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Don’t get too excited by those iOS 19 mock-ups — they’re probably not accurate

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Everyone is getting hyped about the big design changes reportedly coming to iOS 19 this year — so when Jon Prosser shared a mock-up based on an iMessage screen he claimed to have seen for himself, we all got excited.

A few hours later, however, the biggest Apple tipster of them all, Mark Gurman, shared a post on X addressing the images.

iOS 19 images floating around aren’t representative of what we’ll see at WWDC. They look to be based on either very old builds or vague descriptions, missing key features. Expect more from Apple in June. Regardless, mockups – real or not – are always exciting for Apple watchers.

— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) March 25, 2025


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According to his information, recent mock-ups are “not representative” of what Apple is going to show us at WWDC. Instead, he thinks they’ve been made based on older builds or vague second-hand information.

Gurman isn’t really the type to share mock-ups himself, but it’s useful to hear his opinion on the ones floating around. He also makes sure to end the post on a positive note — commenting on how exciting mock-ups are for Apple fans. Though he doesn’t agree with the images he’s seen recently, he clearly doesn’t want to discourage people from sharing their thoughts or the information they’ve heard.

The most widely accepted rumor going around right now about iOS 19 is that it will be loosely based on visionOS. As some of the biggest differences between visionOS and other Apple operating systems are the circular icons and translucent panels, that’s what people are expecting to see on their iPhones later this year.

As for what I’m expecting to see — remember that iOS 18 feature that lets you tint the color of your app icons? I was so excited when it was announced, until it finally arrived and I discovered that the background color is always black. I’m not saying we should get free choice for both colors (though maybe we should?) but at the very least we should get to choose between black or white for the background color.

I’m a pastel color person — I can’t do anything with a black background. I had to ignore the whole feature completely and just keep my “shortcuts with custom images” setup. I can’t even describe the disappointment I felt. So, Apple, do whatever you want with circular icons and all that — just make sure you give me an expanded version of the app tint feature too.






Up 67% in a year, here’s why the Barclays share price might still be a bargain

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Image source: Getty Images

Typically, when a stock rallies hard over the space of a year or more, it has the potential to become overvalued. So when some investors see the 67% jump in the Barclays (LSE:BARC) share price over the last year, some might discount it as a viable investment. However, this isn’t always the case!

Reasons for the rally

Barclays did well in 2024, and has been outperforming ever since the Bank of England base rate started to rise to deal with the post-pandemic-induced inflation bump. To begin with, rising interest rates helped to increase the net interest margin for the bank. This refers to the difference between the rate it lends out at versus the rate it pays on deposits.

Last year, interest rates stayed higher than many expected. The UK economy was resilient and towards the end of the year inflation started to move higher again. This meant that the share price increased as investors had to factor in the net interest margin staying higher than previously thought.

The business has been working hard to reduce costs. Evidence of this is the £1bn+ cost-saving plan involving some job cuts and an efficiency drive. This has been received positively by shareholders. Even if revenue stays the same but costs decreaase, it should boost profits. Given that the share price is impacted by profitability, a higher figure on the bottom line of the accounts helps to increase the stock price.

All of this has pushed the stock to the highest level in a decade.

Can it still be considered cheap?

When looking at some valuation metrics, Barclays shares might not be expensive. For example, consider the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio relative to some other global peers.

The Barclays P/E ratio is 8.52. Before we even do a comparison, this is below the fair value benchmark figure of 10 I use, suggesting it’s still undervalued. Goldman Sachs has a ratio of 14.17, Bank of America at 13.25 and Citigroup at 12.86. Barclays is still valued much lower than these similar global banks.

Next, let’s take the price-to-book ratio. For Barclays, the ratio’s 0.63. A normal figure would be 1. This would mean the market value of the stock is the same as the book value. For a bank, I’d expect this to be at 1, given the book value is largely made up of conventional assets and liabilities (eg cash, loans, etc) that can be valued easily. The low ratio currently means I feel the share price could rally in order for the ratio to move closer to 1.

A holitisic vision

Of course, valuation metrics need to be used along with other information when making a financial decision. It’s true that the bank has risks, such as the recent reputational damage caused by multi-day outages and payment issues. If this keeps happening, it could seriously undermine trust in the company.

Yet overall, I think the stock is verging on being a bargain and is one for investors to consider.

Nothing wants your help to design a unique Nothing Phone 3a

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Have you looked at the Nothing Phone 3a and thought, “I wish it looked different,” or that it came with a unique accessory? Nothing is giving you the chance to make your dreams for the phone a reality with the launch of its second Community Edition Project, where you get to design your ultimate Nothing Phone 3a.

We’re Letting the Internet Design Our Next Phone

It’s the second such initiative from the brand, with the first Community Edition phone based on the Nothing Phone 2a launching in October 2024. The special glow in the dark device had custom wallpaper and unique packaging, all designed by members of Nothing’s passionate community of fans. Only 1,000 Nothing Phone 2a Community Edition phones were produced, and it sold out in 15 minutes.

Nothing is changing things slightly for the 2025 Community Edition Project. This time, in addition to developing a fresh new look for the phone, its software and wallpaper, plus the packaging and marketing campaign, Nothing also wants its fans to imagine an, “exclusive collectable or accessory” to go with the phone.


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For the first Community Edition phone, Nothing staggered the entries for each category, but this time it’s accepting them all at once. It says this will allow for more collaboration between category winners, and will help streamline working together with Nothing’s own team to produce the final design. It should also speed up the whole process, as it took many months for the last project to reach its conclusion. In addition to seeing your winning design become reality, winners will also receive 1,000 British pounds (about $1,291) in prize money.

The campaign will run from March 26 to April 23, and will again culminate in the final design being produced and sold. In the accompanying video, it’s confirmed there will be a full launch event for the 2025 Community Edition Project phone too. Nothing continues to come up with different, exciting, and unusual ways to engage with its audience, and recognizes the value in collaboration. The Community Edition Project is open now, and you can learn more about how to submit your ideas by visiting Nothing’s website.






My 5 biggest concerns about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

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Paul Jones / Android Authority

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is poised to be one of the year’s most interesting Android phones. Announced alongside the rest of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series in January, the Edge is a curious fourth family member that prioritizes its wildly thin design above all else.

Expected to measure just 5.84mm thick, the Galaxy S25 Edge will be significantly slimmer than almost every other major smartphone available today. For reference, the regular Galaxy S25 measures 7.2mm thick, while the Google Pixel 9 is 8.5mm. Paired with a Snapdragon 8 Elite plus flagship levels of RAM and storage, the S25 Edge is shaping up to be a fascinating release.

Considering how much Samsung has had the Galaxy S series on cruise control for the last several years, the idea of a brand new model for the lineup is undeniably exciting. Samsung has played it increasingly safe with the Galaxy S, Galaxy S Plus, and Galaxy S Ultra, so to see the company try something new is great.

As much as I’m looking forward to seeing how the Galaxy S25 Edge comes together, I have my fair share of reservations about it, too. I’m glad Samsung is trying something fresh and new, but based on what we know about the phone so far, a few things stick out to me as potential pain points.

What’s your biggest worry about the Galaxy S25 Edge?

1 votes

Battery life

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Battery Life angled

Robert Triggs / Android Authority

Let’s start with one of my biggest concerns: battery life. Certain spec compromises have to be made when creating an ultra-thin phone like the Galaxy S25 Edge, and chief among those is battery capacity. Although not confirmed by Samsung, database certifications suggest that the S25 Edge’s battery will be just 3,786mAh.

That, dear reader, is not good. The Galaxy S25 Edge’s 6.6-inch display means it’s a fairly large phone, yet it’s likely to have a smaller battery than the 4,000mAh unit inside the regular Galaxy S25 — which has a much smaller 6.2-inch screen. Compared to other large Samsung phones, things look even more dire. The Galaxy S25 Plus and Galaxy S25 Ultra, which have 4,900mAh and 5,000mAh batteries, respectively, trounce the S25 Edge.

In our testing, the base S25 and S25 Plus both have enough endurance for about a full day of use. It’s not amazing battery life, but it’s good enough. The S25 Edge having a smaller battery than the base S25 and a screen size similar to the S25 Plus — meaning more pixels to power throughout the day — it’s all but guaranteed to have the worst battery of the entire family, potentially being a phone you need to put on the charger in the afternoon. Of course, we need to get our hands on the phone before we know how things will play out, but it’s not looking good.

Cameras

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge at Unpacked

C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Camera hardware is another expected compromise when drastically slimming down a phone. So far, rumors suggest the Galaxy S25 Edge will have a 200MP primary camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera.

While not confirmed, the 200MP primary camera should be the same (or similar) as the 200MP primary camera on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Although it’s not the newest sensor on the market, it’s still extremely capable and one that’s difficult to complain too much about. What I’m more hesitant about is the rumored ultrawide camera.

Word on the street is that it’ll be the same 12MP ultrawide sensor used on the S25 and S25 Plus. It’s a serviceable camera, but given how much the S25 Edge is rumored to cost, I’d expect a lot more from a phone that may be priced at $1,000+. The 12MP ultrawide camera is already a letdown on the $800 Galaxy S25, so slapping it on a phone that should be significantly more expensive wouldn’t be a great feeling. And that’s not even mentioning the complete lack of a telephoto camera, giving the Edge’s camera package less versatility than its cheaper S25 and S25 Plus siblings.

Hardware durability

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge (2)

Paul Jones / Android Authority

The idea of a phone as thin as the Galaxy S25 Edge is exciting. While maybe not the most practical thing in the world, there’s no denying the technical and hardware prowess on display. However, in addition to a smaller battery and lesser camera specs, durability is another potential issue we should talk about.

We expect the Galaxy S25 Edge to have a titanium frame and a ceramic glass material for its backside. The build quality itself should be strong, and I expect the same level of high-end craftsmanship we typically see from flagship Samsung phones. But even so, there’s still a level of concern with how well a 5.84mm-thick phone will hold up in daily use.

Even if it has exceptional materials and build quality, the fact remains that the thinner a phone is, the more susceptible it is to bending and breaking. From an accidental drop to forgetting your phone is in your back pocket and sitting on it (something I’ve done many times before), the S25 Edge will undoubtedly be at greater risk in these scenarios than its thicker S25 family members. Sure, a protective case and being extra careful with the phone will help, but if you need to slap a thick, heavy-duty case on the S25 Edge to ensure its safety, what’s the point of getting an ultra-thin phone in the first place?

I hope Samsung proves me wrong here and that this concern is much ado about nothing, but this is something we should be thinking about.

Quality of life features

Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus bottom edge

Ryan Haines / Android Authority

This next one is a smaller and far less important detail, but it’s still on my mind. As we’ve already established, thinner phones result in certain spec/feature compromises. The big ones, like battery life and cameras, are obvious, but other areas are likely to be impacted, too.

One of those is speaker quality. External speakers are largely size-dependent, so when there’s less room inside a phone to work with, there’s less room for large and powerful speakers — likely meaning less rich/full audio and a decrease in bass output.

I’m also curious how the vibration motor will be affected. A thinner body means less internal component space to work with, and a vibration motor isn’t exactly at the top of the priority list above things like the display panel, battery, chipset, etc. Additionally, how will this impact room for a vapor chamber to properly cool the phone under heavy workloads?

Things like speaker quality, haptic feedback, and a vapor chamber are not dealbreakers for most people. However, there’s a chance for all of them to be negatively impacted by the S25 Edge’s size. When you factor that together with the other points above, it all starts compounding in a not-great way.

Price

Samsung Galaxy S25 Series 02

Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority

Last but certainly not least, we need to talk about price. Reporting out of South Korea claims the Galaxy S25 Edge will cost 1.5 million KRW — roughly the US equivalent of $1,030. If that South Korean number is accurate, that puts the S25 Edge in between the Galaxy S25 Plus (1.3 million KRW) and the Galaxy S25 Ultra (1.6 million KRW).

US pricing hasn’t leaked yet, but we can make a rough guess about what it may look like. With the S25 Plus starting at $1,000 and the S25 Ultra retailing for $1,300, that should put the S25 Edge somewhere around $1,150 or $1,200. In other words, it won’t be cheap.

On the one hand, it makes sense. Samsung is trying something completely different with the S25 Edge, and the R&D/engineering required to make it so thin likely costs a pretty penny. But on the flip side, beyond that super-thin design, the value proposition of the Edge doesn’t look particularly strong. You’ll potentially be paying around $1,200 for a phone with two rear cameras, a tiny battery, and possible durability/QOL compromises.

The Galaxy S25 Edge’s hardware will be undeniably impressive, but if it’s priced as high as reporting suggests, it’s going to look like a pretty poor value next to its S25 Plus and Ultra family members.

Valid concerns about the Galaxy S25 Edge?

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge front view

C. Scott Brown / Android Authority

Galaxy S25 Edge

It’s important to note that many of these concerns are based on rumors, reporting, and some educated speculation. They’re important things to think about ahead of the S25 Edge’s release, but there’s always the possibility that Samsung will address all of them. It may find a way to squeeze reliable battery life out of the phone’s small capacity. The secondary ultrawide camera could be a higher-quality sensor than expected. My worries about durability, speaker quality, haptics, etc. may not be warranted at all.

I certainly hope that’s the case, but given what we know about the Galaxy S25 Edge right now, these things are top of mind. We expect the S25 Edge to be released sometime in April, and I’m crossing my fingers that the phone proves this entire article wrong once it’s finally here.

Spring Statement 2025 and what’s in it for small businesses – live blog

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Today is Spring Forecast, usually known as Spring Statement, day.

As we’ve established, there’s not likely to be much for small businesses, especially after the tax hikes seen in last year’s Autumn Budget. That’s on top of the 6.7 per cent National Living Wage increase (for those over 21) which will be introduced on April 1.

In fact, as the Treasury keeps stressing, there’s not much to expect at all, citing that it will be a “light scorecard” non-event. Just a forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR).  

But with a struggling economy, shrinking businesses and geopolitical instability, the government’s hand could be forced. Welfare cuts have been widely reported, but could more change be afoot?

We’ll be covering the Spring Statement live from around 12:30pm. Click here to go straight to the live blog.   

When is the Spring Statement/Forecast 2025?

It will take place on March 26, 2025.

When will it start?

There isn’t a defined start time, but announcements like these usually happen after Prime Minister’s Questions which wraps up at 12:30pm. It’ll last around an hour and be followed by a response from the shadow Chancellor.

Where will it be broadcast?

It will be broadcast live on the BBC and streamed on parliamentlive.tv.

Spring Statement 2025 live blog

Read more

Spring Forecast 2025 and what it means for small businesses – The government has called the Spring Forecast (previously known as the Spring Statement) on 26 March. What will Rachel Reeves announce?

Employment Rights Bill – what’s in the legislation? – We take a look at Labour’s Employment Rights Bill and how the business community has reacted to the measures

What is the VAT threshold? – At what point does your small business have to start paying VAT? Should you voluntarily pay VAT? And what are legitimate ways to stay under the VAT threshold?

Jessica Chastain and Adam Driver will headline The Dealer for Apple TV+

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Apple TV+ has a reputation for lining up star-driven TV series, and its latest pickup is no exception. Jessica Chastain and Adam Driver are reportedly set to star in The Dealer, a new drama for Apple TV+.

According to Deadline, The Dealer received a straight-to-series order after Apple TV+ outbid offers from rival studios and streamers. The series is about an aspiring super gallerist (Chastain), who is about to get an education in “power, class, seduction and culture” in “the glittering world of the high-end art market.” Driver is set to play a “gifted and unnerving artist,” who has a “tangled relationship” with Chastain’s character.

The Dealer will actually be Chastain’s second Apple TV+ original series. She’s already set to star in and produce The Savant, an upcoming miniseries about a woman who infiltrates online hate groups. Chastain previously starred in HBO’s Scenes from a Marriage miniseries and she won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her title role in The Eyes of Tammy Faye. Some of her other notable credits include Interstellar, The Martian, Molly’s Game, The Help, and Zero Dark Thirty.


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Driver has largely stayed away from television since his memorable supporting role on HBO’s Girls. In features, he portrayed Kylo Ren, one of the main villains of the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Driver was also an Oscar-nominee for his roles in Marriage Story and BlacKkKlansman. One of the actor’s most recent films was Megalopolis, Francis Ford Coppola’s big-budget passion project that failed to garner much interest from moviegoers during its release last year.






DLTR Earnings: Key quarterly highlights from Dollar Tree’s Q4 2024 financial results

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Dollar Tree, Inc. (NASDAQ: DLTR) reported its fourth quarter 2024 earnings results today.

Net sales increased 0.7% year-over-year to $5 billion. Same-store net sales increased 2%.

Net loss amounted to $3.7 billion, or $17.17 per share, compared to $1.7 billion, or $7.83 per share, last year. Adjusted EPS decreased 15.3% YoY to $2.11.

For the first quarter of 2025, the company expects net sales from continuing operations to be $4.5-4.6 billion, based on comparable store net sales growth of 3-5%. Adjusted EPS is estimated to be $1.10-1.25.

Fiscal-year 2025 net sales from continuing operations are expected to be $18.5-19.1 billion, based on comparable store net sales growth of 3-5%. Adjusted EPS from continuing operations is expected to range from $5.00-5.50.

Dollar Tree has agreed to sell its Family Dollar business to Brigade and Macellum for $1 billion. The deal is expected to close in approx. 90 days with the Family Dollar business remaining headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia.

(This story will be updated shortly with an infographic)

How to Be Brave With Color and Pattern in Your Home | Wit & Delight

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How to Be Brave With Color and Pattern in Your Home
This post is brought to you by The Inside.

Color and pattern add so much life and personality to a home. But for many of us, it’s hard to know where to start. We’re afraid of making mistakes or our homes looking too busy or cluttered. It wasn’t until I moved into a home where color and pattern were embraced that I even felt called to use their full potential. I realized I liked to be surrounded by color and pattern more than I thought I would. 

Five years into living with our eclectic and colorful home, I’ve learned the benefits of embracing color and pattern aren’t as simple as using my favorite colors—although this helps. Color and pattern are tools we can use beyond aesthetic qualities to evoke emotion, signal mood and vibe, and create a dynamic visual flow to make our house even more functional and enjoyable to live in. 

I stopped thinking about color and pattern as something you either “like” or “dislike” and instead embraced them as design tools to express ideas fully. This means even if you’re not into big bold colors and patterns, you can still benefit from the basic principles of using them deliberately. 

In this post, we’ll start by exploring the emotional reasons why it’s hard to be brave with color and pattern, and then I’ll offer some tips on how to get started and get better at it.

A green-painted living room features a pink velvet sofa and floral upholstered ottomans from The Inside, a low black coffee table, and a blue and green, diamond-patterned rugA green-painted living room features a pink velvet sofa and floral upholstered ottomans from The Inside, a low black coffee table, and a blue and green, diamond-patterned rug
Products featured: Skirted Sleeper Sofa in Coral Luxe Velvet and Skirted Storage Ottomans in Multi Bamboo Garden

Why is it so hard to be brave with color and pattern?

There are a few reasons why stepping outside our comfort zones and using color and pattern in our homes can be challenging.

  • Fear of making mistakes. We’re afraid that we’ll choose the wrong colors or patterns, and that our homes will end up looking ugly.
  • Fear of being judged. We’re worried about what other people will think of our homes if they’re too colorful or patterned. We all have that friend whose well-intentioned remark on something that is very “us” and not “them” came off as snarky rather than loving. And sometimes, we are the ones who misinterpret it entirely! It’s time to let all that go. Doing our own thing means people will comment. And that’s OK. Let them. Being ourselves inspires others to be braver in their expression, which in the end, benefits us all. Be the one who starts that trend.
  • Lack of confidence. We don’t trust our own taste, so we’re afraid to make bold choices. Let’s face it—the majority of us are not color experts! With the sheer amount of colors to choose from, it’s easy to psych yourself out.
A fire is lit in a cozy green living room with wood floors, pink velvet sofas, floral ottomans, and a blue and green, diamond-patterned rugA fire is lit in a cozy green living room with wood floors, pink velvet sofas, floral ottomans, and a blue and green, diamond-patterned rug
Products featured: Skirted Storage Ottomans in Multi Bamboo Garden

How to Get Started With Color and Pattern

If you’re ready to start incorporating more color and pattern into your home, here are a few tips:

  • Start small. Don’t try to do too much all at once. Start with a few small changes, like adding a colorful throw pillow to your couch or hanging a patterned curtain in your bedroom.
  • Choose colors and patterns that you love. Don’t worry about what’s trendy or what other people like. Choose colors and patterns that make you happy and reflect your personality.
  • Experiment. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns. Try out different combinations and see what you like best.
  • Trust your gut. What you are first drawn to is often the right path to follow. Trust it.
    If you’re not sure about something, go with your gut. You’ll make the right choice.

Some Ways to Get Better at Using Color and Pattern

The more you work with color and pattern, the better you’ll get at it. Here are a few ways to improve your skills:

  • Look for inspiration. Look for inspiration in magazines, books, and online. Pay attention to how different colors and patterns are used in different spaces.
  • Take a class. If you’re really serious about learning how to use color and pattern, consider taking a class. This can be a great way to get expert advice and learn from others.
  • Practice, practice, practice. The more you practice using color and pattern, the better you’ll get at it. So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun!

Shop all of my favorites from The Inside here.

Use Promo Code WITANDDELIGHT50 for $50 off orders $199+.

Editor’s Note: This post is sponsored by The Inside. The compensation we receive in exchange for placement on Wit & Delight is used to purchase props, hire a photographer, write/edit the blog post, and support the team behind Wit & Delight.

While compensation is received in exchange for coverage, all thoughts and opinions are always my own. Sponsored posts like these allow us to continue to develop dynamic unsponsored content. Thank you for supporting our partners!

How To Decide What Business To Start in 8 Simple Steps

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Are you wondering how to decide what business to start? One of the most common questions I receive is from people asking me what kind of business they should start. I’ve been running my own business for over 10 years, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in…

Are you wondering how to decide what business to start?

One of the most common questions I receive is from people asking me what kind of business they should start.

I’ve been running my own business for over 10 years, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in life. My business started out as a way to make extra income and has now been my full-time job for around a decade. I’ve since made well over $5,000,000 over the years with my business, and I love being a small business owner.

Running your own business can give you freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to do something you’re passionate about. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to figure out where to start.

In this article, I’ll show you the steps to decide what kind of business is right for you. Whether you’re just starting to dream about being your own boss or you’re ready to take the leap, these tips will help you make the best decision.

Recommended reading: 30+ Small Business Ideas To Become Your Own Boss

Best Steps To Decide What Business To Start

Below are my tips on how to choose a business idea.

1. Think about your skills and interests

One of the first things to think about when starting a business is what you’re already good at and what you enjoy doing.

When I first started my blog, I realized that writing and helping others with personal finance were things I was truly passionate about. This realization made it easy for me to stay motivated and turn my hobby into a successful business.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • What do I enjoy doing in my free time?
  • What am I passionate about?
  • What are my strengths and skills?
  • What do people usually ask me for help with?

For example, if you’re great at baking and love trying new recipes, starting a home bakery or selling baked goods online could be a good fit. If you’re good with computers, then maybe there’s an app that you want to create that you think people would benefit from.

One question I receive a lot related to this step is: Do you need to be passionate about a business idea?

Here’s what I think: I don’t think you always have to be super passionate about what you’re doing. Maybe you’re passionate about what a possible business idea will allow you to do instead – such as being able to have a flexible schedule, being able to make money, or helping people solve a specific problem. Or, maybe you’re just really good at something and you know that you can turn it into a successful business idea!

Some of the most successful businesses are built on skills or knowledge rather than passion. For example, you might not feel strongly about bookkeeping, but if you’re great with numbers and there’s a demand for your services, it can still be a profitable and fulfilling business. Passion can grow over time as you see the impact your business has on others and the lifestyle it creates for you.

Recommended reading: 10 Best Things I Did To Build A $5 Million Dollar Blog

2. Research market demand

Once you have an idea in mind, the next step is to make sure there’s a demand for it.

Even if you’re passionate about something, it’s important to make sure that people are willing to pay for it. After all, you do need to make money so that you can pay your bills.

Here are some ways to research market demand:

  • Use tools like Google Trends to see if people are searching for your business idea.
  • Read forums and social media groups where your target market hangs out. Look for questions people are asking or problems they’re trying to solve.
  • Check out competitors in your niche. If there are other businesses selling similar products or services, that’s a good sign that there’s a market for it.

You can also talk directly to potential customers, such as by asking friends, family, or online communities (such as local Facebook groups or online forums) for feedback on your business idea. For example, in a local Facebook group that I am in, someone recently posted a question and shared their business idea and simply asked who would use it and if the community thought it was needed. The person got a lot of great feedback, and I saw that about one week later, they did move forward and start their business.

picture of money and journal on table for article how to decide what business to startpicture of money and journal on table for article how to decide what business to start

3. Figure out start up costs

Not all businesses require the same amount of money, time, or resources to get started.

Some businesses can be started with little to no money, while others may need a large amount of money up front. Before you decide on a business plan, it’s important to think about what you can realistically afford. I wish anyone could start any business they dream of, but that’s not reality.

For my blog, I started with very low costs in the beginning and upgraded as I grew. I didn’t have a lot of money when I started this as a side hustle, so I didn’t want to spend a lot of money either.

Here are some examples of the differences:

  • Low-cost business ideas: Freelancing, blogging, selling digital products like printables, or tutoring.
  • Higher-cost business ideas: Opening a retail store, starting a food truck, or manufacturing a product.

Along with start-up costs, you may also want to think about if you want to get started with a bank loan for your business. Of course, this does come with more risk, as I will talk about next.

4. Think about how much risk you want

Starting a business always comes with some level of risk, so it’s important to think about how much risk you’re comfortable with.

Some businesses are more stable and predictable, while others can be riskier but have higher potential rewards.

When I left my full-time job to blog full-time, it felt risky, but I had already built a steady income from my blog as a side hustle, which made the transition smoother. Plus, a blogging business is pretty affordable to start, so it really didn’t seem too risky.

But, other businesses can be much more risky. They may require you to spend a lot of money to get started or even require you to get a business loan.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

  • Am I okay with financial uncertainty? Do I need a stable income each month?
  • How much time can I dedicate to this business?
  • Do I need to get a business loan?
  • Do I want to start small as a side hustle or go all in?

If you’re nervous about risk, you may want to try starting a low-risk business like freelancing or selling digital products. You can also start your business as a side hustle while keeping your full-time job, which allows you to test the waters without fully committing right away.

5. Think about your long term goals

It’s important to think about how your business will fit into your life long-term. The type of business you choose should align with your goals and the lifestyle you want to create.

One thing that I have always really liked about blogging is that it’s a business that allows me to travel and work from anywhere. I also really enjoy the flexibility in my schedule.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want to work full-time, part-time, or seasonally?
  • Do I want to be on call 24/7?
  • What kind of work-life balance do I want?
  • Do I want to eventually sell this business?
  • How much time and energy am I willing to invest in the long run?

For example, if you want flexibility to travel, an online business like blogging or e-commerce might be a good choice. If you’re looking for a steady income with less involvement, then a business model like renting out property or running vending machines could be a good option.

woman thinking and on her laptop for article How to choose a business idea to startwoman thinking and on her laptop for article How to choose a business idea to start

6. Brainstorm business ideas

Now that you’ve thought about your skills, market demand, resources, risk tolerance, and goals, it’s time to brainstorm different business ideas.

Here are some categories to help you brainstorm:

  • Service-based businesses: Freelance writing, consulting, bookkeeping, photography, proofreading, car detailing, landscaping, cleaning services
  • Product-based businesses: Selling printables, handmade goods, dropshipping, creating a subscription box, baking/selling dog treats
  • Digital businesses: Blogging, YouTube, app development, online courses, social media management
  • Community-focused businesses: Event planning, fitness classes, childcare services, laundromats

I recommend that you make a list of potential ideas and narrow them down to a few that excite you the most.

Recommended reading:

7. Test your idea

Before committing to a business, it’s a good idea to test it out. Testing allows you to see if your idea is actually possible and to get feedback from real customers.

Because I started my business as a side hustle, I was able to fully test it out and see if I could make money with it before leaving my day job. I think this was really great so that I could make sure it would actually work!

Here are some other ways to test your business idea:

  • Create a simple prototype or sell a small version of your service.
  • Use social media to promote your idea and see how people respond.
  • Set up a landing page to gauge interest and collect email addresses.
  • See if you can find a job at a related company to see if you like the industry.

Testing helps you avoid wasting time and money on an idea that may not work. Plus, it gives you the chance to make improvements before launching on a larger scale.

8. Make a plan and take action

Once you’ve tested your idea, it’s time to make a plan. Even if it’s a simple one-page business plan, having a plan will help you stay focused and organized.

When I started my blog, I wrote down a simple plan outlining the topics I wanted to cover, how I would attract readers, and ways to eventually monetize. This plan helped me stay focused and organized.

Your plan may include:

  • Your business idea and target audience
  • A basic budget and funding plan
  • Marketing and sales strategies

After that, it’s all about taking action. Remember, you don’t have to have everything perfect to start. The most important thing is to take the first step and learn as you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to decide what business to start.

How do I figure out what business I should start?

If you want to become an entrepreneur, then there are many ways to figure out what kind of business you should start. You will want to think about your skills, interests, and passions. Think about what problems you can solve for others and research whether there’s a market for your idea.

What is the most successful small business to start?

The most successful small business to start depends a lot on your skills and effort, as there is no guarantee that you will be successful. Your chances of success can vary! But, successful small businesses can include starting a website, proofreading, bookkeeping, virtual assisting, starting an online store, and more.

What is the easiest small business to run?

Service-based businesses like freelancing, virtual assistance, or tutoring are usually easier to start because they require fewer upfront costs and less inventory management (but that doesn’t mean they are easy). Easy all depends on what you find easy, as everyone is different.

What business requires absolutely no money to start?

Freelance writing, social media management, and consulting are examples of businesses you can start with little to no money if you already have the skills and tools. I started my business with almost no money and I’m glad I did!

What things should I think about when starting a business?

When starting a business, I recommend that you look at your skills, market demand, start-up costs, long-term goals, and risk tolerance, and then make sure the business aligns with the lifestyle you want to create.

What are some unique business ideas?

Niche subscription boxes, eco-friendly products, pet-sitting services, or selling specialized online courses are great examples of unique business ideas.

How To Decide What Business To Start

I hope you enjoyed my article on how to determine what business to start.

Starting a business is a lot of fun and it can completely transform your life. By thinking about your skills, researching market demand, and taking small steps to test your idea, you can find a business that’s perfect for you (and make sure it has business potential).

Choosing the right business idea may take some time, but the steps above can help new entrepreneurs (like you!) figure it out just a little faster.

I started my business several years ago, and I’m so glad I did. I enjoy being my own boss, creating my own schedule, determining how I make a living, and more.

I hope you are able to find a great business idea that allows you to live your dream life!

What business do you think you’ll start? Leave a comment and tell me below!

Stock Android or customized? New survey reveals what people really prefer.

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Joe Maring / Android Authority

Phones running stock Android are a dying breed. Sure, phones from Google, Motorola, and a few other brands have a stock-like aesthetic, but they add plenty of features you won’t find in a pure, unfettered version of Android.

Colleague Ryan Haines recently wrote that a light Android skin isn’t the same thing as stock Android. He added that you’d have to strip out loads of Pixel-only features if you wanted a Pixel running truly pure Android. We also used the article to ask readers whether they’d use a phone with stock Android, and here are the results.

Would you actually use a phone with stock Android?

Over 10,300 votes were cast in this poll, and close to two-thirds of polled readers said they would use a phone with stock Android. IThis question was asked in the context of Ryan saying that most phones with “stock” Android merely have the stock aesthetic but aren’t actually stock as in the Android Open-Source Project (AOSP). We’re guessing that many respondents still thought of Nothing, Pixel, and Motorola devices as stock.

“I need a browser and terminal, nothing else,” said user Tamás Bendó, suggesting that a truly basic version of Android might be enough for them.

User John Dallman also noted one use for pure, unfettered Android:

There’s still a good use for stock Android. App vendors need something to test with which doesn’t risk them making something specific to a manufacturer’s skin.

Just over a third of respondents said they wouldn’t use a phone with stock Android, though. We saw plenty of comments from these readers too.

Reader Mihir Shetye felt that pure Android was too basic for most people:

Stock Android would be just too bare bones nowadays, as people have become dependent on many Google apps and many distinct features offered by the various OEMs. Still, having said that, from an aesthetic and functional viewpoint, I would prefer a “stockish” looking UI like the Pixel UI and Motorola’s skin over something heavier like One UI or Color OS or MIUI etc.

A couple of readers, like Yudi Wibowo, also noted that they tried phones with stock-like software and were left disappointed:

Using asus zenfone 10 UI with some asus improvement (sic) and i still hate it, i hate stock UI so much that this phone will be the last stock UI phone i will use.

User Jose Alberto Morales Nery also pointed out that AOSP has become less useful over the years due to Google abandoning open-source system apps such as the dialer, messages, and more. So we can understand if you liked proper stock Android years ago but aren’t happy now.

In any event, I wonder how these poll results would change if people actually used phones running full-blown stock Android instead of Google, Nothing, and Motorola phones that merely have lightweight skins.

Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at news@androidauthority.com. You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it’s your choice.
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