Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: June 28, 2026, 11:32 PM ET

Apple Product Pricing and Software Updates

Apple has implemented significant price increases across a majority of its product lines, with only the iPhone and Apple Watch spared from the hikes unprecedented price increases. These adjustments, which see some products rising by as much as 50 percent, are attributed to the escalating costs associated with building AI data centers and increased demand for raw materials like RAM massive price hikes. The company is also petitioning the U.S. government to permit the purchase of Mac RAM chips from a Chinese supplier previously blacklisted, aiming to mitigate pricing pressures buy RAM.

In parallel, Apple is preparing for the next wave of its operating system updates. iOS, expected in approximately three weeks, is being hailed as an incredible update, with particular attention being paid to its enhancements for the Shortcuts app, making it less intimidating for casual users iOS 27. Features within iOS 27 also promise to significantly improve the Photos app, with some enhancements appearing tailored for a future "Home Pad" device new features. The beta versions of iOS 27 are already revealing over 200 new features, with highlights including substantial improvements to Siri's AI capabilities Siri Redemption Tour.

Apple Device Ecosystem and Accessories

The iPad lineup faces a potential division with iPad OS 27 poised to drop support for five specific iPad models, a decision that has drawn criticism for leaving owners behind leaving these five iPad. Meanwhile, deals from the recently concluded Prime Day event continue to offer significant discounts on Apple products, including MacBook Pro models and accessories like Air Pods and Air Tags Record Low Apple Discounts. Specifically, a 16-inch MacBook Pro with an M5 Max chip is available with an $850 discount, though availability is dwindling as the sale period concludes Save $850. Further discounts are also available on MacBook Neo and Air Pods Pro 3 models last-minute Prime Day deal.

Accessories for Apple devices are also seeing new developments and price considerations. The Mag Safe battery pack has been reintroduced, optimized for the new iPhone Air at $99, though its capacity is noted as modest compared to Qi2 alternatives MagSafe battery packs. In a separate pricing alert, Plex is increasing the cost of its lifetime streaming pass from $249.99 to $749.99 starting July 1, making current iPhone users urged to purchase before the hike Lifetime Plex Plan.

Apple's Media and Entertainment Ventures

Apple TV+ is offering a free promotional period for all its Formula 1 streaming content within the United States this weekend, allowing anyone to watch without a subscription watch Formula 1 race. This initiative comes as Apple has announced its first film of the year slated for a theatrical release, following a successful cinema run with an F1-related film last year first film year. The platform's strategic direction, however, continues to omit game shows, a format some observers ponder if Apple TV will ever embrace gameshow phobia.

In a concerning development for content creators, AI-generated knockoffs of author Joanna Stern's book are persistently appearing on Apple Books, prompting criticism of the platform's content moderation AI-generated knockoffs.

Hardware Innovations and Projects

A notable project has successfully recreated the Apple II Plus entirely in hardware, eschewing emulation for a more authentic, albeit complex, approach to reviving the classic computer skips emulation. On the display front, the LG Ultra Fine 6K monitor is presented as a premium option for Mac users, particularly following Apple's discontinuation of its Pro Display XDR, offering a high-resolution alternative Premium 6K Display.

Industry Moves and Personnel Changes

OpenAI has reportedly recruited Paul Meade, previously the head of Apple's Vision Pro and smart glasses division, indicating a significant shift in talent within the augmented and virtual reality sectors poaches Apple Vision Pro.

Other Apple Ecosystem Developments

For Mac users, a guide is available detailing how to create a mac OS Golden Gate USB installer, a useful tool for system upgrades and troubleshooting mac OS Golden Gate USB. The Switch Bot Weather Station introduces an e-ink display for climate data and a calendar, integrating with Apple Home through Home Kit, highlighting the potential of e-ink technology within the smart home ecosystem SwitchBot Weather Station. The Level Lock team has experienced significant layoffs, raising questions about the long-term availability of their smart locks, though current Apple Home Key functionality is expected to persist in the interim.

In a move that could signal future product directions, rumors of an "iRing" are resurfacing, suggesting Apple may be developing a smart ring to compete with offerings from Oura and Samsung Apple 'iRing' Rumor. The company is also reportedly exploring OLED and touchscreen technology for future MacBook Pro models, with a redesign anticipated for 2027 2027 MacBook Pro.

Apple has also made a donation to relief efforts in Venezuela following devastating earthquakes, with CEO Tim Cook announcing the company's commitment on social media Donating Relief Efforts.

Separately, signals from AirPods have reportedly aided in solving criminal cases, including one where a stolen iPhone was recovered. The company's commitment to accessibility is highlighted through various settings on the iPhone that can streamline everyday tasks.