Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 3, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

Apple Product Development and Personnel

Incoming Apple CEO John Ternus is reportedly rehiring Laura Legros, a former vice president of hardware engineering who retired from Apple in 2022. This move suggests a continued focus on hardware innovation under new leadership. Apple's upcoming launches in September are expected to include the iPhone 18 Pro and a folding iPhone model. The 20th-anniversary iPhone is rumored to feature a glass-heavy construction and improved cooling, reminiscent of the iPhone Air. The iPhone Fold is reportedly on schedule for a September release after manufacturing challenges were resolved. Leaks also suggest an iPhone Ultra is launching this fall with a unique design, and the iPhone Pro will also feature a new design next year. The iPhone 18 Pro is expected to see a price increase, with a starting price that might exceed $1,399. Apple recently agreed to acquire Plasma Solve, a move that could significantly impact its product roadmap.

Apple Software and Services Updates

iOS 27 will bring substantial improvements to Apple's Photos app, including enhancements to slideshows and shared albums, alongside a long-awaited camera roll feature. The Google Health app for iOS has been updated to allow Fitbit and Pixel Watch data to sync with Apple Health. WhatsApp's Mac app is testing flexible update schedules in its beta build, offering users the choice between daily and weekly updates. Apple Pay officially launched in the Philippines, enabling iPhone and Apple Watch users in the country to utilize the payment service. Apple has also launched a revamped shopping experience for accessories on its online store and within the App Store app, aiming to simplify browsing and purchasing. Apple TV+ subscribers can look forward to the return of "Ted Lasso" for its fourth season this week, with the show available to watch now. Additionally, the Leagues Cup competition will kick off tomorrow, August 4th, and will be available on Apple TV.

Apple Legal and Regulatory Matters

Russia has initiated an antitrust case against Apple, stemming from a dispute over state-backed applications, which could result in a penalty of nearly $50 million for the iPhone maker. Apple is facing a $32.5 billion class-action lawsuit in Illinois concerning the iPhone Photos app and alleged collection of biometric data from images. The company is also reportedly involved in a second legal challenge against a UK-mandated "backdoor" to encryption for iCloud services. A report indicates that Apple's method of combining work and personal iCloud accounts previously allowed former employees to access confidential documents after their departure.

Apple Hardware and Accessories

The LISEN Qi2.2 Mag Safe battery has been released, featuring a unique lanyard design and support for the Qi2.2 standard. Apple's first Air Pods equipped with cameras could be released as early as next month, according to reports. Apple is reportedly developing its future glasses and headsets to function as health and fitness devices, positioning them as potential successors to the Apple Watch. Duck Duck Go is reportedly developing anti-AI glasses that will omit cameras and notifications. Deals are currently available on Apple products, including the Apple Watch Ultra 3 with a $100 discount and the Series 11 starting at $299, alongside discounts on Air Pods and Anker chargers. The 15-inch M5 MacBook Air with 24GB of RAM is available for $1,499 after a $200 discount. Amazon is continuing to offer significant discounts on 2026 MacBook Pro models, with some prices now lower than they were in July.

Apple Ecosystem and Industry Trends

The ongoing discussion about Apple's smart home strategy and the relevance of Z-Wave technology was a topic on the Smart Home Insider podcast. Hollywood is increasingly viewing YouTube as a primary competitor, and streaming services like Disney+ are reportedly considering free tiers to attract more users. Apple's iPhone production in India is expected to receive further support through potential government tax breaks on manufacturing machinery and components. The company's outgoing CEO, Tim Cook, made a comment during an earnings call that suggests the extensive use of Siri AI could incur higher costs than initially anticipated. Wikipedia for iOS has introduced a new app widget for the Home Screen, allowing users easier access to the platform. The upcoming solar eclipse on August 12th will be visible in parts of Spain, Portugal, Russia, Iceland, and Greenland, and photography tips for the event have been shared.