Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 5:34 PM ET

Mobile Gaming & Apps

Nintendo has announced Pictonico, a new mobile game that transforms users' photos into interactive minigames, with a scheduled launch for Thursday, May 28. Meanwhile, Spotify addressed a CarPlay bug causing incorrect song information to display on connected vehicle screens, while WhatsApp rolled out a redesigned media share sheet on iOS to enhance file sharing efficiency. In a significant development, Fortnite returned to the App Store globally (except in Australia) as Epic Games declared "Victory Royale" in its ongoing legal battle with Apple, with the game now available for download worldwide.

Apple Sports & Entertainment

Disney+ and Hulu introduced three new features as the streaming services move toward a full merger, enhancing cross-platform functionality for subscribers. Apple TV announced a summer slate of Peanuts content, including a new special and feature-length film, building on its exclusive streaming partnership with the classic franchise. The Apple Sports app expanded to over 90 additional countries in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, now available in more than 170 nations worldwide with dedicated World Cup features, including live match tracking and personalized content.

Hardware & Design

Apple's Chief Hardware Officer Johny Srouji implemented a second hardware team reorganization within a month, following his appointment to optimize product development processes ahead of upcoming leadership changes. Apple re-released its sold-out MagSafe iPhone grip in three new colors after the original version sold out last year, making this accessibility accessory more widely available. Reports indicate that Apple's upcoming foldable devices, including the iPhone Ultra and iPad Fold, may share a seamless hinge design that could be replicated by competitors, with the iPhone potentially adopting liquid metal for its frame to improve durability and heat dissipation.

iOS & Software Updates

iOS 26's Wallet app introduced a long-awaited order tracking fix, addressing one of the most requested features by users who struggled with purchase status updates. Ahead of WWDC, Apple previewed iOS 27 features that could prove transformative for video content creation and consumption, while also revealing AI-powered accessibility enhancements including eye-controlled wheelchair functionality and improved Voice Over capabilities. The Shortcuts app appears poised to become more user-friendly in iOS, potentially fulfilling its promise as an automation tool for mainstream users rather than just tech enthusiasts.

Deals & Sales

Amazon slashed $250 off every 2026 16-inch MacBook Pro in a significant Memorial Day promotion, offering record-low prices on models with M5 Pro or M5 Max chips. Memorial Day sales have extended to multiple retailers, with Best Buy offering notable discounts on Apple devices and tech products, while the 24GB M5 MacBook Pro is available for $320 off at select retailers. Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses are on sale for up to 25% off this week, and Apple has launched a generous Apple Card promotion offering new cardholders a free pair of Air Pods Pro.

Corporate & Legal

Apple celebrated the 25th anniversary of its first retail stores, which opened on May 19, 2001, fundamentally changing the retail landscape with Steve Jobs personally guiding the initial launch. The company struck a talent and IP deal with Animato, a virtual avatar startup that could enhance Apple's presence in the metaverse and improve Vision Pro's Persona features. Plex ann