Apple News 24-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 19, 2026, 4:40 AM ET

iPhone Duo

Preorders for the iPhone Duo have opened, and attention has quickly turned to its specs. Apple published an EU energy label listing a 4,883 mAh battery, and early comparisons against the rest of the iPhone lineup are already circulating. Separately, Mark Gurman argues Apple made a major mistake with the pre-order process, warning of severe supply constraints.

Mac Lineup and Deals

Amazon is discounting Apple hardware, with the new Mac mini down up to $149 and the Mac Studio cut by $200. One listing puts the 2026 Mac Studio at $2,299. Apple is also reportedly planning four straight Friday launches, with OLED MacBook Pro models and a 14-inch Mac among the expected releases.

Touchscreen MacBook and Retail

Apple's first touchscreen MacBook could debut on November 6, a date that aligns with a store refresh across Apple Stores that strongly hints at the OLED MacBook Pro launch.

Smart Home

Apple's HomeView display is drawing scrutiny as an interesting experiment in the smart home category. A higher-end HomeView Max with a 9-inch, 360-degree screen is reportedly in the works, and a robot arm follow-up is rumored for a 2027 launch.

Wearables and Software

The Apple Watch Series 12 earns praise as a strong upgrade, though one reviewer misses a feature from a competing platform. Meanwhile, Apple continues refining the iPhone's Phone app, with a guide to useful features worth enabling now.

Buying Advice

For buyers weighing their options, a roundup of what's coming next year may help decide whether to skip the iPhone 18 Pro or Duo.

Security Notes

A crime blotter report covers an arrest for damage at a Macau Apple Store, an armed robbery in Florida tied to an iPhone transaction, and an iPad theft.

Coming Up

The touchscreen MacBook could debut on November 6. Apple's four Friday launches are expected to begin soon after.