Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 19, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Apple's Latest Software and Hardware

Apple released public of iOS 27 and mac OS Golden Gate this week, alongside a new Back to School promotion. For those who installed the iOS 27 beta, a guide is available on how to if stability or usability issues arise. The latest iOS version also introduces a new method to without a computer. In hardware news, B&H is offering discounts of up to $400 on select 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chips this week.

iPhone Market Trends and Future Devices

New research from CIRP indicates that iPhone loyalty climbed to 87% in the first quarter of 2026, suggesting a slowdown in users switching to Android. The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max, expected in two months, are rumored to launch with 12 new features, though one report suggests potential buyers may not need to wait for this particular upgrade. The Mac Rumors Show podcast is to next year's iPhone XX, hinting at significant changes for the device's 20th anniversary next year.

Apple's Market Position and Competitive Landscape

regained title as the world's most valuable company this week, briefly surpassing Nvidia's market valuation. In a significant regulatory move, the European Commission has ordered Google to grant third-party AI services equal access to Android device features as its own Gemini AI. Meanwhile, Apple and Google are facing demands to remove 13 AI "face-swap" apps that can create nonconsensual nude images, with San Francisco City Attorney's office having sent cease-and-desist letters to both companies according to WIRED.

Smart Home and Connectivity Innovations

Apple's Car Key feature is poised for expansion to future GWM Tank SUVs from Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor, based on code changes found in Apple's Wallet app backend. In the smart home space, the Switch Bot RGBICWW ceiling light is now available, bringing hardwired Matter lighting directly to Apple Home via Home Kit this week.

App Ecosystem and User Data Concerns

Indie App Spotlight features 'Passable,' a new app that through Apple Wallet. WhatsApp has begun rolling out its new username feature to users who have. On a broader note, a report highlights the proliferation of personal data online and offers guidance on how users can from the internet. Separately, a new mac OS malware dubbed Click Fix has emerged, potentially introducing a backdoor into enterprise fleets.

Pricing and User Experience Issues

Apple has been implementing a series of price increases across its products and services, with the initial hardware hikes in June described as costly and unwelcome. Users experiencing issues with YouTube's picture-in-picture mode on both iPhone and Android can note that the company is aware of the problem. Mac Rumors is also hosting a giveaway where readers can and a set of Satechi accessories.