AM Prep-Cyber Corner

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

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IN THE NEWS: iPHONE SALES HARD HIT BY CORONAVIRUS

UNDATED (AP) — For a while, it seemed nothing could stop the demand for iPhones. But now, there is: COVID-19. The new coronavirus has had a dramatic effect on the sales of Apple’s signature product. KeyBanc Capital reports U.S. sales of iPhones fell a whopping 56% last month, compared to a year ago. And online sales haven’t made up for the loss of sales from Apple stores, which are closed because of the outbreak. The KeyBanc report also says people buying iPhones are leaning toward cheaper models — rather than shell out nearly four figures for an iPhone, given the current economy.

IN THE NEWS: GOING ONLINE TO GET COVID-19 INCOME HELP

WASHINGTON (AP) — For many, it’s natural to go online to do everything from applying for jobs or benefits — or ordering a fast-food meal. But for many trying to deal with the economic effects of coronavirus, going online has been an exercise in futility. So far, nearly 17 million Americans have sought unemployment benefits in recent weeks — a record high. Yet millions are having trouble navigating overloaded websites or jammed telephone lines, making it impossible to seek help. Even more vexed are gig workers like those who drive for Uber or Lyft. They are covered by the federal aid package — but because they don’t have traditional tax records on file with the government, they must reach websites to apply for such benefits.

ON THE WEB: BASEBALL BUSINESS

CYBERSPACE (AP) — Wanna check out the latest major league baseball standings? No, these aren’t rankings of fantasy teams — but a list showing teams based on their financial records. Forbes is out with its annual list of MLB clubs, ranked by their overall worth in 2020. Topping the list: the New York Yankees, with $5 billion. The Los Angeles Dodgers are second. After that, it’s the Boston Red Sox, followed by the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco, New York Mets, St. Louis Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies.

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Online:

Forbes site: http://www.forbes.com

by Oscar Wells Gabriel II

Follow Oscar Wells Gabriel II on Twitter at https://twitter.com/OWGabriel2