Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 3, 2026, 11:36 AM ET

Apple's Product Pipeline and Acquisitions

Apple reportedly agreed to acquire Plasma Solve, a company specializing in materials science, according to EU filings. This acquisition is expected to significantly benefit Apple's product roadmap. PlasmaSolve's expertise pertains to its software that optimizes the manufacturing of durable, scratch-resistant metallic coatings for device enclosures. The acquisition could enable Apple to create thinner and more robust device casings for its products.

Upcoming iPhone and Smart Device Releases

The 20th-anniversary iPhone is rumored to feature a design heavily influenced by the "iPhone Air," incorporating a glass-heavy construction and improved cooling systems. A folding iPhone referred to as the "iPhone Fold," is reportedly on schedule for a September 2026 launch, with manufacturing challenges having been resolved. Apple is also expected to introduce an "iPhone Ultra" model this fall, alongside the iPhone 18 Pro, which is anticipated to see a price increase. iPhone 18 Pro is slated to launch next month with a starting price that some find difficult to believe.

Smart Home and Wearable Technology Developments

Apple's future glasses and headsets are being designed to function as health and fitness devices, according to reports. There is speculation that camera-equipped Air Pods could be released as soon as next month, with development on this feature progressing. Duck Duck Go is also developing anti-AI glasses that will feature no cameras and no notifications, a contrasting approach to potential smart eyewear. Z-Wave Alliance Avi Rosenthal discussed the significance of Z-Wave technology in the evolving smart home landscape during a podcast.

Legal and Financial Updates for Apple

Apple is facing a $32.5 billion class-action lawsuit in Illinois concerning its iPhone Photos app and the alleged collection of biometric data. The company is also engaged in a legal battle in the UK, launching its second challenge against a mandated "backdoor" to encryption for iCloud. This legal action comes amid reports that confidential Apple files followed former employees to OpenAI through their personal iCloud accounts. Despite strong Q3 financial performance, Apple continues to face scrutiny from investors and analysts regarding its profitability. CEO Tim comments suggest that the extensive use of Siri AI could incur higher costs than initially anticipated.

Other Apple News and Market Activity

Amazon is continuing to offer significant discounts on the 2026 MacBook Pro, with some prices now lower than they were in July, potentially reaching up to $500 off select models. Apple TV+ subscribers can look forward to the return of "Ted Lasso" in August, among other new content. upcoming solar eclipse on August 12th will be visible in parts of Spain, Portugal, Russia, Iceland, and Greenland, presenting an opportunity for astronomical photography.