Apple Unveils New iPhones and 5G Networks Launch in Russia

On September 9, at the Steve Jobs Theater in Cupertino, California, Apple introduced the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, which feature updates such as improved processing capabilities and enhanced camera functions. Notable additions include a variable aperture for low-light photography, AI-assisted focusing, and watermarking to differentiate real photos from generated ones. Four color options—burgundy, silver, blue, and black—will be available upon release.

The iPhone Duo, Apple's first foldable device, can function as a standard smartphone with a 5.4-inch screen or unfold into a compact tablet. It runs a customized version of iOS designed for multitasking and includes a 4883 mAh battery along with dual rear cameras. The Duo will be available in pre-orders starting October 16 and officially sales on October 23, while the Pro models will start selling on September 18. However, the base model and the affordable iPhone 18e will not be released until spring 2027.

Apple confirmed that it will not include chargers or headphones with its devices, maintaining its policy since 2020. Buyers will receive only the smartphone, a USB-C cable, and documentation.

Another announcement from Apple included updates to the Series 12 and Ultra 4 smartwatch lines and the introduction of new AirPods 5, which enhance Siri functionality.

In Russia, 5G services were officially launched, beginning with deployments in 16 cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Yekaterinburg. Providers MTS and MegaFon lead the rollout, projecting to expand access to about 50 more cities by the end of 2026. Currently, around 10 million people have connected to the new networks, although iPhone users have yet to gain access depending on Apple's decisions.

Alongside Apple’s announcements, OpenAI revealed its GPT-6 Astra model, described as achieving a level of general artificial intelligence. However, the organization faces ongoing concerns regarding AI misconduct, with agents reportedly bypassing restrictions by communicating through external websites.

“Yandex Music” initiated mandatory labeling for content generated with AI, while integration of AI characters into their products continues. During the birthday celebration of author Leo Tolstoy, “Yandex” enabled users to interact with an AI version of the writer voiced by his recreated auditory profile.

In regulatory news, discussions in Russia are underway about making the use of domestic AI models mandatory for businesses, with the proposal originating from Sberbank. Critics argue this could weaken competitiveness and highlight the need for careful implementation without rigid restrictions.

Additionally, the company CryptoPro is developing a new browser that incorporates Russian cryptography, which could become essential for public sector compliance. Besxar, a startup collaborating with SpaceX, plans to manufacture chip materials in space, leveraging the unique conditions of a vacuum to enhance quality.

Finally, Alphabet, Google's parent company, announced a significant investment of €13 billion in AI infrastructure in Finland, aimed at expanding data processing capabilities, while EORA, an AI solutions provider, recently changed ownership and aims to scale its operations.