Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Apple Software and Services Updates

iOS 27 for the iPhone, including enhancements to the Phone and FaceTime apps. The Messages app will receive an update allowing users to hide the dictation or voice input button, preventing accidental presses that can interrupt audio playback in iOS 27. Apple Maps is also getting improved with a more refined ‘Suggested Places’ feature in iOS, building upon its recent introduction in iOS 26.5 offer better. Additionally, the high-end Apple One Premier plan within iOS, making the bundle of Apple services more appealing. mac OS, codenamed Golden Gate, is set to launch this fall with a suite of new features for Mac users that have been well-received.

OpenAI Developments and Legal Battles

OpenAI president Greg Brockman has commented on the lawsuit filed by Apple, stating that the company "doesn't need your secrets" and reiterating OpenAI's product plans in an interview. Brockman also admitted that the new Chat GPT desktop app is "kind of a mess" but teased a tab-free design for future iterations. Separately, OpenAI's hardware roadmap is reportedly sharpening, with a smartphone said to be arriving as soon as next year, alongside a broader lineup of devices. The trademark lawsuit filed by iy O against OpenAI and Jony Ive has been paused due to ongoing settlement talks.

Apple Hardware and Accessory Deals

Apple has begun selling refurbished Studio Display XDR models in the U.S. at a discounted price. Amazon is offering significant discounts on Air Pods, with the Air Pods Max 2 currently available for $449, a $100 reduction from its usual price. The Air Pods Pro 3 are also on sale at Amazon for $199.99, marking their best price since Prime Day. Best Buy's Back to School Sale includes markdowns on various Apple products, such as Air Pods and Mac Books in a wide-ranging event. Twelve South has updated its Valet Mag Safe charger and catch-all accessory with improved performance and a new size option.

New Leasing Options and iPhone Features

Apple launched a new leasing program called Apple Upgrade in the U.S. yesterday, allowing customers to lease iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. This program's value proposition is considered strong for a specific reason that makes it appealing. The ability to add a digital driver's license to an iPhone, providing greater convenience for users. In China, iPhone sales continue to rise despite an overall decline in the smartphone market, indicating strong demand for Apple devices.

Third-Party App and Service Updates

The Runna app now offers an "Adapt for Heat" feature for subscribers, which automatically adjusts training pace targets based on local heat and humidity to optimize workouts. WhatsApp has introduced several enhancements for group calling, including web calling and call transfer capabilities across devices in a new update. The Outsiders exercise-tracking app has received an update that adds more detailed performance metrics and workout sharing features for high-performance athletes. Google is bringing Gemini's voice-first AI assistance to the Mac, enabling users to make spoken requests that are converted into text without leaving their current application. HBO Max is testing a new format called Shorts on select iPhone users in the U.S. as part of its vertical video strategy.

Wearable Technology and Health Innovations

Samsung has announced its latest foldable smartphones, including the Galaxy Z Fold8, which offers a glimpse into what the iPhone Ultra might offer in terms of design. A prototype smart ring developed by University of California engineers appears to have achieved non-invasive blood sugar measurement, a significant breakthrough for health wearables.

Regulatory and Societal Trends

Apple has informed UK regulators that proposed measures for the App Store are too restrictive and go beyond promoting competition according to Apple. Support for school cellphone bans among Americans as the back-to-school season begins, with a majority supporting phones being kept away from students throughout the school day. Online scams cost Americans an estimated $150 billion last year, seven times the amount previously reported to the FBI according to the Consumer Federation of America.