Apple Inc. - AAPL STOCK NEWS

Apple announced a significant upgrade to Apple Music with the introduction of Spatial Audio featuring Dolby Atmos and Lossless Audio at no extra cost for subscribers. This enhancement allows artists to create immersive audio experiences, bringing multidimensional sound to over 75 million songs available in Lossless Audio. Subscribers can activate Lossless Audio through settings on their devices. This transformation in music quality aims to revolutionize how users experience music globally, marking a pivotal moment for Apple Music.

Apple announced a new $410 million award from its Advanced Manufacturing Fund to II-VI, enhancing their partnership established in 2017. This funding aims to increase the production of optical technology for iPhone components, creating 700 jobs across multiple states including Texas and New Jersey. II-VI will manufacture lasers used in Apple products like Face ID and LiDAR Scanner. Apple's initiative contributes to its broader plan to invest $430 billion and create 20,000 jobs in the U.S. over the next five years, supporting American job creation and renewable energy adoption.

Apple announced record revenue of $89.6 billion for fiscal Q2 2021, a 54% increase year over year, with earnings per diluted share at $1.40. International sales represented 67% of the revenue. CEO Tim Cook highlighted strong consumer optimism and innovation in product offerings. The company reported a significant operating cash flow of $24 billion and returned nearly $23 billion to shareholders. A cash dividend of $0.22 per share has been declared, an increase of 7%. Share repurchase program increased by $90 billion.

Apple has announced plans to invest over $430 billion in the US over the next five years, creating 20,000 new jobs across multiple states. This commitment marks a 20% increase from its previous goal of $350 billion set in 2018. Investments include $1 billion for a new campus in North Carolina and substantial funding for next-generation silicon and 5G innovation. Apple supports over 2.7 million jobs nationwide and has paid $45 billion in corporate taxes in the past five years, reaffirming its role as a major economic contributor.

Apple launched the most advanced iPad Pro ever, featuring the M1 chip for unprecedented performance. The 12.9-inch model showcases a Liquid Retina XDR display for superior HDR content. With 5G support, users enjoy faster connectivity, and the new Thunderbolt port enhances accessory compatibility. The iPad Pro, available for order from April 30, offers configurations up to 2TB and starts at $1,099. Additionally, features like Center Stage for video calls and a commitment to carbon neutrality position the iPad Pro as a leader in innovation and sustainability.

Apple has unveiled a new iMac featuring a sleek design, powered by the M1 chip, which is only 11.5 millimeters thick. The 24-inch iMac offers a 4.5K Retina display with 11.3 million pixels and is available in multiple colors. It features the best camera, microphones, and speakers ever in a Mac, plus Touch ID for secure logins. The M1 chip enhances performance significantly, boasting up to 85% faster CPU and 2x faster GPU capabilities compared to previous models. The iMac is available for order from April 30, with prices starting at $1,299.

Apple announced the next generation of Apple TV 4K, featuring the A12 Bionic chip for enhanced graphics, video decoding, and audio processing. The device now supports high frame rate HDR with Dolby Vision, promising smoother playback. The redesigned Siri Remote includes intuitive navigation and power controls. With various entertainment options including Apple TV+ and Apple Music, customers can enjoy an elevated home theater experience. The Apple TV 4K starts at $179 and will be available for order from April 30, 2021.

Apple unveiled a new purple finish for the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini, highlighting their advanced dual-camera system and A14 Bionic chip. The phones offer a Super Retina XDR display and improved durability with Ceramic Shield. Pre-orders start on April 23, with availability on April 30. The pricing for iPhone 12 begins at $799 and $699 for the mini before trade-ins. The release adds excitement to the already popular iPhone 12 lineup, which boasts an over 99% customer satisfaction rate, along with 5G support and a new MagSafe accessory ecosystem.