Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

Apple Software and Services Updates

iOS 27 is adding new language and accent options to Apple Translate, with nine new languages and accents becoming available in the latest update. Code also suggests that iOS 27 will support car key functionality for Lucid and Xiaomi vehicles once it is released. Meanwhile, Apple has stopped signing iOS versions for several older iPhones and iPads, limiting the ability to downgrade to earlier software on those devices. On the Mac front, mac OS 28 will drop support for encrypted Mac OS Extended volumes next year. Apple is also planning to charge for new AI security camera features within the Home app, requiring a 2TB iCloud+ subscription for access.

Hardware Rumors and Reviews

A potential 2026 refresh for the Apple TV 4K is on the horizon, though Apple has not yet confirmed a launch date. The Apolosign 32-inch Smart Portable TV, a battery-powered touchscreen on wheels, is available for $899 but may not appeal to Apple users due to a significant omission in its features. Component development for a lower-cost Apple Vision Pro model has reportedly been scrapped, as Apple reportedly focuses its resources elsewhere on AI development. Separately, Samsung Display has fully abandoned its development project for a component tied to a rumored cheaper Apple Vision Pro model.

iPhone and Foldable Device Developments

Reports on the iPhone Fold's development continue to offer conflicting information, with some suppliers indicating production is on track for a fall launch, while others suggest delays to the device. Rivals like Samsung and Google are reportedly planning their own foldable smartphone events for the summer, aiming to precede Apple's. Supply-chain sources indicate that the iPhone Ultra is in mass production and on track for a September release, rejecting earlier rumors of a delay to its launch. Apple's product lines continue to rely heavily on Qualcomm for cellular hardware, with the company using numerous Qualcomm chips across its iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch offerings even with its own modems.

Mac and iPad Market Performance

Data from IDC indicates that Apple was the sole major PC vendor to experience significant shipment growth in Q2 2026, while the broader PC market saw a decline for the first time in over two years during that quarter. Amazon is offering a $550 discount on the 16-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Pro chip and 48GB of RAM, bringing its price down to $3,049.99 for that configuration. The 512GB MacBook Neo is also seeing a discount on Amazon, priced at $689.99 after price. Additionally, Amazon has a $150 discount available on various M5 MacBook Air models currently.

Apple TV+, Content, and Other News

Apple TV+ has secured a record 89 nominations for the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, spanning numerous major categories for its programming. Apple is extending its free 4K upgrade policy to select TV show purchases made through the Apple TV Store for customers. Apple's Air Pods lineup is rumored to be getting new models, though official details on when new Air Pods will be released remain scarce at this time. Apple's testing of memory chips from CXMT, a supplier black-listed by the U.S. government, may offer some relief to RAM pricing issues but is not seen as a complete solution to the crisis.

App and Feature Updates

The Halide 3.1 update is set to introduce perspective correction, RAW-only capture, and a new Scarlet color option for users. Nintendo announced it is ending service for its Mario Kart Tour mobile game on iOS, with the shutdown date set for a future Tuesday. Apple Watch users can track a beneficial healthy habit through a hidden feature that has been running in the background for years within the device.

International and Legal Matters

Apple has lost a significant antitrust appeal in Europe, with all three of its claims being rejected, maintaining its status as a 'gatekeeper' in the region. Apple CEO Tim Cook and incoming CEO John Ternus were observed attending the Sun Valley Conference together this year. Apple has not yet launched its annual Back to School offer in countries like the U.S. and Canada, leaving customers waiting for the promotion to begin.