Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

iPhone 18 Pro and Future Devices

The iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max are expected to launch in two months, featuring a similar design to their predecessors but with 12 new features according to MacRumors. Looking further ahead, next year's iPhone upgrades are anticipated to be significant and potentially "change everything". In other hardware news, Apple briefly reclaimed its position as the world's most valuable company, surpassing Nvidia in market valuation according to CNBC. Support for Apple's Car Key feature is also expanding, with future GWM Tank SUVs from Great Wall Motor set to gain compatibility.

iOS 27 and Software Updates

Apple has released the first public betas for iOS 27 and mac OS Golden Gate, making them available to a wider audience for testing as part of its July release promise. iOS 27 reportedly includes over 30 ways to improve iPhone speed, with the public beta now available according to 9to5Mac. The new iOS version also introduces an updated Recovery Assistant that allows iPhones to boot into recovery mode without needing a Mac or PC. For those who have tested the latest beta, a guide is available on how to downgrade from iOS 27 Beta back to iOS 26 if usability or stability issues arise as detailed by MacRumors.

Apple's AI Initiatives and App Policies

Apple is reportedly testing an AI-powered "Live Notes" feature at select Genius Bar locations, designed to transcribe and summarize customer interactions. However, this feature has raised concerns among employees regarding potential monitoring and evaluation as reported by Apple Insider. In a separate matter, Apple, along with Google, has received cease-and-desist letters from a San Francisco City Attorney demanding the removal of 13 AI "face-swap" apps that can generate nonconsensual nude images as reported by WIRED. Apple's advancements in AI may also involve shrinking models for on-device processing, which could offer significant benefits and financial opportunities as discussed in Apple Insider's Sunday Reboot.

Apple Product Ecosystem and Pricing

iPhone loyalty has seen an increase, with new research indicating an 87% loyalty rate for the first quarter of 2026, a rise from the previous year. In terms of pricing, Apple has implemented further price increases on various products and services, following recent hikes on Macs and iPads worldwide as detailed by MacRumors. Meanwhile, deals on Air Pods are currently available, with Air Pods Pro 3 priced at $199.99 and Air Pods 4 at $99. Apple also continues to expand its retail presence, with a new Apple Store set to open in Ann Arbor, Michigan later this month at the Briarwood Mall. In related news, Apple reportedly worked on two "Extreme" chip variants, M2 Extreme and M3 Extreme, for the Mac Pro, but ultimately decided against releasing them. A giveaway is also underway, offering readers a chance to win a MacBook Neo and Satechi accessories in partnership with Satechi.