Apple News 24 Hours

Last updated: August 4, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

Apple Ecosystem and Software Updates

Apple is preparing for its annual September iPhone event, where at least five new devices are expected to be announced, with the possibility of additional devices also being revealed Pro is anticipated to feature three long-rumored upgrades. Additionally, Apple is rumored to be prototyping a second new iPhone display, measuring approximately 6.4 inches, which could be featured on the 20th-anniversary iPhone. iOS 27 is bringing significant enhancements to Face Time, including a powerful new feature. The company has also released a fourth beta firmware version for Air Pods Pro, which includes features for Air Pods Pro 3 and Air Pods. Apple has recently raised prices across much of its product lineup, and further increases are expected next month for iPhones and other devices.

Car Play and In-Car Technology

CarPlay is expanding beyond the automotive sector, with Crest and Balise set to integrate Apple's in-car interface onto select pontoon boats was removed from the App Store on Monday after a user posted child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was restored after the offending content was removed. A Telegram CEO stated that an extortionist manipulated Apple into removing the app by planting AI-modified CSAM. RevenueCat's annual mobile hackathon is running from August 1st to September 30th, offering $1 million worth of prizes for winning applications. Following the sunsetting of TV Time last month, one of its co-founders has launched Bingers, a new app for tracking TV shows and movies that emphasizes social features. A malware campaign is using fake Zoom updates and business files to install Screen Connect, granting attackers remote control through software that can mimic legitimate IT activity, and this campaign has now expanded to mac OS.

Apple Services and Content

The long-awaited fourth season premiere of "Ted Lasso" is now available for streaming on Apple TV for subscribers users in China can participate in the National Fitness Day challenge this weekend to unlock virtual rewards. Apple Card users now have a new way to gain value from Booking.com through a partnership that aims to speed up loyalty rewards. Apple has set a new annual sales record in India, with its second major iPhone manufacturing base generating a record $10 billion in sales.

Hardware and Accessories

Amazon is currently offering discounts of up to $500 on various Apple products, including Macs, iPads, Air Tags, and Apple Watches, with prices starting as low as $27. Amazon has also brought back significant discounts on the M4 iPad Air models, with a trio of markdowns available. A new jailbreak tool has emerged for M1 and M2 iPads running iPad OS, allowing for the native installation of mac OS on the iPad hardware, though it is described as an extreme solution. A new translucent GAMEBABY case is available for iPhones, transforming the device into a Game Boy with physical buttons.

Industry Trends and Competitors

Spotify has surpassed 300 million paying subscribers, marking a significant milestone in its competition with Apple Music. Apple is reportedly preparing for its September iPhone event, with the iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and an entirely new model expected to debut. Apple has waited a considerable time to launch its first foldable iPhone, a move that comes at an opportune moment given Samsung's current market presence in foldable devices. Encrypted messaging Signal has updated its iOS app to improve the multi-device experience for iPhone users, making it easier to use the app across different devices. WhatsApp has introduced updates to its group chats, including an "@all" mention feature, three new poll upgrades, and a quicker method for creating new groups from existing ones. OpenAI has provided details regarding the shutdown of Chat GPT Atlas, its dedicated web browser for Mac, which is scheduled to occur this weekend.

Privacy and Security Concerns

Three separate leaks within Web Kit on iOS and mac OS have been reported, which could expose user data even when using a proxy or iCloud Private Relay. A judge has permitted a $32 billion lawsuit to proceed concerning Apple Photos face recognition technology.