Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, has made a significant investment in Relativity Space, a California-based company pioneering 3D-printed rocket technology. This investment comes at a crucial time for Relativity as it navigates challenges and aims to advance its innovative approach to space travel.

Overview of Relativity Space

Founded in 2015, Relativity Space aims to revolutionize space travel through its unique 3D printing techniques, which allow for the rapid production of rocket components. The company’s flagship rocket, Terran 1, was launched in 2023, but unfortunately, it failed to achieve orbit. Despite this setback, Relativity is now focusing on its next-generation rocket, Terran R, which is scheduled for launch in 2026.

Challenges Faced

Relativity Space has encountered several challenges over the past few years, including funding difficulties in 2024. These hurdles have prompted the company to seek additional capital to support its ambitious plans and operational needs.

Schmidt’s Investment

Schmidt’s investment is particularly timely as Relativity Space works to secure funding for the development of Terran R and its ongoing operations. His backing underscores the growing interest in the private space sector and highlights the potential of innovative technologies like 3D printing to transform space exploration.

Background on Eric Schmidt

Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavors, Schmidt has been actively involved in various investment and advisory roles since stepping down as Google CEO in 2011. He has a history of supporting technology-driven initiatives and startups, making this investment a natural extension of his interests.

Industry Context

The investment by Schmidt comes amid an intensifying modern space race, often referred to as “Space Race 2.0.” Private companies are increasingly vying for dominance in orbit, with firms like SpaceX leading the charge. In 2024, SpaceX achieved a remarkable milestone with 134 launches, showcasing rapid advancements in the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Relativity Space is positioned as a key player within this competitive landscape, despite its initial setbacks. The company’s focus on 3D printing technology offers a unique approach that could potentially lower costs and increase efficiency in rocket manufacturing compared to traditional methods.

Conclusion

Eric Schmidt’s investment in Relativity Space highlights the growing interest and potential within the private space sector, particularly regarding innovative technologies like 3D printing. As Relativity prepares for the launch of Terran R and seeks to overcome its funding challenges, Schmidt’s support may provide crucial momentum for the company’s future endeavors. This move not only reinforces Schmidt’s commitment to advancing technology but also signifies a broader trend of increased investment in space exploration initiatives that promise to reshape our understanding and capabilities in this frontier.

Apple is expected to continue supporting all iPhones currently running iOS 18 with the upcoming iOS 19 update, according to a report from the French website iPhoneSoft.fr. If accurate, this would mark the second consecutive year that Apple maintains compatibility for all existing models, providing good news for users with older devices.

Compatibility Details

The report indicates that iOS 19 will be compatible with any iPhone capable of running iOS 18. This includes models dating back to the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, which were first released in September 2018. The full list of compatible devices is expected to include:

• iPhone 17 series (2025 expected)

• iPhone 16 series (2024)

• iPhone 15 series (2023)

• iPhone 14 series (2022)

• iPhone SE (3rd generation) (2022)

• iPhone 13 series (2021)

• iPhone SE (2nd generation) (2020)

• iPhone 12 series (2020)

• iPhone 11 series (2019)

• iPhone XS / XS Max

• iPhone XR

This extended support allows users to keep their devices longer without missing out on critical updates, aligning with Apple’s strategy of providing longevity to its hardware.

Limitations for Older Devices

While older devices will receive the update, it is important to note that they may not be able to utilize all the new features in iOS 19 due to hardware limitations. This trend follows the pattern established with iOS 18, which maintained compatibility with all models that could run iOS 17 but dropped support for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.

Implications for iPad Users

In contrast to the positive news for iPhone users, the same report suggests that iPadOS 19 will drop support for the iPad 7th generation, released in 2019. However, all other iPads compatible with iPadOS 18 are expected to receive the update. This indicates a more selective approach for iPads compared to iPhones.

Compatible iPads

The following models are expected to support iPadOS 19:

• iPad Mini (5th generation and newer)

• iPad (8th generation and newer)

• iPad Air (3rd generation and newer)

• iPad Pro (2018 and newer)

Timeline for Release

The first public beta of iOS 19 is anticipated in June 2025 during Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The final release is likely to follow in September 2025, consistent with Apple’s usual release schedule.

Future Features

Specific features of iOS 19 remain largely unknown at this stage; however, there are rumors suggesting a more conversational Siri experience, akin to ChatGPT, could be introduced in a potential iOS 19.4 update around March 2026. This aligns with Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance user interaction through AI-driven features.

Conclusion

If the report holds true, Apple’s decision to maintain support for older iPhones with the upcoming iOS 19 update reflects its commitment to customer satisfaction and device longevity. While some limitations may apply regarding feature availability on older models, this strategy allows users to enjoy updates without needing immediate hardware upgrades. As Apple prepares for its next major software release, both iPhone and iPad users will be keenly watching how these developments unfold.

Netflix India is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian sports streaming market by acquiring the exclusive media rights for WWE in a landmark 10-year deal. This strategic move marks a notable shift for the streaming giant, which has largely focused on entertainment content while avoiding sports until now.

Details of the WWE Deal

The WWE deal, valued at $5 billion globally, will enable Netflix to stream flagship shows such as Raw, SmackDown, and NXT starting in April 2025. This transition follows the expiration of WWE’s current contract with Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), a long-time partner. While SPNI sought to retain some television rights, Netflix insisted on exclusivity in the Indian market.

Implications for SPNI

The loss of WWE rights represents a significant blow to SPNI, which has relied heavily on sports programming to attract viewers. Although SPNI recently acquired rights for the Asian Cricket Council, replacing WWE’s popularity will pose a substantial challenge.

Competitive Landscape

This move positions Netflix to directly challenge dominant players like Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema, which currently hold rights to major cricket tournaments such as the Indian Premier League (IPL). WWE has cultivated a loyal following in India over two decades of television broadcasts, but transitioning this audience from traditional TV to a subscription model will be crucial for Netflix’s success.

Market Dynamics

The entry of Netflix into sports streaming aligns with its global strategy to diversify content offerings and engage younger audiences. The company aims to leverage WWE’s strong fanbase to significantly boost its subscriber numbers in India.

Transitioning Audiences

Experts believe that converting WWE’s traditional television audience into subscribers for Netflix will be critical. The partnership is seen as an opportunity for Netflix to enhance its presence in a market where sports content is increasingly valuable.

Historical Context

WWE programming has been broadcasted in India since 2002, primarily through Ten Sports and later through SPNI after acquiring Ten Sports from Zee Entertainment for $385 million in 2016. The collaboration between WWE and SPNI has lasted over two decades, making this transition particularly noteworthy.

Key Takeaways

• Exclusive Rights Acquisition: Netflix India is acquiring exclusive WWE rights in a landmark 10-year deal.
• Entry into Sports Streaming: This marks Netflix’s first foray into sports streaming in India.
• Shift from Traditional TV: WWE will transition from traditional TV broadcasting to exclusive streaming on Netflix.
• Competitive Challenge: This move directly challenges Disney+ Hotstar and JioCinema’s dominance in Indian sports streaming.
• SPNI’s Strategic Challenge: SPNI faces significant challenges in replacing WWE content after losing these rights.
• Subscriber Growth Potential: Netflix aims to boost subscriptions by attracting WWE’s loyal fanbase.

Conclusion

The acquisition of WWE rights represents a pivotal moment for Netflix India as it seeks to establish itself in the competitive sports streaming arena. By leveraging the popularity of WWE and transitioning its audience from traditional television, Netflix aims to enhance its service offerings and significantly increase its subscriber base. As this deal unfolds, it will be essential to monitor how it impacts both Netflix’s growth trajectory and the broader landscape of sports entertainment in India.