Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Apple's AI Strategy and Chip Access

Apple is reportedly among eight US companies with eased restrictions on accessing advanced computing chips and data center equipment in the UAE, removing the need for individual export licenses Apple is able to bring. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch accounts for 90% of all Edge AI-capable smartwatch shipments in the first quarter of 2026, according to data from Counterpoint Research.

iOS 27 and Software Updates

iOS 27 is set to bring significant improvements to the Mail app, with new AI features and enhanced search capabilities. The Messages app also sees a revamped experience under the hood, moving beyond superficial changes. Additionally, the watch OS 27 update will see the removal of the Walkie-Talkie app, replaced by a new push-to-talk functionality. iOS 27 also integrates Gym Kit, allowing iPhones and Air Pods to function like an Apple Watch at the gym for fitness tracking with compatible equipment.

iPhone 18 and Future Devices

Component costs for the iPhone 18 Pro Max are projected to increase by nearly $300 compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple has reportedly lowered its demand forecast for the standard iPhone 17 due to rising hardware costs. Rumors persist about the iPhone Fold, with some suggesting its battery capacity may be less than anticipated. Questions also linger regarding the potential launch timeline for the iPhone Fold and whether Air Pods might incorporate cameras.

Apple Retail and Smart Home

Two Apple retail stores in the US are scheduled to relocate this month, moving a short distance from their current locations. In smart home news, the LNDU HK01W smart lock is now available with Apple Home Key support and Wi-Fi at a budget-friendly price point. The author of one smart home piece reflects that sometimes simpler, "dumb" switches are the more practical choice for many users.

Deals and Discounts

Several Apple products are currently available at discounted prices. This includes Air Pods, with deals offering nearly 25% off. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is available for $140 off, and the M5 MacBook Air has a $150 discount. Additionally, a MacBook Pro M5 is discounted by $450. LG's 32-inch Ultra Fine evo 6K Thunderbolt 5 monitor is also $700 off, making it $240 cheaper than Apple's Studio Display.

Other Tech News

Meta has removed a feature that allowed users to generate AI images from public Instagram posts. Anthropic is highlighting Claude Code's in-app browser on its desktop application. OpenAI is discontinuing its dedicated web browser, Chat GPT Atlas OpenAI is pulling the plug. Spotify has introduced new listening filters to make its Release Radar feature more customizable. Netflix is reportedly among companies interested in acquiring the movie tracking and social media app Letterboxd. Passkeys, intended to replace passwords, have not yet achieved widespread adoption. iPhones sold in the EU will not feature removable back panels for easier battery replacement in 2027 iPhones sold in the European Union. The Apple Card is undergoing its first major change with its move to JP Morgan Chase.