Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 2:35 PM ET

Apple Sports Goes Global

Apple's Sports app is getting a major upgrade ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the company expanding availability to over 90 new countries and regions in one of its largest international pushes to date. The app's version 4.0 update adds dedicated World Cup features as Apple positions the platform as a comprehensive destination for soccer fans worldwide, transforming what was once a niche utility into a global sports hub.

Hardware Leadership Overhaul

Apple's new Chief Hardware Officer Johny Srouji is implementing his second hardware team reorganization in a month, signaling an aggressive push to accelerate product development cycles ahead of the planned CEO transition from Tim Cook to John Ternus. The shakeup consolidates oversight of product design under Srouji's purview as the company seeks to streamline decision-making and reduce time-to-market for upcoming devices.

Accessibility Innovation

Apple has unveiled a suite of AI-powered accessibility features coming to iOS 27 and mac OS 27, leveraging Apple Intelligence to enhance Voice Over, Magnifier, and Voice Control capabilities. The announcements, timed ahead of Global Accessibility Awareness Day on May 21, also include eye-controlled wheelchair functionality that represents a significant advancement in assistive technology. Separately, the Hikawa Grip & Stand for iPhone has launched globally after previously being a limited-time accessibility accessory, with Apple releasing the grip in three new colors after the original sold out last year.

Retail Milestone

Apple's retail operation celebrates its 25th anniversary since the first stores opened on May 19, 2001, marking a quarter century since Steve Jobs personally guided members of the press through the original Tysons Corner and Glendale locations. The Apple Store transformed not only how customers purchase hardware but fundamentally altered brick-and-mortar retail expectations across the industry.

Memorial Day Sales

Major retailers are offering significant Apple discounts for Memorial Day, with Amazon slashing $250 off every 2026 16-inch MacBook Pro featuring M5 Pro or M5 Max chips. Best Buy's annual sale includes notable markdowns on Apple devices, while Amazon's promotion also features AirPods Pro 3 at $199 and a 24GB M5 MacBook Pro with $320 off.

Epic Games vs Apple

Fortnite has returned to the App Store worldwide except Australia, with Epic Games declaring victory months ahead of the antitrust case conclusion. The game's global rerelease marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle between the companies.

India Antitrust Battle

An Indian court has ordered Apple to cooperate with the country's competition watchdog in its App Store antitrust investigation, rejecting the company's attempt to pause proceedings while it pursues appeals.

WWDC Preview

mac OS 27 will drop support for four Mac models when unveiled at WWDC, while rumors indicate new features including improved Writing Tools, generated wallpapers, and easier Shortcut creation. The Shortcuts app is expected to become more approachable for mainstream users, and iOS 27 is rumored to include a significant new video feature that could be one of Apple's best additions.

Foldable Future

Apple continues developing a large foldable iPad despite technical hurdles, with the device expected to feature the same crease-free hinge design as the rumored "iPhone Ultra" — Apple's first foldable phone. A new rumor suggests seamless hinges for the iPhone Fold may be replicated by rivals and potentially adapted for an iPad Fold. Separately, Apple is still developing liquid metal for future iPhone Pro frames as it considers materials beyond aluminum for better weight and heat dissipation balance.

Apple Design Awards

The 2026 Apple Design Awards finalists have been announced, with Cyberpunk 2077 and Civilization VII among the nominees as WWDC approaches.

Streaming Updates

Apple TV has announced four new Peanuts premieres coming this summer, maintaining its position as the exclusive streaming home for the beloved franchise. Early reviews indicate the new thriller Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed could be another hit for the streaming service.

Third-Party Developments

WhatsApp is rolling out a redesigned media share sheet on iOS providing faster file sharing. Plex has increased its Lifetime Pass price from $249.99 to $749.99 — a 200% hike that takes effect in July. Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are on sale for up to 25% off this week across numerous retailers.