Last updated: September 29, 2026, 2:09 PM ET
Apple Leadership & Strategy
New CEO John Ternus is moving to restructure Apple, aiming to make the company “leaner” and accelerate product releases. Reports indicate that more launches, more often will define the Ternus era, with the company planning to ship products faster and more frequently. However, this push for speed is accompanied by cost-cutting; Apple has reportedly considered laying off about 5,000 support employees and replacing them with AI, though it has paused that plan. Meanwhile, small layoffs and budget cuts are already hitting the company, with more expected under Ternus.
iPhone Duo & Production Challenges
Apple’s upcoming foldable iPhone Duo is facing significant production hurdles. Manufacturing yields are struggling at just 60 percent, and the company is reportedly making only 6.8 million units initially, suggesting a cautious launch. The device is facing production problems ahead of its expected October launch. Ahead of that debut, a leaked Stand By mode for the iPhone Duo has revealed five unannounced faces, and an indie developer has created an app called Duo-Man that turns the device into a 1980s Sony Walkman. Apple’s software chief Craig Federighi has detailed how the company is helping developers make the most of the iPhone Duo, including a new Hinge API. For early adopters, five top accessories have been picked out, including Pencil chargers and cases.
iPhone 18 Pro & Fraud
The iPhone 18 Pro continues to impress reviewers, particularly its video stabilization, which one writer says continues to wow them. Early reader feedback on the device is being collected for first impressions. In a bizarre twist, Hong Kong police are seeking Apple’s help in stopping a $3.8 million iPhone 18 Pro fraud scheme.
Software Updates: iOS, mac OS, watch OS 27
Apple has rolled out the first urgent bug fixes for its milestone OS releases, with iOS 27.0.1, macOS 27.0.1, and visionOS updates arriving. Separately, iOS 26.7.1 fixes a vulnerability used in targeted attacks. watch OS 27.0.1 is now available for all compatible Apple Watch models, after initially rolling out to newer watches. iOS 27 brings major updates to core apps: the Shortcuts app adds 35 new and improved actions, Reminders gets more powerful features, and Find My gains three key new features. In mac OS, Safari’s new “Notify Me” feature lets users monitor webpages for changes, though one writer has a feature request for it to support minute-level checks for ticket sales. Siri AI is now available on newer Apple devices only, with a full compatibility list provided.
Mac, Apple TV & Services
Amazon is offering significant discounts on MacBook Pros ahead of October, with savings up to $600 on 2TB models. Early fall Prime Day deals also include M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro at $500 off, plus discounts on Mac Studio and accessories. Amazon is also discounting the new Mac mini and Mac Studio alongside Samsung monitors. The M5 Max Mac Studio is reviewed as a far better choice than the Ultra for most desks. A new Apple TV 4K has been hinted at in a support document. Apple TV+ premiered a chilling serial killer thriller, Nocturne, based on a bestselling novel. Recent Emmy wins and premieres helped Apple TV reach its highest weekly viewership ever. Elton John gave the first-ever performance at the new Apple Music Hall. Emergency SOS via satellite is now available in Norway. An interactive website lets you explore nearly 30 years of Apple product colors.
Legal, Security & Other News
Apple’s $5.7 billion trial loss over haptic feedback is likely to be pared way back on appeal, according to lawyers for the winning side. The Taptic Engine patent defeat sent litigation funder Burford Capital’s shares up 9 percent. Apple and Amazon face a renewed UK antitrust lawsuit that a tribunal has allowed to proceed in part. Apple has cited safety concerns for its removal of the ICEblock app, telling a lawmaker it doubled down on its claims. Google fixed an issue with Firebase that caused thousands of iPhone apps to crash overnight, with the root cause being Google Analytics for Firebase. Instagram’s school partnership now lets partner schools post content only their students can view. The Apple @ Work podcast discusses solving the patch management problem for Apple admins. A guide explains whether AppleCare is worth paying for. The Light Touch app faithfully emulates the iPod touch 2G on your Mac. The Huion Kamvas Pad 12 is reviewed as a portable but problematic artist’s tool. A tutorial shows how to escape Photoshop by installing PhotoGimp. Pioneer has joined the Mag Safe accessory market with the SDA-SC600 car mount. OpenAI teased 20-plus announcements at its Dev Day event.