Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

iOS 27 and Software Updates

Apple released iOS with a host of new features and improvements. The upcoming iOS 27 is set to introduce significant enhancements to the Phone and FaceTime apps, along with a smarter Find My location sharing feature for Apple Watch users in iOS 27. Additionally, iOS 27 will bring notable updates to Apple Wallet this fall, and Siri is receiving a major AI upgrade that differentiates it from other AI assistants. Apple has also clarified that its new "Restricted Mode" for the Apple Upgrade program will not be activated by missed lease payments.

New Hardware and Accessories

A prototype smart ring has achieved non-invasive blood sugar measurement, a significant advancement in health wearables. Twelve South has updated its Valet Mag Safe charger with improved performance and a new size, and also debuted a smaller version of the Valet tray featuring 25W Mag Safe charging earlier this year. Apple is reportedly planning to release an all-new smart home hub between October and early next year, and new models of the Apple TV and Home Pod mini are also for a fall launch.

Apple's Services and Business

Apple announced its new Apple Upgrade leasing program, which allows customers to acquire Apple products through low-cost monthly payments, with guidance available on how to avoid being trapped in extended leases. In anticipation of Apple's Q3 2026 earnings report, Goldman Sachs has to $370, expecting strong third-quarter results driven by consistent purchase volumes. Apple's valuation amid strong iPhone demand and a rebound in China. Meanwhile, Apple Care+ subscriptions are now available on a monthly and annual basis in Canada as of this week.

App Updates and Third-Party Integrations

WhatsApp is rolling out enhanced group calling features, including web calling and call transfer capabilities across devices. The exercise-tracking app The Outsiders has received an update adding more detailed performance metrics and workout sharing for athletes. Instapaper launched version 10 of its iPhone and iPad app, introducing Liquid Glass, Home Screen widgets, and new fonts, alongside a redesign of its web platform today. Granola, an AI-powered meeting notepad, is now expanding to Apple Watch, positioning the device as an AI tool for users. UPDF is offering advanced PDF editing, conversion, OCR, and AI features for Mac and iPad as a cost-effective alternative to Adobe Acrobat this week. A promotion featuring hundreds of exclusive discounts on iOS, iPad OS, vision OS, mac OS, and watch OS apps is also running through July 30 this year.

Entertainment and Future Products

Warner Bros is testing a new vertical video format called on select iPhone users. OpenAI's hardware roadmap is reportedly including a smartphone as early as next year, alongside other devices in development. Apple has announced that its sci-fi series Silo will return for a fourth and final season in "summer 2027" this year. The first full trailer for Ted Lasso season 4 has been released, showing Jason Sudeikis returning to Richmond with a new team this season. Apple has also been granted a patent for an iPhone AR feature that could help users identify their correct ride-share vehicle to prevent errors.

Deals and Promotions

Amazon is currently offering discounts on Apple products, with Air Pods 4 available for $99, Air Pods Pro 3 for $199, and Air Pods Max 2 discounted by up to $100 this month. Additionally, Amazon has a $500 discount on the 14-inch MacBook Pro with 2TB SSD, bringing its price down to $2,499. Anker, Sony, and Samsung accessories are also part of a large sale happening on Amazon this week.

Legal and Business Developments

iy O's trademark lawsuit against OpenAI and Jony Ive has been paused due to settlement talks, with a judge granting a seven-day pause in the proceedings following the update. Incoming Apple CEO John Ternus is expected to continue Tim Cook's leadership strategy without major resets, and while Apple TV may be incurring significant losses, its future remains secure under Ternus's direction in September.