It Deliver Without Riding The AI Wave?</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Apple's Airtag Factory Fails To Impress Indonesia: iPhone 16 Sales Remain Banned Despite Local Production Plans

On Tuesday, Verizon Communications Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>) &nbsp;announced that its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/g42846640/verizon-shatters-speed-barriers-with-5-5-gbps-breakthrough" rel="noreferrer noopener">engineers achieved</a> 5.5 Gbps download speeds in mobile technology using carrier aggregation and Verizon&#8217;s 5G virtualized technology.
The company said the download speed is equivalent to downloading 266 Taylor Swift albums a minute or streaming 3,056 Hulu episodes per hour.
Verizon, Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>), and MediaTek demonstrated 5G speeds of 5.5 gigabits per second in a 5G lab environment.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42727432/att-and-verizon-contain-cyberattack-linked-to-chinas-salt-typhoon-group" rel="noreferrer noopener">AT&amp;T and Verizon Contain Cyberattack Linked to China&#8217;s Salt Typhoon Group</a>
Verizon scored another win on Tuesday. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) has selected Verizon Business <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/g42844283/verizon-selected-by-the-u-s-air-force-for-5g-and-network-upgrades-at-35-installations" rel="noreferrer noopener">to install 5G</a> and 4G LTE network enhancements on 35 Air Force installations nationwide.
Verizon Business will deliver network enhancements such as C-Band carrier additions through the Air Force&#8217;s Offer to Lease (OTL) program.
Verizon&#8217;s network solutions will bring higher speeds, increased bandwidth, and lower latency for base personnel and the surrounding community.
Verizon and its peer internet service providers got a boost from the court&#8217;s overruling of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42798568/the-death-of-net-neutrality-winners-losers-and-what-it-means-for-the-future-of-the-interne" rel="noreferrer noopener">net neutrality that</a> will help them&nbsp;explore tiered pricing models, prioritize traffic, and charge content providers for faster delivery.
Verizon stock has lost 4% in the last 12 months. In October,&nbsp;Keybanc&#8216;s&nbsp;Brandon Nispel&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42536593/verizon-teams-up-with-nvidia-to-power-ai-apps-over-private-5g-networks" rel="noreferrer noopener">downgraded&nbsp;Verizon&#8217;s&nbsp;rating </a>after&nbsp;the company&#8217;s lackluster&nbsp;quarterly results.
In December, Verizon and Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) launched an AI-powered private 5G solution that supports AI, AR/VR, robotics, IoT, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42536593/verizon-teams-up-with-nvidia-to-power-ai-apps-over-private-5g-networks" rel="noreferrer noopener">and streaming services</a>.
Price action:&nbsp;VZ stock is down 0.60% at $38.69 at the last check on Wednesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VZ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tencent Strengthens Video Leadership, Showcases Revenue Growth Potential: Analyst</a></li>
</ul>
Photo by JHVE via Shutterstock

Verizon Hits 5.5 Gbps 5G Speeds, Lands Air Force Deal to Upgrade Base Networks Nationwide

On Wednesday, Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/samsung" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced its</a> earnings guidance for the <a target="_blank" href="https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-electronics-announces-earnings-guidance-for-fourth-quarter-2024" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth quarter of 2024</a>.
The company expects quarterly sales of $51.38 billion (75 trillion Korean won versus 67.78 trillion Korean a year ago) and operating profit of 6.5 trillion Korean&nbsp;won (versus 2.82 trillion Korean won a year ago).
Samsung reported sales of 79.1 trillion Korean won, and operating profit of 9.18 trillion Korean won in the third quarter of 2024.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42818093/amd-and-stradvision-team-up-to-boost-adas-backed-by-trump-and-musks-vision-for-autonomous-cars" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMD, StradVision Team Up To Boost Driver Assistance Systems For Autonomous Cars</a>
The cautious operating profit guidance marks pressure from research and development costs, and the ramp-up of manufacturing capacity for advanced semiconductors to cater to Nvidia Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) needs, Reuters reports.
Additionally, weakness in demand for conventional memory chips used in PCs and mobile phones also affected the profit forecast. The consensus for fourth-quarter operating profit stood at 7.7 trillion Korean won.
Lee Min-hee of BNK Investment &amp; Securities flagged to Reuters the bottoming of chip demand and competition surrounding Samsung&#8217;s significant businesses.
SK Hynix&nbsp;scored over Samsung as Nvidia&#8217;s key high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chip supplier for artificial intelligence graphics processing units (GPUs).
Reportedly, Nvidia approved Samsung&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40227015/nvidia-greenlights-samsungs-fifth-gen-hbm3e-chips-for-ai-processors-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">fifth-gen HBM3E chips</a>, while the 12-layer HBM3E chips await approval. Samsung expects HBM3E chips to account for 60% of its HBM chip sales by the fourth quarter.
Prior reports indicated that SK Hynix sustained an HBM market share of over 52% in 2024, Samsung followed with 42.4%, and&nbsp;Micron Technology, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>) had over 5% of the market.
Morgan Stanley expects the HBM market to grow from $4 billion in 2023 to $71 billion in 2027.
Micron is one of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42657620/amd-and-micron-top-analyst-picks-for-ai-and-next-gen-tech-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rosenblatt&#8217;s top picks</a> for the first half of 2025 despite the loss of the Chinese market due to Washington&#8217;s semiconductor sanctions on China. Micron&#8217;s loss benefits Samsung as Chinese tech companies like Huawei and Baidu Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIDU#NASDAQ">BIDU</a>) stockpiled <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40198085/huawei-and-baidu-increase-samsung-hbm-purchases-as-us-curbs-loom" rel="noreferrer noopener">Samsung HBM chips</a>.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42793394/nvidias-2-trillion-ai-rally-fueled-by-chips-startups-and-robotics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia&#8217;s $2 Trillion AI Rally In 2024 Fueled by Chips, Startups, and Robotics</a></li>
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Image via Shutterstock

BIDU

Samsung's Outlook Dims Amid HBM Supply Struggles for Nvidia and Sluggish Consumer Chip Sales

Samsung Electronics Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) has confirmed the release of its much-anticipated Ballie <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36678376/from-dogs-playing-piano-to-robots-in-your-shoes-and-tvs-you-can-see-through-tech-just-got-weirder-an">home robot</a>.
What Happened: Samsung confirmed to <a href="https://www.techradar.com/home/smart-home/samsungs-ballie-robot-companion-still-comes-in-yellow-but-has-more-ai-and-a-promised-2025-launch">outlets</a> like TechRadar that Ballie will be available in the first half of 2025. However, pricing details remain undisclosed.
The round yellow home robot has once again made an appearance at CES this year. Ballie has been showcased in previous CES events too, but this year marks the first time Samsung has given any update on the release.
Samsung did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
During the event, Ballie demonstrated its capabilities by projecting information about a nearby attraction, the Sphere, onto a wall.
It also showcased its ability to play movies, such as Sony&#8217;s Uncharted, and adjust the projection size based on available space. The robot&#8217;s built-in speakers were noted for their loudness, though the image brightness was less impressive, <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/6/24337478/samsung-ballie-robot-release-date-features-2025">according</a> to The Verge.
Ballie also displayed its visual AI capabilities by identifying wine pairings and responding to queries quickly. Communication with Ballie is primarily through voice, and it can control smart home devices.
Why It Matters: The journey of Samsung&#8217;s Ballie robot has been a long one, with its initial concept introduced back in 2020. Initially, Ballie was a small, tennis ball-sized device, envisioned as a &#8220;fitness assistant&#8221; with smart home control capabilities.
Over the years, it has evolved into a larger, bowling ball-sized robot equipped with advanced features like a built-in projector and LiDAR sensor for obstacle detection.
The robot was expected to launch in 2024, but the timeline shifted to 2025.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780776/is-apple-ready-for-a-new-challenge-chinas-smartphone-subsidies-aim-to-boost-domestic-demand-giving-companies-like-huawei-the-upper-hand?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple Rival Huawei, Alibaba, And Others Get Boost As China Doles Out Subsidies To Smartphone Buyers</a>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Samsung's Ballie Is Finally Coming In 2025: Will This Round Home Robot Live Up To The Hype?

Samsung Electronics Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) has sent out invitations for its much-anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event.
What Happened: On Monday, Samsung announced its Unpacked event, set for Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, in San Jose. The event will showcase the new Galaxy S25 series and advancements in Galaxy AI.
When And How To Watch: The event will begin at 10 a.m. PT and will be available for live streaming on Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom, and Samsung&#8217;s YouTube channel.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="[Invitation] Galaxy Unpacked January 2025: The Next Big Leap in Mobile AI Experiences" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hEMiHEeLwGQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
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Pre-Orders Offers: In preparation for the event, Samsung is offering a $50 credit for preorders of the latest Galaxy device. Customers can also receive up to $900 in trade-in credit and an additional $300 instant credit by reserving and preordering. These offers are now live and valid until Jan. 22.
Why It Matters: The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42545936/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-and-s25-leaks-show-off-sleek-curved-design-and-slimmer-bezels-than-apples-iphone-16-pro-max">leaked images</a> of the Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25+ have already generated buzz, showcasing a sleek curved design and thinner bezels compared to Apple&#8217;s iPhone 16 Pro Max.&nbsp;
The Galaxy S25 is also expected to run on One UI 7.
Samsung is likely to maintain its traditional pricing strategy, with an entry-level model expected to start around $799. While the company has consistently adhered to this price point, the latest reports indicate that rising production costs, driven by more expensive components, could lead to potential price increases.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, along with the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+, will officially hit the market on Friday, Feb. 7, following the conclusion of the pre-order period, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/ewanspence/2025/01/06/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-preorder-launch-date-new-galaxy-release/">reported</a> Forbes.
Photo courtesy: Samsung
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Samsung Unpacked 2025: Everything You Need To Know About The Event Featuring The Latest Galaxy S25 Series

Goldman Sachs analyst Bruce Lu maintained a Buy rating on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) with a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TSM/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target of $254, up from $248</a>.
Taiwan Semiconductor will host its fourth-quarter analyst meeting on Jan. 16. Lu expected another year of solid revenue growth in 2025E by 26.8% for Taiwan Semiconductor, following 29.4% revenue growth in 2024E (all in USD terms), driven by strong demand in leading-edge nodes mainly supported by continuous strong momentum from AI.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42813592/ai-chip-stocks-nvidia-broadcom-amd-taiwan-semi-micron-super-micro-surge-on-monday-whats-going-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Chip Stocks Nvidia, Broadcom, AMD, Taiwan Semi, Micron, Super Micro Surge Premarket: Whats Going On?</a>
The analyst also noted a more favorable competition landscape, with Samsung Electronics (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) foundry and Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) foundry facing more difficulties as they move to more advanced nodes. Therefore, he modeled a mid-high single-digit price hike for 3nm and 5nm nodes and a 10%+ price hike for chip-on-wafer-on-substrate starting in 2025.
On the back of higher pricing, Lu now expects Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s gross margin to grow to 59.3% in 2025E versus 56.1% in 2024E. As for first-quarter of 2025E, the analyst now expects a stronger-than-normal seasonality quarter with a 2.2% sequential revenue decline (USD terms) versus an average 5% decline in the past 10 years, with gross margin staying at the same level as the fourth quarter of the 2024E at 58.9% in first-quarter of 2025E.
Lu noted the high possibility of Taiwan Semiconductor raising its long-term guidance. He said Taiwan Semiconductor could raise its profitability outlook and long-term revenue CAGR at its upcoming analyst meeting.
In Goldman Sachs&#8217; Communacopia Conference, held Sept. 9-12, 2024, in San Francisco, Taiwan Semiconductor management guided that its revenue CAGR target of 15%- 20% could also extend to the next 5 years (versus the guided timeline of 2021-2026).
Lu noted this will be mainly supported by the continuous strength in leading-edge nodes and AI and HPC segments, the less intensified competition from other leading edge foundries. For profitability, the company is now projecting its long-term gross margin to be &#8220;53% and higher,&#8221; and with the new elevated pricing for 3nm and 5nm nodes and CoWoS commencing in 2025E, noted Taiwan Semiconductor will potentially raise the long-term gross margin target to &#8220;mid-50% and higher&#8221; range.
The analyst expected a higher capex of around $40 billion in 2025E, following a lower spend of around $30 billion in 2024E.
However, its capital intensity will remain at the mid-30%s level, which aligns with Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s guidance on capital intensity. Notably, most of the capex spent in 2025 will help expand 2nm and CoWoS.
Lu noted ongoing market concerns regarding the potential acceleration of U.S. capacity expansion and the potential acceleration of new node introduction after the U.S. presidential election. Notably, Taiwan Semiconductor plans for the second and third U.S. fab to enter mass production by 2028 and 2030.
The analyst sought updated comments from management on their U.S. expansion plans.
Lu noted that the industry faces overcapacity for mature nodes and that Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s 7nm node is still underutilized. However, Taiwan Semiconductor plans to expand mature nodes in Japan and Europe, and for its second fab in Japan, Taiwan Semiconductor will also expand 7nm.
Lu expects Taiwan Semiconductor to share the strategic considerations behind its decisions to pursue these greenfield capacity expansions despite potential overcapacity.
Taiwan Semiconductor aggressively expanded its CoWoS capacity in 2024 and will double its capacity again in 2025. The current end demand is highly concentrated in AI. Lu sought Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s view on potential new applications beyond AI, such as PCs or smartphones that will also adopt the CoWoS technology.
Lu tweaked his 2024E EPS estimate by 0.2% to factor in lower revenue from some mainland China customers, as Taiwan Semiconductor is taking a more conservative approach toward its shipment to mainland China customers. The analyst revised 2025E and 2026E EPS by 4.3% and 2.6%, mainly to factor in a stronger seasonality in the first quarter of 2025, driven by strong demand from AI and HPC.
Price Action: TSM stock is up 5.8% to $220.76 at last check Monday.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

TSMC Analyst Sees AI, Advanced Nodes Driving Growth In 2025

Samsung Electronics Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) is gearing up for CES 2025 with major announcements and futuristic tech.
Here&#8217;s everything we know so far.
How to Watch
The global electronics giant will host its press conference on Monday, Jan. 6, at 5:00 PM ET. The conference will stream online.
AI For All: Everyday, Everywhere
Samsung's theme for this year's CES presentation is &#8220;AI for All: Everyday, Everywhere.&#8221; The company plans to showcase how artificial intelligence will improve daily life.
This builds on last year's theme, indicating Samsung's continued focus on AI-driven innovation.
Early announcements from Samsung's newsroom highlight AI-enhanced refrigerators, appliances with built-in screens, and more. Expect features like advanced personalization and smarter home integration.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780776/is-apple-ready-for-a-new-challenge-chinas-smartphone-subsidies-aim-to-boost-domestic-demand-giving-companies-like-huawei-the-upper-hand?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple Rival Huawei, Alibaba, And Others Get Boost As China Doles Out Subsidies To Smartphone Buyers</a>
However, Samsung's CES 2025 showcase won't just be about AI. The company is expected to offer a glimpse of its cutting-edge technologies:
<ul>
<li>Transparent MicroLED Screens: While not yet available in stores, these futuristic displays could steal the spotlight.</li>
<li>Eclipsa 3D Audio: Samsung is partnering with Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOF#NASDAQ">GOOF</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google to launch this new technology. It aims to rival Dolby Atmos and DTS.</li>
<li>27-inch QD-OLED Gaming Monitor: Gamers can look forward to enhanced visuals and performance with this new display.</li>
</ul>
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Will Ballie Finally Arrive
The Ballie robot could make a comeback at CES 2025. This two-time CES veteran has captured imaginations with its potential for home automation and companionship. Many are hoping for a release date or significant advancements in its autonomy, aligning with Samsung's AI theme.
While Samsung will reportedly not reveal the Galaxy S25 smartphone line at CES, the company is expected to hold a separate event later in January.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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