Latest news with #mobiletechnology
CNET
2 hours ago
- Business
- CNET
The End of Wireless Dead Zones? T-Mobile's Starlink Service Launches in 3 Weeks
Imagine being able to send a text, video or voice recording from the remotest corners of the country. That's the future T-Mobile envisions, as its partnership with SpaceX's Starlink satellite service gets ready to launch on July 23. The alliance will provide direct-to-cell messaging service, called T-Satellite, which will also be available to AT&T and Verizon cellphone customers. T-Mobile says its goal is to 'eliminate mobile dead zones for good' by utilizing 657 Starlink satellites that will be used exclusively for cellphone service. T-Satellite has been in beta testing since December 2024, with nearly 1.8 million users signing up so far. The direct-to-cell messaging service represents a major step forward in mobile technology: It works with most phones made during the last four years, according to T-Mobile, instead of requiring dedicated hardware. It will be available to T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon customers for $10 a month -- or free for anyone on T-Mobile's Experience Beyond or Go5G Next plans. 'At the end of the day, it's nice to be able to send a selfie when you're in a place where there is no coverage, but it's vital to be able to connect to emergency services,' Mike Katz, T-Mobile president of marketing, strategy and products, told CNET's Jeff Carlson. 'We just think that with a technology like this, no customer should ever be in a situation where they are unconnected in an emergency.' However, you might still benefit even if you don't sign up, as T-Mobile will make the service free for emergency uses. The company said 911 texting will be available later this year to 'any mobile customer with a compatible device, regardless of carrier or whether or not they are subscribed to the service.' What is T-Satellite? T-Satellite is a partnership between T-Mobile and Starlink that will allow direct-to-cell SMS messaging accessibility in areas where there is no cellular coverage. Starlink has more than 7,000 low-Earth orbit satellites in the sky, and now, 657 of them will be devoted entirely to T-Satellite. The goal is to expand coverage into the 500,000 square miles of the US that traditional cell towers can't reach, says T-Mobile. 'When you leave the terrestrial network and you go to a place where there's no network, your phone will automatically search for and connect to the satellite network, which is quite different than any other of the satellite systems that are out there that force you to manually connect, and you have to point your phone up to the sky," says Katz. Satellite connectivity in cellphones isn't exactly new -- iPhones have had it since 2022 -- but it's typically been reserved for SOS messaging to connect you with an emergency dispatcher. On July 23, T-Satellite users will be able to send SMS texts on iPhone and Android. Android users will also get MMS immediately, with iPhone support 'to follow.' This means users will be able to send images and audio clips in addition to standard text messages. In October, the service will expand to include data support in third-party apps like AccuWeather, AllTrails, WhatsApp and X. The access takes advantage of hooks built into iOS and Android software, so developers can make their apps capable of sending data through the narrow amounts of bandwidth available via satellite. This is far beyond what the other phone carriers have launched so far in the satellite realm -- largely due to T-Mobile's partnership with Starlink. AT&T and Verizon have both partnered with AST SpaceMobile for satellite messaging, and Verizon told CNET's Eli Blumenthal last year that it's still planning on working with Amazon's Project Kuiper, which launched its first 27 satellites on April 28, 2025 'Despite things that our competitors have said, they are way, way behind on this technology,' says Katz. How much will T-Satellite cost? On July 23, T-Satellite will be available to AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon customers for a standalone $10 per month. But there's one exception: Customers on T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan ($100 per month for one line) will get the service for free indefinitely, and those on the Experience More plan ($85 per month) will get it through the end of the year. Even if you don't pay the $10 a month, T-Mobile says 911 texting will be available later this year 'to any mobile customer with a compatible device, regardless of carrier.' If you're a Verizon or AT&T customer, you'll have to activate T-Satellite as a second eSIM on your phone to take advantage of the service. You can find instructions on setting up the eSIM here. Which phones are supported? Most phones released in the past couple of years will work with T-Satellite. Here are the devices that are currently compatible with the beta version: Apple iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 (all models) Google Google Pixel 9 Google Pixel 9A Google Pixel 9 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Motorola Moto G Stylus 2025 Moto Razr 2024 Moto Razr Plus 2024 Moto Razr 2025 Moto Razr Plus 2025 Moto Razr Ultra 2025 Moto Razr Ultra Plus 2025 Samsung Samsung Galaxy A25 5G SE* Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Samsung Galaxy A36 Samsung Galaxy A36 SE Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Samsung Galaxy A54 5G* Samsung Galaxy S21 Samsung Galaxy S21 Plus Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Samsung Galaxy S22 Samsung Galaxy S22 Plus Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S22 FE Samsung Galaxy S23 Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Samsung Galaxy S24 Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Samsung Galaxy S25 Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 Pro Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 3 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 *Some non-T-Mobile device variants are not satellite-capable. When T-Satellite launches on July 23, the following devices will also be compatible: Motorola Motorola Edge 2024 Moto G 2024 Moto G Stylus 2024 Moto G 5G 2024 Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 Samsung Samsung Galaxy A14 Samsung Galaxy A15* Samsung Galaxy A16 Samsung Galaxy A35 Samsung Galaxy A53* Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro *Some non-T-Mobile device variants are not satellite-capable. T-Mobile T-Mobile Revvl 7 T-Mobile Revvl 7 Pro How to try T-Mobile's Starlink service today If you're anxious to try T-Mobile's Starlink satellite messaging service and don't want to wait until July 23, you can still attempt to sign up for the beta. I wouldn't hold out too much hope, though -- when I entered my information, I got a message back saying, 'Due to high demand, we're admitting beta testers on a rolling basis. Keep an eye out for an update in the coming weeks.'
The Verge
a day ago
- The Verge
Sharp pencils for hard times
Allison Johnson is a reviewer for The Verge who writes about phones and mobile technology. 'Occasionally,' she adds, 'I yell at your wireless carrier.' I asked her if there were any items that she especially liked using, and after thinking about it, she eventually came up with… a pencil sharpener. Where did you first hear about the Blackwing One-Step Long Point Sharpener? Last year, I told my husband all I wanted for Christmas was a nice pencil sharpener — and he understood the assignment. Initially, I was thinking of the big kind that you bolt to the wall, like in elementary school, but he found this one, and it's way more practical. It's small and light enough that I can just carry it around all the time, along with a couple of fancy Blackwing pencils, just in case a crossword puzzle breaks out at any given moment. Why did you want one? At some point over the past few years, I noticed that we didn't have pencils in our house, which I blamed on a lack of pencil sharpeners. Sometimes, you need to make a little mark on a wall when you're hanging a picture, and you kind of need a pencil for the job. Also, I wanted to get some Sudoku books, and you really need a pencil for those. So that's why I landed on a pencil sharpener for Christmas. I also turned 40 this year; these things might all be related. What do you like about it? It's just such a nice little object. It's reassuringly weighty while still light enough to carry everyday. It has one job: it sharpens pencils beautifully. When the blade gets dull I can order a replacement from Blackwing, and I appreciate a little gadget with a lot of life. Is there anything about it that you dislike, or that you think could be improved? You do have to apply a bit of pressure to really get it sharp, and sometimes that creates kind of an indented ring on the pencil wood just above the point. Maybe that's why people use two-stage sharpeners? I don't know, I'm new to the luxury pencil game. If so, I think it's an acceptable tradeoff for one-step sharpening. Isn't it a bit expensive for a pencil sharpener? Yes, but I just tried out a cheaper sharpener from another brand and it absolutely mangled my pencil, so I think the extra cost is worth it. Who would you recommend it to? Anyone who appreciates a nice little thing that has a special job. Anyone who also misses having pencils around. Pencils are so handy! Is there anything I should have asked that I didn't? I'll just note that these are dark times and the simple joy of buying and using a Nice Pencil is way more load-bearing for my mental health than it should be.
CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
T-Mobile Is Bringing Starlink to Your Phone. Check If You'll Get It For Free
Going off-grid might soon be a thing of the past, as T-Mobile's partnership with SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service gets ready to launch on July 23. The direct-to-cell messaging service, called T-Satellite, will also be available to AT&T and Verizon cellphone customers. T-Mobile says its goal is to 'eliminate mobile dead zones for good' by utilizing 657 Starlink satellites that will be used exclusively for cellphone service. T-Satellite has been in beta testing since Dec. 2024, with nearly 1.8 million users signing up so far. The direct-to-cell messaging service represents a major step forward in mobile technology: It works with most phones made during the last four years, according to T-Mobile, instead of requiring dedicated hardware. It will be available to T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon customers for $10 a month -- or free for anyone on T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan. 'At the end of the day, it's nice to be able to send a selfie when you're in a place where there is no coverage, but it's vital to be able to connect to emergency services,' Mike Katz, T-Mobile president of marketing, strategy and products, told CNET's Jeff Carlson. 'We just think that with a technology like this, no customer should ever be in a situation where they are unconnected in an emergency.' However, you might still benefit even if you don't sign up, as T-Mobile will make the service free for emergency uses. The company said 911 texting will be available later this year to 'any mobile customer with a compatible device, regardless of carrier or whether or not they are subscribed to the service.' What is T-Satellite? T-Satellite is a partnership between T-Mobile and Starlink that will allow direct-to-cell coverage in areas where there is no cellular coverage. Starlink has more than 7,000 low-Earth orbit satellites in the sky, and now, 657 of them will be devoted entirely to T-Satellite. The goal is to expand coverage into the 500,000 square miles of the country that traditional cell towers can't reach, says T-Mobile. 'When you leave the terrestrial network and you go to a place where there's no network, your phone will automatically search for and connect to the satellite network, which is quite different than any other of the satellite systems that are out there that force you to manually connect, and you have to point your phone up to the sky," says Katz. Satellite connectivity in cellphones isn't exactly new -- iPhones have had it since 2022 -- but it's typically been reserved for SOS messaging to connect you with an emergency dispatcher. On July 23, T-Satellite users will be able to send SMS texts on iOS and Android. Android users will also get MMS (multimedia messaging service) immediately, with iOS support 'to follow.' This means users will be able to send images and audio clips in addition to standard text messages. In October, the service will expand to include data support in third-party apps like AccuWeather, AllTrails, WhatsApp and X. The access takes advantage of hooks built into iOS and Android, so developers can make their apps capable of sending data through the narrow amounts of bandwidth available via satellite. This is far beyond what the other phone carriers have launched so far in the satellite realm -- largely due to T-Mobile's partnership with Starlink. AT&T and Verizon have both partnered with AST SpaceMobile for satellite messaging, and Verizon told CNET's Eli Blumenthal last year that it's still planning on working with Amazon's Project Kuiper, which launched its first 27 satellites on Apr. 28, 2025 'Despite things that our competitors have said, they are way, way behind on this technology -- like way behind,' says Katz. How much will T-Satellite cost? On July 23, T-Satellite will be available to AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon customers for a standalone $10 per month. But there's one exception: Customers on T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan ($100 per month for one line) will get the service for free indefinitely, and those on the Experience More plan ($85 per month) will get it through the end of the year. Even if you don't pay the $10 a month, T-Mobile says 911 texting will be available later this year 'to any mobile customer with a compatible device, regardless of carrier.' If you're a Verizon or AT&T customer, you'll have to activate T-Satellite as a second eSIM on your phone to take advantage of the service. You can find instructions on setting up the eSIM here. Which phones are supported? Most phones released in the past couple years will work with T-Satellite. Here are the devices that are currently compatible with the beta version: Apple iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, or iPhone 16 (all models) Google Google Pixel 9 Google Pixel 9a Google Pixel 9 Pro Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold Motorola moto g stylus 2025 moto razr 2024 moto razr+ 2024 moto razr 2025 moto razr+ 2025 moto razr ultra 2025 moto razr ultra+ 2025 Samsung Samsung Galaxy A25 5G SE* Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Samsung Galaxy A36 Samsung Galaxy A36 SE Samsung Galaxy A53 5G Samsung Galaxy A54 5G* Samsung Galaxy S21 Samsung Galaxy S21+ Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S21 FE Samsung Galaxy S22 Samsung Galaxy S22+ Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S22 FE Samsung Galaxy S23 Samsung Galaxy S23+ Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Samsung Galaxy S24 Samsung Galaxy S24+ Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Samsung Galaxy S25 Samsung Galaxy S25+ Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Samsung Galaxy XCover7 Pro Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 When T-Satellite officially launches on July 23, the following devices will also be compatible: Motorola Motorola Edge 2024 moto G 2024 moto G Stylus 2024 moto G 5G 2024 moto G Stylus 5G 2024 Samsung Samsung Galaxy A14 Samsung Galaxy A15* Samsung Galaxy A16 Samsung Galaxy A35 Samsung Galaxy A53 (some non-T-Mobile device variants are not satellite capable) Samsung Galaxy XCover6 Pro T-Mobile T-Mobile REVVL 7 T-Mobile REVVL 7 Pro How to try T-Mobile's Starlink service today If you're anxious to try T-Mobile's Starlink satellite messaging service and don't want to wait until July 23, you can still attempt to sign up for the beta. I wouldn't hold out too much hope, though -- when I entered my information, I got a message back saying, 'Due to high demand, we're admitting beta testers on a rolling basis. Keep an eye out for an update in the coming weeks.'
Geeky Gadgets
4 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The iPhone 17 Pro Max Just Leaked Its BIGGEST Upgrade Yet!
The iPhone 17 series is set to raise the bar in mobile technology, offering a blend of advanced features and refined design. With innovations such as enhanced cooling systems, larger displays, and next-generation chipsets, Apple continues to push the boundaries of smartphone performance. However, these advancements come with a potential increase in price, prompting you to consider whether the upgrades are worth the investment. The video below from SaranByte gives us more details on what to expect from the new iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. Watch this video on YouTube. Vapor Chamber Cooling: A Performance Boost One of the most anticipated features of the iPhone 17 Pro is the introduction of vapor chamber cooling technology. This system is engineered to efficiently dissipate heat during resource-intensive activities such as gaming, video editing, or prolonged multitasking. By maintaining optimal operating temperatures for the A19 Pro chipset, this technology ensures consistent performance without throttling. For power users, this translates to smoother app transitions, uninterrupted gaming sessions, and enhanced reliability during demanding tasks. The inclusion of vapor chamber cooling underscores Apple's commitment to delivering a seamless user experience, even under heavy workloads. Refined Design with Meta Lens Technology Apple is reportedly refining the front-facing design of the iPhone 17 Pro with meta lens technology, allowing a smaller and more streamlined Dynamic Island. This adjustment enhances the immersive quality of the display while preserving its functionality. The smaller Dynamic Island not only improves the aesthetic appeal but also optimizes usability, making interactions more intuitive. While the iPhone 17 series benefits from this subtle yet impactful change, major design overhauls are expected to debut with future models. For now, the refined design offers a sleek and modern look that complements the device's advanced capabilities. Enhanced Displays: ProMotion and LTPO Panels The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to expand ProMotion technology, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate, to non-Pro models. This upgrade delivers smoother scrolling, more responsive touch interactions, and an overall enhanced visual experience. Additionally, the inclusion of LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) panels allows for dynamic refresh rates, which adjust based on your activity to optimize battery life. While these features elevate the display quality across the lineup, premium functionalities such as always-on displays are likely to remain exclusive to Pro models. This distinction ensures that Pro models continue to cater to users seeking the highest level of performance and innovation. 3nm Chipsets: Power and Efficiency Apple's chipset strategy for the iPhone 17 series introduces a tiered approach, with each model featuring a chipset tailored to its performance needs. The base models are expected to use the A18 chip, while mid-tier and Pro models will likely feature the A19 and A19 Pro chipsets, respectively. Built on a 3nm process, these chipsets promise significant improvements in both performance and energy efficiency. For you, this means faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and longer battery life, even during resource-intensive tasks. The 3nm architecture also highlights Apple's focus on sustainability, as the improved efficiency contributes to reduced energy consumption. Larger Displays for Immersive Experiences The iPhone 17 series is set to feature larger displays across the lineup, catering to users who prioritize screen real estate. The iPhone 17 and 17 Pro are expected to come with 6.3-inch screens, while the Pro Max could offer an expansive 6.9-inch display. Additionally, the rumored iPhone 17 Air may introduce a 6.6-inch screen, striking a balance between portability and functionality. These larger displays are designed to enhance your experience, whether you're streaming videos, gaming, or multitasking. The increased screen size also provides more room for productivity, making the devices suitable for both entertainment and work-related tasks. Pricing and Value Considerations With these advancements, the iPhone 17 series is expected to come with higher price points. Rumored starting prices include $899 for the base model, $1,099 for the Pro, and $1,299 for the Pro Max. Factors such as increased storage capacities, advanced components, and global tariffs contribute to these price hikes. While the enhanced features may justify the cost for some, others might find older or refurbished models to be more budget-friendly alternatives. The decision ultimately depends on your priorities, whether you value innovative technology or prefer a more economical option. Shifts in Global Production Apple continues to diversify its production strategy, with a significant portion of iPhone 17 manufacturing shifting to India for US-bound models. This move aims to reduce supply chain risks, manage production costs, and ensure a steady supply of devices. However, Pro Max models are expected to remain primarily produced in China, reflecting Apple's reliance on established manufacturing hubs for its premium devices. By balancing production across multiple regions, Apple seeks to maintain its global reach while addressing logistical challenges. Evaluating the iPhone 17 Series The iPhone 17 series represents a significant step forward in smartphone technology, offering a range of features designed to enhance performance, usability, and design. From vapor chamber cooling to 3nm chipsets and larger displays, the series caters to both performance enthusiasts and everyday users. However, the accompanying price increases may prompt you to carefully weigh the value of these features against their cost. Whether you choose to invest in the latest model or explore alternative options, the iPhone 17 series underscores Apple's ongoing commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. Below are more guides on the iPhone 17 Pro from our extensive range of articles. Source & Image Credit: SaranByte Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. 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Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AppLovin: The advertising giant in the making
Introduction AppLovin is a premier mobile technology company that has transitioned from a mobile gaming developer to a full-fledged app marketing and monetization platform. It was established in 2012 and is based in Palo Alto, California. The company operates two main business units: Software Platform and Apps. The Software Platform, which is driven by the AI-based AXON engine, is aimed at mobile app developers and it provides them with cutting-edge solutions like user acquisition, monetization, and analytics. This platform is responsible for handling billions of ad requests on a daily basis, as it leverages machine learning algorithms to improve campaign performance and to increase revenue for both advertisers and publishers. Among the key products offered are the MAX mediation platform which is the instrument that allows publishers to operate several ad networks with a single integration, and thorough user acquisition tools that are specifically designed for developers to grow their user bases at the shortest time possible. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 3 Warning Sign with APP. Key Growth Drivers Machine Learning and AI-Powered Optimization The AXON platform that is powered by AppLovin's sophisticated machine learning infrastructure, which is its own product, is the genetic code of the tech advantage of the company. The proprietary AI engine that the company uses, being at the heart of the whole process, is in charge of the incredible computational task of processing a diverse range of data to make real-time decisions on the best ad placements, user acquisition campaigns, and monetization strategies available. By examining the engagement metrics and conversion data, the system constantly improves the targeting accuracy and campaign efficiency besides getting insight from user behavior patterns. This exceptional efficiency, which allows advertisers to make more informed bids on ad inventory while publishers to generate more revenue, is based on the system's predictive capabilities. The platform's establishment to process and learn from billions of pieces of data each day creates a significant barrier for other competitors, as it is developed better with more available data. AXON is the neural network that drives the whole platform with deep learning technology, which is used to explore the user data in a way that traditional analysis tools would not be able to. That is to say, this platform is the most modern digital solution that performs the task of reinforcement learning, where the smart algorithms are given real-time feedback with optimal ad placement and bidding decisions generated automatically. This automated optimization function, which in reality results in the use of less human resources, is achieved compared to the delivering of impressive results using a set of predefined rules. Real-Time Bidding and Programmatic Infrastructure AppLovin has the technology stack including high-performance real-time bidding (RTB) infrastructure capable of processing hundreds of thousands of bid requests per second with sub-100 millisecond response times. This is a low-latency system for mobile advertising where split-second decisions are the determinants of campaign success. The distributed architecture of the platform ensures global scalability and uniform performance, despite different geographic regions. Moreover, the programmatic advertising technology platform includes header bidding alongside the integration allowing publishers to increase their revenue through enabling multi-demand sources to compete for the same inventory simultaneously. The system's complex auction mechanics are not only concerned with bid prices but also take into account user experience, ad quality, and long-term value optimization. However, Applovin's server-side integration mechanisms spare the technical brunt of application developers while presenting centralized data collection and analysis techniques. This approach is compared to client-side implementations, which need multiple SDK integrations, resulting in longer app latency and poor user experience. Data Analytics and Attribution Technology The advanced data analytics structure of the company processes the huge amounts of data it collects to find insights that are valuable for both the advertisers and publishers. More advanced attribution models, in turn, allow for better measurement of the user paths across multiple touchpoints, which translates into higher confidence in the budget allocation decisions. The two ways to attribute the platform's capability are probabilistic and deterministic, which are useful for a much dense privacy environment. AppLovin's analytics tool provides sophisticated analysis of cohorts, predicting lifetime value, and churn modeling to the app developers in an effort to enhance the user acquisition process. The platform's ability to connect the costs of acquiring new users with the value they bring over time means it can help optimize return on ad investment (ROAS) more than measuring just installs can. The company's commitment to using privacy-friendly methods in data collection and analysis ensures that it is well-prepared for the ever-changing legal landscape. Data confidentiality and federated learning methods, together with innovative approaches in data collection, will facilitate users' right to privacy, and continue the optimization process by respecting regulatory mandates. Competition from Technology Giants AppLovin is up against robust competition from technology companies that are using their resources and networks. Google, through its AdMob platform and Google Ads ecosystem, is probably the strongest rival. Google's interconnectedness with Android, YouTube, and its advertising network turned it into a powerhouse that promises premium exposure and fine contracts. Facebook (Meta), through its Audience Network along with the vast amount of data from social media, which makes it possible for precise user targeting and cross-platform campaign management, is another relevant competitor. Apple's recent privacy policies, namely, App Tracking Transparency (ATT), are a mixed-source benefit in the competition scene. The fact is that these issues eliminate some of the attribution and targeting capabilities for a while but at the same time, that would bring balance to the situation by lessening the data advantages that some of the competitors had before. The way to deal with this threat is a concentration on those areas where the giants might not be as swift or/and comprehensive. The deep dive on the mobile gaming and app monetization areas by the company grants the right for more in-depth verticals and exactly tailor-made solutions rather than platform companies do. The optimization brought along with the AXON platform's automatic algorithms for the mobile app environment often results in better performance than generic ad solvers in the scope of new user quality and monetization efficiency. Competition from Specialist Ad Tech Companies The mobile advertising game is competitive with the participation of many niche players, each of whom has identified a particular slice of the market. Unity Technologies is one of them, in particular, because it uses its Unity Ads platform to operate in the same arena as mobile gaming ads and even leverage its game development engine to provide integrated advertising. IronSource (now part of Unity) used to be a significant adversary with its all-in-one platform that handled app monetization and user acquisition comprehensively. Chartboost has a very specific operation model that enables it to focus only on mobile game advertising, which includes direct publisher relationships and extensive knowledge of the gaming industry. Vungle (now part of Liftoff) is a firm that, through its video ad solutions, has added strong creative optimization capabilities. These companies are mostly known for their vibrant industry knowledge and long-standing partnerships defined within the industry sectors. However, these specialized players are giving a tough time with their niche focus, AppLovin is competing against them by bringing extra scale and high-level technology. The yield of billions and billions of ad requests daily makes the company to have the capacity of more effective machine learning optimizationin and standard machine learning schemes. AppLovin's user acquisition, monetization, and analytics in one solution platform and the simplicity of not having to carry out multiple integrations delivers accessibility and effectiveness over single point solutions that require integrations. Strengthened by the right acquisitions, the company is in a stronger position as it has consolidated its market share, and the potential competition was eliminated. The MoPub acquisition from Twitter gave AppLovin a digital publisher relationship and mediation capabilities while other small acquisitions enriched the tech stack and human resources, thus enhancing the platform. Key Risks Risks of Platform Dependency and Ecosystem Control AppLovin is at a high risk concerning the technological factors stemming from its reliance on mobile platforms governed by Apple and Google. Any iOS and Android platform policy changes can, in a matter of seconds, thus alter the way AppLovin operates. The real-time impact of the implementation of Apple's App Tracking Transparency (ATT) framework proved this vulnerability when mobile advertisers immediately lost the ability to accurately attribute and target their ads. The prospective platform issues may involve more rigorous SDK approval processes, more privacy restrictions, or modified app store policies that will limit the advertising functionality altogether. For instance, the introduction of Private Relay in iOS 17 and the addition of enhanced tracking protection greatly narrow data collection capabilities. Although the Privacy Sandbox initiative from Android is still in progress, it poses a serious risk of redefining the way mobile advertising attribution and targeting are done. The technical risk branch out to the potential scenarios of platform fragmentation in which different versions of iOS or Android impose different privacy and advertising restrictions. AppLovin's single platform strategy is rendered more complex as it needs to reconcile with the different technical requirements caused by the braid of platform versions and geographic regions with various regulatory frameworks. Algorithmic and Machine Learning Model Vulnerabilities AXON's machine learning algorithms are the backbone of AppLovin's business edge as they grant a strongly concentrated technical risk around model performance and accuracy. The susceptibility of machine learning models to concept drift, where changing user behavior patterns or market conditions reduce the effectiveness of the model over time, is one of the most common reasons for this fall. The constant mutation of the mobile advertising ecosystem can make the previously useful alphas to be of no use whatsoever. Model bias is another highlight technical risk, this is when the algorithms inadvertently discriminate against some user segments or app categories, which in turn could result in regulatory violations or suboptimal performance outcomes. Attacks that are deceitful to the machine learning systems could influence either the bidding algorithms or the attribution models, which will in turn lead to financial losses and site degradation. The scenario of being data poisoned where the hackers introduce the useless and malicious data into the training datasets has the detrimental effect of degrading the performance of the models or creating vulnerabilities which can be exploited. The scale at which AppLovin is processing data, daily handling over billions of events, is making it more difficult to ensure comprehensive data validation while maintaining the real-time processing needs. The most serious of the risks that are created through overfitting is the one that comes from the models completely specializing in what has been done historically, thereby rendering the generalization capacities for new market conditions or user behaviors very weak. The high focus on the gaming vertical that has led to a competitive advantage could be detrimental if the gaming industry undergoes a drastic change. Valuation The forward P/E ratios for AppLovin portray impressive earnings acceleration with the non-GAAP P/E declining from 45.93x (FY1) to 27.69x (FY3), which suggests an impressive earnings increase, outstripping all but one peer company. It is the market's strong response that makes the compression evident, showing that it appreciates AppLovin's ability to grow the business while also keeping profitability up. The company's PEG ratios of 0.94 (non-GAAP forward) and 0.31 (GAAP TTM) are at a high level with respect to the growth rates making the stock very attractive, at least, it is significantly more attractive than peers like Adobe (1.35) and Cadence (3.09). This fact shows that the value of AppLovin is off the charts due to its markdown price based on its growth potential, which is further elaborated by the large upside that is now available. In contrast to industry rivals, AppLovin's valuation metrics look realistic even if the absolute P/E ratios are higher. Adobe and Cadence declare lesser P/E compression over time, while AppLovin shows signs of higher earnings growth. The absence of profit for a company like MasterCard (negative P/Es) contrasts sharply with AppLovin's prevailing profits in the ad-tech sector. Guru Holdings Lowenstein's 17.19% stake which is equivalent to $762.85 million shows tremendous conviction, especially if we take into consideration the average buy price that he had of $75.06, which is representing a 423.6% gain. Lowenstein's convincing position, which is large in size and yields excellent returns, is an evidence of AppLovin's strategic execution and its growth path. The 12.86% increase in the holdings that Lowenstein took just lately proves that he still has confidence in the company despite the stock's larger rise, which in turn shows that the bottom line is the company's fundamentals rather than the ups and downs of the market. Resnick's 13.47% stake ($740.26M) with an average cost basis of $49.41 (695.4% gain) represents even earlier conviction in AppLovin's transformation story. The stability of his holdings (0% recent change) indicates dissatisfaction with current positioning while maintaining long-term conviction. Both managers' five-star ratings and substantial outperformance demonstrate their investment expertise. ConclusionAppLovin faces strong competition from technology companies like Google, Facebook, and Apple. Google's AdMob platform and Ads ecosystem, coupled with its interconnectedness with Android, YouTube, and its advertising network, offer premium exposure and fine contracts. Facebook's Audience Network and vast data from social media enable precise user targeting and cross-platform campaign management. Apple's recent privacy policies, App Tracking Transparency (ATT), provide mixed-source benefits in the competition scene, but may limit data advantages. To address this threat, AppLovin focuses on mobile gaming and app monetization areas, offering tailored solutions rather than generic ad solvers. The AXON platform's automatic algorithms for the mobile app environment often result in better performance than generic ad solvers in terms of user quality and monetization efficiency. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sign in to access your portfolio
