Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: May 18, 2026, 11:41 PM ET

Apple Stock & Corporate

Apple shares closed above $300 for the first time in the company's history, reaching a new record high as investors rewarded stronger-than-expected earnings, surging Services revenue, and a massive $100 billion buyback program despite continued AI concerns. Meanwhile, Tim Cook's tenure at Apple has grown the company by trillions of dollars, transforming the tech giant from a near-bankrupt entity into the world's most valuable company as he navigates both business and political challenges.

iOS 27 & AI Features

The upcoming iOS 27 update will include a custom wallpaper generator powered by AI, alongside options to automatically create shortcuts using artificial intelligence, according to Bloomberg. Apple is also expanding its AI writing tools with a grammar checker in iOS 27 and iPad OS, part of a broader push to revamp the Siri platform with new capabilities. The Shortcuts app is poised to become more approachable for mainstream users, potentially delivering on its long-promised potential as an automation tool. Additionally, Apple wants users to re-engage with generative Genmoji in iOS, with new "Suggested Genmoji" features coming to iPhones.

WWDC 2026 & mac OS

Apple has announced its WWDC 2026 schedule, with the conference running from June 8 to June 12, and media invites already sent out. The event will showcase finalists including Cyberpunk 2077 and Civilization VII for the Apple Design Awards. However, new Mac hardware is unlikely at the developer conference, which focuses on software. In advance of the announcement, mac OS 27 will drop support for at least four older Mac models when unveiled at WWDC.

Foldable iPhone Challenges

Trial production of Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone, likely called the iPhone Ultra, has stalled due to significant hinge issues that could prevent a 2026 launch. A separate report echoes these concerns, claiming testing delays stem from problematic hinge mechanisms that may force Apple to postpone the device. Meanwhile, new leaks suggest the iPhone Ultra could feature a crease-free display breakthrough, though the hinge problems remain a potential hurdle to production.

Legal & Regulatory

An Indian court has ordered Apple to cooperate with the country's competition watchdog in an ongoing App Store antitrust case, declining to pause the proceedings entirely. In Brazil, iOS 26.5 adds a new setting letting users select alternative app marketplaces beyond the App Store, following regulatory pressure. Ahead of continued appeals in the Epic Games dispute, Apple and Epic have agreed on a pre-court schedule to discuss new fee proposals, with both companies preparing for the return to District Court.

Apple Watch & Wearables

The Apple Watch Ultra 4 could feature a complete redesign alongside blood pressure monitoring, according to Digi Times, representing two major upgrades for the premium wearable. However, the standard Apple Watch Series 12 will likely see few changes beyond a new watch face, continuing the same design language. Sleep tracking in watch OS 26 became more useful with new settings that improve the sleep score feature for users.

Security & Services

Security researchers have identified a new mac OS infostealer called SHub Reaper that disguises itself as Apple security software to steal passwords and cryptocurrency. Apple has launched an Apple Card promotion offering new users essentially free Air Pods Pro 3 when signing up. Apple TV's new thriller series Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed premieres this week with early reviews indicating it could be another hit for the streaming service.

Deals & Accessories

Amazon's popular iPad 11 deal returns with prices as low as $299, while the M4 iPad Air is available with $150 off at Amazon and Best Buy. First-generation Air Tags have dropped below $50 for the first time, with a 4-pack available at $45.59 using a discount code. The UGREEN Nexode Power Bank offers MagSafe compatibility alongside Qi2 support and can charge a MacBook Pro in under an hour.