Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: April 13, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Mobile & AI Strategy

Rumors surrounding Apple’s next-generation mobile hardware dominated the weekend news cycle, with substantial focus placed on the expected September launch of a foldable device, allegedly termed the 'iPhone Ultra' plans to unveil a foldable iPhone in September. This device is reportedly engineered to correct two known deficiencies plaguing current foldable designs solve two key problems, while speculation continues regarding its official nomenclature and shipment timelines battles about what it will be called. Concurrently, Apple appears to be solidifying its broader computer vision roadmap, positioning the anticipated 'Apple Glass' as merely one component of a three-part wearable AI strategy, intended to directly challenge Meta’s existing smart glasses offerings part of a larger three-pronged AI wearable strategy. Furthermore, the company is preparing for the upcoming ACM Human-Computer Interaction Conference 2026, where it will present research covering AI-powered UI generation, accessibility features, and specific advancements related to the AirPods Pro 3.

In executive shifts, Apple Intelligence head John Giannandrea has transitioned into an advisory role following his announced retirement in 2025, marking the end of his direct leadership over the company’s core AI initiatives reduced to the role of an advisor. This transition occurs as iOS 27 is rumored to integrate a dedicated 'Siri' application directly onto the Home Screen reportedly, potentially signaling a push to better compete with the popularity of third-party chatbot applications currently dominating App Store charts dominate the App Store top charts. On the operating system front, iOS 26.4 has introduced a specific setting allowing users to manage visual stimuli by disabling flashing elements associated with the Liquid Glass effect.

Hardware Deals & Desktop Availability

Apple’s recent hardware performance shows the iPhone 17 series drove the company to secure the top position in the global smartphone market for Q1 2026, despite an overall contraction in worldwide shipments according to Counterpoint Research helped Apple take the top spot. While the flagship devices command premium pricing, the market for budget-conscious buyers still has options, including several refurbished models under $500 that retain usability several refurbished iPhones under $500. Meanwhile, significant weekly deals have been observed across the Mac portfolio, with nearly every configuration of the new M5 MacBook Air receiving a $150 price reduction M5 MacBook Air Hits New Record Low Prices at $150 Off, driving the 15-inch model with 1TB storage to an all-time low price point 15-inch M5 MacBook Air at all-time lows.

The popularity of the newer devices appears to be impacting the availability of legacy or current-generation desktop machines, as certain configurations of the Mac mini and Mac Studio are currently unavailable directly through Apple’s online store, suggesting an impending refresh for the desktop line indicator that a desktop Mac refresh is on the w. Despite this scarcity, the "Sunday Reboot" noted potential storage adjustments for the MacBook Neo, and for those seeking maximum utility from existing hardware, accessory makers are capitalizing; Belkin has launched new ultra-compact Qi2.2 chargers providing 25W Mag Safe power providing 25W MagSafe charging, and Satechi released a competing 3-in-1 Qi2 dock maintaining a clean aesthetic Satechi’s 3-in-1 Qi2 charger.

Audio, Entertainment, & Ecosystem Growth

The audio accessories segment saw aggressive promotional pricing over the weekend, with Amazon offering the new AirPods Pro 3 for $199.99, even as some reviewers debated whether the upgrade was warranted over the already excellent Pro 2 iteration AirPods Pro 3 for $199.99. In parallel, B&H offered a flash sale slashing $150 off the standard retail price of the over-ear AirPods Max USB-C, bringing the price down to $399.95 for one day only. Apple executives, including CEO Tim Cook, recently celebrated the return of the Artemis II crew, crediting the mission as the backdrop for what may be the most expensive 'Shot on iPhone' marketing campaign to date welcomed the crew of Artemis II back to Earth. In related media news, Apple TV has garnered five nominations for the 86th Peabody Awards across multiple programming categories earned five nominations for the 86th Peabody Awards, while the streaming service concludes the week with season finales for three of its current offerings three shows all just aired their season finales.

The company continues to expand the utility of its core platforms; the Apple Wallet Car Key feature is gaining adoption, with several more major vehicle manufacturers expected to integrate support soon following recent launches with two other brands several major vehicle brands. Furthermore, developers are finding new ways to leverage Apple displays, as a newly released accessory now permits users to project Nintendo Switch 2 gameplay onto iPad or iMac screens at 4K resolution. On the legal front, the ongoing dispute between Apple and Epic Games continues, with both parties filing motions regarding the status of a recently imposed court-ordered stay Apple and Epic have filed new requests.