Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Apple's Leasing Program and Device Updates

Apple launched its new leasing program, "Apple Upgrade," which replaces the iPhone Upgrade program and applies to most Apple products. This week also saw the release of iOS 26.6. In a significant shift for long-time users, iOS 27 will alter the established Notification Center functionality, which has been a consistent feature since iOS 5 in 2011.

Upcoming and Current Hardware

Rumors are already emerging about the 2028 iPhone, hinting at potential evolutions in its design, display, and camera technology. Next year the iPhone's 20th anniversary, with speculation about a special anniversary model. fall, Apple is expected to refresh the Mac Studio lineup for the first time since early 2025. GPS models of the Apple Watch Series 11 are available starting at $299.99 on Amazon. Additionally, a notable discount of $1,200 is being offered on the 16-inch MacBook Pro M5 Max with a 2TB SSD, marking the lowest price recorded for this configuration.

Apple in Education and Unexpected Durability

Apple's MacBook is reportedly drawing schools away from Windows and Chromebook devices. In an unexpected demonstration of durability, an iPhone 17 Pro survived a fall from 3,600 feet after being dropped from a plane, landing face-up and largely undamaged in a field. indie app "Overflight," which allows users to see planes flying overhead, is being highlighted in the "Indie App Spotlight" series.