Apple News 3 Days

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Apple Software Updates and Features

Apple has released the third developer betas for iOS, mac OS, and other operating systems, including iPad OS, tv OS, and vision OS 27 99, 102, 105. These updates are paving the way for new features, such as enhanced Siri voice customization with separate controls for speaking pace and expressivity. iOS 27 also introduces improvements to the Messages app, making it "smarter and less annoying", and refines Air Pods Adaptive mode intensity adjustments. The Messages app is also receiving a "green dot" indicator in WhatsApp beta to show online contacts, a feature that has been in development for some time. Furthermore, iOS 27 beta 3 suggests upcoming car key support for Lucid and Xiaomi vehicles. Apple is also continuing to sign older iOS versions for several iPhones and iPads, though support for encrypted Mac OS Extended drives will be discontinued in mac OS 28 8, 34.

AI and Chat GPT Advancements

OpenAI has introduced GPT-Live, a new generation of voice models designed to make conversations with AI more natural, and has also upgraded Chat GPT's voice mode, including Car Play integration. This comes as OpenAI shared an update on GPT-5.6 availability after a delayed public release, with the new models intended for Chat GPT and Codex. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly using Google Cloud servers for some of its AI features, such as image generation in Apple Creator Studio, and will warn users before their data is sent to Google. This development raises questions about AI assistant choices, as highlighted by Tony Fadell, who argues that these decisions are significant.

Apple Hardware and Product Rumors

Component development for a cheaper Apple Vision Pro model has reportedly been scrapped, with Samsung Display halting the project. This shift may indicate Apple's focus on AI development over a lower-cost headset. In the Mac department, Apple continues to gain market share, with IDC data showing Mac shipments grew while the broader PC market declined. Deals on MacBook Neo and MacBook Pro models are currently available, with discounts reaching up to $449 on M5 Pro configurations, 26, 63, 98. Rumors persist about upcoming iPhone models, with reports suggesting the iPhone 18 Pro will be thicker than its predecessor, and battery capacities have been revealed through regulatory filings. The iPhone Ultra is reportedly on track for a September release, with initial limited availability possibly being a deliberate strategy, 125.

Apple Services and Content

Apple TV has secured a record 87 Emmy nominations for 2026, with shows like "Pluribus" and "Widow's Bay" leading the pack, 12. The company is also extending its free 4K upgrade policy to select TV show purchases made on the Apple TV Store. In other news, the premiere of "Trying" season 5 is now available on Apple TV, and a new drama series titled "Guilty Creatures" starring Julia Garner is in development for the platform.

Supply Chain and Manufacturing

Apple's partnership with Broadcom has been renewed through 2031, ensuring a consistent supply of custom chips and radio components. This multiyear deal is valued at $30 billion and represents Apple's largest commitment to its American Manufacturing Program, 47. However, Apple is also testing DRAM chips from CXMT, a Chinese supplier black-listed by the U.S. government, a move that may only offer a partial solution to the current RAM pricing crisis, 29.

Legal and Regulatory Matters

Apple has lost another legal challenge in Europe, with its claims against the EU's Digital Markets Act being rejected. The company will continue to be designated as a "gatekeeper" for its App Store and iMessage platforms. In Texas, Apple must continue to enforce age verification for iPhone users following a Supreme Court decision. The company has also requested a pause in its legal battle with Epic Games while the Supreme Court reviews a portion of the case. Separately, a federal judge has dismissed most claims in a lawsuit accusing Air Pods Max of a condensation defect.

Mobile Gaming and App Updates

Nintendo is shutting down its mobile game "Mario Kart Tour" later in 2026, marking the end of another chapter for the company in mobile gaming 4