Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

iOS & Software Updates

Apple is continuing its summer beta cycle with the release of the second developer betas for iOS, iPad OS, and mac OS 27 Golden Gate late last week. The iOS 27 beta 2 update introduces significant enhancements to the Messages app, including inline replies for RCS chats with Android users and new AI-powered writing tools called "Write with Siri". The Wallet app also sees improvements with a new "Insights" feature for tracking spending and potential new use cases for Digital ID. Additionally, iOS 27 beta 2 adds a Mac-like recovery mode for iPhones and iPads and makes it easier to update Apple TV software remotely via the Home app. The Weather app in iOS 27 receives layout improvements for at-a-glance information without new AI features.

Further software development includes the second beta for watch OS, which arrived following the iOS and mac OS releases. Beta firmware updates are also rolling out for Air Pods Pro, Air Pods Pro, Air Pods, and the first beta build for Air Pods Max 2 are now available, integrating with iOS 27 features and bringing customizable EQ and improved precision finding to AirPods. Apple is also preparing to remove the Air Port Utility app from the App Store with the upcoming iOS 27 release as confirmed in release notes.

Hardware & Rumors

Rumors surrounding Apple's future hardware include the continued expectation of an iPhone Fold launching in September 2026, with Samsung Display reportedly beginning production of OLED panels for the device and LG Display supplying screens for the Apple Watch Series 12. The iPhone 18 Pro is also the subject of speculation, with leaks suggesting significant camera improvements and potential price hikes for the iPhone 17 lineup looming this month. Apple's upcoming product roadmap extends into 2028, with updates to Home Pod and Apple TV hardware anticipated this fall, potentially integrating advanced Siri AI features despite their omission from WWDC. The Apple Watch Ultra 4 is expected later this year alongside the Apple Watch Series 12 according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.

Deals & Retail

Amazon Prime Day has spurred significant discounts on a wide range of Apple products. Record-low prices are available for Air Pods Max, with models dropping to $399 and selling out quickly. Air Pods Pro 3 are also at an all-time low of $169 and have returned to this price after selling out. Apple Watch Series 11 and Ultra models are seeing substantial price reductions, with some models available for under $200 and Ultra 3 units at $649. MacBook Air M5 models have also seen significant price cuts, with a 15-inch configuration available for $1,349 and other models as low as $799. iPad Air M4 models are also on sale, with prices dipping as low as $299 and hitting all-time lows. Air Tag 2 units are also experiencing their first-ever discounts, available for $24.

Industry & Legal

A group of 48 Chinese developers has filed an antitrust complaint against Apple with the country's market regulator, alleging unfairly high App Store fees and restrictive distribution rules continuing a series of legal challenges. In the UK, a class action lawsuit accusing Apple of overcharging iCloud users has been certified for trial in October 2028, with potential payouts of £3 billion ($4 for affected users. Apple's legal battles also include a lawsuit against leaker Jon Prosser, where a default ruling against him has been set aside, allowing him to participate in discovery.

Cybersecurity remains a concern, with a major supplier in India, Tata Electronics, confirming a cyberattack that resulted in the leak of confidential Apple and Tesla documents on the dark web. Separately, password manager Last Pass has notified users of another data breach, this time stemming from one of its outside partners though customer vaults were unaffected.

App & Service Updates

VSCO has launched its all-in-one platform, VSCO One, aimed at professional photographers following an initial announcement last week. Apple's Invites app has been updated with a co-hosting feature, allowing multiple users to plan and manage events, alongside other quality-of-life improvements. Apple TV+ is set to release the sci-fi series "Silo" and an Anya Taylor-Joy thriller in July. Additionally, Apple's SVP of Services and Health, Eddy Cue, was recognized as the 2026 Entertainment Person of the Year at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Swift Package Index has joined Apple, pledging to remain open source with minimal immediate changes for developers.

Apple's Reality Composer Pro, a tool for spatial computing experiences on Apple Vision Pro, has been found to contain code from a defunct game engine project known as "The Machinery". In the realm of smart home technology, the Matter standard has seen an update to version 1.6, discussed on the Smart Home Insider podcast. Speechify is rolling out voice typing for all iPhone and Mac users at no additional cost. Fantastical has introduced a solution to the double-booking calendar problem.