Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 2:31 AM ET

Artificial Intelligence & Software

OpenAI poached another senior Apple executive, Paul Meade from its Vision Products Group, marking the latest high-profile departure for the AI research firm. Meade’s move follows previous Apple talent acquisitions by OpenAI, including key figures in areas like AI and machine learning. The AI firm also unveiled a limited preview of its GPT-5.6 series, encompassing the flagship Sol model, a balanced Terra model for everyday tasks, and a Luna model, which will be integrated into Chat GPT and Codex. This represents OpenAI's next-generation model release, arriving two months after its GPT-5.5 update. Meanwhile, Anthropic received clearance to release its Claude Mythos 5 model to over 100 U.S. institutions, following a recent export control directive that had previously halted its distribution.

Hardware & Product Launches

Apple is preparing for a busy fall, with over 15 new products expected to launch, including new iPhones, Macs, and iPads. Among the anticipated releases are the MacBook Ultra and updated MacBook Pro models, both slated for release this fall. These new MacBook Pros are rumored to feature OLED touchscreens and will initially utilize the existing M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, rather than the next-generation M6 or M7, according to industry reports. The base iPhone 18 models, expected in spring 2027, are slated to receive 9GB of RAM, an upgrade from the current 8GB, which is expected to improve Apple Intelligence performance. However, the higher-end iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models, alongside the first foldable iPhone, may see price increases of up to $200, with IDC predicting a significant jump for the Pro variants.

Further details emerged regarding iOS, which aims to make the Shortcuts app more accessible to casual users. The operating system is also bringing significant updates to the Photos app, with some features appearing particularly suited for the upcoming Home Pod, and enhancing Messages and Notes applications. In a separate development, AI-generated knockoffs of author Joanna Stern's book have been repeatedly appearing on Apple Books, prompting her to publicly call out the company.

Supply Chain & Pricing

Apple is reportedly seeking approval from the Trump administration to source memory chips from a blacklisted Chinese company to meet product demand and potentially mitigate price increases. This move follows recent significant price hikes across Apple's product lineup, which took effect yesterday. While some retailers like Amazon and Best Buy still offer pre-hike pricing on select iPads and Macs, their inventory is dwindling. In a related matter, Micron's chief business officer has suggested that Apple's aggressive supplier negotiations may have contributed to the global memory shortage and subsequent price increases.

Retail & Business Operations

Ron Johnson, the former head of retail for Apple reflected on his time building the Apple Stores. Despite Steve Jobs' demanding nature, Johnson stated that he managed to make the retail locations "the most productive in the world." In a separate business development, Apple is reportedly working with its supplier Tata following a data leak of sensitive files online, with Tata tightening internal controls. The company is also contributing to relief efforts in Venezuela following devastating earthquakes, with CEO Tim Cook announcing donations to support aid organizations on the ground.

Deals & Refurbished Products

Amazon's Prime Day sale is offering substantial discounts on Apple products as it enters its final hours. Notable deals include an $850 price cut on a 16-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Max chip available now and significant savings on Air Pods Pro, Apple Watch Series, and Air Tag. Apple Watch SE, Series, and Ultra 3 models are available for as low as $199. The company has also added 2026 Mac models and the Studio Display 2 to its refurbished store, including the MacBook Neo, which became available for purchase a day after sweeping price increases were announced for new models.