Apple's Revenue Declines for Three Consecutive Quarters, iPad Income Plunges 20% Surpassing Expectations, Stock Slides Post-market

Apple's financial reports have always been seen as a barometer of consumer electronics demand. This quarter's financial results might provide clues about whether the global economy can achieve a "soft landing," considering the ongoing inflationary environment that is expected to continue pressuring such demand. Additionally, as the largest constituent in the S&P 500 index, Apple's post-earnings stock performance can significantly impact the overall market trends. Many analysts suggest that investors are particularly interested in Apple's official guidance for the fourth quarter compared to its previous performance.
When discussing AI, Apple tends to use the term "machine learning" and prefers to highlight how software with new AI features can benefit users. During the last earnings call, Cook only mentioned AI passively twice, and during the June software event, the term was not mentioned at all. However, as Apple incorporates AI technology into augmented reality headsets, some analysts anticipate that the company will adopt a more aggressive approach in discussing its AI strategy in the future.