Cupertino, California – May 12 – Apple is reportedly planning a price hike for its upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, set to launch this September, in response to rising production costs and supply chain disruptions fueled by ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.

The price increase is expected to be accompanied by new design elements and upgraded features, including a rumored ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air and a redesigned rear camera cluster, as Apple looks to refresh its flagship smartphone amid fierce competition and economic headwinds.

Tariff Pressure Mounts

While Apple has not officially confirmed any pricing changes, the company is under increasing pressure as a result of U.S. tariffs on imports from China, where most iPhones are still assembled. Although recent trade talks between Washington and Beijing resulted in a 90-day delay on some reciprocal tariffs, Apple’s core products remain subject to a 30% import tax, driving up costs.

In a statement earlier this month, Apple warned that tariffs are expected to add $900 million in costs during Q2 2025 alone. The company said it is ramping up iPhone production in India to mitigate the impact, with the majority of iPhones sold in the U.S. during this quarter expected to be made outside of China.

Pricing Could Exceed $1,100 for Entry-Level Model

According to Rosenblatt Securities, the starting price of the iPhone 17 could climb significantly, with the base model potentially priced at $1,142 in the U.S., compared to $799 for the iPhone 16. While Apple is cautious not to attribute the increase directly to tariffs, analysts suggest the hike is a strategic move to maintain profit margins amid higher production costs.

Innovation or Inflation?

To soften the impact of the price increase, Apple plans to roll out notable hardware upgrades and sleek design changes, including the launch of the iPhone 17 Air, an ultra-thin model that could mark a new era in minimalist design. Other enhancements may include adjustments to the rear camera system, refined materials, and expanded AI-driven features.

However, some industry watchers warn that Apple’s slow rollout of generative AI tools may put it at a disadvantage against rivals like Samsung, which is aggressively marketing AI-powered capabilities in its latest devices.

Looking Ahead to iPhone’s 20th Anniversary

Looking further ahead, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman revealed that Apple is already planning a major innovation leap for the 2027 iPhone, which will mark the product’s 20th anniversary. The future model could feature a fully curved, mostly glass body with no cutouts, offering a futuristic take on Apple’s design legacy. The last major design overhaul occurred in 2017 with the iPhone X, which introduced edge-to-edge displays and eliminated the iconic home button.

Market Response

While some Apple loyalists are likely to embrace the upcoming iPhone 17 regardless of price, analysts caution that rising prices may erode Apple’s market share, particularly in developing markets and among cost-conscious consumers.

With the official unveiling just months away, consumers and investors alike will be watching closely to see how Apple balances innovation, pricing, and geopolitical risk in a shifting global tech landscape.

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Hanoi, Vietnam – For over two decades, Google has been the undisputed leader of internet search. But that dominance is now facing a serious test from a new breed of AI-powered engines, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT at the forefront of this challenge.

Behind the scenes, Google has been growing increasingly concerned over the rise of generative AI platforms that can provide instant, conversational answers to user queries — often without the need to click through multiple search results. According to sources close to the company, these concerns have been mounting for at least two years, prompting internal reorganizations, rushed product rollouts, and strategic shifts to defend its core business.

ChatGPT: A New Way to Search

When OpenAI launched ChatGPT in late 2022, it quickly captured global attention with its ability to generate coherent, detailed, and contextually accurate responses. Users found that instead of typing keywords into Google and sifting through links, they could simply ask ChatGPT a question — and get a straight answer in seconds.

This shift in user behavior poses a real risk to Google’s lucrative advertising-based search model. With fewer people clicking on sponsored links, Google’s ad revenue — which makes up more than 80% of its total income — could take a significant hit.

Google’s Response: Innovation and Urgency

Google hasn’t been sitting still. In response to the AI threat, the company accelerated its AI initiatives, launching Bard (now rebranded as Gemini) and embedding more AI features into its search engine. Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google’s parent company Alphabet, acknowledged in early 2024 that generative AI represents “the next wave of computing” — and a key battleground for the future of the internet.

Internally, Google has also ramped up AI talent recruitment and restructured its teams to focus more aggressively on AI development. Still, catching up with OpenAI’s rapid momentum remains a challenge.

Implications for Users in Vietnam and Beyond

For internet users in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, this AI shift could reshape how people interact with the web. Instead of typing queries in English or Vietnamese and sorting through dozens of links, users may increasingly turn to conversational AI tools for instant summaries, travel tips, financial insights, or even legal advice.

Vietnamese startups, marketers, and businesses that rely on Google search visibility may also need to adapt their strategies as AI becomes a bigger part of the user journey. Search engine optimization (SEO) may soon give way to AI optimization — tailoring content not just for Google’s crawlers, but for AI engines that summarize and present information directly.

The Road Ahead

The battle for the future of search is only just beginning. While Google remains the dominant player, the rise of ChatGPT and other AI models has introduced real competition for the first time in years. In this evolving digital landscape, innovation, adaptability, and a focus on user needs will determine who leads the next era of information discovery.

Stay informed with Vietnam Insider as we track how AI is changing the tech world — and what it means for Vietnam’s digital economy.

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The rankings are built upon the YouGov BrandIndex Positive Satisfaction Score, from the comprehensive brand health tracking tool that gathers daily data from over 350 brands in Vietnam. This is the result of more than 18,000 consumer surveys for the Finance sector conducted annually through this tool.

The Bank Satisfaction Rankings 2025 for Vietnam reveal a dynamic shift in customer satisfaction within the Vietnamese banking sector, with several institutions demonstrating significant changes in their standings. This indicates evolving consumer expectations and a heightened level of competition.

The Bank Satisfaction Rankings 2025 for Vietnam serve as a useful source of information for customers seeking banks that offer excellent customer experience. Banks should prioritise customer satisfaction and build long-term relationships with them to improve their ranking and become more prominent in the market. Only in this way can banks harness the power of satisfaction to build a loyal customer base, enhance brand awareness, and drive business growth.

Shifts in the rankings, with SHB recording the largest growth in customer satisfaction, Techcombank tops the ranking

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is taking concrete steps to bring its Starlink satellite internet service to Vietnam, with regulatory procedures and infrastructure plans now underway, according to the country’s Department of Telecommunications.

During a government meeting on April 1, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung was briefed on the nation’s roadmap to boost digital infrastructure, with a spotlight on two 2024 priorities: expanding 5G coverage and piloting low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services—including Starlink.

On March 23, the Vietnamese government granted official approval for SpaceX to pilot Starlink services in Vietnam, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-standing ambition to enter the country’s fast-growing digital market.

Nguyen Thanh Chung, Director of the Department of Telecommunications, confirmed that his office is working closely with SpaceX to facilitate the necessary next steps. These include establishing a legal business entity in Vietnam and installing a Ground Gateway Station on Vietnamese soil, a critical requirement to ensure all satellite internet traffic in the country is routed securely through domestic infrastructure.

“They are preparing the documentation and equipment to bring to Vietnam,” Chung noted, adding that full deployment is expected within the year.

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. Jae C. Hong/AP

Strict Compliance for Secure Connectivity

The pilot program sets clear terms: it will run for a maximum of five years, ending no later than January 1, 2031, and will allow up to 600,000 subscribers. To address national security and data privacy concerns, the Vietnamese government requires that all user traffic be routed through the local Ground Gateway Station; User data be stored within Vietnam, and The system must be equipped to prevent malware, cyberattacks, and the spread of malicious content.

While SpaceX has not issued a public statement on the development, the company has previously expressed strong interest in bringing Starlink to Vietnam—a country with ambitious plans to expand digital access, especially in underserved rural and mountainous regions.

A Boost for Vietnam’s Digital Ambitions

Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung emphasized that satellite internet will play a crucial role in delivering high-speed connectivity to remote areas, bridging the digital divide and unlocking new economic opportunities. He also called on telecom authorities to double the country’s mobile internet speed this year, with a strong push for nationwide 5G expansion.

Vietnam is also investing heavily in other components of its digital infrastructure. The plan includes: Accelerating 5G tower deployment; Enhancing submarine cable capacity; Launching new data centers; Promoting affordable access to 5G-compatible devices.

“Digital infrastructure is no longer optional—it’s the foundation for a modern economy,” said Minister Hung. “It combines broadband telecom, cloud computing, digital platforms, and next-gen technologies.”

Why It Matters for Investors

Starlink’s entry into Vietnam is more than just a tech story—it signals growing openness to global digital players and a national commitment to becoming a regional leader in digital connectivity. For foreign investors and international tech firms, Vietnam’s evolving regulatory environment and infrastructure investments present major opportunities in telecommunications, cloud services, IoT, and digital economy development.

As the country accelerates its digital transformation agenda, Starlink’s arrival could be a game-changer—bringing high-speed, reliable internet access to parts of Vietnam that traditional networks have yet to reach.

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Ho Chi Minh City, March 28 – A group of 12 leading UK companies specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data is exploring collaboration opportunities in Vietnam, as part of the UK-Southeast Asia Tech Week 2025.

Held in Ho Chi Minh City from March 27–28, this flagship event aims to foster digital innovation and build stronger tech partnerships between the UK and Southeast Asia. The initiative reflects the UK’s growing interest in Vietnam’s fast-emerging digital economy.

In a major development on the sidelines of the event, the UK Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Centre signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.

The newly signed MoU sets the stage for deeper collaboration between UK and Vietnamese stakeholders—including government agencies, research institutions, universities, and private sector players—to accelerate digital transformation and tech innovation in Vietnam’s southern economic hub.

The partnership will focus on both fundamental and applied research across a wide range of key sectors, including smart city solutions, FinTech, AI, robotics, automation, nanotechnology, cybersecurity, and HealthTech.

As Vietnam continues to position itself as a regional leader in digital transformation, this UK-Vietnam collaboration could unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic tech markets.

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Apple has officially announced that its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2025) will take place from June 9 to June 13 at the Apple Park campus in California.

The event, open to developers worldwide, will spotlight Apple’s latest software innovations and provide exclusive access to new tools, technologies, and programs.

In its announcement, Apple emphasized its commitment to the developer community. “WWDC 2025 will give developers access to our latest tools and features as part of our ongoing support for innovation,” the company stated.

Susan Prescott, Apple’s Vice President of Worldwide Developer Relations, shared:

“We’re thrilled to kick off another exciting WWDC with our global developer community. We look forward to unveiling new tools and technologies that will help them continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

At the heart of WWDC 2025 will be the unveiling of Apple’s next-generation operating systems, including iOS 19, iPadOS 19, visionOS 3, tvOS 19, macOS 16, and watchOS 12, according to reports from 9to5Mac.

Among these, iOS 19 is expected to be one of the most significant updates in Apple’s history. Leaks suggest that the new version will adopt a design language closely aligned with visionOS, featuring colorful, layered interface elements and redesigned system apps. The Camera app, for instance, is rumored to receive a complete visual overhaul with a control system inspired by visionOS.

Recent releases like Apple Sports and Apple Invites already hint at this evolving design direction, showcasing interfaces with vibrant colors and layered elements reminiscent of both visionOS and watchOS.

In addition to visual updates, iOS 19 is set to introduce groundbreaking features, particularly in artificial intelligence. According to Bloomberg, Apple is developing a major upgrade to Siri, powered by a large language model (LLM). Internally dubbed “LLM Siri,” the new assistant is being tested as a standalone app and is expected to debut in iOS 19 and macOS 16. However, the full rollout may not happen until spring 2026.

macOS 16 and iPadOS 19 are also anticipated to receive significant design improvements, with Apple working to unify the visual and user experience across all its platforms for a more seamless ecosystem.

With WWDC 2025 just months away, anticipation is building for what could be a landmark year in Apple’s software evolution. Stay tuned for more updates as June approaches.

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As the scorching summer heat begins to subside in Vietnam, tech enthusiasts are already buzzing with anticipation for Apple’s traditional September iPhone launch.

While rumors surrounding the iPhone 17 series have been swirling for months, a recent report from Bloomberg’s renowned insider, Mark Gurman, offers a more concrete glimpse into what we can expect.

For our savvy Vietnam Insider readers, especially those plugged into the global tech scene, here’s a breakdown of the key insights.

iPhone 17: Evolutionary, Not Revolutionary (For Now)

Gurman doesn’t mince his words when it comes to the standard iPhone 17. He suggests that it will largely follow the pattern of recent years, meaning it won’t be receiving any groundbreaking new features. Apple, it seems, continues to reserve its major innovations for its higher-end models.

While this might sound a tad underwhelming, it’s worth remembering the significant strides made with the previous iPhone 16. That model brought the base iPhone closer to its Pro counterparts in many aspects. However, the absence of ProMotion – the smoother, faster refresh rate display exclusive to the Pro models – remained a notable difference.

A Smoother Experience on the Horizon?

Interestingly, Gurman hints at a potential upgrade that many have been hoping for. He suggests that the standard iPhone 17 is “likely to get some small enhancements to its rear camera, as well as a ProMotion display, which allows for smoother scrolling and animation.” If this prediction holds true, it would be a welcome addition, significantly enhancing the user experience with fluid visuals and more responsive interactions. For those who value a silky-smooth interface, this could be a compelling reason to consider the base model.

iPhone 17 Pro: Focusing on the Camera Powerhouse

For those who prioritize cutting-edge camera technology, the iPhone 17 Pro models appear to be where the major action will be. Gurman reports that these higher-end devices are slated to receive “major camera system upgrades, including 48-megapixel sensors across the back trio of cameras.”

Currently, the iPhone Pro models feature two 48-megapixel sensors (main and ultrawide) and one 12-megapixel telephoto lens. Equipping all three rear cameras with a higher 48-megapixel count opens up a world of possibilities. This could lead to enhanced image detail across all zoom levels, improved low-light performance, and the potential for new creative shooting modes and features. For photography enthusiasts and content creators in Vietnam, this upgrade could be a game-changer.

The Intriguing iPhone 17 Air: A Thin and Light Contender

Perhaps the most captivating revelation from Gurman is the mention of a “skinny new iPhone 17 Air.” Positioned in the $900 price range (around 23 million VND based on current exchange rates), this new model seems to be generating significant buzz.

Gurman suggests that opting for the Air over the standard iPhone 17 (likely around $800) could be a worthwhile trade-off. He believes that users “won’t be losing that much in terms of the specifications” while gaining a “remarkably thin and light phone with considerably more screen real estate.”

This proposition is particularly interesting. In a market like Vietnam, where sleek design and portability are often highly valued, a significantly thinner and lighter iPhone with a larger display could be a major draw. Gurman even speculates that some users might “trade down from the Pro to the Air” to get this potentially snazzy new design for a lower price point.

A Word of Caution and Anticipation

While Gurman’s insights are highly respected, it’s important to remember that these are still based on reports and expectations. The final specifications and features of the iPhone 17 series could differ.
However, based on what we know so far, here are some key takeaways for Vietnam Insider readers:

• Standard iPhone 17: Likely an evolutionary upgrade with a potential ProMotion display and minor camera enhancements. A solid offering, but not a major overhaul.
• iPhone 17 Pro: Focused on significant camera system improvements with 48-megapixel sensors across all three rear lenses. A compelling choice for photography enthusiasts.
• iPhone 17 Air: A potentially exciting new model emphasizing a thin and light design with a larger screen, positioned as a compelling alternative between the standard and Pro models.

As we edge closer to the expected September launch, more concrete details will undoubtedly emerge. For our readers in Vietnam looking to upgrade their smartphones, the iPhone 17 series presents some intriguing options. The potential arrival of ProMotion on the base model and the innovative design of the rumored iPhone 17 Air could make this year’s lineup particularly appealing.

Keep an eye on Vietnam Insider for the latest updates as we get closer to Apple’s official announcement!

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HANOI, Vietnam — March 23, 2025 — Vietnamese tech powerhouse FPT is driving into the future with a groundbreaking two-year partnership with Subaru Japan, announced earlier this month. This collaboration is set to turbocharge the development of cutting-edge software for cars, with a laser focus on autonomous driving technology and next-generation safety systems.

This isn’t just a business deal—it’s a bold statement of Vietnam’s rising star in the global tech scene.

Revving Up Innovation

Under the agreement, FPT Automotive, a subsidiary of FPT Corporation, will join forces with Subaru to revolutionize the way we experience cars. Think self-driving vehicles that navigate with precision and safety features that set new benchmarks—these are the goals fueling this partnership. To make it happen, FPT is sending its top experts to Subaru’s factory in Gunma, Japan, where they’ll dive into hands-on training and seminars. It’s a chance to sharpen skills, align with Subaru’s world-class standards, and bring home expertise that could redefine Vietnam’s tech landscape.

“This is more than a collaboration—it’s a co-creation,” said Mdm. Chu Thi Thanh Ha, FPT Software Chairwoman. “By blending FPT’s tech prowess with Subaru’s engineering legacy, we’re building a future where cars are smarter, safer, and more connected. Plus, we’re putting Vietnamese talent on the global map.”

A Win for FPT and Vietnam

For FPT, this deal is a golden ticket to solidify its foothold in the automotive industry—a sector it’s been accelerating into for nearly two decades. With 4,000 automotive software engineers worldwide and the launch of FPT Automotive in 2023, the company is already a heavyweight in software-defined vehicles. Now, partnering with Subaru, a name synonymous with reliability and innovation, FPT is poised to take its game to the next level.

But it’s not just about cars—it’s about Japan. As FPT’s biggest IT service market, Japan has long been a priority. With over 4,000 employees across 17 offices and innovation hubs, plus 15,000 offshore pros dedicated to the market, FPT is already a titan there. This Subaru tie-up? It’s the turbo boost needed to expand even further, aiming for a billion-dollar revenue milestone by 2027.

Money Talks: FPT’s Hot Start to 2025

FPT isn’t just dreaming big—it’s delivering. The company kicked off 2025 with a bang, reporting revenue of VND 10,438 billion (about USD 422 million) and a profit after tax of VND 1,619 billion (around USD 65 million) for January and February alone. These numbers don’t just show growth—they scream confidence. With the Subaru partnership now in play, expect those figures to climb even higher as FPT shifts into overdrive.

Why It Matters to You

This is a moment of pride. FPT’s leap into autonomous driving and safety tech with Subaru isn’t just a corporate win—it’s a showcase of Vietnam’s tech muscle. From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, the ripple effects could mean more jobs, more innovation, and a louder voice on the world stage. And for car enthusiasts? Get ready for a ride where Vietnamese ingenuity meets Japanese precision.

As FPT’s experts gear up for their stint in Japan, the road ahead looks thrilling. Will this partnership steer Vietnam into a new era of automotive tech? Buckle up—Vietnam Insider will keep you posted.

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Vietnam has surged into the global top 20 for mobile Internet speed, marking a major leap forward in digital connectivity.

In February 2025, the country’s average mobile Internet speed hit an impressive 144 Mbps, pushing it to 19th place worldwide, ahead of nations like India, Finland, and France, according to data from global analytics firm Ookla.

Vietnam’s mobile speed is now approaching its fixed broadband speed, which stood at 164.77 Mbps, placing the country 35th globally in that category. Leading the rankings were the UAE with a mobile speed of 543.91 Mbps, and Singapore with a fixed broadband speed of 345.33 Mbps.

This milestone comes after a period of stagnation in mobile performance. Just five months earlier, in September 2024, Vietnam’s mobile speed was only 54.17 Mbps, ranking 51st globally. The dramatic rise is largely attributed to the commercial rollout of 5G by Viettel in October 2024 and VinaPhone in December.

Supporting this data, a report from iSpeed—a speed test tool endorsed by Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology—recorded Vietnam’s 5G download speed at 187.58 Mbps in February. Among local providers, Viettel led with a median speed of 226.27 Mbps, followed by VNPT at 157.17 Mbps.

“Vietnam’s mobile Internet performance has improved significantly since the commercial deployment of 5G,” said Affandy Johan, an analyst at Ookla.

Indeed, Ookla’s data shows a sharp rise in 5G usage: from nearly 0% in September 2024 to 31.9% by February 2025, reflecting rapid network expansion.

To fuel adoption, Vietnamese telecom operators have been aggressively rolling out new 5G data plans. On March 10, Viettel launched daily 5G packages starting at just VND10,000 (US$0.40). The company currently serves 5.5 million 5G users and aims to reach 10 million by year-end. VinaPhone has reported three million 5G subscribers, while MobiFone is expected to launch its commercial 5G services later this month.

To further accelerate rollout, the Vietnamese government has introduced supportive policies. Under a resolution issued by the National Assembly on February 19, telecom companies must deploy at least 20,000 new 5G base stations by December 31 to qualify for a 15% subsidy on equipment costs.

With strong public and private sector momentum, Vietnam is fast becoming one of the most digitally connected countries in the region—making mobile Internet faster, more accessible, and future-ready.

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